At over 3,600 metres above sea level, La Paz is the highest administrative capital in the world. A bustling city known for its colourful nature and indigenous culture, La Paz offers fascinating museums, local markets and a famous cycling route.
Things to do in La Paz
Start your journey in La Paz at Plaza Murillo, the city’s main square. Named after the Bolivian freedom fighter, Pedro Domingo Murillo, the plaza is full of historic buildings, such as the Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, which dates back to 1835. Admire the cathedral’s tall domes, large columns and beautiful stained-glass windows.
You’re spoilt for choice with La Paz’s range of excellent museums. Museo Nacional de Arte houses a collection of religious and pre-Hispanic artwork in its pink Baroque-style building. The colonial-style Calle Jaen street is home to Museo del Oro, which displays antique jewellery and homeware.
For the best views of La Paz, hop on Mi Teleferico and journey along the state-of-the-art aerial cable car system. Get a bird’s-eye view of the city or take a short trip to El Alto. If you prefer to keep your feet on solid ground, go bargain hunting at the Witches’ Market for wood carvings, silver jewellery and hand-knitted alpaca items.
La Paz is an ideal starting point for biking the world’s most dangerous road, Death Road. Not for the faint-hearted, thrill-seekers can arrange guided trips to experience the 4,650-metre-high drop-off along this 69-kilometre-long stretch of road.
Getting around La Paz
You can fly into El Alto International Airport, located 13 kilometres south-west of La Paz. In town, the most convenient way to get around is by bus or taxi, while rental cars can be picked up from the airport.