Welcome to our guide on the best attractions and things to do in La Paz! Known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, La Paz is a city that truly has something for everyone. Whether you’re an adventure-seeker looking to explore the surrounding Andes mountains or a history buff eager to learn more about Bolivia’s past, you’re sure to find plenty to keep you occupied in this vibrant and dynamic city. In this post, we will highlight some of the top attractions and activities that La Paz has to offer, so that you can make the most of your time in this fascinating destination. So, without further ado, let’s dive in!
The 6 Best Things To Do La Paz
- Tour to Charquini from La Paz With Snowboarding
- 3 Days Tour Uyuni Salt Flats Ending in San Pedro De Atacama Chile
- La Paz Uyuni Salt Flats San Pedro De Atacama 3 Day Tour
- From La Paz Titicaca Copacabana and Isla Del Sol Day Trip
- Private Tour La Paz City Sightseeing and Moon Valley
- From La Paz Tiwanaku and Lake Titicaca One Day Tour
The 6 Best Things To Do La Paz
1. Tour to Charquini from La Paz With Snowboarding
Looking for an exciting snowboarding tour outside of La Paz? Join a group to embark on a thrilling adventure to Charquini. The tour offers shared transportation for convenience and includes a bilingual guide (Spanish-English) to ensure that everyone can follow along. Upon arriving at the meeting point (Sagarnaga 242), you’ll depart for Apacheta Jilarata, followed by Laguna Milluni and several other stops along the way. Along with your entry fee, lunch is also included to keep you fueled up for even more fun. It’s important to note that this tour is not recommended for travelers with back problems, heart problems, or other serious medical conditions. Additionally, travelers must be able to participate in physical activities. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, so book your tour to Charquini today!
2. 3 Days Tour Uyuni Salt Flats Ending in San Pedro De Atacama Chile
Travel between Bolivia and Chile via a myriad of natural attractions on a 3-day tour that begins in Uyuni and ends in San Pedro de Atacama. Over the course of the journey, you’ll jump between world-famous attractions including Salar de Uyuni and lagoons of various vivid colors without getting lost and conquer off-road terrains without a hitch in a 4×4 vehicle. Plus, a guide takes care of all accommodation transfers, meals, and activities so that you don’t have to. Explore the vast desert between Bolivia and Chile without getting lost on a 3-day tour that offers you the most interesting way to cross the border. The tour includes an English-speaking guide, food and drinks (B=breakfast L=lunch D=dinner), a sleeping bag, entrance fees (tickets: 30 Bs Incahuasi Island, 150 Bs National Park, and some small things, please be with you approx. Bs. 200), and travel insurance.
3. La Paz Uyuni Salt Flats San Pedro De Atacama 3 Day Tour
Explore the breathtaking wonders of Bolivia and Chile with this 3 day tour that takes you to La Paz, Uyuni Salt Flats, and San Pedro de Atacama. The tour starts with a bus ride from La Paz to Uyuni, where you’ll arrive at 7:00 a.m. on the second day. The Uyuni Salt Flats tour begins at 10:30 a.m. and lasts for 2 nights and 3 days, with a specialized bilingual guide to accompany you throughout the journey. On the fourth day, the tour continues with a visit to the national reserve before transferring to San Pedro de Atacama at 10:30 a.m. You’ll arrive at 2:00 p.m. and can expect a comfortable ride that includes dinner, breakfast, a bottle of water, a hot drink, heating, toilets, polar blankets, Wi-Fi, and a first aid kit. Explore the Train Graveyard and other attractions as you immerse yourself in the culture and beauty of Bolivia and Chile.
4. From La Paz Titicaca Copacabana and Isla Del Sol Day Trip
Experience an unforgettable guided day-trip visiting Copacabana, Yumani and Isla del Sol on Lake Titicaca. Start the journey from La Paz and cross to the other side of Titicaca on a boat, and then continue by bus to the town of Copacabana. Enjoy a tasty lunch and then go towards the shore to continue by boat to Isla del Sol where you will see the Inca steps and the Inca fountain, which represents the 3 pillars of the Aymara Culture. Return to La Paz after a full day of exploring.
5. Private Tour La Paz City Sightseeing and Moon Valley
Enhance your sightseeing experience of La Paz on a 3-hour private tour of the beguiling Bolivian capital and the nearby Moon Valley. With a knowledgeable guide witness the enchanting atmosphere of the Witches Market; admire significant landmarks like San Francisco Church and Plaza Murillo; and marvel at the natural wonder of Moon Valley. Gain fascinating insight into the city’s colonial history and peruse intriguing exhibitions in some of the capital’s museums. Relish the flexibility of this private tour and customize your itinerary according to your interests. Visit top historical landmarks like San Francisco Church Jaén Street and Plaza Murillo. Learn about traditional herbal remedies at the fascinating Witches Market. Find the best shops and markets to buy souvenirs like textiles jewelry and native handicrafts. Be wowed by Moon Valley’s lunar-like scenery made up of dramatic pinnacles and gorges. Experience the city with an in-the-know private guide.
6. From La Paz Tiwanaku and Lake Titicaca One Day Tour
Enjoy a one-day visit to the ruins of Tiwanaku and Lake Titicaca with a local guide. You will be picked up at your hotel in La Paz at 8:00 AM and taken to Tiwanaku to explore the ruins of the Inca Empire. See the “Puerta del Sol,” the “Puerta de la Luna,” and the “Temple of Kalasasaya.” Then, visit the Archaeological Museum to see an array of Incan artifacts. Afterward, stop for a local lunch in the village.
In the afternoon, head to Huatajata, a town located on the shores of Lake Titicaca. Meet people who build “totora boats” and experience a unique perspective on the local culture. Finally, enjoy the natural beauty of Lake Titicaca, the world’s highest lake, while stopping at cultural points of interest surrounding the Tiwanaku ruins. Round-trip transportation to and from your hotel in La Paz is included, so sit back and enjoy the sights.
Frequently Asked Questions About La Paz, Bolivia
La Paz is a popular tourist destination in Bolivia for its rich culture, history, and natural beauty. But with so much to explore and discover, it’s natural for tourists to have some questions. To help make your trip to La Paz stress-free, we’ve compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions about the city.1. What is the weather like in La Paz?
La Paz has a subtropical highland climate with mild temperatures throughout the year. However, due to its high elevation, the city experiences cool temperatures, with an average temperature of 50°F (10°C) during the day and around 32°F (0°C) at night. The rainy season runs from December to March, and the dry season runs from April to November. It’s important to bring warm clothing, especially at night.
2. What is the altitude of La Paz?
La Paz is one of the highest cities in the world, situated at an altitude of 11,975 feet (3,650 meters) above sea level. Some tourists may experience altitude sickness due to the high elevation, which can cause headaches, nausea, and dizziness. To avoid altitude sickness, it’s recommended to drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol, and take it easy the first few days of your trip.
3. What are the must-visit attractions in La Paz?
There are numerous attractions to explore in La Paz, to name a few:3.1. The Witches’ Market – Mercado de las Brujas
The Witches’ Market is an open-air market in La Paz, selling traditional herbs, potions, and other items related to Andean spirituality. This market is also popular among tourists for its fantastic display of handmade souvenirs, knick-knacks, and local art.
3.2. Plaza Murillo
Plaza Murillo is the central square of La Paz, named after the former Bolivian leader, Pedro Domingo Murillo. It is home to numerous significant government buildings such as the Presidential Palace, National Congress, and the Supreme Court. The square is a popular spot to relax and experience the city’s culture.
3.3. Valley of the Moon (Valle de la Luna)
Valley of the Moon is a unique geological formation in La Paz. This valley got its name because of its resemblance to the moon’s surface. You will find tall pointed rock formations surrounded by spiky cacti, which makes a beautiful landscape.
4. What is the currency used in La Paz?
The official currency of La Paz, Bolivia, is the Bolivian boliviano (BOB). It is divided into 100 smaller units called centavos. You can exchange your currency in banks, exchange offices, and airports. Furthermore, credit cards are widely accepted in tourist areas, and there are ATMs throughout the city.
5. What are the traditional dishes of La Paz?
La Paz has many delicious traditional dishes, and the most popular amongst them are:
- Silpancho: A lightly pounded beef fillet served with boiled potatoes, rice, and a fried egg on top.
- Sopa de Mani: A rich peanut soup prepared with beef, chicken, or vegetables, and seasoned with garlic, cumin, and yellow chilies.
- Chairo: A hearty soup made of lamb, beef, or chicken with potatoes, corn, and Andean veggies. It’s served hot with dried chili flakes on top.
- Tucumanas: A delicious fried pastry filled with spicy beef, chicken, or cheese.
6. What are the best times of the year to visit La Paz?
The best times to visit La Paz are during the dry season, from April to November when temperatures are mild, and there are fewer chances of rain. However, if you’re looking for a unique cultural experience, visit La Paz during the winter carnival season in February, where the streets come alive with music, parades, and dancing.7. Is La Paz a safe city for tourists?
La Paz is considered a generally safe city for tourists, but like everywhere else, visitors should also take precautions to keep themselves safe. This includes being aware of your surroundings, avoiding isolated areas at night, and keeping your belongings close to you. Always keep an eye on your pockets and bags, and never carry too much cash. If you plan to use public transportation, only use authorized taxis, and ask your hotel for advice on which areas to avoid.
How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in La Paz
La Paz is a fascinating city with a deep history and lots of things to see and do. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s cultural heritage, taking in the sights and sounds of the vibrant urban landscape, or simply relaxing and enjoying the local cuisine, there’s something here for everyone. In this guide, we’ll take a look at some of the best ways to spend your time as a tourist in La Paz.1. Take a Walking Tour of the City
One of the best ways to get a feel for the city and its history is to take a walking tour. There are many different tour operators in La Paz, and they offer a variety of different tours, ranging from historic walks through the city center to food tours that let you sample some of the local cuisine.Tip:
Be sure to book your walking tour well in advance, particularly if you’re traveling during the high season. Many tours sell out quickly, so it’s best to plan ahead to avoid disappointment.2. Visit the Witches’ Market
La Paz’s Witches’ Market is one of the city’s most fascinating attractions. Located in the heart of the city, it’s a lively and colorful market where you can find all sorts of traditional Andean products, including herbs, potions, and even dried llama fetuses. It’s also a great place to pick up souvenirs and gifts for friends and family back home.Tip:
Be respectful when visiting the market, and always ask permission before taking photos of the vendors or their wares.3. Explore the City’s Museums
La Paz is home to many fantastic museums, ranging from the Museo Nacional de Arte to the Museo de Instrumentos Musicales. These museums offer a unique glimpse into the history and culture of Bolivia, showcasing everything from pre-Columbian artifacts to contemporary art.Tip:
Many museums in La Paz are closed on Mondays, so be sure to plan your visit accordingly.4. Take a Cable Car Ride
La Paz is a city of contrasts, with sprawling urban neighborhoods sitting alongside steep hillsides and rugged mountains. One of the best ways to take in the city’s stunning views is to take a cable car ride. The city has a modern cable car system that offers sweeping panoramic views of the city and the surrounding Andes mountains.Tip:
Try to visit the cable car in the early morning or late afternoon, when the light is at its best for photography.5. Enjoy the Local Cuisine
La Paz is home to a vibrant culinary scene, with everything from traditional Bolivian dishes to international cuisine available at the city’s many restaurants and street vendors. Be sure to try local specialties like salteñas, chuflay, and chairo, and don’t forget to sample some of the area’s excellent coffee and chocolate.Tip:
When dining out in La Paz, be sure to ask for recommendations from the locals. They can often point you in the direction of the best restaurants and dishes.6. Visit the Valley of the Moon
Just outside of La Paz lies the Valley of the Moon, an otherworldly landscape of sandstone formations and eroded rock formations that looks like something out of a science fiction movie. This is a great destination for day hikes and picnics, as well as for taking in the incredible natural scenery.Tip:
Be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen if you’re planning to spend time in the Valley of the Moon, as the high altitude can make the sun especially intense.7. Experience the Nightlife
La Paz is known for its vibrant nightlife scene, with everything from clubs and bars to live music venues and cultural events. Head to the bohemian Sopocachi neighborhood for a taste of the city’s nightlife, or check out some of the region’s traditional music and dance performances for a unique cultural experience.Tip:
Be sure to check the dress code and cover charge at any venues you plan to visit, as some clubs and bars have strict rules and policies.Book Your Tour Now
From exploring the city’s historic landmarks to soaking up the local culture and cuisine, La Paz is a fascinating destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. By following these tips, you can make the most of your time in this vibrant and exciting city. Be sure to book your tours and activities well in advance, and don’t forget to bring your camera to capture all the amazing memories you’ll make along the way!
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