Things To Do
in Uncia
Uncia is a highland Bolivian town tucked in the Andean foothills, offering sweeping valley views and cool, clear air. The town blends indigenous Aymara and mestizo influences, evident in its markets, crafts, and warm hospitality. Colonial churches, stone plazas, and hillside textile stalls give the town a timeless, village-like charm.
Used as a gateway to nearby trails and cultural experiences, Uncia invites relaxed exploration, good food, and dramatic sunsets over the Andes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey with a visit to the Witches' Market in La Paz, where you'll find an array of traditional herbs, potions, and handicrafts. Take time to interact with local vendors and learn about indigenous beliefs and customs. Afterward, head to the Plaza Murillo, the heart of political life in Bolivia, to appreciate its historic architecture.
In the afternoon, ascend to the breathtaking viewpoint at El Alto to enjoy panoramic views of La Paz and its surrounding mountains. You can have lunch at a local eatery, savoring Bolivian delicacies that reflect the region's rich culinary heritage. Don't miss a visit to the Tiwanaku archaeological site, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can delve into pre-Columbian history.
As evening approaches, return to La Paz and immerse yourself in its vibrant nightlife. Choose a local restaurant for dinner, where you can experience traditional music and dance while enjoying Andean cuisine. Finish the night at a cozy café, sampling Bolivian hot chocolate and pastries.
Leave La Paz early in the morning for a picturesque drive to Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world. Upon arrival in Copacabana, explore the town and its charming waterfront. Visit the Basilica of Our Lady of Copacabana, a significant pilgrimage site, to admire its stunning architecture.
In the afternoon, take a boat trip to Isla del Sol, where you can hike to the Inca ruins and enjoy stunning views of the lake. Engage with local communities on the island and learn about their traditions and lifestyles. After exploring, enjoy a picnic lunch overlooking the water, embracing the tranquility of the setting.
Return to Copacabana in the evening, where you can explore the local markets and shop for unique souvenirs. Have dinner at a lakeside restaurant, enjoying fresh fish dishes that highlight the lake's bounty. As the sun sets, soak in the serene atmosphere with the silhouettes of mountains reflecting on the water.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🧃Water (1.5L) | $0.50-1 |
| 🚎Local transportation (short ride) | $0.25-0.75 |
| 🛏️Budget hostel per night | $10-25 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $1-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful Andean scenery
- Warm, welcoming locals
- Low costs and fewer crowds
- Good base for trekking and culture
- High altitude may cause breathlessness
- Limited medical facilities
- Rough road access to some areas
- Fewer nightlife options
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hablo poco español" - I speak little Spanish
- "¿Puede recomendarme un lugar para comer?" - Can you recommend a place to eat?
- "Estoy perdido" - I am lost
- "¿Aceptan tarjetas?" - Do you accept cards?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please.
Places to Visit in Uncia
Visit one of these nice places.
A sweeping vantage point just above the town with dramatic valley views at sunrise.
Cobbled streets, a colonial church, and colorful market scenes ideal for street photography.
Vibrant stalls with textures, textiles, and daily life opportunities for candid portraits.
Food in Uncia
Uncia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty Bolivian dish of beef, peppers, onions, fried potatoes, and spices; best shared with others.
Must-Try!
A breaded flatbread cutlet served with rice, potatoes, and salad; a comforting highlight of highland cooking.
A traditional purple corn drink served with fried pastries for a quick snack.
Dried meat with rehydrated chuño potatoes and salsa.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Everyday market stalls offer fresh produce, grains, herbs, roasted corn, and homemade snacks.
Try empanadas, saltados, and hot drinks from family vendors along the main streets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly hola or buenos dias. Use polite forms like Senor or Senora.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in homes or workshops.
Respect personal space and avoid loud confrontations; show appreciation in conversations.
Safety
Tipping in Uncia
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are modest; 5-10% at eateries if service is not included. Small vendors usually do not expect tips.
Cash is widely accepted. Some shops may take cards; carry Bolivian cash or USD for flexibility.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with cool nights; possible afternoon showers; bring sunscreen and a light rain jacket.
Cold nights and crisp days; layers and a warm coat are essential.
Frequent afternoon rains; trails can be muddy; carry waterproof gear and proper footwear.
Uncia at Night
Hiking in Uncia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderate steep hike offering panoramic valley views and sunset photography.
A scenic valley loop with terraced fields and rural villages.
A gentle circuit around a high-altitude lake with chances to spot birds.
Airports
How to reach Uncia by plane.
Main regional gateway; about a 1-2 hour drive from Uncia depending on road conditions.
Smaller airport serving Potosí; convenient for regional connections, farther from Uncia.
Major national and international hub in western Bolivia; useful for onward travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Indigenous residents forming a substantial portion of the population with strong cultural traditions.
People of mixed heritage who form the urban center's core social and economic life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in towns and schools; local matches can be informal and community-focused.
Common in schools and community centers; pickup games occur in the evenings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Uncia.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Rely on potatoes, corn, beans, grains, and vegetables; request veggie stews or lentil soups and ask about broth ingredients.