Is La Paz Safe? What You Need to Know Before Visiting Bolivia’s Capital

The beautiful Bolivian city of La Paz is the highest capital city in the world, sitting at 11,975 feet (3,650 meters) above sea-level. From the vibrant markets to snow-capped mountains, the city offers plenty of cultural experiences and breathtaking views. While La Paz is full of incredible history, culture and entertainment, many people worry about the safety of the city.

To help put your mind at ease, here’s an in-depth guide on what you need to know before visiting La Paz. We’ll provide some important safety tips and a detailed overview of the city’s security situation.

Is La Paz Safe?

La Paz is generally a safe city for visitors. While petty crime does occur, if you take basic safety precautions such as keeping valuables out of sight and not walking alone at night, you’ll be much less likely to become a victim of crime.

The most common crime in La Paz are petty thefts such as pickpocketing and purse-snatching. These typically occur in La Paz’s crowded streets and on public transportation like buses and shared taxis. Tourists may also be victims of overcharging, especially when taking public transportation or eating at restaurants. Therefore, it’s best to always agree on prices before taking a taxi or eating at a restaurant, and to keep an eye out for any potential scams.

It’s also important to be aware of organized criminal activity, although the risk is generally low unless you’re involved with certain lifestyles or activities. To stay safe, always trust your instincts and avoid unfamiliar parts of the city after dark, especially if you’re alone.

Staying Safe During Your Trip to La Paz

When traveling in La Paz, it is important to take some basic precautions to stay safe. Here are some tips to help you feel more secure during your visit:

• If you’re out after dark, stick to well-lit areas and only take officially licensed taxis.
• When taking public transportation, always keep your personal belongings close to you and be aware of your surroundings.
• Be aware of pickpockets and purse-snatchers in crowded areas like markets and bus stops.
• Keep your money in a secure place and avoid wearing expensive jewelry or flaunting large amounts of money.
• Refuse any solicitations for drugs or sexual activity.
• Check with your hotel or hostel before going out at night for any safety updates.

Security in La Paz

La Paz is serviced by the Bolivian National Police Force, which is responsible for enforcing laws and providing services to the public. The police force is highly visible in the city and can easily be spotted patrolling the streets and granting assistance when needed.

The city also has its own Emergency Telephone System (112), with multilingual operators available 24 hours a day to provide assistance in case of emergency. In addition, traditional taxis are signed up with the local government, making them more reliable and safer than other private transportation services.

Conclusion

Overall, La Paz is generally a safe city for visitors. While it is important to take some basic safety precautions, with the right awareness and traveling in well-lit areas only, most travelers won’t encounter any problems in the city. So if you take a few steps to remain vigilant during your stay in La Paz, you can make sure that you get the most out of your time in Bolivia’s captial.
For more information on traveling safely in any part of Bolivia, check out SouthAmericaTravelHub’s guide.

Insiders Guide to Visiting La Paz, Bolivia

La Paz is the highest elevated capital city in the world, sitting at 3,650 meters above sea level. With its rich history, culture, and natural beauty, it’s no wonder it’s a popular destination for tourists. However, it’s important to address the question of safety when it comes to traveling to La Paz. In this insider’s guide, we’ll help you navigate the city and make the most of your visit.

Local Attractions

One of the must-see locations in La Paz is the Witches’ Market, home to a wide array of herbal remedies and traditional offerings. It’s an excellent example of the unique culture and beliefs that the city holds. The cable car rides are another great option that offer breathtaking views of the city. You can see stunning panoramas of the snow-capped mountain range that surrounds the city, including Mount Illimani, looming in the distance.

The Plaza Murillo is the heart of the city, surrounded by some of the city’s most important buildings. It is home to important government buildings like the Presidential Palace and the Bolivian National Congress. It also has some excellent museums that are worth checking out, including the Museum of Contemporary Art and the National Museum of Archaeology.

Dining Spots

Bolivian cuisine is a mix of indigenous traditions, Spanish influence, and exports from neighboring countries. Street food vendors can be found all over the city offering empanadas, salteñas (spicy meat pies), and other savory delights. For a more upscale experience, Gustu is one of the most famous restaurants in La Paz, offering a contemporary take on traditional dishes. Ali Pacha is another popular restaurant that specializes in vegetarian and vegan cuisine with a modern twist.

Cultural Experiences

La Paz has a rich history that’s worth exploring. The San Francisco Church and Monastery is a must-visit for history buffs. The museum houses a variety of artifacts that show the evolution of the city through time. The National Museum of Ethnography and Folklore is another excellent option. It is a great way to learn about Bolivia’s diverse cultures and traditions.

Taking a day trip to nearby Tihuanaco is also recommended. It’s an ancient archeological site that displays incredible masonry, sculptures, and architecture.

Local History

La Paz is a city with a fascinating history. You can delve deep into its history at the Tiwanaku Museum, where you can learn about the different cultures that have shaped the area over the centuries. The city was also an important site in the fight for independence against the Spanish Empire in 1825. You can check out the Calle Jaén, one of the oldest streets in the city, to see examples of colonial architecture.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Spots

If you want to get off the beaten path, Ventilla Cemetery is an unusual destination worth visiting. With its striking murals, it is like no other cemetery. Another hidden gem that’s worth checking out is the Valle de la Luna, or “Moon Valley.” This geologic formation is made up of sandstone formations and looks like something out of a science fiction movie.

Conclusion

La Paz is a city full of life, history, and incredible natural sights. While it is important to be cautious and take care when traveling, the city is safe for tourists. With our insider’s guide, you can safely explore the city and make the most of your trip.