Camino Real de los Incas – Potosí to Sucre
Ancient Inca highway between colonial capitals
Stone steps carved by Inca engineers still mark sections of this historic route connecting the silver mines of Potosí to Bolivia’s constitutional capital. The Camino Real winds through the Cordillera de los Frailes, passing through traditional Quechua villages like Chataquila and Maragua where locals still speak more Quechua than Spanish. Modern overlanders follow a mix of colonial-era cobblestone, dirt tracks, and technical rock sections, with the infamous Puente del Diablo canyon crossing marking the halfway point.
Moderate to difficult depending on weather, requiring high-clearance 4WD and basic recovery gear. Rainy season (December-March) turns clay sections into axle-deep mud traps. No permits needed, but respect indigenous communities and ask permission before camping near villages. Fuel and supplies available in Betanzos. This isn’t just a drive—it’s following the same route Spanish conquistadors used to haul Potosí silver to the outside world. The history alone makes every jarring kilometer worth it.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Mixed |
| Features | High Altitude, Historic, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 108 mi / 173.8 km |
| Duration | 2-3 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 13200 ft |
| Best season | May-September |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 4WD |
| Nearest town | Potosí, Potosí |
| Land manager | Municipal authorities |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Hilux or Land Cruiser handle this route without modifications?
Yes — a stock high-clearance 4WD with decent all-terrain tires is sufficient for moderate conditions. Lift and lockers aren't required, but low-range is non-negotiable on the steeper mountain sections.
What's the trail like during the rainy season — is it passable November through April?
Avoid it. The rainy season (October–April) turns the mixed surface sections into axle-deep mud, and river crossings can become impassable without warning. Stick to May through September for a reliable run.
Do you need any permits or fees to drive this route?
No formal permit is required for the route itself. Some villages along the way may have informal tolls or ask for small contributions — carry Bolivianos in small bills and respect local requests.
What's the hardest section and what should I actually expect?
The most technical stretch comes in the mountain passes approaching 13,200 ft where the road narrows, gets loose, and drops away on one side. It's not extreme, but altitude fatigue is real — take it slow and don't push tired at elevation.
How far apart are fuel stops, and can I rely on finding gas between Potosí and Sucre?
Fill up completely in Potosí before you leave — fuel availability through the villages is unreliable. Sucre has full services at the end, but 108 miles at altitude with 4WD engaged burns more than you'd expect, so carry a jerry can as backup.
Trail track
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