Potosí , Bolivia

Potosi - Active Mine Tour - Half Day -

Active

(13 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Potosí, at over 4,000 meters, is one of the highest cities in the world. But even an elevation as high as, this does not stop the nearby Cerro Potosí from dominating the surrounding landscape.

Potosí was founded as a mining town in 1546 by the Spaniards. Over the next 200 years, more than 40,000 tons of silver were shipped out of the town, making the Spanish Empire one of the richest the world had ever seen. Millions of the indigenous people were forced to work at the mines in the extraction process.

In 1672, Potosí became one of the richest cities in the world.

To this day, workers extract minerals from the mine and it’s possible to take an amazing tour inside and to appreciate their life style.

Available options

Potosi - Active Mine Tour - Half Day -

What's included

Transport.

Necessary equipment for the mine tour (helmet, boots, pants, jacket and lamp)

Specialized Bilingual Guide.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Itinerary
After getting picked up from downtown and before reaching the “Cerro Rico” (Rich Hill), make a little stop at the Mining Market, the most attractive in the area. Have some free time to buy some dynamite, alcohol and coca leaves as a present for miners to be visited inside the mine.
The mines visited are located at the base of the historical Rich Hill of Potosí. Inside, appreciate the system of miners’ work that has not suffered great changes after so much time of exploitation.

Touring the different galleries and interior levels of the mines, visitors can meet some places where the miners built statues that represent to their gods as The Uncle of the Mine (the devil). Visitors also can see the mineral veins that are a group of rocks and chemical formations of minerals, chimneys, apart from having an experiential sharing time with the miners and observing the different work methods that they carry out every day.

What's not included

Gifts for miners.

Tips.

Extra drinks.

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.5

6 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.3

7 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Meeting point, prior announcement. at 9:00 a.m.
The main gate of Museum "Casa de la Moneda" on Ayacucho Avenue.
+Drop off time 12:00 p.m.

Important notes

• Not recommended for participants with back problems
• Not recommended for participants with heart complaints or other serious medical conditions
• Not recommended for pregnant women

About Potosí

Potosí, once one of the richest cities in the world due to its silver mines, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled in the Bolivian Altiplano. Known for its colonial architecture and rich history, it offers a unique glimpse into Bolivia's colonial past and the legacy of the Spanish Empire.

Top Attractions

Casa de la Moneda

This historic mint was once the center of the silver industry in Potosí. Today, it houses a museum showcasing the city's rich history and the legacy of its silver mines.

Historical 2-3 hours Moderate (around 10-15 USD)

Cerro Rico

Known as the 'Rich Hill,' Cerro Rico is the mountain that made Potosí famous. Visitors can take a guided tour of the silver mines, offering a unique insight into the city's past.

Adventure Half-day Moderate (around 20-30 USD for a guided tour)

Catedral Basilica de San Francisco

This stunning cathedral is a prime example of colonial architecture in Potosí. Its intricate details and historical significance make it a must-visit.

Religious 1 hour Free (donations appreciated)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Silpancho

A traditional Bolivian dish consisting of a breaded and fried beef cutlet, served with rice, potatoes, and a fried egg on top.

Lunch/Dinner Contains gluten and meat

Salteñas

A savory pastry filled with meat, potatoes, peas, and a spicy sauce. It's a popular breakfast item and snack.

Breakfast/Snack Contains gluten and meat

Llajwa

A spicy sauce made from tomatoes, locoto peppers, onions, and garlic. It's often served with salteñas and other dishes.

Condiment Vegan and gluten-free

Popular Activities

Mine tours in Cerro Rico Hiking in the surrounding mountains Exploring the Salar de Uyuni Enjoying a coffee at a local café Strolling through the historic center Visiting local spas and wellness centers Exploring the Casa de la Moneda Attending local festivals and events

Best Time to Visit

May to October

The dry season offers the best weather for visiting Potosí, with clear skies and pleasant temperatures. This is the peak tourist season, and the city is bustling with visitors.

10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F) 50°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: Quechua, Aymara
English: Limited

Currency

Bolivian Boliviano (BOB)

Time Zone

GMT-4

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Potosí is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime like pickpocketing and scams can occur. Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use reputable tour operators and taxis
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with offers or requests

Getting there

By air

Capitán Nicolás Rojas Airport • 10 km (6 miles) from the city center

By bus

Terminal de Buses de Potosí

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system in Potosí is the primary mode of public transportation, covering most areas of the city. Buses are affordable and frequent.

Taxis

Available • Apps: No widely used apps

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Centro Histórico San Cristóbal Villa Imperial

Day trips

Uyuni

200 km (124 miles) • Full day

Uyuni is a gateway to the famous Salar de Uyuni, the world's largest salt flat. Visitors can explore the surreal landscape, visit the train cemetery, and experience the unique beauty of the high-altitude desert.

Sucre

100 km (62 miles) • Full day

Sucre, the constitutional capital of Bolivia, is a charming colonial city known for its whitewashed buildings, historic sites, and cultural attractions. Visitors can explore the city's rich history, enjoy local cuisine, and experience the vibrant culture.

Tupiza

150 km (93 miles) • Full day

Tupiza is a picturesque town known for its stunning landscapes and outdoor activities. Visitors can explore the nearby canyons, go hiking, and experience the unique beauty of the Bolivian countryside.

Festivals

Fiesta de la Virgen del Carmen • July 16 Fiesta de San Juan • June 24 Carnaval de Oruro • February or March (varies by year)

Pro tips

Acclimate to the altitude before engaging in strenuous activities
Dress in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable
Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals
Try local street food, but be cautious and stick to busy vendors with high turnover
Visit the Casa de la Moneda early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience