Things To Do
in La Paz
La Paz, Bolivia sits high in the Andes at the edge of the Altiplano, with dramatic bowl-like city views framed by snow-capped peaks. The city blends Indigenous Aymara culture, colonial architecture, and a modern, bustling urban life that unfolds along the expansive streets and vibrant markets. The extensive cable car network, or teleferico, stitches together diverse neighborhoods from Sopocachi to El Alto, offering some of the best city panoramas in South America.
At its heart, La Paz is a dynamic gateway to Andean culture, adventure, and spectacular scenery around every corner.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at Plaza Murillo, the heart of La Paz, where you'll find the impressive Government Palace and the Cathedral. Stroll through the cobblestone streets, taking in the colonial architecture that reflects the city’s rich history. Don’t forget to stop by the Museo del Oro to marvel at the intricate gold artifacts from ancient civilizations.
After lunch at a local café, meander through the Witches' Market, where you can find unique Andean herbs, potions, and traditional crafts. Engage with local vendors and learn about the cultural significance of these items. Continue your exploration by visiting the San Francisco Church, a stunning example of baroque architecture.
As the sun sets, head to the Mirador Killi Killi for breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant, sampling traditional dishes like salteñas and pique a lo macho. Wrap up your evening with a leisurely stroll through the historic streets, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Embark on a guided trip to Tiwanaku, one of the most significant archaeological sites in South America, located about an hour from La Paz. Explore the ancient ruins, including the famed Gate of the Sun and the Akapana Pyramid, while learning about the Tiwanaku civilization. The morning light casts a magical glow on the stones, enhancing the historical ambiance.
Enjoy a traditional lunch in a nearby village, sampling local dishes made from quinoa and potatoes. After lunch, visit the Tiwanaku Museum to delve deeper into the artifacts and history of this ancient culture. Engage with knowledgeable guides who can provide fascinating insights into the significance of the site.
Return to La Paz and unwind at your accommodation, reflecting on the day’s discoveries. Consider a visit to a local bar to try Bolivian craft beers or a glass of singani, the national spirit. Relax and rest up for another day of adventure!
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
| ☕Coffee or soft drink | $2-3 |
| 🚌Public transport pass (daily) | $1-4 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning mountain settings and panoramic city views
- Excellent value for money and rich Indigenous culture
- High altitude can cause discomfort for some travellers
- Traffic and crowds in central districts can be challenging
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Puede recomendarme un buen restaurante?" - Can you recommend a good restaurant?
- "Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in La Paz
Visit one of these nice places.
Dramatic, sculpted clay formations create otherworldly silhouettes perfect for wide-angle landscapes and sunset portraits.
A popular overlook offering panoramic views of La Paz at dusk and night, ideal for cityscape photography.
Historic colonial street with whitewashed facades, fountains, and stone balconies—great for architectural photography.
A classic focal point for city photography, combining government buildings, church architecture, and daily street life.
Colorful stalls with curios and traditional crafts provide vibrant, candid photo opportunities of Bolivian culture.
Food in La Paz
La Paz Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Juicy, baked empanadas filled with spiced meat, vegetables, and olives; best enjoyed fresh from morning market stalls.
Must-Try!
A robust plate of beef or chicken, fried potatoes, peppers, onions, and sometimes eggs, great for sharing after a day of sightseeing.
A breaded, flattened beef cut atop rice, potatoes, and a fried egg, offering a satisfying Bolivian comfort dish.
A traditional purple corn drink (api) served with a sweet fried dough pastry (pastel); a staple Bolivian combo especially in the mornings.
Dried, salted beef served with toasted corn (mote) and onions, a classic Bolivian staple found in markets and diners.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling central market with stalls selling fresh produce, herbs, prepared foods, and traditional snacks; perfect for sampling local flavors and ingredients.
Another busy market known for fresh produce, meat, and everyday Bolivian dishes; ideal for a quick, authentic bite.
A vibrant market on the outskirts offering a wide array of street foods, textiles, and local products with a strong Andean flavor.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a warm
Modest dress is appreciated in churches and traditional neighborhoods; remove hats indoors and in sacred spaces unless advised otherwise.
Ask permission before photographing people in markets or private homes; always be polite and respectful.
Safety
Tipping in La Paz
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 10–15% is common if service is not included. Small tips for taxis and hotel staff are appreciated but not mandatory.
Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and larger restaurants; cash is preferred in markets and smaller eateries. US dollars are often accepted in tourist areas, but local currency (Bolivianos) is recommended for street vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Nov–Mar brings warm days with frequent afternoon showers; carry a light rain jacket, sunscreen, and a hat. Rain can make hills slippery, so wear sturdy footwear and plan indoor options if rain is heavy.
Jun–Aug is dry and crisp with cool nights; altiplano skies are clear, offering excellent visibility for photography. Pack layers, a warm jacket, and comfortable walking shoes.
La Paz at Night
Hiking in La Paz
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible day hikes with sweeping mountain views close to La Paz; varying difficulty options.
Popular high-altitude trek with guided options; suitable for fit travelers seeking a mountain adventure near La Paz.
Several trail networks with glacier-fed landscapes and dramatic panoramas just outside the city.
Airports
How to reach La Paz by plane.
Main gateway serving La Paz, connected to the city by a short drive and the modern teleférico network; plan extra time for altitude-related delays and security checks.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Significant Indigenous presence with rich cultural traditions; visible in markets, crafts, and daily life.
A diverse mix in the city center and expat communities, contributing to a vibrant cultural scene.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport nationwide; local clubs and street games are common throughout the city.
Popular in the La Paz region, offering breathtaking aerial views of the city and surrounding mountains.
Access to nearby peaks and canyons draws outdoor enthusiasts year-round.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting La Paz.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Bolivian restaurants offer vegetarian options; look for vegetable-based stews (patas) and bean or corn dishes; ask for 'sin carne' (no meat) and request cheese or egg as protein if needed.