Potosí, Bolivia: travel guide
A colonial silver city high in the Andes beneath Cerro Rico
Once one of the richest cities in the world thanks to Cerro Rico's silver. A UNESCO city of colonial churches and the still-working cooperative mines, sitting above 4,000 m.
About Potosí
Potosí grew rich from the silver of Cerro Rico, the mountain that still overlooks the city, and its colonial centre of churches and mansions remains from that period. At more than 4,000 metres, it is among the highest cities of its size anywhere.
The Casa Nacional de la Moneda, the former royal mint, tells the story of the silver era, and the Torre de la Compañía de Jesús gives views over the rooftops. Visits to the cooperative mines in Cerro Rico are part of the city's story, though they are demanding and are best done with a reputable guide.
Potosí suits history lovers and those travelling the southern circuit towards Sucre and Uyuni. Allow time to adjust to the altitude, and bring warm clothing.
- Country
- Bolivia
- Currency
- BOB
- Time zone
- America/La_Paz
Last updated
Top places to visit in Potosí
Casa Nacional de la Moneda
history · 4.5 rating · about 1.5 h · check the fee at the gate
The Royal Mint of Potosí, a vast colonial complex where Spanish colonial coins were struck. Now one of South America's finest museums.
Plaza 10 de Noviembre
square · 4.3 rating · about 0.4 h · check the fee at the gate
Potosí's main square at over 4,000 m, surrounded by the cathedral and colonial arcades.
Cerro Rico Cooperative Mines
mine · 4.4 rating · about 3 h · check the fee at the gate
The silver mountain that bankrolled the Spanish empire. Guided tours enter the still-working cooperative mines (physically demanding, not for everyone).
Torre de la Compañía de Jesús
viewpoint · 4.4 rating · about 0.5 h · check the fee at the gate
A richly carved Jesuit bell-tower with a viewing gallery overlooking the old city and Cerro Rico.
Things to do
- Cerro Rico Mine Tour Cultural · 3 h · from BOB 150 per person
- Casa de la Moneda Guided Tour Cultural · 1.5 h · from BOB 60 per person
Day trips and tours
- Cerro Rico Cooperative Mine Tour 4 h · from BOB 150
Where to stay in Potosí
- Centro Histórico about BOB 300 per night
The colonial heart of Potosí around the main plaza and the Mint, close to churches and mine-tour agencies.
Hotels
- Hotel Cima Argentum 3.5-star · BOB 400 to BOB 540 per night
- Hostal Eucalyptus 2-star · BOB 70 to BOB 230 per night
Where to eat
- Café La Plata Cafe, International · about BOB 45 per person
- El Fogón Bolivian, Grill · about BOB 70 per person
Getting to Potosí
Nearest airport: Sucre (SRE), about 73 km away in a straight line. The road or rail journey is longer.
Getting around
- Minibus
- Taxi
- Walking
Safety and scams to avoid
Mine-tour and street overcharging
Cerro Rico tour touts, central streets
Some unofficial guides overcharge or run unsafe mine visits.
How to avoid it: Book mine tours through established agencies with ex-miner guides and proper gear.
More in Bolivia
Frequently asked questions about Potosí
- What are the top-rated places to visit in Potosí?
- The highest-rated places in our Potosí guide are Casa Nacional de la Moneda, Cerro Rico Cooperative Mines, Torre de la Compañía de Jesús, Plaza 10 de Noviembre.
- Where should I stay in Potosí?
- Our guide covers these areas to stay in Potosí: Centro Histórico.
- How do I get around Potosí?
- Ways to get around Potosí covered in our guide: Minibus, Taxi, Walking.
- What scams should I watch out for in Potosí?
- Scams reported to us for Potosí include Mine-tour and street overcharging. Each is explained in the guide, with how to avoid it.