La Paz, Bolivia-4-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Morning

  • Arrival: Arrive at El Alto International Airport (LPB) and take a taxi or shuttle to your hotel in La Paz.
  • Breakfast: Start the day with breakfast at Café Sol, a cozy spot serving Bolivian specialties like salteñas and humitas.

Afternoon

  • Witches’ Market: Visit the famous Witches’ Market (Mercado de las Brujas), where you can find traditional medicines, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
  • Cable Car: Take a ride on the La Paz cable car system to get a panoramic view of the city. Start at the Virgen de Montserrat station and take the car to the Plaza Moxeño station.

Evening

  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at La Casa de los Abuelos, a restaurant serving traditional Bolivian cuisine in a cozy, family-style atmosphere.
  • Nightlife: Head to the Sopocachi neighborhood for a night of live music and drinks at one of the many bars and clubs.

Accommodations

Stay at Hotel Presidente InterContinental La Paz, a comfortable hotel with stunning views of the city.

Day 2: Cultural Experiences

Morning

  • Mirador Killi Killi: Start the day with a visit to the Mirador Killi Killi, a viewpoint offering breathtaking views of the city and surrounding mountains.
  • Museum of Ethnography: Visit the Museum of Ethnography (Museo de Etnografía) to learn about the culture and traditions of Bolivia’s indigenous communities.

Afternoon

  • Calle Jaén: Explore the lively Calle Jaén, a street lined with shops, restaurants, and street vendors selling handicrafts and souvenirs.
  • La Paz Cathedral: Visit the beautiful La Paz Cathedral (Iglesia de la Merced), a stunning example of Baroque architecture.

Evening

  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at El Altiplano, a restaurant serving traditional Bolivian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients and flavors.
  • Live Music: End the night with live music and drinks at one of the many bars in the Sopocachi neighborhood.

Day 3: Adventure and Nature

Morning

  • Sucre: Take a day trip to Sucre, Bolivia’s constitutional capital city. Visit the stunning Plaza 25 de Mayo and explore the city’s colonial architecture.
  • Cable Car: Return to La Paz in the afternoon and take another ride on the cable car system.

Afternoon

  • Mirador Altiplano: Visit the Mirador Altiplano, a viewpoint offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
  • T’ika’s Café: Stop for coffee or snacks at T’ika’s Café, a cozy spot with stunning views of the city.

Evening

  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at La Casa de los Abuelos, a restaurant serving traditional Bolivian cuisine in a cozy, family-style atmosphere.
  • Nightlife: End the night with live music and drinks at one of the many bars in the Sopocachi neighborhood.

Day 4: Markets and Shopping

Morning

  • Mercado Central: Visit the Mercado Central, a bustling marketplace selling everything from fresh produce to handicrafts.
  • Calle Jaén: Explore the lively Calle Jaén, a street lined with shops, restaurants, and street vendors selling handicrafts and souvenirs.

Afternoon

  • Witches’ Market: Visit the famous Witches’ Market (Mercado de las Brujas), where you can find traditional medicines, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
  • La Paz Cathedral: Visit the beautiful La Paz Cathedral (Iglesia de la Merced), a stunning example of Baroque architecture.

Evening

  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at El Altiplano, a restaurant serving traditional Bolivian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients and flavors.
  • Farewell Dinner: End the night with a farewell dinner at one of La Paz’s many restaurants, reflecting on your amazing experiences in this vibrant city.

Things to Know

  • Altitude: La Paz is situated at an altitude of 3,640 meters (11,975 feet) above sea level. Be prepared for potential altitude sickness and take necessary precautions.
  • Safety: La Paz can be a challenging environment due to its high altitude and crowded streets. Take necessary precautions and stay informed about local conditions.
  • Weather: The weather in La Paz can be unpredictable. Pack layers for cooler mornings and warmer afternoons.

Transportation

  • Cable Car: Use the cable car system to navigate the city efficiently and enjoy stunning views.
  • Taxi: Hire a taxi or ride-sharing service to get around the city, especially during nighttime.
  • Walking: Explore La Paz’s vibrant streets on foot, but be mindful of traffic and pedestrian safety.

Tips

  • Bargaining: Be prepared for street vendors and markets where bargaining is expected.
  • Tipping: Show appreciation for good service by tipping 10-15% in restaurants and bars.
  • Photography: Respect local customs and traditions when taking photos, especially around sacred sites or cultural events.

Other

  • Day Trips: Take a day trip to nearby cities like Sucre, Oruro, or Copacabana for an unforgettable experience.
  • Outdoor Activities: Explore La Paz’s many outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and paragliding.
  • Cultural Events: Attend local cultural events and festivals to experience the rich traditions of Bolivia.