Shared Full Day Tour Charquini Lagoon and Hiking

Discovering La Paz’s Natural Wonder: Charquini Lagoon and Hiking Tour

This full-day tour from La Paz takes you to one of Bolivia’s most beautiful natural sights—the Charquini Lagoon—and combines scenic views with a rewarding hike. Priced at a reasonable $30 per person and lasting about 8.5 hours, it’s a perfect way to escape the city hustle and learn about nature. The itinerary includes visits to iconic viewpoints, historic sites, and the highlight—the Emerald Lagoon framed by towering mountains.

What we love most about this experience is how it balances stunning scenery with accessible adventure. First, the panoramic views from Mirador Jilarata give you a glimpse of Huayna Potosí and Chacaltaya, two giants of the region. Second, the hike itself is a genuine workout that offers personal satisfaction without requiring extreme fitness. The guides’ friendly demeanor and thorough explanations make the journey even more enjoyable.

A key consideration is the altitude—while most travelers handle it well, some might experience slight discomfort, especially during the hike. But the tour’s pace and the chance to acclimate briefly at each stop help ease this issue. This trip is ideal for active travelers who enjoy light trekking, nature photography, and learning about Bolivia’s mountain landscapes.

If you’re someone who appreciates authentic outdoor experiences and values professional guides, this tour will likely be one of your favorites in La Paz. It’s especially suited for those with moderate physical fitness looking for a full day of adventure and beautiful vistas.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: The tour offers breathtaking views of Huayna Potosí and Chacaltaya from the Jilarata viewpoint.
• Accessible adventure: Moderate hiking for those comfortable with physical activity, with options to enjoy the lagoon at your own pace.
• Professional guidance: Guides speak both English and Spanish, providing detailed explanations and photo assistance.
• Valuable inclusion: The price covers transportation, entrance tickets, and a hearty brunch.
• Authentic experience: Visits to Milluni Cemetery and the Charquini Base Camp add cultural and scenic depth.
• Group size: Limited to 12 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Exploring the Full Itinerary: What to Expect

Starting early at 8:00 am, this tour begins with a 30-minute drive out of La Paz, crossing the city’s outskirts and heading toward the mountains. This initial stretch already hints at what’s to come—a landscape transitioning from urban to wild, with the first stop at a small store where you can grab last-minute essentials like water or snacks. It’s a good chance to prepare for the day ahead.

Next, the Jilarata Viewpoint becomes your first major highlight. From here, you’re treated to sweeping panoramic views of Huayna Potosí and Chacaltaya, the twin giants watching over La Paz. The guide will explain the significance of these mountains, helping you appreciate the importance of these peaks in Bolivian culture and geography. This stop lasts about 20 minutes, enough for photos and a quick breath of fresh mountain air.

Following that, the tour proceeds to the Milluni Cemetery, about 30 minutes away. This site offers a different perspective—an historic cemetery with a backdrop of Huayna Potosí—and provides a quiet moment for reflection or photo captures. The guide shares some brief history, adding context to this tranquil spot.

The true adventure begins at the Charquini Base Camp. After another 30-minute trip, you’ll lace up your walking shoes for a hike through pristine wilderness. The trail leads through varied terrain, with the promise of stunning vistas at every turn. The walk takes about an hour to an hour and a half, culminating at the Emerald Lagoon—a true visual feast with turquoise and emerald waters set against snow-capped peaks. Here, you’re encouraged to relax, take photos, or simply breathe in the mountain air.

The return to base camp is a 40-minute descent, during which you’ll reflect on the day’s achievements. Then, it’s time for a brunch—a tasty sandwich, fresh fruit, a small bottled juice, and chocolate—providing energy for the journey back to La Paz.

The return trip takes about an hour and a half, giving ample time to unwind and review the day. The tour concludes with a comfortable drop-off at your hotel or central location, leaving you with unforgettable memories and plenty of wonderful photos.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Guides like Gio, mentioned in reviews, make all the difference. They provide insights, patience, and humor that bring the day alive. Their ability to explain the mountains’ significance, their attention to safety at higher elevations, and their efforts to accommodate vegan dietary needs (as noted for some guests) demonstrate a genuine commitment to customer experience.

The scenery is genuinely remarkable. The contrast between the city’s chaos and the quiet majesty of the mountains makes this a visually rewarding trip. Many travelers mentioned their photos turned out “Instagram-worthy,” which is no small feat given the natural beauty of Charquini Lagoon.

Value for money is another strong point. For just $30, you get transportation, park fees, guide service, and a hearty brunch. Considering the full day of activity plus the quality of the landscapes, this is a solid deal—especially when compared to pricier tours that might not include as many stops or as much personal attention.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

Altitude can pose a challenge for some travelers. While most handle it well, the hike’s elevation and the cool mountain climate may cause slight discomfort if you’re unprepared. The guides are attentive, and the pace is manageable, but it’s wise to be mindful of your physical limits.

Plus, the tour involves walking for about 2-3 hours on uneven terrain, so comfortable hiking shoes are a must. The included ecological walking sticks help, but staying hydrated and prepared for variable weather conditions will make your experience more enjoyable.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This trip appeals to active travelers who enjoy light hiking and breathtaking scenery. It’s perfect for those who want more than just sightseeing; they want to experience the landscape firsthand. The guided format ensures you won’t get lost and that you’ll learn about the area’s geography and history, making it suitable for curious travelers of all ages with moderate fitness levels.

People who love photography will find plenty of opportunities here, thanks to the stunning vistas and colorful lagoon. It’s also a good choice for small groups, as the tour limits to 12 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.

The Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?

Absolutely. For just $30, you’re getting a full day of adventure, scenic beauty, and expert guidance. The stunning views of mountains and the lagoon, combined with the personalized care from guides, make this a standout experience in La Paz. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a photographer, or simply someone eager to see Bolivia’s natural beauty, this tour offers a well-balanced mix of challenge, comfort, and awe-inspiring landscapes.

With good reviews highlighting professional guides and spectacular scenery, it’s clear this trip delivers on its promises. The added bonus of a hearty brunch and the manageable group size makes it a worthwhile choice for most travelers seeking a meaningful day in the mountains.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts around 8.5 hours, from pickup in the morning until return in the late afternoon.

What is included in the price?
It covers private transportation, entrance tickets, a guided tour in English and Spanish, and a brunch with sandwiches, fruit, juice, and chocolate.

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
It requires a moderate level of physical fitness. The hike lasts about 1.5 hours to 2 hours, over uneven terrain, so comfortable shoes and a reasonable fitness level are recommended.

What should I bring?
Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and comfortable hiking shoes. The tour provides ecological walking sticks, but you may want your own.

Can I go if I have altitude sickness?
Some guests with altitude sensitivity might experience mild discomfort. The guides are attentive, and the stops help with acclimatization, but listen to your body.

What about dietary restrictions?
The guide mentioned they can accommodate vegan diets, as they did for some guests, so inform the company in advance if needed.

Will I get good photos?
Yes, many reviews mention that the views are “Instagram-worthy,” and guides are happy to help with taking pictures.

What if the weather is bad?
Check the weather forecast beforehand. The tour can be affected by rain or fog, but the guides will make the best decision if conditions are unsafe.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, private transport is used, and the trips to each stop are around 30 minutes, making the journey smooth and scenic.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 13 days in advance, but it’s wise to reserve early to secure your spot, especially in peak seasons.

This full-day hike with Charquini Lagoon is a fantastic way to see some of Bolivia’s most stunning mountain scenery while enjoying a manageable adventure. It’s perfect for those who want a balance of activity and comfort, with plenty of time to soak in the views and make lasting memories.