Nestled in the Andes Mountains, La Paz, Bolivia, proudly holds the title of the world's highest capital, where the sky feels within arm's reach. It's a city of high altitudes and high spirits, brimming with extremes and deep cultural roots. As Ernesto 'Che' Guevara once remarked, "The heights of the Andes can stir the soul like no other place on earth." In La Paz, every step is a dance with history, and every breath is a taste of the highland air, making it an unforgettable destination where the rich tapestry of Bolivian culture unfolds before your eyes.
The City of La Paz in Bolivia (Edraine Bernardo)
Top 25 Things to See and Do in La Paz
1. Wander Through the Witches’ Market (Mercado de las Brujas)
Amidst the bustling streets of La Paz lies the enigmatic Witches Market, where ancient Andean beliefs are woven into daily life. Vendors sell mystical items from dried llama fetuses to potent herbs, all promising good fortune or protection.
Who it appeals to: Curious travelers, cultural enthusiasts, and souvenir seekers. Families and solo explorers alike will enjoy the unique atmosphere.
Insider Tips: Ask vendors about the significance of their wares and request permission before taking photos.
Practicalities: Open daily, no entrance fee, easily accessible by foot or public transport. Spend 1–2 hours exploring.
2. Ride the Mi Teleférico Cable Cars
La Paz's cable car system, Mi Teleférico, is both transportation and sightseeing. As the world's highest and longest urban cable car network, it offers spectacular city views with the Andes in the background.
Who it appeals to: Photographers, families, and adventure seekers.
Insider Tips: Ride in early morning or late afternoon for the best light. Explore multiple neighborhoods for varied perspectives.
Practicalities: Operates from early morning to late evening. Tickets are available at stations; day passes are recommended for full exploration.
Bolivia's incredible mountain range 3. Stroll Down Calle Jaen
Calle Jaen, La Paz's most colonial street, is filled with colorful houses, cobblestone pavements, and five notable museums.
Who it appeals to: History buffs, art lovers, and families.
Insider Tips: Visit Museo del Oro for Tiwanaku artifacts. Early evening is most atmospheric.
Practicalities: Open throughout the week; allow a couple of hours. Minimal museum entry fees; accessible on foot.
4. Tour the Basilica de San Francisco
The Basilica de San Francisco blends Spanish and indigenous art with intricate façades and rich interiors.
Who it appeals to: Architecture enthusiasts and spiritual seekers.
Insider Tips: Climb the rooftop for panoramic city views. Visit on weekday mornings to avoid crowds.
Practicalities: Open daily; small fee for rooftop access. Spend ~1 hour.
5. Explore Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley)
Moon Valley, a short drive from La Paz, features spire-shaped rock formations formed over millennia.
Who it appeals to: Nature lovers, photographers, and families.
Insider Tips: Late afternoon offers cooler temperatures and ideal light for photography. Wear sturdy shoes.
Practicalities: Open daily with a small fee; best reached by taxi or tour. Allocate at least 2 hours.
6. Bike Down the Death Road
For thrill-seekers, Death Road offers a narrow, winding ride through cloud forests and past waterfalls.
Who it appeals to: Adventure travelers and mountain biking enthusiasts.
Insider Tips: Book with a reputable company; start early to avoid afternoon fog and rain.
Practicalities: Tours include transportation, equipment, and guides. Full-day experience.
7. Day Trip to Tiwanaku Ruins
The ancient Tiwanaku ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offer insights into a pre-Incan civilization.
Who it appeals to: History and archaeology enthusiasts.
Insider Tips: Visit the museum first; consider hiring a guide for context and stories.
Practicalities: 1.5-hour drive from La Paz; entrance fee applies; allow at least half a day.
8. Experience Cholita Wrestling
Cholita wrestling showcases indigenous women in traditional clothing competing in a lively, entertaining sport.
Who it appeals to: Travelers seeking an offbeat cultural experience; families.
Insider Tips: Attend on Sundays for the full spectacle; expect a lively atmosphere.
Practicalities: Tickets are affordable; held in El Alto, accessible by cable car.
Livestock for sale at the San Francisco del Alto market (Philip Flood)
9. Explore El Alto Market
El Alto hosts one of Bolivia’s largest and most vibrant markets. Stalls sell textiles, handicrafts, produce, and street food.
Who it appeals to: Culture enthusiasts, bargain hunters, and food lovers.
Insider Tips: Visit early morning; try local street food; be ready to haggle.
Practicalities: Open daily, busiest on Thursdays and Sundays. Taxi or public transport from central La Paz is recommended.
Plaza Murillo en La Paz (Claudia Coplan) 10. Stroll Through Plaza Murillo & Historic Center
Plaza Murillo is La Paz’s main square, surrounded by the Presidential Palace, National Congress, and Cathedral of La Paz.
Who it appeals to: History buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and culture seekers.
Insider Tips: Visit during political events for added cultural insight.
Practicalities: Open all day, free entry; easily accessible from central La Paz.
11–25. Additional Things to Do in La Paz
Visit the Government Palace and La Paz Cathedral.
Tour local art galleries and cultural centers.
Explore Mercado Lanza for traditional crafts.
Walk along the Prado Street for shopping and street food.
Visit the National Museum of Ethnography and Folklore.
Explore the Andean Textile Museum.
Take a city tour by cable car and foot.
Experience Bolivian gastronomy at local markets.
Attend local festivals for cultural immersion.
Hike Chacaltaya for panoramic views.
Explore the La Paz Botanical Garden.
Visit the Museo de la Coca.
Take a cooking class to learn traditional dishes.
Join a walking tour of Murillo Square at sunset.
Visit surrounding highland villages for cultural experiences.
Why Visit La Paz, Bolivia?
La Paz offers a unique high-altitude setting, rich cultural diversity, and a deep connection to Andean heritage. From adrenaline-filled adventures to historical explorations, it combines natural beauty, vibrant city life, and spiritual experiences in one unforgettable destination.
When Is the Best Time to Visit La Paz?
Dry season vs rainy season.
Best months for trekking and city tours.
Weather considerations at high altitude.
Tips for Visiting La Paz, Bolivia
La Paz offers a blend of adventure and culture. Tailor your journey with Adventure Life to include top experiences, guided by local English-speaking experts. Plan carefully to ensure high-altitude safety, cultural immersion, and seamless travel. Contact Adventure Life to start your personalized itinerary.
