Sitting at over 3,500 meters above sea level, not only is the city of La Paz dizzyingly high, but it is also the largest in Bolivia. Surrounded by towering mountains, this is an exciting, chaotic city that offers a variety of activities. Whether you’re flying in from Cusco, rolling in on a Bolivia Hop bus, or already exploring South America, La Paz is a must-stop filled with unique adventures.
Here’s our curated guide to the best things to do in La Paz, from iconic sites to offbeat gems.
One of the best ways to grasp La Paz’s beauty and chaos is from above. Mi Teleferico, the city’s scenic cable car system, doubles as public transport and a tourist attraction. It’s the highest and longest urban cable car network in the world!
Start with the Yellow Line, especially at sunrise or sunset to get the best views. A single ride costs just a few Bolivianos, and transfers between lines are seamless. Pro tip: Take the Red Line up to El Alto for sweeping views and then walk down through the bustling street markets.
The cars you ride in are clean, and hold a maximum of 10 people, meaning you can travel in comfort. They run from 5am until 10pm.
Once dubbed the “World’s Most Dangerous Road,” the Yungas Road — or Death Road — is now a thrill-seeker’s dream. Starting an hour’s car ride away from the city at La Cumbre, the road stretches 64km, and reaches heights of 4,650m.
Even if you’re not into extreme sports, the views you’ll get on this 4 to 5-hour trip are spectacular: on some parts of this route, it’s literally a ride through the clouds. You’ll pass lush Amazon rainforest, rivers, streams, and waterfalls. The first part of the ride is on tarmac, so you can get accustomed to the bike. Later, some parts of the road are as narrow as 3 meters!
It’s an experience that can be missed, but just make sure to choose a reputable tour operator! Find Local Trips lists great options that include private transport, excellent bikes, safety gear, and more.
While the Witches’ Market (Mercado de las Brujas) may be situated in a lively tourist spot, this isn’t any normal souvenir market. Of course, you’ll find your typical tourist trinkets here, but as you wander past the colorful stalls, look more closely and you’ll notice the quirky, fascinating wares for sale: “witches” herbs and remedies, owl feathers, medicinal potions, dried frogs for rituals, and llama fetuses said to bring good luck, amongst other peculiarities.
Mainly run by Aymara women known as yatiris, the market offers a glimpse into centuries-old Andean beliefs. Be respectful when taking photos, and ask questions, you’ll notice that many vendors are happy to explain the meanings behind their goods!
Have a little extra time in your itinerary? La Paz is perfectly positioned for quick day trips that feel worlds apart. One of the most popular escapes is to the serene shores of the Bolivian side of Lake Titicaca.
Just a few hours away by bus, Copacabana & Isla del Sol offer a peaceful contrast to La Paz’s hustle. Stroll along Copacabana’s waterfront, take a boat to hike Isla del Sol for Inca ruins and stunning lake panoramas, and soak in the laid-back atmosphere. Bolivia Hop runs flexible daily departures that make this trip super smooth.
For those who desire a bit of culture and history, a trip to the Iglesia de San Francisco would not go amiss. This beautiful Catholic church is worth a visit, and you don’t need to be religious to appreciate the intricate floral detailing on the façade, with the interior architecture being just as impressive.
Climb up to the rooftop for some of the best views of the city and check out the attached museum. Outside, the Plaza is a hub for musicians, vendors, and street performers. Combine this with a walk up Sagarnaga Street for artisan souvenirs, alpaca knits, and funky cafes.
Just 30 minutes from downtown, the Moon Valley (Valle de la Luna) feels like another planet. A strange but beautiful place, of rare geological formations, and a dull color palette consisting of sand, grey, and reddish-brown, scattered with the occasional green cacti.
The best way to reach and visit the valley is with a tour. The walkable trails take about 45 minutes to complete. Follow the wandering paths and lose yourself for an hour or so in the unusual moon-like landscape.
On Thursdays and Sundays, El Alto transforms into one of the world’s largest open-air markets. You can buy everything from electronics to herbs, but the real draw? The local vibe.
Don’t miss Bolivian Cholita wrestling those same days. A mix of lucha libre and indigenous pride where colorfully dressed women perform acrobatic stunts that are straight out of the WWE!
For a more relaxing activity, why not take a stroll down the quaint, colonial Jaen street. Here you can get away from the noise and traffic, as this is a pedestrian-only area.
The colorful buildings on either side are well preserved, and are home to several museums, art galleries, cafes, and shops. Wander the cobblestoned street, take note of the balconies, name plaques, and other charming features, and of course don’t forget your camera!
Hungry? Start with salteñas (Bolivian empanadas) or a hearty plate of pique macho. For drinks, try a chuflay or singani-based cocktail.
Sopocachi is the best neighborhood for nightlife, with everything from jazz bars to craft beer spots. It’s also one of the safest areas to stay in the city.
Is La Paz safe for tourists?
Yes, especially in areas like Sopocachi and near the city center. Just take usual travel precautions.
What’s the best time to ride Mi Teleferico?
Sunset or early morning for the most photogenic views.
Do I need to be an expert to bike Death Road?
No, but some biking confidence helps.
How do I avoid altitude sickness?
Acclimatize slowly, hydrate, and avoid alcohol your first day.
What’s so special about the Witches’ Market?
It’s a living tradition of Andean spirituality, one you won’t find anywhere else!
La Paz delivers a wild mix of altitude, attitude, and authenticity. If you’re continuing your Bolivia journey, don’t miss our guides to Uyuni and Copacabana. And for seamless connections, trusted tours, and insider experiences, check out Bolivia Hop: the easiest way to explore La Paz and beyond!
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