La Paz, Bolivia-6-day-itinerary

La Paz, Bolivia: A 6-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Acclimatization

  • Morning: Arrive in La Paz, the highest capital city in the world. Take a taxi or shuttle from El Alto International Airport to your hotel.
  • Afternoon: Check-in at Hotel Presidente or similar, located in the heart of the city.
  • Evening: Explore the nearby Plaza Murillo, the main square of La Paz, and try some traditional Bolivian cuisine at Café la Estación.
  • Tips:
    • Take your time to acclimatize to the high altitude (3,640 meters above sea level).
    • Try some coca tea or mate de coca to help with altitude sickness.

Day 2: La Paz City Tour

  • Morning: Start the day at Mirador Killi Killi, a viewpoint offering stunning views of the city.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Witches’ Market (Mercado de las Brujas), where you can find traditional Bolivian handicrafts and souvenirs.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Gustu, a restaurant offering modern Bolivian cuisine using local ingredients.

Day 3: Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley)

  • Morning: Take a bus or taxi to Valle de la Luna (approximately 30 minutes).
  • Afternoon: Explore the stunning landscape of Valle de la Luna, a result of erosion that has created a surreal scenery.
  • Evening: Return to La Paz and try some street food at Mercado Lanza.

Day 4: Tiwanaku

  • Morning: Take a bus or taxi to Tiwanaku (approximately 1.5 hours), a UNESCO World Heritage site and ancient city.
  • Afternoon: Explore the ruins of Tiwanaku, including the famous Sun Gate and Temple of Kalasasaya.
  • Evening: Return to La Paz and enjoy dinner at La Cantina.

Day 5: Death Road (optional) or Explore La Paz

Day 6: Departure

  • Morning: Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or exploring a local market.
  • Afternoon: Take a taxi or shuttle to El Alto International Airport for your departure flight.

Things to Know

  • La Paz is a high-altitude city, and altitude sickness can occur. Drink plenty of water and take breaks when needed.
  • The city has a vibrant cultural scene, with many festivals and events throughout the year.
  • Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas or markets.
  • Try to learn some basic Spanish phrases to interact with locals.

Transportation

  • Taxis: readily available and affordable
  • Buses: an efficient way to get around the city
  • Shuttle services: available from the airport to hotels

Tips and Recommendations

  • Always negotiate prices before taking a taxi or bus.
  • Try local cuisine, such as salteñas, papas rellenas, and humitas.
  • Be prepared for variable weather conditions, with layers and waterproof gear.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting Tiwanaku.

Accommodation

This itinerary provides a mix of culture, history, and adventure, but feel free to adjust it according to your interests and preferences. Enjoy your trip to La Paz, Bolivia!