How to Plan Your La Paz: Mountain Chacaltaya and Moon Valley Guided Day Tour

Are you travelling to La Paz and wondering what to do during your stay in Bolivia? One must-do activity is going on a guided tour to Mountain Chacaltaya and Moon Valley. This tour will provide you with a unique experience of hiking Andes mountain range, going through almost the whole city, and discovering the different types of social classes. In this article, we will give you all the details you need to plan your La Paz day tour.

Experience

The Chacaltaya and Moon Valley tour is one that is full of unique experiences. You get to hike on the Andes mountain range and enjoy the incredible panoramic view of the mountains, the La Paz city, Titicaca lake, and highlands Boliviano. This hike is not only enriching but also gives you the opportunity to experience change in ecosystems in the Luna Valley. In addition, the tour encompasses exploration of the different social classes of Bolivia.

Highlights

During the Chacaltaya and Moon Valley tour, there are several highlights you will experience. Below are the top highlights:

• Hiking the Andes mountain range at an altitude of 5400m
• Change of ecosystems in the Luna Valley
• Discovering the different social classes of Bolivia
• Enjoying the panoramic view of the mountains, the La Paz city, Titicaca lake, and highlands Boliviano from Chacaltaya mountain

Full Description

The Chacaltaya Mountain is located 27 km from downtown La Paz. It reaches high up to 5400 m.a.s.l. Initially, it was known for its ski slopes, which was the highest in the world. Today, however, the mountain has become a popular viewpoint for Mountain Range, different colored laggon, La Paz city, Titicaca lake and highlands Boliviano. Enjoy walking on this mountain as it provides an exhilarating experience. Though the ascent of the mountain is relatively easy when there is little snow, due to the altitude and oxygen, it tends to be a bit challenging. However, if you feel unwell at any point, you can always return to the car. After visiting the Chacaltaya mountain, the next stop is the valley of the moon. The journey to this destination lasts approximately one and a half hours if we have a clear path. Moon Valley is located 39 km approximately from Chacalataya mountain. We will descend until 3200 m.a.s.l. Here, we can see an eroded area with clay obelisks and sometimes “viscachas,” a type of furry animal. The valley has many different shades of orange, pink, and grey colors that could be seen throughout the terrain. Walking through this valley will expose you to a whole new ecosystem, and the tour’s expert guide will give you an in-depth understanding of the environmental transformation that took place. As mentioned earlier, one of the highlights of this tour is exploring the different social classes of Bolivia. The expert guide will take you to different neighbourhoods of the city, explaining the social and economic divide, and show you the lifestyle and culture of the locals.

Book Your Tour Now

In conclusion, if you are looking for adventure and a fun-filled day tour excursion, then the Chacaltaya and Moon Valley Tour is the right choice. It is a perfect way to explore the stunning natural landscapes of Bolivia while learning about the different social classes of the country. Book the tour now through the following link book the tour here and have the most memorable experience in La Paz.

Frequently Asked Questions about La Paz

La Paz is a bustling city with an eclectic blend of culture, history and modernity. As such, the city can be both fascinating and overwhelming. To help navigate La Paz and make your trip more enjoyable, we’ve put together a comprehensive FAQ answer some of the most frequently asked questions about this vibrant Bolivian city.

1. What is the best time to visit La Paz?

La Paz is generally fairly cool throughout the year, but the best time to visit is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During this time, there’s plenty of sunshine and outdoor activities, and the weather is generally quite mild. November through April is the rainy season, when the temperatures can drop and it can be quite chilly to be outside, so it’s best to avoid these months.

2. What is the currency in La Paz?

The Bolivian Boliviano (BOB) is the official currency in La Paz. Visitors can easily exchange their currency at banks and exchange houses located throughout the city. It’s recommended not to exchange money from street vendors or unofficial individuals.

3. What language is spoken in La Paz?

Spanish is the official language of Bolivia, including La Paz. However, there are also many indigenous languages spoken in various parts of the country, such as Aymara and Quechua. English is also typically spoken in the major tourist areas, but knowledge of basic Spanish phrases will come in handy.

4. What are the must-see tourist attractions in La Paz?

The city is full of fascinating and unique sights, with something for everyone. The top must-see tourist attractions in La Paz include:

• The Witches Market (Mercado de las Brujas)
• The famous San Francisco Church (Iglesia de San Francisco)
• The Moon Valley (Valle de la Luna)
• The Coca Museum (Museo de la Coca)
• The Teleférico Cable Car
• The Plaza Murillo and the Government Palace, (Palacio Quemado)

5. What is the best way to get around La Paz?

The most popular and convenient way to get around La Paz is through the city’s extensive network of cable cars. These cable cars can easily transport visitors to all parts of the city and offer a breathtaking view of the landscape. Another option for getting around is by taxi. It is best to hire taxis from official taxi stands, and always make sure to agree on a fare before starting the journey. Walking is also a great way to explore some of the more compact and easily accessible areas of the city.

6. What should I eat in La Paz?

La Paz has a rich culinary tradition, with a blend of Spanish, Indigenous, and other South American influences. Some of the most popular dishes include Salteñas (a type of empanada), Pique Macho (a hearty meat dish), and Chairo (a hearty soup with meat and potatoes). Visitors should also indulge in some local street food, such as Cholitas (stuffed street donuts).

7. What is the nightlife like in La Paz?

La Paz has an exciting and vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars and clubs to choose from. Many bars have live music performances, while others offer a more intimate atmosphere. For a truly unique experience, be sure to visit one of the city’s many open-air rooftop bars, which provide stunning views of the city at night.

8. Is La Paz safe for tourists?

La Paz is generally safe for tourists, but like any big city, there are certain areas that should be avoided. Visitors should exercise caution when walking alone at night and avoid displaying large amounts of cash or valuables. It’s also a good idea to stay in well-lit areas and to stay in groups when possible.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in La Paz

La Paz is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture. It is the highest administrative capital in the world and is located in the western part of Bolivia. Visitors to La Paz can engage in various activities that can keep them busy and entertained throughout their stay. Here is a detailed guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in La Paz.

1. Explore the Mercado de Las Brujas

When in La Paz, make sure to visit the Mercado de Las Brujas. This is a traditional market that is famous for its wide range of herbs, potions, and spell books. You will find stalls selling anything from dried frogs to llama fetuses, all of which are meant to be used for good luck and protection in the Andean culture. You can also find colorful fabrics, jewelry, and souvenirs here. It’s a fascinating experience to stroll around the market and soak in the atmosphere.

2. Take a Cable Car Ride

One of the best ways to see the city of La Paz is by taking a cable car ride. The cable car system, also known as Mi Teleférico, is the highest urban cable car in the world, and it will give you a bird’s-eye view of the city. Make sure to take the Red Line, which is the longest line and will take you from El Alto to the south side of the city.

3. Visit the Witches’ Market

Not to be confused with the Mercado de Las Brujas, the Witches’ Market (Mercado de Hechicería) is another unique attraction in La Paz. Here you will find colorful stalls selling charms, incense, and traditional Bolivian clothing. You can also find traditional crafts, such as pottery and weavings, at affordable prices.

4. Walk Along the Calle Jaén

Calle Jaén is a historic street in La Paz that is lined with colorful colonial buildings. It’s a great place to take a leisurely stroll and take in the architecture. You will find several museums along the street, such as the National Museum of Ethnography and Folklore, which showcases the diverse cultures of Bolivia.

5. Visit the Valle de la Luna

The Valle de la Luna (Valley of the Moon) is a unique natural landmark located on the outskirts of La Paz. The landscape here is made up of spires and canyons that have been eroded by wind and water over millions of years. It’s a serene and otherworldly place that is perfect for a day trip. There are several hiking trails that you can take to explore the area.

6. Take a Tour of Tiwanaku

Tiwanaku is an ancient archaeological site that is located about an hour’s drive from La Paz. It was once a major religious and political center for the Tiwanaku civilization, which existed between 400 and 1000 AD. You can take a guided tour of the site and learn about the history and culture of the Tiwanaku people.

7. Explore the Plaza Murillo

The Plaza Murillo is the main square in La Paz and is surrounded by several government buildings, such as the Presidential Palace and the National Congress of Bolivia. It’s a great place to people-watch and soak in the local culture. You can also find several street performers and vendors selling traditional snacks and souvenirs.

8. Visit the Coca Museum

Coca leaves have been an important part of Andean culture for thousands of years, and the Coca Museum in La Paz showcases the history and uses of the leaf. You can learn about the medicinal properties of the leaf and the role it plays in Bolivian customs and traditions. In conclusion, La Paz is a beautiful and unique city that offers a wide range of cultural and historical attractions. By following this guide, you can make the most of your time in La Paz and experience everything that the city has to offer. Don’t forget to take lots of pictures and immerse yourself in the local culture.