🇧🇴 Bolivia
La Paz travel guide
La Paz is the world's highest administrative capital, sprawling across a dramatic Andean canyon at 3,600 metres above sea level — a city where indigenous Aymara culture thrives alongside colonial architecture and chaotic markets. The surrounding altiplano offers access to the surreal Salar de Uyuni and the mystical Lake Titicaca. Acclimatise on arrival and prepare for thin-air adventures unlike anywhere else on Earth.
Language
Spanish, Aymara, Quechua
Currency
Bolivian Boliviano (BOB)
Timezone
BOT (UTC-4)
Best time
May to October (dry season, cooler nights)
Budget/day
$25-60/day
When to visit
Jan
2–8°C
Feb
3–10°C
Mar
6–14°C
Apr
10–18°C
May
14–22°C
Jun
18–27°C
Jul
20–30°C
Aug
19–29°C
Sep
14–22°C
Oct
9–16°C
Nov
4–11°C
Dec
1–7°C
Safety
moderateLa Paz has a moderate risk profile. Express robberies (secuestro express — forced ATM withdrawals) are reported particularly in unmarked taxis. Use only radio taxis (identifiable by rooftop illuminated sign) or Uber. Be vigilant around ATMs and withdraw cash only at bank branches during daylight.
Women travellers
Exercise caution after dark. Taxis should be pre-booked via apps. Avoid displaying valuables in markets.
Culture & etiquette
- + Greet locals with a smile and a polite greeting in the local language
- + Remove shoes when entering homes if you see others doing so
- + Respect local customs and religious practices
- + Ask permission before photographing people, especially in rural areas
- - Do not engage in excessive public displays of affection
- - Do not take an unmarked taxi under any circumstances — express robbery risk
- - Do not display expensive phones or cameras on busy streets
- - Do not acclimatise at altitude with vigorous exercise or alcohol — altitude sickness can be severe or fatal if ignored
Food to try
Salteña
Bolivia's version of an empanada — a sweet, slightly sticky baked pastry loaded with a juicy stew of beef, potato, pea and boiled egg. Eaten as a mid-morning snack.
Sopa de maní
Peanut soup made with beef, fried potatoes and noodles in a rich broth — warming, filling and unique to Bolivia.
Api morado
A thick, warming drink made from purple maize, cinnamon, cloves and lemon, often paired with deep-fried buñuelos (doughnuts) for breakfast.
Hidden gems
Details are indicative and may change. Verify visa, safety, and entry requirements before travel.