Ultimate Guide: From La Paz Tiwanaku and Lake Titicaca One Day Tour

If you’re planning a visit to La Paz, you won’t want to miss the famous ruins of Tiwanaku and the breathtaking Lake Titicaca. This one-day tour offers the perfect opportunity to explore these iconic sites, accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide.

Experience

During this tour, you’ll visit the town of Tiwanaku, where the mysterious ruins of the Inca Empire are located. Hear about the mysteries of the Monolith and learn about Incan culture from your guide. The tour will take you to see the “Puerta del Sol,” the “Puerta de la Luna,” and the “Temple of Kalasasaya.” You’ll then visit the Archaeological Museum in Tiwanaku, where you can see an array of Incan artifacts. Afterward, the tour includes a lunch stop in a local village. The next stop on this one-day tour is Huatajata, a town located on the shores of Lake Titicaca. Here, you’ll meet people who build “totora boats,” which are made from reed and have been used on Lake Titicaca for centuries. You’ll also have the chance to experience the natural beauty of Lake Titicaca, the world’s highest lake, and learn about the cultural points of interest surrounding the Tiwanaku ruins.

Highlights

Some of the highlights of this tour include: – A visit to the town of Tiwanaku and its ruins, including the “Puerta del Sol” and the “Temple of Kalasasaya.” – A trip to the Archaeological Museum in Tiwanaku to see Incan artifacts. – A lunch stop in a local village to taste the local cuisine. – A visit to Huatajata on the shores of Lake Titicaca to meet the people who build “totora boats” and experience the natural beauty of the world’s highest lake.

How to Plan Your Tour

Planning your tour is easy! You can book your tour online at the following link: Book the Tour Here The tour begins with pickup from your hotel in La Paz at 8:00 AM. Be sure to bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a hat for the outdoor portions of the tour. You should also bring some cash if you plan on purchasing any souvenirs or additional items during your lunch stop.

Tour Itinerary

The tour itinerary is as follows: – 8:00 AM – Pickup from your hotel in La Paz – 9:30 AM – Arrival in the town of Tiwanaku – 9:45 AM – Guided tour of the Tiwanaku ruins, including the “Puerta del Sol” and the “Temple of Kalasasaya.” – 11:00 AM – Visit to the Archaeological Museum in Tiwanaku – 12:30 PM – Lunch stop in a local village – 2:00 PM – Visit to Huatajata on the shores of Lake Titicaca – 4:00 PM – Return to your hotel in La Paz

Tips for Your Tour

To make the most of your one-day tour from La Paz to Tiwanaku and Lake Titicaca, keep the following tips in mind: – Dress in layers to accommodate for changing weather conditions. – Bring comfortable shoes for walking and hiking, as there will be some outdoor areas to explore. – Bring sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the strong sun at high altitudes. – Don’t forget to bring cash for any additional purchases or souvenirs. – Be respectful when visiting cultural sites.

Book Your Tour Now

The La Paz Tiwanaku and Lake Titicaca One Day Tour is the perfect way to explore these iconic sites in a single day, accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide. Be sure to book your tour in advance so you don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!

Frequently Asked Questions About La Paz

If you are planning to visit the city of La Paz, the administrative capital of Bolivia, you may have some questions in mind. Here are some frequently asked questions about the city of La Paz and their respective answers.

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

The best time to visit La Paz is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During this time, the temperatures are milder, there are fewer rainfall and the skies are clearer and perfect for outdoor sightseeing. However, keep in mind that during the winter season from June to July, the nights in La Paz can become quite chilly, so make sure to bring warm clothing.

2. How do I get to La Paz?

The easiest way to get to La Paz is by air, with its international airport located just a short drive from the city center. Flights are available from many major cities around the world. Alternatively, you can arrive at the city by bus, from other cities of Bolivia or from neighboring countries like Peru and Chile.

3. Is La Paz a safe place to visit?

La Paz has a reputation for being a relatively safe city, but like any other tourist destination, you need to take precautions to ensure your safety. To stay as safe as possible in La Paz, try to stay in the tourist-friendly areas and avoid walking alone after dark. It is important to be aware of pickpockets and street vendors trying to scam you. Also, make sure not to drink tap water as it may cause stomach problems.

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

La Paz has a variety of attractions, from the colorful markets and colonial architecture to the rich cultural heritage of its indigenous people. Here are some recommended must-visit attractions in La Paz:

a. Witches’ Market (Mercado de las Brujas)

This market is one of the most popular tourist attractions in La Paz. Here you can find a range of products like traditional Andean herbs, medicinal plants, and ritual items used in traditional healing practices. You can also find souvenirs like alpaca wool products and jewelry.

b. Plaza Murillo

Plaza Murillo is the main square of La Paz and home to several government buildings, including the Presidential Palace and the National Congress. The Plaza is surrounded by historic buildings that reflect the city’s colonial past.

c. Valle de la Luna

Valle de la Luna is a unique geological formation situated just outside the city. The landscape looks like an alien planet, with rock formations sculpted by erosion over the years. You can explore the valley by walking along a short path that takes you through the heart of the formation.

d. The Cable Car System (Teleférico)

The cable car system is an innovative mode of transportation that provides a scenic view of the city. You can take a ride on one of the cable cars to view the surrounding landscape and enjoy the panoramic view of the city.

5. What is the currency used in La Paz?

The official currency used in La Paz is Bolivianos (BOB), but US dollars are also widely accepted at most tourist-oriented businesses. You can exchange currency at official exchange houses (casas de cambio) or banks.

6. What are some traditional foods to try in La Paz?

La Paz has a rich culinary tradition inspired by the indigenous Aymara culture and Spanish cuisine. Here are some traditional foods that are must-try in La Paz:

a. Salteñas

Salteñas are a type of savory pastry filled with beef, chicken, or cheese among other ingredients. They are similar to empanadas, but the dough is thicker, the filling juicier, and the pastry is baked instead of fried.

b. Chola Sandwich

Chola Sandwich is a traditional street food of La Paz. It consists of a spit-roasted pork called lechón that has been marinated in a mix of spices and herbs. The lechón is then shredded and served on a hearty roll, along with tomato, onion, and a spicy salsa.

c. Api con Pastel

Api con Pastel is a sweet and savory breakfast dish that consists of a thick corn drink called Api and a sweet bread called pastel. The Api is made from purple corn that has been simmered with cinnamon, cloves, and sugar, while the Pastel is filled with queso blanco, cheese or meat.

7. Are there any cultural events or festivals held in La Paz?

La Paz has several cultural events and festivals throughout the year, some of the most popular cultural events include:

a. Alasitas Festival

The Alasitas Festival is held every year in January, and it is a unique celebration of the Aymara culture. During the festival, miniature versions of desired items like houses, cars, and money are bought and blessed in the hopes of acquiring them in real life.

b. International Jazz Festival

Held in July, the International Jazz Festival attracts artists from all over the world. It is a must-visit event for music lovers in La Paz.

c. Day of the Dead (Dia del Muerto)

The Day of Dead is a traditional celebration in Bolivia that takes place on November 2nd. The tradition involves building elaborate altars in honor of deceased loved ones decorated with the favorite foods and drinks of the person being honored.

Book Your Tour Now

La Paz is a unique and vibrant city that offers tourists a diverse range of culture, cuisine, and natural beauty. With its colorful markets, historic architecture, and urban cable car system, there is something for everyone in La Paz. By following the tips in this FAQ, you can make sure that your trip to La Paz is as enjoyable and safe as possible.

Explore the Best of La Paz as a Tourist

As the highest capital in the world resting in a valley, La Paz in South America offers tourists breathtaking views such as snow-capped mountains, sandstone walls, and pre-Hispanic ruins. While some choose to come to La Paz to conquer the world’s deadliest road, Camino de la Muerte, known as the Death Road, there is so much more to experience in this vibrant city. In this article, you will learn about the top things to do in La Paz as a tourist.

1. Explore the Moon Valley

One of the most popular attractions worth visiting in La Paz is the Moon Valley, where visitors get to explore natural rock formations, ancient cave systems, and other unique geological landscapes. The bizarre erosion has sculptured this stunning lunar-style location since the dawn of time, much to everyone’s amazement. It is advisable to visit the Moon Valley in the afternoon when the sunshine illuminates the place, creating beautifully lit shadows.

2. Experience traditional local foods at the Witches’ Market

One of the unique things about La Paz is the presence of a vibrant Witches’ Market located in the heart of the city. The market is full of potions and powders that the local “witches” sell to their patrons for inexpensive prices. However, what may surprise any tourist is the variety of exotic foods on offer from the numerous food vendors gathered here. For example, visitors can experience silpancho, an authentic Bolivian meal made of flattened thin beef, boiled potatoes, and rice, to mention a few. Other unique offerings include salteñas, llama meat dishes, soups, etc.

3. Visit the Coca Museum

The coca plant is an integral part of Bolivia’s cultural history, and visiting the Coca Museum is a great way to learn about the plant and its related history. The museum provides insights into the plant’s cultural importance, traditional uses, from ancient times to present-day controversial issues surrounding it. Coca leaves also have medicinal benefits and are widely regarded as an excellent remedy for altitude sickness, which is common in La Paz. A wide range of products such as cakes and teas made from coca leave is also available at the gift shop.

4. Take a Cable Car ride

While La Paz is famous for its steep streets, there is a more relaxed way of navigating the city. One of the world’s highest cable car networks is located in La Paz, named the “Teleférico.” This mode of transport provides a unique perspective of the city’s surroundings from a bird’s eye view. Cable car rides will take you through the vibrant culture centers in the city, such as the El Alto markets and even to the world-famous Mount Illimani.

5. Visit the National Museum of Ethnography & Folklore

The National Museum of Ethnography & Folklore showcases the diversity of Bolivia with various exhibits presenting the country’s cultural identity. The museum showcases Bolivian traditional dress, dance, festivals, and music, among other exciting things. Visiting the museum offers an immersive opportunity to learn about Bolivia’s past and present.

6. Explore the Valley of the Spirits

The Valley of the Spirits, also known as El Valle de las Animas, offers visitors an ethereal experience that will leave them breathless. It is a natural rock formation that pays tribute to Bolivia’s indigenous spirituality. The neat arrangement of formations and their shapes, looking like they are purposefully arranged to form a face, are a true testament to the valley’s mysticism.

7. Explore the Ancient Ruins of Tiwanaku

The ancient ruins of Tiwanaku are among the world’s most impressive and mysterious South American archaeological sites. These ruins, located about 72 kilometers from La Paz, provide insights into the religion, astronomy, and engineering capabilities of Tiwanaku’s civilization. These ruins are also known for their mind-boggling hieroglyphics and enormous carvings in stone.

8. Visit the Murillo Square

The central Murillo Square in La Paz is of immense cultural and historical significance as it played an important role in the country’s history. The square, surrounded by government buildings, is named after Pedro Domingo Murillo, a Bolivian revolutionary leader. Visiting the square offers insights into the political and social landscape of Bolivia.

9. Hike to the Muela del Diablo

Muela del Diablo, Spanish for “Devil’s Tooth,” is a rock formation located in the surroundings of La Paz, and it is considered one of the top hiking trails in the region. This hike offers visitors a unique culinary experience, where tourists can taste authentic traditional foods like roast pork and chicha at the local joints before or after the hike.

Book Your Tour Now

La Paz is a vibrant city that has a lot to offer to any tourist willing to experience Bolivian culture. From admiring natural geological formations like the Moon Valley to exploring the ancient ruins of Tiwanaku, tourists will never run out of things to do in La Paz. The diverse cultural identity of Bolivia showcased at The National Museum of Ethnography & Folklore and the famous Witches’ Market adds a unique flavor to the city. Make sure to take a cable car ride and hike to the Devil’s Tooth to get a fresh perspective of the city.