La Paz, Bolivia
La Paz is the administrative capital of Bolivia and sits at 3,600 metres above sea level — one of the highest capital cities in the world. I only had one night there before heading home, but I made the most of it.
Time of Year I Visited
I went in June. It was warm — maybe a light jacket for the evening, but generally comfortable during the day.
Did I Feel Safe?
The city centre has areas that are fine for tourists, but La Paz requires more street awareness than the other stops on this route. Stay alert and ask your accommodation for advice on which areas to avoid at night.
Where I Stayed
Loki Hotel — really good, I liked it a lot.
What’s Worth Doing
I did a free walking tour through Denomades.com and met a girl from England. Afterwards we got on the cable cars together — Mi Teleférico, the largest urban cable car network in the world, with 11 lines connecting La Paz and the neighbouring El Alto at up to 4,000 metres above sea level. A single ticket costs only 3 bolivianos (under $0.50), which makes it one of the best-value experiences in all of South America. The views from above are genuinely spectacular. If you’ve been reading this blog, you already know I have a fear of heights — and yet here I was, on a cable car over one of the highest cities in the world. Fear doesn’t have to stop you from experiencing things like this. That’s the whole point. We also stopped at Eli’s, a little street stall right outside the teleférico entrance, and had empanadas — delicious.
Mercado de las Brujas (Witches’ Market): A street market on Calle Linares where Aymara women sell potions, amulets, herbs, dried frogs, and all kinds of ritual items. There are also funny t-shirts and souvenirs. Strange, fascinating, and very La Paz.
How Long Did I Stay?
One night — before flying home. I would have loved to continue to Uyuni, but that one’s still waiting for me.
Been to La Paz solo? Share your experience using the review form below.
