Potosí

Written by Sandra Frank, Jose Quispe
22/08/2025
Explore the magnificent snowcapped Huayna Potosi mountain and serene lake in Bolivia's vast landscape.
Gabriel Ramos, Pexels

Potosí is a high-altitude city rich in colonial history and silver mining heritage, offering a glimpse into Bolivia's past and present. Visitors explore the iconic Cerro Rico, its historical mines, and admire the city's well-preserved baroque architecture.

The central Plaza 10 de Noviembre serves as a lively gathering point, surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and shops where both locals and travelers convene. Many hostels, particularly around this central plaza, provide communal areas and activities for backpackers to socialize.

Top 4 Things to do in Potosí

Exploring Potosí involves a deep dive into its unique mining heritage, discovering grand colonial architecture, and enjoying panoramic city views.

1. Cerro Rico Mine Tour

Embark on an immersive tour into the active silver mines of Cerro Rico. This experience provides a raw and profound insight into the lives of the miners, revealing the challenging conditions they face and the traditional methods still in use. It is a unique opportunity to witness the historical engine of Potosí and gain a powerful understanding of its past and present. Prepare for physically demanding conditions within dimly lit, stuffy tunnels at high altitude.

Cost: Tours typically cost between $25-$56 USD. This usually includes mining equipment (helmet, boots, lamp, jacket, overpants), an English or Spanish-speaking guide, and entrance fees.

Transport: Most mine tours include private transport from a central meeting point in the city (often near Plaza 10 de Noviembre or the National Mint) directly to the mines and back.

2. Casa Nacional de la Moneda (National Mint House)

Visit the Casa Nacional de la Moneda, Potosí’s historic mint that once supplied silver coinage to the Spanish Empire. This grand colonial building now serves as an extensive museum, showcasing intricate coinage machinery, colonial artifacts, and a rich collection of art from the Potosí school. You will gain a deep understanding of the city's immense wealth, its colonial past, and the significant role it played in global history. Guided tours are mandatory.

Cost: The estimated entry fee is between 40-60 BOB (approximately $6-$9 USD). Guided tours are included with the entry, but check locally for any additional camera fees. There is no self-serve entry option.

Transport: The Casa Nacional de la Moneda is centrally located in Potosí and is easily accessible on foot from most parts of the historic center.

3. Convento de San Francisco (San Francisco Convent)

Explore the 17th-century Convento de San Francisco, an architectural gem housing religious art and a fascinating history. A highlight of the visit is ascending to the rooftop or bell tower, which offers spectacular 360-degree panoramic views of Potosí and the iconic Cerro Rico. Below, you can also explore the ancient catacombs, which served as burial sites during the colonial era. The museum features a fine collection of religious art.

Cost: Entry typically costs around 15-20 BOB (approximately $2-$3 USD) for a guided tour that includes access to the museum and rooftop.

Transport: The Convento de San Francisco is situated in the city center, making it easily reachable by a short walk from the main plaza.

4. Explore the Historic City Center and Viewpoints

Take a leisurely stroll through Potosí's UNESCO-listed historic center, immersing yourself in its well-preserved colonial architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Wander the cobblestone streets, discover bustling plazas like Plaza 10 de Noviembre, and admire the numerous historical buildings. For breathtaking cityscapes, seek out elevated viewpoints such as the bell tower of the Potosí Metropolitan Cathedral, the Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús, or the Mirador Kari Kari, which offers stunning vistas of the city, Cerro Rico, and colonial artificial lagoons.

Cost: Exploring the streets and plazas is free. Access to some church towers or miradores may incur a small fee, typically 10-20 BOB. Private tours focused on viewpoints might be available for around $66 USD for a half-day.

Transport: The historic center is best explored on foot. Taxis are readily available for transport to viewpoints located further from the center, with fares generally being low (e.g., 3-5 BOB within the city).

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