Your Complete Guide to Exploring the Best of La Paz
La Paz is a high-altitude city with striking mountain views, bustling markets, and a unique mix of indigenous culture and urban energy. It offers affordable options for both holidaymakers and backpackers, with a blend of modern comforts and traditional charm. The city’s vibrant streets, local character, and lively social scene make it a fascinating base for exploring Bolivia and the wider Andean region.
When to visit
Temp
May – Oct
10 – 20°C
50 – 68°F
La Paz Top Attractions
Attraction Matrix
Search for attractions that you are interested in based on WindingTravel categories:
WindingTravel Category Examples
Nature & Outdoors: Hiking, National Parks, Beaches, Wildlife Viewing, Camping
Culture & History: Museums, Monuments, Historical Buildings, Cultural Tours, Art Galleries
Food & Drink: Local Cuisine, Food Tours, Markets, Wineries/Breweries, Street Food
Entertainment & Nightlife: Bars, Nightclubs, Live Music, Festivals, Comedy Clubs
Adventure Sports: Surfing, Skydiving, Rafting, Scuba Diving, Climbing
Relaxation & Wellness: Spas, Hot Springs, Yoga Retreats, Meditation Centres, Thermal Baths
Shopping & Markets: Souvenirs, Flea Markets, Shopping Districts, Boutique Shops, Craft Fairs
Unique Experiences: Workshops, Volunteering, Local Festivals, Artisan Crafts, Rooftop Bars
City Highlights: Iconic Landmarks, Famous Streets, Observation Decks, Architectural Tours, Scenic Views
Family-Friendly: Zoos, Aquariums, Theme Parks, Interactive Museums, Educational Centres
Country Highlights: Attractions that are on the WindingTravel Country page that most tourists wont want to miss!
Review further details of each attraction to find out more:
| Valle de la Luna | Wander through a surreal, eroded landscape of clay spires and canyons just outside La Paz. This otherworldly terrain feels like walking on the moon, with stunning photo opportunities. |
| Yungas “Death Road” Bike Tour | Cycle one of the world’s most thrilling roads, descending from icy peaks to lush rainforest. With sheer drops and changing landscapes, it’s an unforgettable adrenaline-fuelled adventure. |
| Tiwanaku Archaeological Site | Explore the ruins of an ancient civilisation that predates the Incas. Massive stone carvings, sun gates, and temples tell a story of deep history and Andean mythology. |
| Day Trip to Copacabana & Lake Titicaca | Visit the lakeside town of Copacabana and cruise across Lake Titicaca to Isla del Sol. Stunning high-altitude scenery and sacred sites combine for a tranquil yet cultural experience. |
| Mi Teleférico Cable Car Ride | Glide above La Paz in one of the world’s highest and longest urban cable car networks. Enjoy panoramic views of the sprawling city and surrounding snow-capped mountains. |
| Witches’ Market (Mercado de las Brujas) | Discover a mystical market selling potions, herbs, dried llama foetuses and amulets. A fascinating insight into Aymara beliefs and traditional healing in a vibrant street setting. |
| San Francisco Church & Museum | Admire the baroque mestizo architecture of this landmark church, then tour the museum and rooftop for historical insights and lovely views of central La Paz. |
| Cholita Wrestling | Attend a dramatic and humorous wrestling show starring traditionally dressed Aymara women in bowler hats. Equal parts cultural spectacle and entertainment, it’s a unique, crowd-pleasing evening event. |
| Jaén Street (Calle Jaén) | Stroll a beautifully preserved colonial street featuring pastel façades, small museums, cafés, and artisan shops. A photogenic and peaceful area in otherwise chaotic downtown La Paz. |
| La Paz Food Tour | Sample salteñas, anticuchos and other Bolivian delicacies while walking through markets and local eateries. Learn about food traditions and daily life from knowledgeable guides. |
Check the map to plan your route:
Transport
La Paz offers a variety of transport options suitable for both holidaymakers and backpackers. The city’s unique cable car system, Mi Teleférico, provides scenic and efficient travel across various districts. Minibuses, known as “micros,” and shared taxis are common for short distances, though routes can be complex. Traditional taxis often lack meters, so it’s advisable to agree on a fare beforehand. For convenience and safety, ride-hailing apps are widely used. Popular options include Uber, inDrive, Yango, and Easy Taxi.
Seasonality and Weather
La Paz has a high-altitude, subtropical highland climate with two main seasons: the dry season (May to October) and the rainy season (November to April). The dry season offers sunny, crisp days with temperatures ranging between 15°C and 20°C (59°F to 68°F) during the day, while nights can be cold, dropping to around 5°C (41°F). The rainy season is warmer and more humid, with afternoon showers and temperatures between 18°C and 25°C (64°F to 77°F). The best time to visit is during the dry season, from May to October, when the weather is more predictable and ideal for outdoor activities.
Where to stay
The best areas to stay in La Paz cater to different travel preferences:
Centro (Downtown La Paz) – Central location with easy access to attractions, markets, and restaurants, ideal for first-time visitors.
Zona Sur – A more relaxed, upscale area with quieter hotels, parks, and a more residential feel, perfect for a peaceful stay.
El Prado – Lively area with mid-range hotels, great for those wanting proximity to nightlife and local culture.
Sagárnaga – A bustling, affordable area with hostels and guesthouses popular among backpackers.
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