A city founded as a silver mining town, Potosi produces more than 60,000 tons of silver per year. As such, the downtown area features some gorgeous and intricate baroque inspired architecture. This was once one of the richest cities in South America. Now, while not quite as wealthy, there is certainly plenty to do and see. Especially if you are a history buff, this is a great place to visit. From taking tours of working mines whose practices really haven’t changed all that much, to checking out the folkloric dances still performed, in many ways Potosi allows guests to step back in time.
A near 16,000-foot mountain that really stands at the center of Potosi’s history, Cerro Rico was one time mined by Indian slaves put to work by invading Spanish conquerors. Today the mine is still in operation and a trip inside is truly eye opening in terms of seeing the working conditions many still contend with today.
The National Mint of Bolivia can be found here. Now a 20-gallery museum it really does offer tourists a comprehensive look at the region’s past as well as in in-depth overview of the minting process.
This city is very much about its colonial heritage. The Spanish came in in the 1500s and all but demolished the Incan empire and enslaved the native citizens forcing them to work in the mines while the Spaniards grew rich. Religious and Spanish inspired architecture as well as typical Spanish streets are hallmarks of the colonial past.
Potosí experiences winter from June to August. Located at a high altitude, the city can get quite cold during this season, with daytime temperatures ranging from the 40s to low 50s Fahrenheit and even colder nights. Winter is an ideal time to explore Potosí's rich colonial history, including the iconic Cerro Rico (Rich Hill), a historic silver mine that played a significant role in Bolivia's past. Visitors can also delve into the city's museums and churches, showcasing its cultural heritage.
Spring in Potosí, from September to November, brings milder temperatures and blooming landscapes. The surrounding hills and valleys become more colorful with flowers, making it a beautiful time to explore the picturesque countryside. Spring is also an excellent time for visiting the nearby Tarapaya Lagoons, where visitors can observe Andean flamingos and other bird species.
The summer season in Potosí, from December to February, is characterized by warm and pleasant temperatures during the day, with highs in the 60s to low 70s Fahrenheit. This is a popular time for tourists to visit the city and explore its historic sites, such as the Casa de la Moneda (Mint House) and the Potosí Cathedral. Summer is also a great time for day trips to nearby attractions like the Pulacayo Mine and the ancient site of El Fuerte de Samaipata.
Fall in Potosí, from March to May, brings mild temperatures and beautiful autumn colors in the surrounding landscapes. This season is an excellent time for exploring the nearby Silver Mines of Potosí, a UNESCO World Heritage site that provides insight into the city's mining history. Fall is also an ideal time to experience traditional festivals and cultural events that celebrate Potosí's heritage.