Imagine walking along ancient stone paths that once connected the Incas, wandering through vibrant, colorful mountains, and ending your day by spotting dinosaur footprints. All of this is possible with a 2-day trek near Sucre, Bolivia, offered by Jalq’a Tours for around $86 per person. For those craving authentic outdoor adventure combined with cultural insights, this journey through the Chuquisaca Department delivers.
What we love most about this tour? First, the variety of landscapes — from lush valleys and towering mountains to the striking crater of Maragua, which looks like a giant, colorful bowl. Second, the knowledgeable guides—they bring the region’s geology, botany, and local culture to life, making the experience both fun and educational.
A potential consideration: the tour involves some significant altitude changes and a fair amount of walking, so it’s best suited for those in good shape and comfortable on uneven terrain. And if you’re not a fan of long hikes, this might be a bit demanding. But if you love being outdoors, discovering hidden corners, and appreciate good organization, this trek proves to be a rewarding adventure.
This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers who want to explore Bolivia’s natural beauty and ancient pathways without breaking the bank. It’s also great if you enjoy cultural stories, local community visits, and scenic viewpoints — as you’ll meet locals, see traditional villages, and enjoy breathtaking vistas.
Key Points
- Authentic routes: Walk along a 12th-century Inca trail with historical significance.
- Geological wonders: Marvel at the colorful mountains and massive crater shaped over millions of years.
- Cultural immersion: Visit traditional villages and meet the Jalqa community, learning about their textile art.
- Wildlife and views: Spot birds and local wildlife from viewpoints like the Devil’s Throat.
- Well-organized logistics: Included meals, entrance tickets, transport, and a small group setting enrich the experience.
- Flexibility: Optional extensions to explore rock paintings and forests with local guides available.
A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience
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Starting Out: Meeting in Sucre and First Transport
The adventure begins at the main entrance of Estadio Patria, ideally early in the morning around 8:00 am. From there, a public bus whisks you off to Chataquila, with the exact timing depending on the group size. This initial leg offers a glimpse of local life, as you watch the city fade behind mountain ranges.
Day One: Walking the Inca Trail and Reaching Maragua Crater
The highlight of the first day is the walk along the ancient Incan trail, which stretches through the Chaunaca and Socapampa areas. The trail is in good shape, and you’ll notice the stone paths built by the Incas—a reminder of their engineering prowess. The relatively gentle descent offers excellent photo ops, lush landscape views, and a chance to appreciate the region’s history.
Around midday, you’ll arrive at Socapampa, where a provided lunch fuels your energy for the afternoon. The walk then continues toward the impressive Maragua Crater, a massive geological formation that looks like a giant bowl painted in vibrant reds, yellows, and browns. Inside the crater, you’ll find many viewpoints—including the famous Devil’s Throat—where you can observe local birdlife and enjoy sweeping vistas.
Nighttime is spent in a shared hostel inside the crater, which the reviews praise for being surprisingly cozy and charming. The experience combines comfort with a sense of being truly immersed in nature.
Day Two: Dinosaur Tracks and Scenic Walk to Majada
The next morning begins early, with a short walk from your lodging to see dinosaur footprints at Niño Mayo. These well-preserved tracks are a real highlight, offering a tangible link to the prehistoric past. A local weaver then welcomes you into her home, revealing traditional textile techniques passed down through generations. This cultural encounter adds depth to the tour, connecting nature with community life.
Next, the group hikes through the colorful mountains of the Frailes range en route to the village of Majada. This 5-kilometer walk offers spectacular scenery—think striking reds, greens, and browns, all framed by mountains and valleys. After about two hours of walking, a private vehicle picks you up for the return trip to Sucre, completing a roughly 12-kilometer day of varied terrain and landscapes.
More Great Tours NearbyWhat Makes This Trek Special?
The combination of historical paths and geological marvels makes this experience stand out. The Inca trail isn’t just a walk; it’s a step back in time, and the Maragua Crater is a visual feast. Plus, the chance to meet local communities—like the Jalqa and Majada villagers—adds an authentic touch that many tours overlook.
The Guides and Food
Reviewers rave about the guides’ knowledge and friendliness. Lizandro and Gary, in particular, are mentioned for their English and Spanish skills, humor, and willingness to go off the beaten track. Meals are another highlight; two lunches, dinner, and breakfast, along with fresh fruits, make the trip both satisfying and energizing.
Transport and Group Size
The tour keeps things simple with public transport to Chataquila and private transport back to Sucre. The group size is limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate experience. This small-group setting helps foster camaraderie and easier interaction with guides.
What’s Not Included?
Extras like water, snacks, personal hygiene items, and additional meals are not included, so packing wisely is key. The tour emphasizes sustainability—littering and feeding animals are prohibited, which helps preserve the environment.
Why This Tour Offers Great Value
For under $90, you get a comprehensive two-day escape that stitches together history, geology, and culture. The inclusion of entry tickets, transportation, accommodation, and guides makes it straightforward and hassle-free. Plus, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance, you can plan with confidence.
The reviews consistently mention delicious food and well-organized logistics, which matter greatly on multi-day outdoor adventures. The mix of scenic walking, cultural insights, and wildlife viewing creates a balanced experience that appeals to diverse interests.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This trip suits active travelers who enjoy hiking and exploring outdoors but also want to experience local culture. It’s ideal for those comfortable with walking in uneven terrain and high altitudes. If you’re looking for a small-group adventure with knowledgeable guides and authentic scenery, this tour delivers.
However, it’s not suitable for very young children, pregnant women, or people with mobility issues. Those afraid of heights or with health concerns related to strenuous activity should consider their comfort level before signing up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for children?
Not really. It’s designed for participants over 10 years old who are comfortable with long hikes and uneven terrain.
What should I bring?
Pack essentials like hiking shoes, a sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, water, rain gear, personal medications, a waterproof bag, and a flashlight. Also, a change of clothes for after hikes and personal hygiene items.
Are meals provided?
Yes. The tour includes breakfast, two lunches, and a dinner, along with fruits. Additional snacks and water should be carried by participants.
Can I extend the trek?
Yes, the tour mentions an optional 3-day extension that includes visits to Tumpeca and other sites, if you’re interested in a longer adventure.
How big are the groups?
Limited to 10 participants, making it easier to have a personalized experience and ask guides questions.
What kind of guides lead the tour?
Guides are experienced, speaking both Spanish and English, with some guides offering French depending on availability.
Is transportation included?
Yes. Public transport to Chataquila and private transport back to Sucre are included to streamline logistics.
What about physical difficulty?
The hikes involve some steep climbs and descents, so good fitness is recommended. The terrain can be uneven, and altitude changes may affect some travelers.
Final Thoughts
This 2-day trek near Sucre offers a well-balanced mix of history, geology, and local culture. The opportunity to walk ancient Inca paths, marvel at the colorful Maragua Crater, and meet local artisans makes it a memorable journey. The knowledgeable guides, delicious food, and small-group setting all add to the value.
If you’re someone who loves outdoor adventures with cultural insights and don’t mind a bit of rugged terrain, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s especially appealing if you want an organized, authentic Bolivian experience that doesn’t break the bank.
For those seeking a small-group, guided adventure with plenty of scenic and cultural highlights, this trek delivers every time. Just remember to pack your hiking shoes, some patience, and an appetite for stunning landscapes and stories.
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