La Paz
Day Trips
Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with La Paz's hidden gems and unique experiences!
Arrive at La Paz and settle into your hotel, taking in the sweeping views of the Andes. Spend some time acclimatizing to the high altitude and exploring your immediate surroundings. Visit the local markets to experience the vibrant atmosphere and sample some traditional snacks.
Take a leisurely stroll through the historic city center, admiring the colonial architecture and colorful street art. Visit the Plaza Murillo, where you can see the Cathedral and the Government Palace. Engage with local artisans at the markets, picking up unique souvenirs.
Join a guided night tour to discover the rich history of La Paz under the enchanting city lights. Savor dinner at a traditional Bolivian restaurant, trying local specialties like salteñas and api. End the night with a refreshing drink at a rooftop bar overlooking the city.
Begin your day with a visit to the Mercado de las Brujas, also known as the Witches' Market. Discover unique herbal remedies, traditional clothing, and mystical items used in local rituals. Speak with vendors to learn about the cultural significance of the products they sell.
Explore the San Francisco Church, a beautiful example of colonial architecture that showcases La Paz's rich history. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a nearby café, sampling local dishes while soaking in the view of the bustling streets. Walk to the Murillo Palace to appreciate more of the local artistry around the plaza.
Attend a folkloric dance show that captures the spirit of Bolivian culture through captivating performances. Dine at a cozy restaurant, relishing regional flavors in an intimate atmosphere. Reflect on your day with a nightcap as you watch the city come alive after dark.
Travel to the remarkable Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley) for a morning of stunning natural landscapes. Wander through the surreal rock formations that resemble a lunar landscape, taking advantage of the panoramic views for photography. Learn about the geological history of the area with a local guide.
Return to La Paz and enjoy lunch in a café that offers incredible views of the cityscape. After eating, visit the Museo de la Coca to understand the cultural significance of coca leaves in Bolivian society. Stroll through the nearby neighborhood of Sopocachi, admiring street art and local boutiques.
Indulge in an authentic Bolivian meal at a renowned local restaurant that fuses traditional and modern cooking techniques. Share stories with fellow travelers or locals over dinner, gaining insights into the culture from your dining companions. Conclude your day by sampling some local wines or singani at a bar known for its vibrant atmosphere.
Embark on an excursion to the ancient Tiwanaku civilization, located a short drive from La Paz. Explore the archaeological site, home to impressive monoliths and structures that date back centuries. Gain insights from your guide about the significance of Tiwanaku in pre-Columbian history.
Enjoy a packed lunch on the site or at a nearby restaurant, savoring local dishes in the stunning backdrop of the ruins. Spend more time exploring the museum at Tiwanaku, which showcases artifacts and histories behind the civilization. Take advantage of this unique setting for some reflective moments among the ruins.
Return to La Paz for dinner at a restaurant specializing in fusion cuisine that blends local and international flavors. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely evening walking through the lively streets of La Paz, soaking in the city's night energy. Wrap up the day with a visit to a local cultural center featuring art exhibitions or live music.
Head to the neighboring city of El Alto, known for its vibrant markets and striking views over La Paz. Explore the bustling 16 de Julio Market, where you can find everything from textiles to electronics. Engage with local vendors and experience the palpable energy of daily life in this high-altitude city.
Visit the replica of the ancient Aymara site, the Puma Punku, which is just a short distance from the bustling marketplace. Delve into the history of the Aymara people and marvel at the precision of the stonework in this archaeological wonder. Grab lunch from one of the street vendors serving delicious local fare.
Return to La Paz for dinner at a rooftop restaurant that offers gorgeous sunset views over the Andes. Dive into a culinary experience with traditional dishes that showcase the flavors of the region. Enjoy the evening walking along the lively streets, looking for a local bar with live music to enhance your experience.
Delve deeper into Bolivian culture by visiting the Museum of Musical Instruments, which presents a wide array of traditional instruments. Participate in a workshop where you can learn to play a local instrument, gaining hands-on experience with the music of the region. Take in the significance of music as a vital part of Bolivian heritage.
Visit the Calle Jaén, a historic street lined with colorful colonial buildings, museums, and artisan shops. Enjoy lunch in a quaint eatery while discussing your findings with fellow travelers. Don’t forget to visit the Museo Nacional de Arte to admire both contemporary and historical works.
Attend an art exhibition or cultural event at one of the local galleries, enriching your understanding of the city's artistic community. Dine at an upscale restaurant where you can taste a fine selection of Bolivian wines paired with exquisite dishes. Conclude your day by inviting new friends for drinks at a bar with live performances.
Set off early for Chacaltaya, a high-altitude ski resort that offers breathtaking views of the Andes. Embrace the chill as you explore the area, with a chance to hike around the trails amidst stunning scenery. Pack some hot coffee or chocolate to enjoy in the crisp mountain air.
Engage in adventurous activities such as snowboarding or tobogganing, depending on the season. Take breaks in between to soak up the breathtaking views stretching out before you. Have lunch at the eco-friendly lodge, sampling some hearty mountain cuisine.
Return to La Paz and relax at your hotel, soaking in the memories of your adventurous day. As evening falls, treat yourself to a dinner featuring an array of Andean dishes. Share stories of your day’s experiences with fellow travelers over drinks at a local bar.
Spend your morning at the beautiful Botanical Garden, located in the nearby Zona Sur district. Stroll through the lush gardens, discovering a variety of native and exotic plants alongside peaceful walking paths. Take the opportunity to capture the stunning floral scenery with photographs.
Have lunch at a café within the garden or in one of the nearby local eateries. Continue your day by visiting the Valle de la Luna again for a different perspective, perhaps hiking a trail to see more diverse views. Engage with nature, reflecting on your trip thus far and appreciating the serene atmosphere.
Return to La Paz and enjoy dinner at a traditional Bolivian grill, indulging in an array of grilled meats and local sides. Participate in a cooking class if available, immersing yourself in the culinary aspects of Bolivian culture. Conclude the day with a quiet evening, perhaps journaling or planning for the days to come.
Use your last morning to revisit your favorite spots in La Paz or enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel. Take the opportunity for some final shopping for souvenirs that will remind you of your Bolivian adventure. Reflect on your experiences while savoring the local flavors one last time.
Make your way to the cable car system for a scenic ride offering panoramic views of the city. Capture some last photos of the breathtaking landscapes before heading back to the city center for lunch. Take time to relax in one of the parks, watching the locals go about their day.
Spend your last evening enjoying a relaxed dinner at a rooftop restaurant, leaning back to soak in the beautiful twinkling of the city lights. Chat with local friends or travelers you’ve connected with during your stay. Prepare for your departure, reflecting on the incredible journey you’ve had in La Paz.