Tupiza, Bolivia: travel guide
Red-rock canyons and horseback country in southern Bolivia
Red-rock canyon country in southern Bolivia, Butch Cassidy's last stand, popular for horseback rides and as an alternative start point for Salar de Uyuni tours.
About Tupiza
Tupiza is a small town in the south of Bolivia, set among red rock formations, dry canyons and cactus-studded hills that feel more like the American Southwest than the Andes. The landscape is the attraction, and it is best seen on horseback or on foot.
Circuits lead to El Sillar, the Cañón del Inca and the Quebrada de Palala and its Valle de los Machos, where rock towers rise in strange shapes. The area is associated with the end of the outlaws Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. Many travellers also use Tupiza as a starting point for tours to the Salar de Uyuni.
It suits active travellers and those wanting an alternative start to the salt flats. The mild dry months from April to November are the best time.
- Country
- Bolivia
- Currency
- BOB
- Time zone
- America/La_Paz
Last updated
Top places to visit in Tupiza
Quebrada de Palala & Valle de los Machos
canyon · about 2 h · check the fee at the gate
Dramatic red rock formations and towering fins of stone in the canyons around Tupiza, explored on foot, horseback or 4x4.
Cañón del Inca
canyon · about 3 h · check the fee at the gate
A narrow slot canyon south-east of Tupiza, hiked or ridden through striking eroded rock walls.
El Sillar
geology · about 1 h · check the fee at the gate
A landscape of eroded grey-and-red pinnacles near Tupiza, a classic viewpoint and photo stop.
Things to do
- Tupiza Horseback Canyon Ride Adventure · 5 h · from BOB 250 per person
- Tupiza-to-Uyuni 4-Day Salt Flats Tour Adventure · 96 h · from BOB 1,600 per person
Where to stay in Tupiza
- Centro about BOB 240 per night
Tupiza's small central grid around the plaza and station, close to canyon-tour operators.
Hotels
- Hotel Mitru Tupiza 3-star · BOB 240 to BOB 360 per night
- La Torre Hostel 2-star · BOB 75 to BOB 240 per night
Where to eat
- El Bambú Bolivian, International, Vegetarian · about BOB 50 per person
- La Estación Pizzería Pizza, Bolivian · about BOB 55 per person
Getting to Tupiza
Nearest airport: Tarija (TJA), about 106 km away in a straight line. The road or rail journey is longer.
Getting around
- Animal Ride
- Minibus
- Offroad Vehicle
- Walking
More in Bolivia
Frequently asked questions about Tupiza
- What are the main places to visit in Tupiza?
- Places covered in our Tupiza guide include Quebrada de Palala & Valle de los Machos, Cañón del Inca, El Sillar.
- Where should I stay in Tupiza?
- Our guide covers these areas to stay in Tupiza: Centro.
- How do I get around Tupiza?
- Ways to get around Tupiza covered in our guide: Animal ride, Minibus, Off-road vehicle, Walking.