La Paz
Travellers comfortable with altitude who want markets, mountains and real Andean culture
La Paz at a glance
La Paz sits in a canyon at more than 3,600 metres, and the altitude shapes everything: slow mornings, short walks and cable cars that become your best transport. Above the city, the altiplano opens into salt flats, lakes and pre-Inca ruins that make the acclimatisation worthwhile.
The week ahead
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Where to base yourself
- Central La PazSan Francisco plaza, the Mercado de las Brujas and colonial streets within walking distance. Best for a first stay near sights and buses.
- Sopocachi and Zona SurQuieter cafés, flatter streets and a slightly lower elevation. Choose it for calmer nights and easier walking.
- El Alto and the altiplanoThe high plateau town above the city, gateway to the Tiwanaku ruins and the Moon Valley roads. Useful for day-trip staging.
A sample 3-day rhythm
- Day 1Arrive slowly, ride the teleférico across the city and keep the afternoon free for altitude rest.
- Day 2Walk the centre's markets and museums in the morning, then take an easy neighbourhood loop in the late afternoon.
- Day 3Join a full-day trip to Tiwanaku or the Moon Valley and salt flats, returning before dark.
Want more? Use the planner to stretch this into a full trip.
Tips before you go
- Spend the first day slowly; climbing stairs fast is the quickest way to feel unwell.
- Carry small notes for teleférico fares and market purchases.
- Use radio taxis or hotel-arranged rides after dark rather than street hails.
- Pack warm layers, since nights drop near freezing even in the dry season.
Common questions
- How bad is the altitude?
- Many visitors feel light-headed on day one. Rest, drink water, avoid heavy meals and give yourself a full day before strenuous activity.
- How many days do we need?
- Three nights acclimatises and covers the city, with one extra night if you plan the salt flats.
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