ADD TO LIST
At an elevation of 4,090 metres (13,420 feet), Potosi claims to be the highest city in the world. It is situated below Cerro de Potosi ("Rich Mountain") a mountain thought to be made of silver. The rich silver deposits within Cerro de Potosi is the reason for Potosi's importance in the history of the Spanish Empire. Today it's possible to go on mine tours to see what the conditions were like for the miners.
Top Attractions in Potosi
There are 6 Things to Do in Potosi
Browse more attractions:
Top Hotels in Potosi
There are 10 Hotels and Hostels in Potosi
Top Restaurants in Potosi
There are 2 Restaurants in Potosi
Browse more restaurants:
Travel Tips from people who've been to Potosi
0214The quiet Museo de la Moneda is really nice and worth a visit, gives a good account of the monetary system in colonial times and stresses the great importance of Potosà as the main supplier of precious metals in the Spanish empire. For the sad consequences of this same fact, visit the mines but only if you can handle crawling through the mud, breathing sulfur, and seeing some of the unluckiest people on the planet. Take a lot of coca!
Good tip?
(0)
066191Do the mines tour. It feels quite an important thing to do. Don't bring the Miners cigarettes- it increases the risk they already face of dying far too young. Please be polite on these tours, we were on one with some Danish girls who were very offensive to our guide. We went with Koala Tours, it was very good and we also stayed at their hostel which was very good.
Good tip?
(0)
02121If you want to have a good, personal mine tour. Go for 'the real deal'. We were only three and even helped the mine workers push the cart. The guides are very nice and offer useful information. After the mining tour you can have a good, cheap meal in their restaurant.
The organisation consists out of ex mine workers.
Good tip?
(0)
Browse more tips:
Local Customs
(1)
Health
(1)
Recent Updates for Potosi
Ask a travel question about Potosi
Bradt Travel Guides
Related Links
Travel insurance from Worldnomads.com
