The Tiahuanaco ruins in Bolivia are among the best in South America.
This strategically located site was the centre of the powerful Tiahuanaco culture that flourished in Peru and Bolivia between AD 400—1000.
Tiahuanaco is located in the centre of the altiplano with the mountains of the Cordillera Real to the east dominated by Illimani. Through the mountains are paths to the fertile lowlands. To the west lies Lake Titicaca and extensive pasture lands for llamas and alpacas.
Carvings and stonework
The Tiahuanaco people were renowned for their expert stone masonry and innovative farming techniques.
The site itself is extensive, covering 10 square km and is thought to have housed up to 60,000 people at its grandest. The high quality stonework is striking, particularly in the monolithic figures of the Bennett and Ponce Monolith, the intricately carved portal known as the Sun Gate and the tenon heads of the semi-subterranean temple.
Tiahuanaco is a great day trip from La Paz, an ideal place to visit while acclimatising.
If you are looking for a longer trip to add to your stay in and around La Paz, check out our Bolivian Explorer. And even if time is short, do not miss a visit to the unforgettable Uyuni Salt Lakes.
Please do not hesitate to contact the office for more information on our tailor made and group options.
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