Take a trip to the mines of Cerro Rico in Potosi, once famous for silver. In the mines it is claustrophobic, hard to breathe and hot but a trip down these narrow tunnels gives an emotional insight into the miner's world and their way of life. Mouths stuffed with coca leaves, they slave on for hours spurred on by the gifts of drinks and dynamite that tourists bring from the miner’s market. Tours are run by ex-miners who talk about the history and legends of the mines, including ‘El Tio’, a figure who the miners make offerings to, to keep them safe. The tour is not easy, but definitely worth it to see how the miners work. You will definitely appreciate your own job more!!

Koala Tours: Calle Ayacucho #3, 33 Potosí, Bolivia.
www.koalabolivia.com

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The Cerro Rico mine is one of the last fully-functional mines in Bolivia. As long as you are fit, healthy, and not claustrophobic in the slightest, you can climb down into the damp, dark chambers and experience what life is like for the miners. In exchange for being gawked at by tourists, you can bring the miners gifts of coca leaves and cigarettes.

Arrange a tour with your hostel/hotel and you will be picked up in a minibus. The entrance to the mine lies just outside the city and you must go with a guide

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The view from the bell tower of the cathedral is awe-inspiring. You can see the entire city, which is not very big, and the surrounding hills and mountains against the backdrop of the permanently clear blue sky. It really makes you feel like you are 4070 metres above sea level!

The shady side of the central plaza

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