Complete La Paz Bolivia Travel Guide 2025
Everything you need to know about visiting the world’s highest capital city
About La Paz
La Paz (elevation: 3,640 meters / 11,942 feet at city center, 4,150m / 13,615 feet at El Alto) is Bolivia’s administrative capital and largest city. Dramatically situated in a canyon surrounded by snow-capped Andean peaks, La Paz offers one of the world’s most spectacular urban settings.
As Bolivia’s cultural and economic hub, La Paz combines indigenous traditions with modern city life. The world’s highest cable car network connects neighborhoods, colorful markets overflow with local goods, and the city serves as the gateway to adventures like the Death Road, Lake Titicaca, and the Salar de Uyuni. With over 800,000 residents in La Paz and 850,000 in El Alto, this metropolitan area pulses with energy and authentic Bolivian culture.
Best Time to Visit La Paz
🌞 Dry Season (May – October)
- Weather: Clear skies, minimal rain, cold nights (0-5°C), pleasant days (15-18°C)
- Best for: Outdoor activities, Death Road biking, city exploration, photography
- Peak months: June-August (book Death Road and Uyuni tours 2-4 weeks ahead)
- Advantage: Stunning mountain views, ideal conditions for trekking and biking
- Disadvantage: Higher prices during peak season, busier attractions
🌧️ Rainy Season (November – April)
- Weather: Afternoon thunderstorms, warmer temperatures (18-22°C), occasional hail
- Best for: Budget travelers, cultural experiences, indoor activities
- Advantage: Lower prices (30-40% discount), fewer tourists, lush landscapes
- Disadvantage: Death Road more dangerous, mountain views often obscured by clouds
- Note: January-February wettest months, bring waterproof gear
Top Attractions in La Paz
1. Mi Teleférico (Cable Car Network)
🚡 Urban transport system | 💰 3 bolivianos/ride ($0.40) | ⏱️ 2-4 hours
World’s highest and longest urban cable car network with 11 lines covering 30km. Connects La Paz with El Alto, offering spectacular panoramic views of the city, mountains, and surrounding landscape. Red line most scenic for tourists. Use multiple lines for comprehensive city overview. Operating hours: 5:30am-10:30pm. Essential La Paz experience combining transportation and sightseeing. Purchase rechargeable card at any station.
2. Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley)
🏜️ Natural geological site | 💰 15 bolivianos ($2) | ⏱️ 1-2 hours
Otherworldly landscape of eroded clay and sandstone spires resembling lunar surface. Located 10km from city center in Mallasa district. Walk marked trails through towering rock formations shaped by wind and rain over millions of years. Best visited late afternoon for golden hour photography. Combine with cable car tour. Taxi from center: 25-30 bolivianos. Bring sun protection – minimal shade available.
3. Mercado de las Brujas (Witches’ Market)
🔮 Traditional market | 💰 Free to browse | ⏱️ 1-2 hours
Fascinating market selling traditional remedies, dried llama fetuses (for construction blessings), potions, herbs, and ritual items used in Aymara ceremonies. Located on Calle Linares near San Francisco Church. Local yatiris (witch doctors) offer fortune telling and spiritual consultations. Authentic cultural experience showcasing indigenous beliefs. Combine with walking tour for context. Respectful photography appreciated – ask before photographing vendors or sacred items.
4. Plaza Murillo & Presidential Palace
🏛️ Main square | 💰 Free | ⏱️ 1 hour
La Paz’s central plaza (Kilometer 0) featuring the Presidential Palace (Palacio Quemado), National Congress, and Cathedral. Guard-changing ceremony at palace entrance. Surrounded by colonial buildings with arcades. Popular gathering spot with locals feeding pigeons. Cathedral of Our Lady of Peace worth visiting for ornate interior. Best visited morning or early afternoon. Combine with Jaen Street museums nearby.
5. Calle Jaén (Jaen Street)
🎨 Colonial street & museums | 💰 35 bolivianos museum ticket ($5) | ⏱️ 2-3 hours
Beautifully preserved colonial street with colorful buildings, cobblestones, and gas lamps. Houses 4 museums: Museo Costumbrista, Museo del Oro, Museo del Litoral, and Casa Murillo. Combined ticket provides access to all. Quiet pedestrian street perfect for photography. Small cafés offer coffee breaks. Located near Plaza Murillo. Museums open Tuesday-Sunday 9:30am-12:30pm and 3pm-7pm.
6. San Francisco Church & Square
⛪ Colonial church | 💰 15 bolivianos ($2) | ⏱️ 1 hour
Stunning baroque-mestizo church built 1548-1753 with ornate stone carvings blending Spanish and indigenous motifs. Climb to rooftop for city views. Adjacent square is main meeting point and people-watching spot. Surrounded by shops, cafés, and street vendors. Starting point for many walking tours. Interior features gold-leaf decorations and religious art. Active place of worship – dress respectfully.
Top Activities in La Paz
🚴 Death Road Mountain Biking
Legendary 64km downhill ride on « World’s Most Dangerous Road » from La Cumbre (4,650m) to Yolosa (1,200m). Descend over 3,500m through stunning scenery from snow-capped peaks to tropical jungle. 3-4 hours biking, full-day tour including transport. Professional bikes, safety gear, guide, lunch, and photos included. Cost: $50-80. Difficulty: Moderate (mostly downhill, narrow sections require concentration). Book reputable operator only. Best: May-October dry season.
🤼 Cholitas Wrestling Show
Unique Bolivian entertainment featuring indigenous women wrestlers in traditional pollera skirts performing lucha libre-style matches in El Alto (4,100m). Every Thursday and Sunday afternoon/evening. Theatrical performances with storylines, acrobatic moves, and crowd participation. Transport, entrance ticket, popcorn, soda, and souvenir included. Cost: $20-35. Duration: 2-3 hours including transport. Culturally fascinating experience showcasing cholita empowerment. Book tickets in advance especially during high season.
🚡 Cable Car, Cemetery & El Alto Tour
Half-day tour combining multiple cable car lines with visits to La Paz’s artistic cemetery, El Alto neighborhood, and traditional shaman consultation. See spectacular city views from cable cars, explore the colorful cemetery galleries, learn about Aymara spirituality with local yatiri (fortune reading with coca leaves), and discover El Alto’s vibrant markets. Includes collectivo (minibus) rides for authentic local experience. Cost: $35-50. Duration: 4-5 hours. Highly rated for cultural immersion and local perspectives.
🏛️ Tiwanaku (Tiahuanaco) Archaeological Tour
Full-day tour to Bolivia’s most important pre-Inca ruins (70km from La Paz). Explore Tiwanaku civilization capital (500-900 AD) featuring the mysterious Sun Gate (Inti Punku), Kalasasaya Temple with precise astronomical alignments, semi-subterranean temple, giant monoliths, and Puma Punku complex. Visit ceramic and lithic museums. Includes transport, English-speaking guide, and lunch. Depart 8:30am, return 4:30pm. Cost: $40-60. UNESCO World Heritage Site considered birthplace of Andean civilization.
🚶 La Paz Half-Day Walking Tour
Comprehensive 2.5-hour walking tour covering main attractions with local English-speaking guide. Visit Witches’ Market, learn about indigenous traditions, explore San Pedro Square and prison history, walk through Plaza Murillo, see Presidential Palace and Cathedral, discover why women wear bowler hats and why « zebras » direct traffic. Interactive and informative introduction to La Paz culture. Meet at San Francisco Church. Cost: 30-50 bolivianos (tip-based). Morning and afternoon departures. Excellent orientation for first day.
🍽️ La Paz Foodie Tour
Evening culinary tour through La Paz’s diverse food scene. Sample traditional dishes like salteñas, anticuchos (grilled heart), api morado (purple corn drink), and local street food. Visit multiple locations including local markets and family-run restaurants. Learn about Bolivian ingredients, culinary traditions, and food’s role in daily life. Includes 6-8 tastings plus drinks. Cost: $45-65. Duration: 3-4 hours. Perfect introduction to authentic Bolivian cuisine.
🎿 Chacaltaya & Valle de las Animas Tour
Half-day tour combining two dramatic landscapes. Visit Chacaltaya (5,395m), former world’s highest ski resort, for breathtaking Andean views including Illimani, Huayna Potosí, and Lake Titicaca. Then explore Valle de las Animas (Valley of Souls) with surreal rock formations and clay spires. Killi Killi viewpoint stop for panoramic La Paz views. Cost: $35-50. Duration: 5 hours. Bring warm layers – Chacaltaya is cold and windy. Best dry season (May-October).
Where to Stay in La Paz
Sopocachi (Zona Sur)
💵 Price: $40-120/night | ✨ Best for: Expats, nightlife, restaurants
Trendy neighborhood with tree-lined streets, international restaurants, bars, and cafés. Lower altitude (3,400m) than city center – easier for acclimatization. Safe for walking at night. Popular with expats and young professionals. Good mid-range and upscale hotels. 10-15 minute taxi to historic center. Montevideo Street is nightlife hub.
Historic Center (Around Plaza San Francisco)
💵 Price: $25-80/night | ✨ Best for: First-time visitors, sightseeing
Central location near main attractions, markets, and transport hubs. Walking distance to Witches’ Market, Jaen Street, and Plaza Murillo. Wide range from budget hostels to boutique hotels. Can be noisy and crowded. Higher altitude (3,640m) – some experience breathlessness. Excellent for cultural immersion. Book ahead during festivals.
Zona Sur (Calacoto, San Miguel)
💵 Price: $60-150+/night | ✨ Best for: Comfort, business travelers
Upscale residential neighborhoods with modern hotels, malls, and international restaurants. Lowest altitude in La Paz (3,200-3,400m) – best for altitude sensitivity. Quiet and safe. 20-30 minutes taxi to historic center. Higher prices but superior comfort. Popular with business travelers and families.
Budget Hostels
💵 Price: $8-30/night | ✨ Best for: Backpackers, solo travelers
Dorm beds: $8-15/night. Private rooms: $20-30/night. Concentrated around historic center and Sopocachi. Social atmosphere with common areas, tour booking, and travel advice. Many include breakfast and free walking tours. Popular hostels: Wild Rover, Adventure Brew Hostel, Loki La Paz. Book directly for best rates. Some organize Death Road and Uyuni tours.
Practical Travel Information
🏔️ Altitude Acclimatization
Elevation: La Paz center: 3,640m (11,942 feet), El Alto: 4,150m (13,615 feet)
Challenge: World’s highest capital city – nearly everyone experiences some symptoms
Common symptoms: Headache, shortness of breath, fatigue, nausea, insomnia, rapid heartbeat
Prevention: Take it VERY easy first 48 hours. No alcohol or heavy meals first day. Drink coca tea constantly (hotels provide free). Stay hydrated (4-5 liters daily). Consider Diamox (consult doctor before travel). Sleep lower if possible (Zona Sur).
Critical: Do NOT attempt Death Road or strenuous activities first 2-3 days. Descend immediately if symptoms worsen despite rest.
Recommendation: Start Bolivia journey in Sucre (2,750m) or Copacabana (3,800m) before La Paz if possible.
💰 Money & Costs
Currency: Boliviano (BOB). Exchange rate: ~$1 USD = 6.9 bolivianos
ATMs: Widely available in city center and Sopocachi. Max withdrawal: 2,000-4,000 bolivianos. Use bank ATMs for security.
Cards: Visa/Mastercard accepted in hotels, upscale restaurants, and tour agencies. Carry cash for markets, street food, taxis, local businesses.
Daily budget: Budget: $25-40 | Mid-range: $60-90 | Comfortable: $100+
Tipping: 10% in restaurants if service charge not included. Cable car attendants: 1-2 bolivianos. Tour guides: 50-70 bolivianos/day.
Note: US dollars widely accepted but change given in bolivianos at poor rates.
🚕 Transportation
Airport: El Alto International Airport (LPB), 12km from center. Taxi: 50-70 bolivianos (30-40 minutes). Radio taxi safer than street taxis. Airport at 4,061m – go slowly.
City transport: Mi Teleférico (cable car): 3 bolivianos/ride. Minibuses (micros/trufis): 2-3 bolivianos. Taxis: 10-25 bolivianos within city. Use Radio Taxis (222-2222) or InDriver app for safety.
To other cities: Terminal de Buses main bus station. Copacabana: 3.5 hours (25 bolivianos). Uyuni: 12 hours overnight (120-180 bolivianos). Sucre: 12 hours overnight (100-150 bolivianos).
Safety: Avoid unmarked taxis. Don’t use phone visibly in city center. Keep belongings secure in crowded areas.
🌤️ Weather & What to Pack
Temperature: Days 15-20°C (59-68°F), nights 0-5°C (32-41°F). Dry season cooler than rainy.
Sun exposure: Intense UV at high altitude. Sunburn risk even on overcast days.
Essential items: Layers for temperature changes, warm jacket for evenings, sunscreen SPF 50+, lip balm with SPF, sunglasses, hat, rain jacket (wet season), comfortable walking shoes, altitude sickness medication, reusable water bottle
For Death Road: Long sleeves/pants, closed-toe shoes, sunscreen
Note: Temperature drops rapidly after sunset. Morning fog common in rainy season.
🏥 Health & Safety
Altitude emergencies: High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) and Cerebral Edema (HACE) are serious. Symptoms: severe headache, confusion, difficulty breathing. Descend immediately and seek medical help.
Medical facilities: Several private clinics with English-speaking doctors. Clinica del Sur and Clinica Alemana recommended. Travel insurance essential.
Water: Don’t drink tap water. Bottled water everywhere. Brush teeth with bottled water first few days.
Food safety: Avoid raw vegetables, ice in drinks, and street food first days. Stomach sensitivity common due to altitude.
Safety: Generally safe but petty crime exists. Avoid walking alone late at night in city center. Protests/road blockades can occur – check local news.
Scams: Fake police asking to check money for counterfeits (walk away). Overcharging taxis (agree price before entering).
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days should I spend in La Paz?
Plan 3-5 days: 1-2 days for acclimatization and city exploration (Witches’ Market, cable cars, walking tour), 1 day for Death Road or Moon Valley tour, 1 day for Tiwanaku, optional 1 day for Lake Titicaca day trip. If continuing to Uyuni or Copacabana, La Paz makes a perfect starting point. Many travelers underestimate acclimatization time and feel unwell rushing activities.
Is La Paz safe for tourists?
Mostly safe with normal precautions. Petty theft (pickpocketing) is main concern in crowded areas and markets. Use official taxis or apps (never unmarked street taxis). Avoid walking alone late at night in city center. Protests and road blockades occasionally occur – monitor local news and follow hotel advice. Tourist police patrol main areas. Solo travelers visit without major issues. El Alto has rougher reputation but safe during day on organized tours.
Will I get altitude sickness in La Paz?
Very likely to experience some symptoms – nearly everyone does. La Paz is one of world’s highest cities. Symptoms range from mild (headache, breathlessness) to severe. Take it extremely easy first 2-3 days. Stay hydrated, drink coca tea, avoid alcohol. Consider Diamox if you have history of altitude issues. If planning Death Road, wait 2-3 days minimum. If symptoms worsen despite rest, descend to lower altitude (Zona Sur or leave city). Don’t push through severe symptoms.
Is the Death Road dangerous?
Historically very dangerous (200-300 deaths annually when used by vehicles), now much safer for bikes since new highway opened. Modern tours use professional equipment, experienced guides, and safety briefings. Most route is wide gravel road. 18-24 deaths reported since tourism began (mainly from ignoring instructions). Choose reputable operators only. Don’t attempt if not comfortable on bikes or within 48 hours of arriving in La Paz. Best dry season (May-October) when road conditions optimal.
What’s the best way to get from La Paz to Uyuni?
Three options: (1) Overnight bus – cheapest ($18-26), 10-12 hours, semi-cama or cama seats, departs 7-9pm daily. Book with Todo Turismo or Trans Copacabana. (2) Flight – fastest, $80-120, 1 hour, daily with Amaszonas or BoA. Book early for deals. (3) Private/shared tours – most expensive but includes stops. Most travelers take overnight bus (saves accommodation night) or fly (saves time). Bus more comfortable than expected with blankets and meals.
🌟 Start Planning Your La Paz Adventure
La Paz offers an intense, unforgettable Bolivian experience unlike any other capital city in the world. From its dramatic setting in a canyon surrounded by snow-capped peaks to its unique blend of indigenous Aymara traditions and urban modernity, La Paz rewards visitors who take time to acclimatize and explore beyond the tourist highlights.
Whether you’re here to bike the Death Road, watch Cholitas Wrestling, explore ancient Tiwanaku ruins, or simply ride the cable cars while absorbing the vibrant street life below, La Paz provides a perfect base for Bolivian adventures. The altitude is challenging, but proper acclimatization and preparation ensure an incredible experience.
Respect the altitude, embrace the coca tea, ride the teleferico, and dive into markets and street life. La Paz is chaotic, colorful, and captivating – a city that challenges and rewards in equal measure.