What to do in La Paz: must-see experiences to have in Bolivia.

La Paz is best explored on foot, and perhaps this is what makes it so endearing. The historic center concentrates the essentials of things to do, with lively squares, well-preserved alleyways and places rich in history at every corner. To visit La Paz in the best conditions, start by acclimating to the altitude during the first 24 hours, staying well hydrated and avoiding overly strenuous efforts.

The visit naturally begins with Plaza Murillo, the true political epicenter of Bolivia. Bordered by the Presidential Palace, the National Congress and the Metropolitan Cathedral, this square invites a contemplative stroll far from the bustle of the nearby streets. It perfectly illustrates the blend between colonial architecture and contemporary Bolivian life.

A short walk away, Plaza San Francisco is one of the liveliest in the Bolivian capital. Dominated by a sumptuous Baroque church, it gathers street vendors, locals and street artists, particularly in the late afternoon. Plan on about an hour and a half to explore these two squares and their immediate surroundings.

Not far from the center, Calle Jaén is one of the best-preserved alleys from the colonial era in La Paz. Its warm-toned façades, its wrought-iron lanterns and its small museums make it a must-see during any stay in the city. Allow about an hour to stroll there without rushing.

Nearby, the Witch Market is one of the most singular places in all of Bolivia. The stalls of the cholitas, in traditional outfits, offer medicinal plants, ritual amulets and llama fetuses, used in offerings to Pachamama. It is an open window onto Aymara culture, rare and deeply rooted in daily life. Visit in the early morning to experience an even more authentic atmosphere there.

Our tip: pair a visit to the Witch Market with a visit to Calle Jaén for a full, coherent morning in this historic neighborhood.

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Beyond the historic center, La Paz also reveals itself from above. Built in a natural basin, the city offers stunning viewpoints over the entire metropolitan area and the snow-capped mountains that dominate it. Two experiences complement each other perfectly to experience La Paz from above.

Riding the cable car is one of the most impressive experiences to have in the city. Mi Teleférico is the world's largest urban cable car network, with several lines connecting the different neighborhoods of the Bolivian capital to El Alto. On board, the panoramas over the city and the Cordillera Real are simply spectacular. Each ride lasts about ten minutes and is in itself a beautiful way to discover the city differently.

For sunset lovers, the Mirador Killi Killi is a must-see. This free lookout offers a 360° panorama of the entire urban area, with the snow-capped mountains in the background. The late-afternoon light is particularly beautiful there.

Connected to La Paz by the cable car network, El Alto is a city in its own right, perched at over 4,100 meters above sea level. Every Thursday and Sunday, it hosts one of Bolivia's largest markets, Mercado 16 de Julio. Between colorful textiles, artisanal products and lively street life, it offers an authentic immersion in Aymara culture. Plan on half a day to fully enjoy it.

La Paz is an ideal base for venturing out to the extraordinary landscapes that surround it. Within a few hours' drive, several destinations are well worth adding to your Bolivian itinerary, depending on your wishes and your level of adventure.

The Death Road, or Road of Death, is one of the most iconic outdoor experiences in South America. Former mountain road renowned for its danger, it is now ridden by thousands of travelers by mountain bike each year. The 64-kilometer descent crosses lush tropical forests and skirts dizzying cliffs, delivering thrills in a stunning setting. A full day is enough for this unforgettable adventure.

About three hours by road from the Bolivian capital, Lake Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in the world. From the town of Copacabana, it is possible to reach Isla del Sol by boat for a day or a stay of a few nights. This island offers grandiose landscapes, Inca ruins, and rare serenity. It is one of the most memorable moments you can experience during a stay in the region.

For those who want to go even higher, the ascent of Huayna Potosí represents an exceptional challenge. This summit of 6,088 meters, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, is one of the most accessible in the Andes for intermediate climbers. The Huayna ascent takes two to three days to prepare and is done with a certified guide. An experience at the edge of the world, in every sense of the term.

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La Paz benefits from a high-altitude climate with cool temperatures year-round. The ideal time to visit the Bolivian capital runs from April to October, during the dry season, with sunny days and cool nights. The rainy season, from November to March, makes certain roads and excursions more difficult to access, notably Death Road and high-altitude hiking trails.

Our Travel Planners' tips: whichever period you choose, plan for at least two days of altitude acclimatization before tackling the most physically demanding activities. Your stay will be all the more enjoyable.

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