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La Paz
🇧🇴 Bolivia

La Paz

High-altitude adventure in a vibrant capital — La Paz, Bolivia's administrative capital, is a mesmerizing city dramatically carved into a canyon. Its dizzying altitude and bustling streets offer a unique cultural immersion, blending indigenous traditions with modern life.

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La Paz in 60 seconds

A cinematic tour of the top sights, food and local tips. Get your own AI voice guide and a trip planned just for you in the Tripmi app.

  • 📍Top places to visit: Mi Teleférico, Witches' Market (Mercado de las Brujas), Plaza Murillo
  • 🍽️What to eat: Salteñas, Pique Macho, Silpancho
  • 🗓️Best time to visit: The dry season from May to October offers sunny days and cooler nights, ideal…

Good to know

Best time to visit
The dry season from May to October offers sunny days and cooler nights, ideal for exploring the city and surrounding areas.
Getting around
Navigate La Paz using the extensive Mi Teleférico cable car system for stunning views and efficient travel between districts, or opt for affordable taxis and colectivos (shared vans).
Currency
Boliviano (BOB). Bargaining is common in markets, but prices are generally fixed in more formal establishments.
Language
Spanish is the official language; while English is spoken in tourist-heavy areas, knowing basic Spanish phrases is highly beneficial.
Safety
Be mindful of petty theft, especially in crowded areas like markets and bus stations. Keep valuables secure and avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit neighborhoods.
Daily budget
Budget: $30-50, Midrange: $50-100 per day
💶 Travel money in La PazCurrency, cards vs cash, costs & tipping in La Paz
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Top places to visit

1Activity

Mi Teleférico

This extensive cable car network offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and efficient transport across its steep terrain.

2Market

Witches' Market (Mercado de las Brujas)

Explore this unique market filled with traditional Andean remedies, amulets, llama fetuses, and local crafts.

3Landmark

Plaza Murillo

The historic heart of La Paz, featuring the Presidential Palace, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the National Congress building.

4Park

Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley)

A surreal landscape of eroded clay spires and canyons, offering a unique geological spectacle just outside the city.

5Landmark

San Francisco Church

A stunning colonial-era church with intricate carvings and a vibrant plaza that's a hub of activity.

6Museum

National Museum of Ethnography and Folklore

Discover Bolivia's rich indigenous cultures through diverse exhibits of traditional clothing, masks, and artifacts.

7Landmark

Calle Jaén

A charming, well-preserved colonial street lined with colorful houses, home to several small museums.

8Market

El Alto Market

One of the largest street markets in South America, offering everything from everyday goods to traditional clothing and crafts.

9Viewpoint

Mirador Killi Killi

This viewpoint offers spectacular 360-degree vistas of La Paz, including the city, surrounding mountains, and Illimani Volcano.

10Museum

Palacio de la Música

Showcasing Bolivian musical heritage with a collection of traditional instruments and historical recordings.

11Market

La Paz Food Market (Mercado Lanza)

A bustling local market where you can sample traditional Bolivian street food and fresh produce.

12Shopping

Prado Avenue

The main boulevard of La Paz, lined with shops, cafes, and historic buildings, perfect for a stroll.

13Neighborhood

Sopocachi Neighborhood

A bohemian district known for its colorful houses, artisan shops, cafes, and vibrant nightlife.

14Museum

Museo de Arte (Art Museum)

Features a collection of Bolivian art, from colonial pieces to contemporary works.

15Shopping

El Paseo de las Arcadas

A modern shopping and dining complex offering a contrast to the traditional markets, with international brands.

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Things to do

Acclimatize to the altitude

Take it easy on your first day, drink plenty of water and coca tea to adjust to the high elevation.

Ride the Mi Teleférico

Experience unparalleled city views and efficient travel by hopping on various cable car lines.

Haggle at the Witches' Market

Bargain for unique souvenirs, medicinal herbs, and traditional crafts at this fascinating market.

Hike in Valle de la Luna

Explore the otherworldly geological formations of this eroded canyon landscape.

Take a cooking class

Learn to prepare classic Bolivian dishes with fresh, local ingredients.

Explore the historic Calle Jaén

Wander this charming colonial street and visit its small, specialized museums.

Where to stay

Sopocachi

Bohemian and artsy, perfect for travelers who enjoy a relaxed vibe with cafes, galleries, and nightlife.

Centro Histórico (Historic Center)

Ideal for first-time visitors wanting to be close to major landmarks, museums, and government buildings.

Zona Sur (South Zone)

More modern and upscale, suited for those seeking newer amenities, shopping malls, and a quieter residential feel.

El Alto

Best for adventurous travelers interested in experiencing authentic, bustling street markets and local life.

What to eat

Salteñas

A sweet and savory baked pastry filled with meat, vegetables, olives, and hard-boiled egg, a popular snack.

Pique Macho

A hearty dish of diced beef, sausages, french fries, onions, peppers, and a spicy sauce.

Silpancho

A large, thin piece of breaded and fried beef served over rice, topped with fried eggs and a salad.

Api Morado

A warm, thick, and sweet purple corn drink often served with buñuelos (fried dough).

Chairo Paceño

A hearty traditional soup made with lamb, chuño (freeze-dried potatoes), vegetables, and wheat.

Fricase de Cerdo

Spicy pork stew, traditionally eaten on Sunday mornings, often served with chuño and bread.

Day trips

Tiwanaku

Visit the ancient ruins of this pre-Inca civilization, a UNESCO World Heritage site (approx. 1.5 hours by car).

Lake Titicaca (Copacabana)

Explore the shores of the world's highest navigable lake and visit Isla del Sol (approx. 3.5-4 hours by car).

Yungas Road (Death Road)

For adrenaline seekers, cycle down this infamous, scenic, and treacherous road (full day tour).

Insider tips

  • Drink coca tea or chew coca leaves to combat altitude sickness.
  • Carry small denominations of Bolivian Bolivianos for easy transactions.
  • Always negotiate taxi fares before starting your journey.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure.
  • Stay hydrated; the dry, high-altitude air can be dehydrating.
  • Pack layers of clothing as temperatures can fluctuate significantly.

Traveler reviews

4.8
★★★★★
5 traveler reviews
S
Sofia G.
Argentina
★★★★★
last month

La Paz blew me away with its vibrant energy and stunning Andean scenery. The Witches' Market was a fascinating glimpse into local culture, and tasting a salteña fresh from a street vendor was an absolute must-do! The cable car system offers unparalleled views of the sprawling city below – a truly unforgettable experience.

D
David C.
United States
★★★★★
in April

Absolutely loved exploring La Paz! Hiking up to Killi Killi viewpoint for sunrise was magical. The sheer scale of the city, nestled in the mountains, is breathtaking. Don't miss trying the api morado, a delicious purple corn drink, especially on a chilly evening.

M
Maria R.
Spain
★★★★☆
two months ago

La Paz is a city of contrasts. The altitude takes some getting used to, but the rewards are immense. Walking through the historic center and visiting the San Francisco Church was very rewarding. The food scene is also surprisingly diverse, with some excellent trout dishes available.

K
Kenji T.
Japan
★★★★★
in June

The sheer verticality of La Paz is unlike anywhere else I've been. Riding the Mi Teleférico was a daily highlight, offering incredible panoramic views. Exploring the bustling markets, especially the unique items at the Witches' Market, made for a truly immersive cultural experience.

F
Fatima K.
Egypt
★★★★★
last week

La Paz is a sensory explosion! The colors, the sounds, the smells – it's all so alive. I enjoyed wandering through the vibrant Sagarnaga Street, picking up unique souvenirs. The local food, especially the silpancho, was hearty and delicious.

Good to know — FAQ

What is the best way to deal with the altitude in La Paz?
Take it easy on your first day. Avoid strenuous activity, alcohol, and heavy meals. Drink plenty of water and coca tea, which is widely available and known for its altitude-sickness alleviating properties.
Is La Paz safe for tourists?
La Paz is generally safe, but like any large city, it has its risks. Be cautious of pickpocketing in crowded areas such as markets and bus terminals. Avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar or poorly lit neighborhoods.
How can I get around La Paz?
The Mi Teleférico cable car system is an excellent and scenic way to navigate the city. Taxis are plentiful and affordable, but agree on the fare before starting your trip. Colectivos (shared minibuses) are also a cheap option for getting around.
What currency should I use in La Paz?
The official currency is the Bolivian Boliviano (BOB). While credit cards are accepted in some larger hotels and restaurants, it's essential to carry cash, especially for markets, smaller shops, and transportation. ATMs are available but can sometimes run out of cash.

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