Is it safe to drink the water?

No. Always drink bottled or filtered water to avoid traveler's diarrhea.

Do I need to speak Spanish?

It helps immensely. Learn basic numbers and phrases for ordering food and negotiating taxi fares.

How do I handle the altitude?

Spend your first 48 hours resting, avoid alcohol, and consult your doctor about Diamox before you travel.

How to Plan 10 Days in Bolivia: Salt Flats and Highlands

Fly into La Paz to acclimate for 3 days before taking a short flight to Uyuni for a 3-day salt flats tour. Spend your final 4 days exploring Sucre and the surrounding highland valleys to balance adventure with recovery.

Acclimate in La Paz. Spend your first 3 days in La Paz. Do not overexert yourself; the altitude is 3,640m. Use the Mi Teleférico cable car system to see the city from above without hiking uphill.
Book the Salt Flats (Salar de Uyuni) tour. Fly from La Paz to Uyuni. Book a 3-day/2-night 4x4 expedition in advance. Ensure your tour includes a Spanish/English speaking guide and check that your vehicle has emergency oxygen tanks.
Head to Sucre. Take an overnight bus or a private transfer from Uyuni to Sucre. Sucre sits at a lower, more comfortable altitude (2,810m) and is the perfect place to spend your remaining 4 days eating well and walking the historic center.

Is it safe to drink the water?: No. Always drink bottled or filtered water to avoid traveler's diarrhea.
Do I need to speak Spanish?: It helps immensely. Learn basic numbers and phrases for ordering food and negotiating taxi fares.
How do I handle the altitude?: Spend your first 48 hours resting, avoid alcohol, and consult your doctor about Diamox before you travel.