In the Footsteps of Che
Bite-sized trip
Day 1 – Santa Cruz – Samaipata
Today you’ll be collected from your hotel in Santa Cruz for the 2-hour drive into the countryside. If you’ve just arrived in Bolivia, this trip will allow you to get used to the altitude at 1650m. We offer accommodation at a local finca (a combined farm and nursery) on an estate of six acres. The finca’s rooms are modest, yet nicely decorated with tapestries, flowers and furniture made from local wood.
Day 2 – Samaipata – free time
Today is free to explore the area under your own steam. You could head to the main plaza and visit the traditional market or head out of town to El Fuerte. These Inca ruins exude a mystical atmosphere and debates continue as to what the site was used for. Alternatively, you might like to take a look around the refuge for rescued animals, for the small entrance fee you can know you’re making a difference.
Day 3 – Samaipata – La Hiquera
After breakfast you’ll board a jeep and head off to the picturesque town of Vallegrande where you’ll have lunch and visit the hospital where the body of Che Guevara was once presented to the public. Then you’ll head on to La Hiquera where you’ll settle into your very unique accommodation for the night: the former post office. You’ll have your own room, but you’ll share the bathroom with other travellers.
Next, you’ll visit the school in La Hiquera where Che was taken prisoner and later executed. Life in the village revolves around the history of Che; you’ll see a memorial at the site where he was first buried (later his body was returned to Cuba). Once you’ve followed Che’s route through the village, you can enjoy a tasty local meal and an early night. The town only has solar energy so expect a candlelit dinner.
Day 4 – La Hiquera – Santa Cruz
This morning you’ll lace up your hiking shoes for a walk to the Quebrada del Churo Creek. This is where Che hid out and was eventually captured. After the 3-hour walk, you’ll probably have quite an appetite so lunch will be waiting for you on your return. Afterwards you’ll head back to Santa Cruz, arriving late afternoon.
Accommodation
