Known as Bolivia’s “Wild West,” Tupiza was the last hideout of legendary outlaws Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid before their demise. This small town surrounded by striking red rock formations offers travelers a chance to experience authentic Bolivia away from the tourist crowds. With its dramatic landscapes, horseback riding adventures, and gateway position to the famous Uyuni Salt Flats, Tupiza deserves more than just a quick stopover on your Bolivian journey.

Getting to Tupiza & Planning Your Journey

Tucked away in southern Bolivia, Tupiza isn’t the easiest destination to reach, but that’s part of its charm. Most travelers arrive via one of these routes:

From Argentina

If you’re entering Bolivia from Argentina, you’ll cross the border at Villazon. From there, Tupiza is about 90 km north, with regular colectivos (shared minivans) making the 1.5-2 hour journey for approximately 20 Bs per person.

From Uyuni

Many travelers visit Tupiza before or after exploring the famous Uyuni Salt Flats. Regular buses connect the two destinations, with the journey taking about 5 hours on recently improved roads. Tickets cost around 50 Bs and can be purchased at the bus terminal in Uyuni.

From Major Bolivian Cities

Tupiza is connected to La Paz, Sucre, and Potosi by daily buses. These are typically overnight journeys, so be prepared for a long ride. The central bus terminal in Tupiza is conveniently located within walking distance of most accommodations.

Best Time to Visit Tupiza

Tupiza sits at an elevation of 2,950 meters (9,678 feet) above sea level, creating a desert-like climate with significant temperature variations between day and night.

Recommended Months (May-October)

The dry season from May to October offers the most reliable weather for exploring Tupiza’s outdoor attractions. Days are sunny with temperatures ranging from 20-25°C (68-77°F), though nights can be quite cold, dropping to 0-5°C (32-41°F). This is the ideal time for hiking, horseback riding, and multi-day tours to the Salt Flats.

Months to Consider Carefully (November-April)

The rainy season runs from November to April, with December to February seeing the most precipitation. While rainfall is generally brief, it can make roads muddy and some attractions less accessible. However, this period coincides with the hottest months, with daytime temperatures reaching 28-30°C (82-86°F).

If visiting during the rainy season, there’s a silver lining – you might witness the stunning mirror effect on the Salt Flats when water collects on the surface, creating perfect reflections of the sky.

Getting Around Tupiza

Tupiza’s compact center is easily navigable on foot, with most attractions, restaurants, and accommodations within walking distance of each other. For exploring the surrounding landscapes, you have several options:

Tuk-Tuks

These three-wheeled vehicles are common in Tupiza and offer an affordable way to reach nearby attractions. Drivers can also serve as informal guides, taking you to popular viewpoints and rock formations.

Horseback Riding

Embracing Tupiza’s Wild West spirit, horseback riding is one of the most authentic ways to explore the surrounding canyons. Tours range from 3-hour excursions to full-day adventures.

Guided Tours

For more distant attractions, joining a guided jeep tour is your best option. These can be arranged through local agencies like La Torre Tours or Tupiza Tours.

Rental Cars

While not common in Tupiza itself, you might consider renting a vehicle in larger cities if planning an extended Bolivian road trip.

Where to Stay in Tupiza

Tupiza offers a range of accommodations to suit different budgets, though luxury options are limited in this small town. Here are the top places to stay:

Budget Options

Hostal Butch Cassidy – The most popular place to stay in Tupiza, named after the famous outlaw. While they don’t offer dorms, their private rooms are clean and comfortable. Facilities include a guest kitchen and a good buffet breakfast. Located about 15 minutes’ walk from the center in a quieter area.

Mid-Range Options

Hotel Mitru – Set among lovely gardens with a swimming pool, this is one of the more upscale options in Tupiza. Rooms are spacious and comfortable, and the hotel offers an excellent buffet breakfast. They also have their own tour agency for arranging excursions.

El Grano de Oro – This family-run hotel offers clean rooms with hot showers and a delicious breakfast. The friendly owners are happy to help arrange tours and provide local recommendations.

Other Good Options

Refugio del Turista – A highly-rated option with a small pool and guest kitchen. Rooms are comfortable though somewhat compact.

La Torre – Associated with the reputable La Torre Tours, this accommodation option is convenient if you’re planning to book tours through their agency.

Dining & Local Cuisine in Tupiza

Tupiza offers a mix of traditional Bolivian cuisine and international options. The food scene is modest but satisfying, with several standout spots worth trying:

Local Markets

The Mercado Central (Central Market) is the heart of local food culture in Tupiza. Visit in the morning to see vendors setting up their stalls with fresh produce, meats, and other goods. You can sample local fruits and even get custom-made fruit juices or smoothies from the friendly vendors. This is also the most affordable place to eat in town.

Restaurants

Avanti Cafe Bistro – For a taste of Italy in Bolivia, this restaurant offers fresh, homemade pizzas and pasta dishes.

Restaurant Green Planet – A cozy spot serving a “menu del dia” (set menu) with three courses of home-cooked food. They offer excellent vegetarian options, including creative dishes featuring quinoa. Be prepared for generous portions!

Marcelina Resto Bar – Serves both traditional Bolivian dishes and international favorites like burgers and pizza in a lively atmosphere.

The Alamo – A good option for cheap, local food in a bustling environment.

Local Specialties to Try

While in Tupiza, don’t miss these Bolivian specialties:

• Salteñas – Savory pastries filled with meat, vegetables, and a slightly sweet sauce
• Quinoa soup – A hearty local specialty, given Bolivia’s status as a major quinoa producer
• Silpancho – Breaded meat topped with fried eggs and served with rice and potatoes
• Tucumanas – Deep-fried empanadas typically eaten as a snack

Attractions & Activities in Tupiza

Explore La Cordillera de Chicas

The impressive red-rock landscapes surrounding Tupiza are collectively known as La Cordillera de Chicas. These unique formations can be explored in several ways:

• Valle de los Machos – Famous for its distinctive phallic-shaped rock formations
• Puerta del Diablo (Devil’s Door) – A dramatic rock arch that serves as a gateway to the canyon
• Cañon del Inca – A narrow canyon with towering walls that you can walk through
• Cañon del Duende – Located in Quebrada Seca, this canyon requires about an hour of walking to fully appreciate its beauty
• El Sillar – Spectacular rock formations with panoramic views, typically visited on the way to Uyuni

These sites can be visited on foot, horseback, or by jeep tour, depending on your preference and time constraints.

Hike to Cerro de la Cruz

For a panoramic view of Tupiza and the surrounding landscapes, hike up to Cerro de la Cruz (Hill of the Cross). The 30-minute climb is steep but manageable, and the views at sunset are particularly spectacular as the red rocks glow in the fading light. Start the hike in the late afternoon to avoid the midday heat.

Visit the Central Market

Tupiza’s Central Market offers a glimpse into local life. The market is vibrant and authentic, with vendors selling everything from fresh produce to household goods. It’s smaller and less overwhelming than markets in larger Bolivian cities, making it perfect for travelers who want to experience local culture without feeling overwhelmed.

Follow in the Footsteps of Butch Cassidy

Tupiza claims fame as one of the last places visited by American outlaws Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid before they were killed by the Bolivian Army. Several tours follow their supposed final route, combining historical storytelling with exploration of the beautiful landscapes.

Starting Your Salt Flats Tour from Tupiza

One of Tupiza’s biggest draws is its position as an alternative starting point for tours to the famous Salar de Uyuni (Uyuni Salt Flats). Starting your Salt Flats tour from Tupiza offers several advantages:

• Extended 4-day itinerary (versus the standard 3-day tour from Uyuni)
• Exploration of unique landscapes around Tupiza not included in standard tours
• Saving the highlight (the Salt Flats) for the final day, building anticipation
• Generally smaller tour groups and a less crowded experience

The 4-day tour from Tupiza typically costs between 1,250-1,400 Bs ($180-200 USD), compared to 700-1,000 Bs ($100-150 USD) for a 3-day tour from Uyuni. While more expensive, many travelers find the additional day and unique scenery worth the extra cost.

Reputable tour companies operating from Tupiza include:

• La Torre Tours – Highly recommended for both Salt Flats tours and day trips around Tupiza
• Tupiza Tours – Offers various tour options, including horseback and bike tours

It’s advisable to book your tour at least a day in advance, especially during the high season (May-October).

Outdoor Adventures in Tupiza

Horseback Riding

Embracing Tupiza’s “Wild West” nickname, horseback riding is one of the most popular and authentic ways to explore the surrounding landscapes. Tours range from 3-hour excursions to full-day adventures, with prices starting around $25 for a half-day tour.

The horses in Tupiza are generally well-cared for and calm, making this activity suitable even for beginners. If you’re nervous, ask your guide for a “tranquil” (calm) horse.

Hiking

The area around Tupiza offers numerous hiking opportunities through its dramatic canyons and rock formations. Popular routes include:

• Cerro de la Cruz – A 30-minute climb for panoramic views
• Cañon del Inca – Walk deep into this impressive canyon
• Quebrada de Palmira – Explore the area around Puerta del Diablo

Note that hiking paths aren’t always well-marked, and stray dogs can be an issue on some trails. Consider hiring a local guide or joining a group tour for safety and navigation.

Mountain Biking

For adventure seekers, mountain biking through Tupiza’s rugged terrain offers an exhilarating experience. Several tour agencies offer bike rentals and guided excursions through the canyons and valleys.

Jeep Tours

For those who prefer to cover more ground or have limited time, jeep tours provide a comfortable way to see multiple attractions in a single day. A full-day tour typically visits Valle de los Machos, Puerta del Diablo, Cañon del Inca, Quebrada Seca, and Cañon del Duende, with a viewpoint stop at Toroyoj.

Practical Travel Tips for Tupiza

Altitude Considerations

Tupiza sits at 2,950 meters (9,678 feet) above sea level, which can cause altitude sickness in some travelers. Symptoms include headache, nausea, and shortness of breath. To minimize effects:

• Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol for the first day or two
• Take it easy on your first day, allowing your body to acclimatize
• Consider taking altitude sickness medication if you’re particularly sensitive
• Drink coca tea, a local remedy that may help alleviate symptoms

Money Matters

The Bolivian currency is the Boliviano (Bs). Tupiza has several ATMs in the town center, but it’s wise to carry some cash as backup. Credit cards are accepted at larger hotels and restaurants but not universally.

Safety

Tupiza is generally very safe for tourists, with friendly locals and low crime rates. However, standard travel precautions apply:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially after dark
• Stick to main streets at night
• Watch out for stray dogs, particularly when hiking (carry rocks or a stick to scare them away if necessary)
• Let your accommodation know where you’re going if hiking independently

Packing Essentials

For a comfortable visit to Tupiza, be sure to pack:

• Layers of clothing (for significant temperature variations between day and night)
• Sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots
• High SPF sunscreen (the sun is intense at this altitude)
• Sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat
• Refillable water bottle
• Basic first aid supplies

Internet & Communication

Wi-Fi is available at most accommodations and some restaurants in Tupiza, though connection speeds may be slower than you’re accustomed to. For mobile service, consider purchasing a local SIM card from providers like Entel or Tigo if you’ll be spending extended time in Bolivia.

Tupiza Map & Location

Tupiza is located in southern Bolivia, near the Argentine border.

How Long to Spend in Tupiza

While many travelers only stop in Tupiza for a night before continuing their journey, the town and its surroundings deserve more time. Here’s a suggested itinerary based on your available time:

1 Day

With just one full day, focus on the highlights:

• Morning: Take a horseback riding tour to Valle de los Machos, Puerta del Diablo, and Cañon del Inca
• Afternoon: Explore the Central Market and climb Cerro de la Cruz for sunset views

2-3 Days

With 2-3 days, you can enjoy a more relaxed pace:

• Day 1: Explore the town, visit the market, and hike to Cerro de la Cruz
• Day 2: Take a full-day jeep tour or horseback riding adventure to see the canyons and rock formations
• Day 3: Join another activity like mountain biking, or take a day trip to a more distant attraction

4+ Days

With 4 or more days, consider starting your Salt Flats tour from Tupiza, which typically takes 4 days and ends in Uyuni.

Why Tupiza Deserves Your Time

Tupiza may not feature on many travelers’ Bolivia itineraries, but those who venture to this small town are rewarded with authentic experiences and breathtaking landscapes. From horseback riding through crimson canyons to starting an epic journey to the Salt Flats, Tupiza offers a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty.

Whether you’re crossing the border from Argentina, preparing for a Salt Flats adventure, or simply looking to explore a less-visited corner of Bolivia, Tupiza welcomes you with its laid-back charm and spectacular scenery. Give this Bolivian Wild West more than just a passing glance – it might just become the unexpected highlight of your South American journey.