Friends, ready to meet a city that hangs from cliffs and hums at 11,940 feet (3,640 m)? La Paz dazzles from the first cable-car glide to the last golden skyline.

This guide distills the most exciting, safe, and culture-rich things to do—with prices, timing, and easy logistics.

Why Go

La Paz blends Andean culture with adrenaline: canyon roads turned bike routes, a floating network of cable cars, and day trips to ancient sites. You’ll find big views, bigger markets, and plenty of gentle ways to acclimatize.

Altitude 101

Give yourself 24–48 hours to adjust. Drink water, pace activities, and plan mellow experiences (markets, cable cars) before bigger efforts. Many cafés serve coca-leaf tea, a traditional local pick for easing the shift.

Death Road

The famous Yungas “Death Road” is now primarily a guided downhill bike route. Full-day tours start around $114–$153 USD, including bike, helmet, pads, guide, transport, lunch, and photos. Pickups are typically 6 am to beat crowds; riding time is 3–4 hours, almost entirely downhill.

Safety first: choose a reputable outfitter, ride within your comfort, and expect a support vehicle nearby. Pack layers—high passes start chilly, lower jungle can feel warm.

City Walk

An introductory walking tour unlocks context fast. A popular option runs about $3 USD, departs 10 am and 2 pm from Plaza San Pedro, and lasts ~2.5 hours. You’ll weave through Rodriguez Street Market, handicraft lanes, and historic plazas while learning about local traditions and daily life.

Tip: bring small cash for snacks and keep valuables zipped; the bustle is part of the charm.

Cable Cars

Mi Teleférico is the world’s largest urban cable-car network—and the best panorama in town. A single ride costs ~3 BOB (under $0.50 USD). For a scenic loop with minimal transfers, start on the Light Blue line downtown, connect to Green at altitude, and ride to the top.

Avoid rush hours (roughly 7–9 am and 5–7 pm). Midday flights offer shorter lines and clearer views; allow 15–25 minutes per segment.

Tiwanaku Trip

About 1.5–2 hours west of La Paz lies Tiwanaku, a UNESCO-listed archaeological complex from a pre-Incan civilization. Expect monumental platforms, carved monoliths, and excellent onsite museums.

A guided day tour runs roughly $38 USD (transport and guide), with site tickets about $15 USD paid on arrival. Plan a 7–8 hour outing, including museum time. Wear a hat, bring water, and keep a light jacket—high plains weather shifts quickly.

Cooking Class

Learn to prepare classic Bolivian dishes in a private home-style class. Sessions typically start around $30 USD per person (lower per head for larger groups) and include ingredients, instruction, and a sit-down meal.

Beyond recipes, hosts explain communal dining traditions and local staples—perfect for connecting with culture in a relaxed setting.

Markets & Crafts

La Paz lives in its markets. Start at Rodriguez Street Market for produce pyramids, fresh juices, and snack stands. Then wander to the famous Mercado de las Brujas (Witches’ Market) for herbal blends, artisanal soaps, good-luck charms, and handmade textiles.

Go during daylight and shop respectfully. Prices are often negotiable; bring small bills and a tote for purchases.

Easy Viewpoints

Prefer vistas with minimal effort? Pair a cable-car ride with short walks around top stations for sweeping city-and-mountain frames. Sunset is spectacular; return before dark for ease and safety. Many viewpoints have snack stalls and benches—great for a laid-back hour above the rooftops.

Moon Valley

If time allows, head 30–40 minutes from the center to Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley) for otherworldly spires and dusty labyrinths. Entry is modest (usually just a few dollars), and the loop trails are short and well-marked.

Go early or late afternoon for cooler temps and softer light; sturdy shoes help on the dusty paths.

Logistics & Stays

- Where to stay: Centro for walkable sights and markets; Sopocachi for leafy streets and cafés. Midrange rooms often land $45–$110 USD depending on season.

- Getting around: Taxis and rideshares are plentiful; agree on fares in advance for street cabs. Cable cars connect major districts efficiently.

- What to pack: Layers, sun protection, reusable bottle, and a small daypack. Keep a copy of ID and emergency contacts handy.

Smart Savings

Bundle activities: combine a morning walking tour with an afternoon cable-car loop; save big days (Death Road or Tiwanaku) for when you’re acclimatized. Confirm inclusions (transport, lunch, tickets) before booking tours to compare true costs.

La Paz rewards curiosity—glide above its canyons, taste its traditions, then chase horizons on ancient ground. Friends, which experience calls first: the downhill thrill of Death Road, a sky-high cable-car circuit, or a time-hop to Tiwanaku? Share your pick and any tips for fellow Lykkers gearing up for this high-altitude adventure!