Itinerary

This trip takes in 3 separate trips and you can see each itinerary here.

The minimum trip time is 8 weeks.

Ecuador

Overview

During this 4 week trip, combining fun and educational Spanish lessons with amazing once-in-a-lifetime activities, there is a general structure that involves 20 hours per week of language tuition in each location.  It takes place from Monday to Friday, comprising of 4 hours each day, and the best thing is that there are different classes according to level and ability, so there is no need to worry about making a 'culo' of yourself!  If you don't know what that means we'll let you Google it - think of it as homework ;0)

When you're not in the classroom you'll be out and about with your new trip mates exploring the cities or getting your adrenaline pumping with some uber cool activities like mountain biking around a volcano, gliding off cliffs and surfing the waves in a gorgeous beach town that would make the Aussies jealous.  Once a week there are also cookery lessons that teach you to whip up some hot Ecuadorian cuisine, and salsa lessons so that you can sizzle on the dance floor.  Don't worry guys, we don't make you wear sequins (unless you really want to!).

Week 1 - Quito

Our first stop is Quito, the capital and historic centre of Ecuador. We will take you to the Mitad del Mundo (the centre of the world), a stunning natural hot pool, the famous craft market at Otavalo and then mountain biking through the stunning Cotopaxi National Park.  See below for more tantalising details!

The City

With a beautiful old town worthy of UNESCO World Heritage Site status, a modern new town with museums galore and a vibrant atmosphere, Quito certainly has plenty to keep you busy.  A city tour will show you all the main sights of the city as well as get you oriented for exploring on your own throughout the week. 

The old town consists of some lovely streets with colonial style buildings as well as a main plaza with some impressive government and religious buildings, including the oldest cathedral in South America, whereas the new town has the fantastic Casa de Cultura Ecuatoriana, which houses some of the best museums on archaeology, art and traditional culture.  This area is also home to Parque el Ejído and the Vivarium, which lets you get up close, but luckily not too personal, with some of Ecuador's wildlife including snakes, lizards and iguanas.

For wildlife of a different kind you'll find a buzzing bar and club scene in Quito, with venues to suit just about any tastes, whether you are looking to salsa the night away, listen to some live music or even get a taste of home at an English pub (shame on you!).  You may well need to have had a drink or two in order to try Ecuador's most loved dish of roasted guinea pig.  It tastes like chicken.  Probably.  If you find yourself struggling to acclimatise to the altitude or you just need a pick-me-up for staying out late then try a cup of Coca Tea or chew on some coca leaves - Ecuadorian Red Bull.

Quito also makes a great base for exploring the surrounding area, with its stunning landscapes and interesting villages, which is exactly what you get to do whilst your here.

Otavalo Craft Markets

Otavalo is a town just north of Quito and is famous for its amazing craft markets.  There is a myriad of stalls brimming with authentic Indian items that are really hard to resist and with the bright in-your-face colours of the textiles and bustling atmosphere it's a sensory overload!  Knowing how to haggle is a bonus so if you haven't been to Morocco read our guide and ensure that you get that Ugly Betty style poncho for the best possible price!

In addition to the markets Otavalo has beautiful surrounding landscape, with green rolling hills, waterfalls, lakes and mountains.

Papallacta Hot Springs

If the Spanish lessons are stressing you out (highly unlikely!) then a visit to Papallacta Hot springs is in order.  Located around one hour from Quito, this is a great day trip for chilling out and admiring the stunning surroundings, whilst wallowing in the healing waters.  There are a number of different types of pools in terms of the type of water and the temperature, so find your favourite, lie back and think of Ecuador.

Mitad Del Mundo

Although very touristy and hardly off the beaten track, you cannot visit Ecuador and not go to Mitad del Mundo - the Middle of the World.  You can straddle the bright yellow line that marks the equator and marvel at the fact that you're in both the northern and southern hemispheres. Weird!  It's a lot more impressive than telling your mates you've stood with one foot in England and one in Wales.

Cotopaxi National Park (trekking and downhill mountain biking)

For the adrenaline junkies amongst you how does whizzing down one of the world's highest active volcanoes on a bike sound?  At 19,347 feet, Cotopaxi is a beast of a volcano that is a bit like Mount Fuji's very similar looking brother and provides the perfect environment for some Xtreme cycling.  Obviously you won't be going up that high, but high enough for your breath to be well and truly taken away on the journey down.

In addition to the volcano there is a huge area of national park where you might get to see some of Ecuador's wildlife, including Andean foxes, pumas, llamas and even hummingbirds.

Second week of the month: CUENCA

Week two takes you to the lovely historic town of Cuenca, official name Santa Ana de los cuatro ríos de Cuenca, where you dive into what is one of the most important cultural centres of Ecuador.   Museums, galleries, artisan crafts, impressive archeological sites and stunning countryside await you here.  It’s a complete change from the capital city, giving you a real taste of the different faces of Ecuador and there are some real treats in store.

The City

Cuenca is a stunning old city that is much more relaxed than the hustle and bustle of Quito.  Walking around the narrow cobbled streets, lined with red roof colonial houses with ornate iron balconies, you could imagine that time has stood still.  Thanks to UNESCO Cuenca will stay this way, since it was awarded World Heritage Site status in 1999.  In addition to its aesthetic appeal, Cuenca is an important cultural and art centre in Ecuador and during your week you’ll have chance to totally immerse yourself with visits to the museums and art galleries.

It’s also a great place to pick up some authentic souvenirs, such as jewellery, ceramics and clothing and shopping trips are the ideal opportunity to practice your Spanish, not to mention ordering some local food and drinks in the bars and restaurants.  Look out for Motepillo, a Cuenca speciality that is even suitable for vegetarians (no guinea pig here!).

Cojitambo and Ingapirca ruins

Located around an hour from Cuenca are the Ingapirca ruins, which are a fantastic example of the ingenious work of the Incan and Cañari cultures.  This network of stone structures is built around a circular sun temple, which evidences the ancient cultures’ knowledge of solar patterns.  Not too far away are the less visited ruins of Cojitambo, which are actually thought to be larger than Ingapirca and resemble the shape of a sleeping lion.  The terraced walls and settlements are still in pretty good shape, providing great photo ops.

Baños Hot Springs

The peaceful little village of Baños is just a few miles from Cuenca and not to be confused with the large town of Baños in the Tungurahua region is home to some relaxing, therapeutic hot springs.  Ok, so it’s not exactly ‘Xtreme’ but everyone needs some chill out time occasionally and this is the perfect place.  This optional trip allows you to detoxify in the sauna, lounge in the pools and then explore the village and surrounding countryside.

Third week of the month: Montañita Baby!

Week three is a total change yet again as you move away from the mountains to the gorgeous pacific coast and the so-laid-back-it’s-horizontal village of Montañita.  This is a little slice of paradise where you get to stay in a cool eco resort that is basic yet idyllic – right by the pool, a sparkling blue pool and comfy mini dorms (or privates on requests).  You’ll spend your days in the classroom and on the waves and evenings partying in this surfing/backpacking mecca.  You’ll be surfpacking!

The Town

By day life revolves around the beach.  Picture it – soft golden sand, warm turquoise water and a melting pot of people from all over the world enjoying the best surf in Ecuador.  Thanks to the mixture of different cultures and languages that visitors bring to Montañita, it has a unique Ecuadorian/Western flavour and provides a good alternative to the cities that you’ve seen so far.

At night the village turns into fiesta central!  You’ll find yourself strolling down ‘Cocktail Alley’, a road that leads to the beach where you can sample every imaginable concoction from the little stalls.  The owners will be vying for your custom by blasting rhythmic beats and by the time you get to the beach you might want to have a little siesta before continuing the night in one of the many live music venues or Latin dance clubs.  Remember those weekly salsa lessons?  They’ll come in really handy now!  If you’re too worn out from your surfing lessons then plonk yourself by a beach bonfire and listen to the reggae sounds.

You might find that your biggest challenge this week is dragging yourself away from this awesome place.

The Surf

We are lucky enough to have an Ecuadorian surfing legend teaching you to ride the waves at Montañita.  Luis Malave, known by his friends as Vago, is an all round awesome dude and can provide tuition for anyone from a total beginner to someone looking to build on their skills.  His knowledge of the sport, wave conditions and the best spots in the area are unrivalled, so you are definitely in good hands, plus, he is happy for you to practice your newly learned Spanish and he may even have a word or two you can add to your vocabulary.  All you need to do is bring along your sense of fun and adventure!

Isla Del Plata, Agua Blanca and Los Frailes Beach

This island is home to a plethora of sea birds, including the impressive albatross, not to mention sea lions, iguanas and indigenous plant life.  There are two hiking routes to explore or if you prefer to can discover the underwater world of coral reefs and colourful marine life.  If you visit between June - September you even have a chance of seeing the humpback whales, with July and August offering almost guaranteed sightings.

Agua Blanca is an important community of the Manteña people where you can learn more about their culture at the museum, which also has some interesting archaeological artifacts.  Also in the village there is a natural sulphur pool where you can take a dip and cover yourself in the therapeutic black mud.

The beach is Los Frailes is thought to be the most beautiful in Ecuador, with its pristine white sand and backdrop of forested cliffs.  It's not easy to get to - it involves a 2 hour hike - but it is well worth it, especially on a clear sunny day.  To speed things up you can hire mountain bikes

Fourth week of the month: Manta

The fourth and final week of this adventure is spent in the lovely coastal town of Manta, which is the perfect place to try out some of Xtreme's favourite pastimes - kitesurfing and paragliding.  After a week of surfing you will be well used to the water and paragliding gives you the chance to imagine soaring above the earth like the bird life you've seen over the last few weeks.

The school where your Spanish lessons take place is located centrally in downtown Manta, so you're well placed to explore the town.

The City

Manta is set around a bustling bay and offers a great combination of cultural and natural attractions.  The Malecón is the esplanade that follows the curve of the bay and it's a great place to go for a stroll and enjoy the sea breeze, while the main beach, Murciélago, has a vibrant boardwalk lined with restaurants and cafes where you can try some local specialities such as the dish 'Viche de Pescado', tuna with peanuts, yucca, corn and sweet potato.  You should also look out for and try any dishes that you've had a go at making in the cookery lessons to see if you should be applying for Masterchef!

At night the beach area comes alive with people who like to party, particularly on weekends and there is no shortage of bars and clubs where you can shake your ass until the sun comes up.  It's the last week of this trip so make the most of it!

Montecristi

This is the town where the famous Panama hats are made.  That’s right, Panama hats actually come from Ecuador.  This is partly because it's the area where they were mostly sold in the 19th century  (it was a busy area for travellers, therefore more lucrative), but also thanks to one Teddy Roosevelt who was photographed wearing one whilst viewing the construction of the Panama Canal. 

In addition to the hats Montecristi is a great place for buying other local crafts, such as ceramics, at the shops in the main plaza, as well as admiring the ornate colonial architecture.

Crucita

This beach town is well known for its paragliding, thanks to the impressive cliffs, and this is exactly what you’ll be doing!  Soaring off and flying like a bird, whilst admiring the beautiful scenery below.  It’s an awesome feeling and well worth building up the courage to do.  We’re not called Xtreme for nothing you know!

Tagua Shop

The Tagua is a type of palm tree that produces nuts that when dried look very much like ivory and for many years, before the introduction of plastic buttons, tagua accounted for 20% of buttons manufactured in the US.  Nowadays many beautiful items are made by skilled artisans, including carvings and jewellery, so these items make fantastic souvenirs.

Peru Itinerary

Day 1

Mysterious, iconic and Xtreme – that just about sums up Peru and the amazing adventure-filled trip that awaits you!  Your excitement levels will be going through the roof as you arrive in Lima and you think about all the things you are going to see and do over the next 19 days and where better to start than the country's capital city.  Underneath the chaotic atmosphere and often foggy skies you'll find a stunning historical centre worthy of UNESCO World Heritage status, art galleries and museums galore and cool nightlife.

After we pick you up at the airport you have chance to settle into your hostel and chill out with fellow backpackers, before diving head first into the local culture!

Day 2

To give you a taste of what Lima has to offer, day two starts with a city tour with local guides who will show you the most interesting sites, including the spectacular Monasterio de San Francisco and Plaza de Armas, and tell you all about the Incan and Colonial past.  Even if history isn’t your strong point, we guarantee you’ll be fascinated.

In the afternoon you are free to roam around the centre with your hostel buddies, checking out the markets and possibly trying one of the local delicacies, Cuy.  If you’re Spanish skills aren’t up to scratch yet we can tell you that this is roasted guinea pig (sorry fluffy!).  You’ll be pleased to know that there are oodles of restaurants and different cuisine available though.

Day 3

Your first stop today is Paracas where you pick up the boat tour to the stunning Islas Ballestas.  Have your camera at the ready to capture the cheeky sea-lions, playful dolphins and noisy marine birds – just watch out for the Guano (we’ll let you Google that one!).  You’ll also get to see an unusual landmark, the ‘Candelabra of Paracas’.  Where did it come from?  Why doesn’t it disappear in the wind?  Your expert guide can fill you in.

After being on the water you head to Huacachina to sandboard the afternoon away.  It doesn’t matter whether you’ve done it before or not, you’ll have a blast.  It’s simple really, just jump on a board, push off and hope for the best!  Check out the video for a taster.  Those pesky grains of sand get everywhere so don’t be surprised if you find a mini beach on your bus seat when you arrive in Nasca.

Day 4

The impressive archaeological site of Cahuachi is on the schedule today.  Consisting of over thirty pyramids and temple ruins, this ancient city, around 2000 years old, is a sight to behold.  Between your guide and the excellent museum, where you can see artifacts and mummies, you’ll find out all about the evolution of the Nasca culture.  It is a truly fascinating tour in a place that looks like something out of an Indiana Jones film.  Yep, we’ve got the theme tune stuck in our heads now!

Day 5

If you fancy ticking off another one of those ‘ultimate places to see before you die’, then you’re in for a treat today.  You have the option of taking a flight over the mysterious Nasca Lines to view these amazing geometric patterns and shapes, which are thought to have been created by the ancient Nasca people.  However there are some alternative theories as to how they came about and what they were for, so cue the X Files music and some interesting ideas about alien involvement!

Following that little adventure the trip continues on to the stunning city of Arequipa, also known as ‘La Ciudad Blanca’ due to the white volcanic rock buildings.

Day 6

With 300 days of sunshine per year, bright blue skies and some of the most beautiful architecture in Peru, Arequipa is the perfect place for you and your new mates to go wandering.  Thousands of years of history and geology provide amazing photo opportunities and we're sure you'll love the spicy local cuisine and sizzling nightlife .  However, before you go overboard on Pisco, the local brandy-like spirit, remember that the next day is an early start!

Day 7

The day starts with a trip to see the Misti and Chacani volcanoes, followed by a drive across the Pampa Cañahuas, in the Aguada Blanca National Reserve.  Not only can you admire the amazing landscape but the area is rich in wildlife so make sure your camera battery is fully charged.

In the afternoon you have the chance to chill out and relax at the hot spring and medicinal baths in the town of Chivay, or take a wander around the lively market in the town square.

Day 8

You'll need a head for heights today for the morning tour to Cruz del Condor - a particular point at Colca Canyon which is home to the majestic Andean Condor, the national symbol of Peru.  The beauty of both the huge birds and the world's second deepest gorge is spectacular and it can leave you feeling pretty humble (not to mention a bit queasy!).

The small towns of Maca and Yangue are also on the schedule today, where you can explore the streets, admire the churches and generally appreciate the traditional culture.  You'll no doubt find out from your guide that Maca shares it's name with a plant whose root is used as herbal medicine, quite often as an aphrodisiac, so be careful what you buy at the local market  as you might end up with more than you bargained for!

In the afternoon we return to Arequipa.

Day 9

It’s pretty easy-going today, with a bus trip from Arequipa to the city of Puno, on the shores of Lake Titicaca.  You might be tempted to catch up on some sleep on the way, but we’re sure that the awe-inspiring Andean Mountain Range will keep you and your camera occupied.  On arrival in Puno you can settle into your hostel accommodation and then head out with some fellow adventurers to soak up the unique atmosphere, with its mixture of different Peruvian cultures, vibrant markets and friendly locals.

Day 10

If you feel like you've seen and experienced a lot so far, you ain't seen nothing yet!  A full day motor boat excursion on Lake Titicaca is on the schedule, when you get to explore the unique floating islands of the Uros tribe.  Made from Totora reeds, these islands have to be repaired and re-made to keep them sturdy enough for the homes, schools and shops that exist.  It really is ingenious!  Just watch out for any thin patches otherwise you might find yourself with soggy trousers.

The final stop of the day is at the island of Amantani, where you will stay with a local family.  You'll be welcomed with open arms and after a dinner prepared with fresh local ingredients you can dance the night away at the village meeting place - expect traditional music, colourful clothes and lots of laughs.  It's a fabulous experience that you will never forget.

Day 11

After breakfast the last island visit is to Taquile, which is well known for its hand-woven textiles and the custom of dressing according to your status, for example married men and women wear red, whereas those who are single wear red and white (maybe this practice should be adopted in all pubs and clubs - at least it's clear who you can aim for!).  In addition to experiencing the social culture you have the chance to explore the pre-Inca ruins, hillside agricultural terraces and purchase some souvenirs for your jealous mates back at home.

In the afternoon we will drop you off in Puno and transfer you to your hostel.

Day 12

It's an early start but an easy day today as you'll be boarding the 7.20am Inkaexpress bus to Cusco.  It's a full day journey but along the way you can admire the Andean landscapes, little villages and herds of cute llamas and alpacas.  You have a chance to stretch your legs with a visit to the impressive Temple of Raqchi, which was built in honour of the Superior God Wiracocha, before moving on to the ancient fortress ruins and the picturesque colonial village of Andahuaylillas, where you can visit the old adobe church and find out some more about the mysterious mummified skull that was discovered in 2011, which some believe to be of alien origin.  It's that Indiana Jones/X Files thing going on again!

From Andahuaylillas it's just a short journey to Cusco, where you'll arrive at around 17.30 and settle in to your hotel.

Day 13

Today you have a chance to take in the amazing sights and sounds of the city with a tour of Cusco.  The vibrant atmosphere will envelope you as you admire the mixture of ancient Incan and modern western architecture, visit the fascinating museums and sample some local food and drink at the restaurants and bars in the main square, Plaza de Armas.

You might be tempted to have a lively night out at the abundance of fun backpacker and local bars, but remember that tomorrow is the start of your trek on the iconic Inca Trail and at this altitude any physical exertion is double the effort!  You will have a chance to wind down in Cusco again after the four day trek.

Day 14 - Cusco – Llulluchapampa

In the morning we will be transferred from Cusco through the Urubamba River Valley to the km 82 point, which is where the first part of our trek begins.  Get ready for awe-inspiring views, dizzying heights and possibly the odd blister!  After registering with government control we cross the bridge and begin the walk to Llactapata, which is the first place of archaeological importance and where we'll have lunch.  After some nourishing food we continue on to the first camp at Llullchapampa.  It's pretty steep going, but you're young and fit so you can handle it!

Day 15 - Llulluchapampa - Chaquicocha

The second day of the trek can seem a little daunting as it involves reaching the highest point on the trail at Warmihuañusca, over 4,200 metres, so it's a tough day but extremely rewarding.  Also, don't let the name of this section put you off - Dead Woman's Pass refers to the shape of the mountain, not the effect that hiking it has on you! To take your mind off the walking you can take in the views of the snow-capped peaks.  After the big climb, it's time to descend into the Pacaymayu valley, before heading onto the second camp at Chaquicocha, where you can catch up with fellow trekkers around the campfire.

Day 16 - Chaquicocha – Wiñaywayna

After breakfast we begin the trek to Runkuraqay archaeological complex, where you get to explore the Incan ruins and admire the sweeping views, before continuing onto another important site at Sayacmarca, where the guide will explain the different theories about what the purpose of the construction was. You'll see a big change in the geography and climate as you trek through mountains to upper jungle and cloud forests and as you head over the  Phuyupatamarca Pass you'll reach another archaeological site.  It's downhill from there to the camp at Wiñaywayna and some much needed food and rest, well, that's after swapping more stories with all the other like-minded adventurers.

Day 17 - Wiñaywayna – Machupicchu

The final countdown!  It's a very early start today as the trek continues to Intipunku, but you'll be rewarded with the most magnificent sunrise and panoramic view of Machupicchu's citadel.  This is when you realise that it's all been worth it!  After taking in this amazing site and almost filling up your memory card with photos we continue downhill for around 45 minutes to Machupicchu for a tour and a hike up the mountain of Waynapicchu.  Come on, you've got this far!

In the afternoon it's time to board the backpacker train back to Cusco where you can relax and absorb the fact that you have just completed one of the world's best treks.  You should reward yourself with a drink or three of the local rum.

Day 18

Today is a free day for you to relax and recuperate or carry on with the Cusco sightseeing that you didn't get to finish before the Inca Trail.  At this point you could stay on for a few extra days or if you have chosen to do the Round the World - South America trip then you'll be looking forward to continuing your awesome adventure into Bolivia.

This is also the ideal time to gather the email addresses, Twitter names and Facebook pages of all your new mates so that when you are back in a boring job saving for your next adventure you have someone to reminisce with, not to mention lots of friends around the world to visit!

Day 19

We will pick you up from your hostel and bring you to Cusco Airport or onward travel.

Please note transfer to La Paz is not included in the itinerary. You are able to Fly or take a bus through Puno locally.

Bolivia Itinerary

Day 1

Bienvenidos a La Paz!  Welcome to this amazing, sky-high city, official name Nuestra Señora de La Paz (Our Lady of Peace), where your adventure begins.  If you arrive on a clear day you can admire the aerial view from the plane of snow-capped Mount Illimani and the city's buildings, which cascade down the sides of the canyon - pretty impressive!

With a varying altitude of between 3000 to 4100 metres, it may take a little while to acclimatize, unless you are on the last leg of our fantastic 'Round the World - South America' trip.  After settling into your accommodation and meeting some fellow travellers you can take your first wander around the narrow streets and plazas of this buzzing city.  If you do feel the effects of the altitude, try a cup of Maté de coca, coca leaf tea.

Day 2

It's a free day to explore more of La Paz today, so get together with a group of people from your hostel and go and soak up the culture.  There are museums, markets, the impressive city cathedral at Plaza Murillo and beautiful colonial architecture on Calle Jaen.  One of the most intriguing places to visit is the Witches Market, which is full of stalls selling herbs, potions, jewellery and amulets, not to mention some more disturbing items such as llama foetuses.  You're also likely to see witch doctors wandering around, who can be identified by their dark hats.

In between the sightseeing, and providing you haven't lost your appetite, you can chill out at the local cafes or comedors, chat to the locals and sample some of the street food, such as salteñas and empanada tucumana.  Later on in the evening you can hit the peñas, or music clubs, to hear traditional Andean folk music.

Day 3

We're not sure if there is one word that means 'butt-clenchingly scary, adrenaline fuelled extreme exhilaration', but that's what you're going to experience today!  The Death Road, or Camino del Muerte as it is known by the locals, is the world's most dangerous road.  We say road, but what we really mean is a 2-way dirt track, with sheer drops on one side, that weaves its way through the Andes and descends 1200 metres in altitude. And you're going to mountain bike down it.  Hey, look on the bright side, you won't have much peddling to do!

Although the road does claim 100 lives per year, we should point out that 50,000 people in total have done this trip and most have survived, so the chances of you completing the rest of the trip are pretty good!  However, if this really isn't for you then you can spend another day in La Paz.  We certainly don't make you do anything you don't want to , but just imagine the feeling of euphoria if you can conquer your fear!

Later in the evening you'll board the night bus to Uyuni and it can get quite chilly at night so make sure that you wrap up warm so that you can get some sleep.

Days 4, 5 and 6

This section of the trip is a 3 day/2 night Salt Flats and Desert Adventure and over the next few days you'll experience some unique and breathtaking landscapes.

Valle de la Luna (Valley of the Moon)

Situated just 10km from La Paz, this is the first stop.  It's a surreal, desert-like landscape that has been formed over centuries by the erosion of the clay.  This has resulted in some weird looking shapes and structures, making the whole area look like a desert filled with stalagmites.

Salar de Uyuni

This is the world's largest salt pan and is a blindingly white landscape that stretches as far as the eye can see.  You and your fellow adventurers will be taken out on the salt pans by jeep, where you'll discover that your depth perception is totally out of whack!  There are virtually no points of reference out here so mountains that only appear to be a couple of miles away could be several hundred.  What this does provide is some amusing photo opportunities.

Atacama Desert and Desert Lakes

During the trip you'll pass through some vast deserts, including the Atacama.  We know what you're thinking, 'That's not in Bolivia', well no, it's in Chile and that's why you'll need to make sure you bring your passport with you!  So, on your Xtreme Bolivia Experience you actually also get to go to Chile.  We're good to you!  In addition to visiting this famous desert you also get to see another that is named after the famous surrealist, Salvador Dali, so you can just imagine the kind of landscape you're going to see here.

To make a change from the dusty deserts there are two amazing lakes to see en route - Laguna Colorada and Laguna Verde.  The first is renowned for its population of flamingos and also its rusty red colour, caused by the algae and mineral sediments in the water.  The second is so called because of the vivid green/blue colour, which makes for some stunning photos, especially with the dramatic mountain backdrop.

Sol de Mañana Geysers

This is a geothermal area with intense volcanic activity.  It consists of boiling mud lakes and sulphur springs, which shoot a combination of mud and water up to heights of between 10 - 50 metres.  You certainly want to stick to the protected areas so that you don’t run the risk of being cooked and just in case you didn’t realize, the smell of sulphur = rotten eggs.  You do not want a hangover when you visit this place!  Following this you can take a dip in the hot springs at Polques, which are a lovely 30 degrees warm and perfectly safe, so don’t forget your swimsuit.  However, you will need several layers of clothes for afterward as Uyuni is a high-desert climate where temperatures reach extremes, including the cold.

Locomotive Graveyard

Back at Uyuni you can go and view some of the old steam engines and cars that date back to colonial times.  The town was an important stop at one point and although it still has a station the trains are much more modern.  We can assure you that visiting this tourist attraction does not make you a trainspotter!

Day 7

You get to sleep in today before transferring to the town of Potosí, which became famous when silver was discovered in the 16th century.  Over time it has gone through a boom and bust scenario, but despite the decline in economy and in addition to the mining history the town has many other attractive features including impressive churches, well preserved colonial architecture and friendly locals.

Day 8

You might wonder what is so Xtreme about going to visit a mine to hear about the history and current way of life of a local miner.  You might be thinking 'yawn'.  Well, if we told you that you'd get to blow stuff up would that make it sound more appealing?  That's right, you can actually buy some dynamite, set the charges and show that plunger who's boss.  Boom, satisfaction guaranteed!  Check out Xtreme travellers Ania and Stew on a trip down the mines.

After an explosive afternoon it's time to head to Sucre.

Day 9

You could spend your first day in Sucre familiarising yourself with this attractive city, with its whitewashed buildings, colonial architecture and charming narrow streets.  Being quite small it is an easily walkable city, which makes it ideal for soaking up the atmosphere and making your way around the number of museums, parks and markets.

Alternatively, if you feel like a change from culture and history you can choose an optional adventure activity in the nearby valleys, such as quad biking, horse riding and paragliding.

Day 10

There are a couple of interesting options to visit in and around Sucre today - the city's very own version of Jurassic Park or the traditional village of Tarabuco.  The dinosaur park contains fossils of prehistoric plant and animal fossils, skeletons and a trail of authentic dinosaur footprints.  Luckily they haven't created any live ones yet, so no need to worry about T-Rex and friends.

Tarabuco village, just outside of Sucre is a charming and historic place where you can wander the traditional markets and watch local weavers create colourful ponchos and blankets.  You might even get to join in with a game of footie with the kids.

Visit the dinosaur park or Tarabuco village just outside of Sucre on your own.

Day 11

Today is the day to stock up on any last minute souvenirs, take some final photos and enjoy some of the local cuisine you haven't tried yet, such as Majao (a rice dish with eggs, beef and fried banana - interesting combination!) or fried yucca, washed down with some Singanis, a kind of pisco, or Chicha, which is fermented maize.

Make sure that you've also got that list of email addresses from the new mates you've made along the way before you board the night bus back to La Paz.

Day 12

You're airport bound today, either to go home or onward travel somewhere else.  Either way, don't be sad about this adventure being over, just think about all the things you've experienced, places you've seen and people you've met - you have a lifetime of fantastic memories and stories to tell!