
San Vicente
San Vicente
A small mining village in southern Lípez at 4,500m altitude, San Vicente is known for the tragic end of Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid in 1908.
San Vicente owes its fame to its storied past. This village, once a mining settlement, became a refuge for two notorious outlaws: Butch Cassidy (Robert LeRoy Parker) and the Sundance Kid (Harry Alonzo Longabaugh). They met their end attempting to steal part of a treasure at Huacha Huañusca—a fortune that belonged to the Aramayo mining company. To relive these moments, embark on a jeep excursion following the same route they once traveled. San Vicente serves as a gateway to the surrounding sites that more than deserve a visit.
Around San Vicente
South Lípez
This region offers the chance to venture off the beaten path. Beyond its serene and enchanting nature, you'll discover its impressive volcanoes. Unturuncu and Licancabur rank among Bolivia's highest and most dramatic peaks. South Lípez captivates visitors with its extraordinary landscape, dotted with lagoons of mesmerizing hues. Laguna Colorada, Laguna Verde, and Laguna Blanca reveal some of South America's most remarkable vistas.
Salar d'Uyuni
Perched at 3,658m altitude, the Salar d'Uyuni is considered the world's largest salt flat, spanning over 10,000 km². The landscape gleams with brilliant white expanses, punctuated by islands dotted with cacti that can reach heights of 10 to 12 meters. The area is also notable for its abundant lithium deposits—the Salar d'Uyuni is believed to hold nearly half of the world's lithium reserves.
To fully appreciate its beauty, explore by 4x4. Setting out early in the morning allows the dawn to illuminate the vast salt expanse in all its splendor. As day turns to evening, another spectacle awaits: a magnificent sunset that will leave you speechless.
Convento Museo Santa Teresa
This convent, recently restored, dates to the 17th century. Only 3 of its original 18 patios remain. Within the museum's two exhibition spaces, one features a cloister system that once enabled the nuns to be self-sufficient. The church ceiling gleams with gilded leaves.
Cerro Rico Mines
This area remains an active site of silver ore extraction today. It's possible to explore the mines with local miners serving as guides. They're eager to share insights into their working conditions and the traditions they maintain, including veneration of "Tio," a figure of the underground world.
Basilica of the Virgin of Candelaria
This immaculate white structure stands out for its baroque architecture and domes and roofs adorned with colorful tilework. The nave houses a carefully maintained statue of Our Lady of Copacabana. Each year, thousands of pilgrims from Bolivia and Peru come to pay homage to the patron saint. During ceremonies, visitors witness intriguing rituals that blend Christianity with ancient traditions. At the site, newly acquired vehicles await their blessing with beer. On February 2nd, a religious festival unfolds in the plaza. The Virgin's statue is carried in procession through streets alive with chanting and dancing.
El Calvario
This site is connected to the Virgin's Cathedral by a steep, winding street. On Good Friday, many make the climb to reenact the scenes of suffering leading to the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. During a pause in your ascent, a breathtaking panorama unfolds across the bay and city of Copacabana, as well as Lake Titicaca. At the summit, at 4,000m altitude, a sanctuary opens to the sky, composed of a chapel, a succession of massive crosses, and ceremonial tables. You may witness rituals performed by priests and healers, enveloped in the mystical haze of incense smoke.
Mirador Killi Killi
This is an observation park situated at the summit of the Villa Pabón neighborhood. From this vantage point, a panoramic vista unfolds across the city of La Paz and the mountain Huayna Potosi. Killi Killi takes its name from a local bird of prey found in the region: the falcon, scientifically known as "falco sparverius."
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