You may wonder how Bolivia can have beaches being an inland country without access to the sea, which was lost in the War of the Pacific in 1879. The key is in its rivers and lakes, where they have created river beaches ideal for cooling off and even sailing.
In this post we list the best beaches in Bolivia and tell you all about them, their main features, the services they offer and how to get there. So, if you are preparing a trip to Bolivia do not forget to pack swimsuit in the suitcase because you will see how there are many opportunities to swim.
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1. Challapampa Beach
The Challampapa beach is located in the center of Lake Titicaca, in the Isla del Sol, which is one of the main tourist attractions of the lake for its archaeological ruins. Although it is a very decent beach, there is usually no one bathing, either because of the water temperature or because the ruins generate more interest. What you will see there are fishermen and boats.
From Challapampa beach on Isla del Sol you’ll get the best views of the mountains.
Travel Tip: To organize your trip we recommend using Passporter totally free. You can be inspired by the experiences of other travelers, choose the places that interest you most, create the travel route with a geolocated map, upload all important documents such as reservations and invite your friends so that everyone can participate in the organization of the trip.
2. Copacabana Beach in Bolivia
The Copacabana Beach is located in the municipality of Copacabana, on the shores of Lake Titicaca at 3,812 meters above sea level. In fact, around the lake there are several beaches, although this is the one that is best adapted for tourists. Copacabana beach is located in an impressive natural setting and is famous for its golden sand and crystal-clear waters.
Visitors can relax on the beach, sunbathe and enjoy panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. It is also possible to do water activities such as kayaking or paddle boating. The truth is that, due to the height of the lake, the water is very cold, with an average temperature of 5º, so not everyone dares to get in the water.
Copacabana is a very touristy destination where you will find many options for accommodation, restaurants and vacation atmosphere. In addition, the beach is a jumping-off point for exploring the Isla del Sol, a sacred place in the unique culture that is home to ancient ruins and scenic trails.
3. Beaches of the Mamoré River
The beaches of the Mamoré River are located in the Amazonian region of the country and are famous for their crystalline waters and their environment of exuberant nature. But they can also be a dangerous place to swim because of their strong currents, the presence of certain animals that live in the river, such as crocodiles, or even contaminated waters that can transmit diseases. Therefore, if you want to visit these beaches, we recommend to hire a tour or go with someone who knows the area, for your own safety.
The areas suitable for swimmers are protected with nets and are safe places. Agencies will also provide you with boats to navigate the river. Other activities that you can do there are: sunbathing, picnics and fishing, especially species such as dorado (Gilt Headed Bream) and surubà (spotted catfish).
4. Lomas De Arena Regional Park
The Lomas de Arena Regional Park is formed by impressive sand dunes that extend for several kilometers. They create a unique landscape where visitors can explore winding trails that cross the dunes and discover the diverse flora and fauna of the area. You can also take bike rides, and go sandboarding.
What about the beach? While the park doesn’t have a beach as such, it does have a small stream where you can get in up to your waist and cool off a little bit.
The park is especially popular with bird lovers as you can sight more than 200 species. We recommend watching the sunset from the dunes, it’s really beautiful. The entrance to the dunes costs 1,5€.
5. Bolivia Mar Beach
The history of this beach is really curious, as it is a 5 km long stretch of coastline granted to Bolivia by the Peruvian government for a period of 99 years. This agreement was made for commercial purposes and to create political ties, but the truth is that it is not suitable for bathing as it has a strong swell. Even so, many tourists decide to go there to enjoy the scenery. The beach depends on the municipality of Illo, 17km away from it.
6. El Cristo Beach
Very close to Copacabana, just a few minutes away, we find El Cristo beach, a small strip of sand bordered by an aromatic eucalyptus forest. This pretty spot is much loved by the locals for its beauty and the tranquility of the landscape.
El Cristo beach also offers a perfect space for sunbathing and enjoying a nice picnic. It’s ideal for those tourists looking to avoid the hustle and bustle of Copacabana.
7. Guandera Beach is one of the best beaches in Bolivia
The river beach of Guandera is one of the most impressive in the country for its crystal clear waters and its unique location at 3,600 meters above sea level. The beach is on a lake surrounded by mountains that offer a spectacular landscape. There you can swim and even camp nearby. In addition, you can do water activities such as fishing and rowing in its extensive lake.
8. Soledad Beach
Located on the banks of the peaceful Ichilo River, Soledad Beach is a sought-after destination for those seeking peace and disconnection. The river is calm and its clear waters invite you to swim. It is a perfect opportunity to enjoy a relaxing day at the beach, surrounded by trees and immersed in a natural environment little known to tourists.
9. Vagantes Beach
In the department of Beni lies this beautiful river beach of crystalline waters. It is located in a unique natural enclave where you can disconnect from the day to day and relax. And although it is not as comfortable as other coastal beaches, it is worth a visit. On the beach of Vagantes you can also camp as the sandy esplanade allows it.
What should I take into account before traveling to the beaches of Bolivia?
- From Spain no visa is required to enter Bolivia, but a passport valid for at least 6 months is obligatory.
- The country is not the safest, so we recommend to avoid going out at night, do not expose valuables and be aware of your belongings.
- The official language in Bolivia is Spanish
- The official currency of Bolivia is the boliviano.
- It is best to change money before starting your trip, there are stores and restaurants that do not accept credit cards.
- Bolivia’s climate is tropical, which means that temperatures are mild.
- Tap water is safe to drink in most of the country.
- Hedge yourself against possible medical emergencies: travel insured.
How to prepare what to see on your trip to Bolivia
Register or download the Passporter App and discover all of its possibilities.
- Get inspired by other travelers’ experiences, photos and itineraries.
- Organize your trip by the categories that suit you best: dates, number of days or typology (beach, mountain, restaurants…).
- Add your friends so that they can see and modify all the plans and trip information.
- Create your own itinerary of your destination with everything you feel like visiting each day.
- Add the stops that interest you the most, including your accommodation, restaurants, museums…
- Book your flights, accommodations, transfers and activities through a single app.
- Save all your documents in the app to always have everything at hand: reservations, boarding passes, important documentation…
- Make any modifications you need and you’ll be all set for your trip
- Share your experience with other users. Upload photos of the places you have visited on your trip to the app and inspire other travelers with your experience. In addition, you will be able to share your own travel tips about the best beaches in Bolivia.
If you have doubts about how to do it, you can check our post: How to create your travel itinerary with Passporter.
Frequently asked questions about the best beaches in Bolivia
The best beaches in Bolivia are on Lake Titicaca and they are the Copacabana beach and Challapampa beach.
The climate is tropical, with mild temperatures that vary slightly between summer and winter.
Although Bolivia is an inland country, it does have beaches along its lakes and rivers.
Before visiting the beaches of Bolivia it is advisable to get informed, since there are some river beaches where there are dangerous animals or are not suitable for swimming.
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