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La Paz
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    Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta

    Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta

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    Located on the only beach in the region, Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta is our all-ages luxury oceanfront resort with its own private cove. Enjoy stunning ocean vistas from our sunset bar or sneak a peak of breaching whales from our beachfront restaurants.

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    • filter_dramaUnderstand
      • Orientation

        La Paz was built in a canyon created by the Choqueyapu River (now mostly built over), which runs northwest to southeast. The city's main thoroughfare, which roughly follows the river, changes names over its length, but the central tree-lined section running through the downtown core is called the Prado.

        La Paz geography, in particular the altitude, reflects the city's society: the lower you go, the more affluent. While many middle-class paceños live in high-rise condos near the center, the really rich houses are located in the lower neighborhoods southwest of the Prado. The reason for this division is that the lower you go in the city the milder the weather is. And looking up from the center, the surrounding hills are plastered with makeshift brick houses of those struggling in the hope of one day reaching the bottom.

        The satellite city of El Alto, in which the airport is located, is spread over a broad area to the west of the canyon, on the altiplano.

    • filter_dramaGet in
      • By plane

        El Alto International Airport , El Alto. This is the world's highest international airport; at 13,313 ft/4,058 m above sea level, it's almost half as high as a jetliner's cruising altitude, and takeoffs require a longer runway due to the thin air. There is an airport departure tax of US$25 (or Bs174) for international flights, Bs15 for domestic flights. Tax can only be paid in cash, but several ATMs which also give out US$ are available at the airport. Tax not applicable for BoA national flights (March 2015).

        Most South American airlines (LAN, TACA, Avianca, SkyAirline etc.) serve El Alto Airport as well local airlines (Boliviana de Aviación (BoA), Transporte Aéreo Militar (TAM), Aerocon and Amaszonas). Most international flights will make a stop over in Santa Cruz to pick up or drop off passengers. American Airlines is currently the only U.S. carrier serving Bolivia, with one daily flight from Miami.

        State-funded BoA and TAM (usually for a cheaper price) serve major domestic destinations as well as some major South American hubs. Aerocon mainly provides air links to communities in the Beni Department via their hub Trinidad. Amaszonas provides direct service to tourist destinations like Rurrenabaque or Uyuni. LAB (Lloyd Aéreo Boliviano) was Bolivia's national airline until April 2007, when services were suspended by the Bolivian government due to financial problems. Another private operator, Aerosur, has also now ceased operations, due to a dispute with the Government over unpaid taxes.

        While you may be in the practice of racing to immigration when you get off a plane, in order to avoid long queues, forget about this in La Paz. Take things very easily or you will be seriously out of breath and may suffer medical complications. Just walk slowly to the immigration area.

        From the airport, the official rate for a taxi into central La Paz is Bs 70 (about US$10). Only use radio taxis with a sign on the roof. Shared vans cost Bs 3.80 (US$0.50). When returning to the airport, please give yourself plenty of time if taking the bus. Often they are full once they pass near Plaza San Francisco, especially during rush hour 5-7PM. The first bus leaves from Plaza Isabel de Católica in Sopocachi at 6.15 a.m.

        As of 2015 a company called South West Tours offers a premium to and from airport transfer for U$ 50.- which has gained popularity for safety and comfort specially at the very early hours in which US bound flights take off and arrive.

        If you are taking a TAM flight OUT of La Paz airport be VERY careful to verify which airport it is leaving from, some TAM flights leave from the El Alto Intl airport and others from the military base airport. (As of Nov. 2011 all TAM flights seem to be leaving from El Alto Intl. - May 2012 update - TAM flights do sometimes still leave from the military airport)

      • By bus

        The main bus terminal is in Central Park, near the upper end of the Prado [url=https://maps.google.com.au/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=Bus+Terminal+%40-16.489048,-68.141536&aq=&sll=-16.490041,-68.13961&sspn=0.029793,0.055747&vpsrc=0&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Bus+Terminal,+Av.Peru,+La+Paz,+La+Paz+Dept,+Bolivia&t=m&z=17](Google Map)[/url] and a 15-20 min walk from most hostels. Note that buses arriving from [wiki=425e9dcfadc08a078199d2f4c608f9a3]Lake Titicaca[/wiki] (the route for entering overland from [wiki=8595abe05ed0d49d457e6d4bc25cac2f]Puno[/wiki], Peru) and [wiki=c3d4e73f347154e8c7533c5b39921227]Sorata[/wiki] terminate at a plaza near the city cemetery (Cementerio) farther to the west. Buses from [wiki=1d9e6be57b7780e3d08b600d31b0d395]Quime[/wiki] terminate in the El Alto bus terminal.

        Buses leaving La Paz usually stop in El Alto to pick up more passengers. It sometimes takes one or two hours until you really leave the city.

        Another option to go from La Paz to Cusco, Copacabana or Puno to take one of the Bolivia Hop buses. This service allows you to hop on or hop off at any of these places. They also provide border assistance in Spanish and English and do not make unauthorized stops. Bolivia hop is a new company and appears to be well ran and very safe.

        [wiki=cb81540bd7218706ba4c14b6660274b2]Cochabamba[/wiki] 7-8 hr. Normal day buses cost around Bs 20 while "full cama" (flat bed) buses with for example Bolivar cost Bs 90. Semi cama between the two.

        [wiki=493082158fdb0b1294af22a0f983a0e0]Oruro[/wiki] 3 hr, Bs 15.

        To Chile, buses run to [wiki=873d73e50ee0f0fefb39377c9cd3a476]Arica[/wiki], around 8 hr, some continuing to [wiki=e80f9c21cddf1fe8fb7ca821f2694fda]Iquique[/wiki] (12-14 hr - best to get the bus at 7AM, later buses will result in arriving in Iquique in the middle of the night.)

      • By bicycle

        Hundreds of people cycle around Bolivia each year and most of them pass through La Paz. If you are one of those, read on. If you are not and you want to be free, get a bicycle and read on.
        If you are getting into La Paz from the north (Titicaca, Perú), west (Chile, Tiwanaku), south (Oruro, Sajama etc.), you will have to pass through [wiki=0a0c3d0a62806a0a6f5bae2bedbbf2bb]El Alto[/wiki] (best avoided after dark) and then you will have to take the plunge down to the centre of La Paz. Traffic in El Alto and La Paz is chaotic and pollution makes cycling more difficult. To get down to La Paz, it is probably best to follow the autopista (highway), as it has a broad shoulder on both sides (watch out for the holes). Traffic on the autopista can be heavy, but the shoulder is rarely used, except by the public transportation. Many other routes are possible, but some streets can be extremely steep. Check your brakes!
        If you are coming from the yungas ([wiki=0683abf4906c07306274e6d488cb87da]Coroico[/wiki]), you will get in through Avenida de las Americas.
        There is an excellent Casa de Ciclistas [http://casadeciclistas.wordpress.com/] in La Paz.

    • filter_dramaGet around
      • By bus

        There are three types of shared public transportation in La Paz: regular buses or "micros"; shared vans, called "mini buses", and shared taxis running set routes advertised on the windshield, called "trufis". The former cost Bs 1,30 while the second are Bs 1,50-2,30 depending on duration. A trufi will generally cost you Bs 3-3.50. All types have their routes indicated on the windshield, but mini buses have the bonus of fare collectors hanging out the side, yelling out routes in a rapid, auctioneer-like manner. You can hail a bus or mini bus anywhere; to get off, just yell out "¡voy a bajar!"

      • By taxi

        The easiest way to get around is by taxi. They aren't metered, so agree on a fare before boarding; a ride within downtown should be about Bs 6-8. If you want to go further, ask two or more taxi drivers before boarding. A normal ride by taxi from downtown to a place within the city won't cost more than Bs 20.

        Make sure that the taxi has a yellow sticker on the windshield and rear paasenger side window that displays a 4 figure number. That is the only surefire way to ensure you are getting into a geniune registered taxi, and not a dangerous 'gypsy taxi'. Gypsy taxis may have taxi painted on the side of the car, and even have the boarding on the roof, always look for the yellow stickers.

      • By foot

        If you ever find yourself to be lost, in general the easiest thing is to simply walk downhill. You will eventually find yourself on the Prado or another main avenue, then You'll be able to take a taxi to the downtown, if you are on the southside of the city (Zona sur).

      • By rental car

        There are a few of the large car rental companies in La Paz, both at the airport and downtown, including Avis and Budget. A Suzuki Jimny costs $59/day with Budget and cars seem to be in very good order. Beware of extra charges when you return the vehicle to Budget. The roads around La Paz can be unpaved and so the car can get a little dusty inside and outside, we were asked for an extra $57 to clean the car. Renting a 4x4 is very much recommended as the surrounding area is stunning, visit Chacaltaya and the Valle de Las Animas.

      • By bicycle

        You can do day trips around La Paz by bicycle. You can do the famous death road by your own bicycle by taking a minibus (25 bs incl. the bike) from the bus terminal on Av. Ramiro Castillo to La Cumbre, then cycle down to Coroico and take a minibus back (30 bs with the bike) to the same terminal. Check your brakes!
        You can take your bike to Chacaltaya (5300 masl) and climb the remaining 150 altitude meters on foot. Take the autopista to El Alto and follow the road to Chacaltaya. Alternatively, take the autopista to just after it makes a sharp turn, take the first local street to the right (a sharp right turn by a pedestrian bridge over the highway) and follow that street up until it turns to gravel and you reach a school called Siete Lagunas. Turn right and follow the signs to Zongo first, then to Chacaltaya. You can also take your bike to Zongo pass with fantastic views of lakes, dams and peaks. This is for well acclimatized people. Check your brakes!

    • filter_dramaSee
      Sagarnaga Street, (just south of Plaza San Francisco). La Paz' main tourist strip. It's mainly a market street with artesano and souvenir stores, but you'll also find budget hostels, tour and travel agencies, cafes, and lots and lots of backpackers. Don't be suckered by the roving sellers of "trilobite-in-a-rock".

      * The Witches' Market, (Mercado de Hechiceria or Mercado de las Brujas). Calle Linares between Sagarnaga and Santa Cruz. Vendors sell llama fetuses and dried frogs for Aymara rituals, as well as soapstone figurines and aphrodisiac formulas. This street is also the best place to pick up a charango or other Bolivian musical instrument.

      * Eloy Salmon. Shops on this street sell cheap electronics.

      * Calle Jaen. One of the few places in the city with preserved colonial buildings, currently housing several interesting museums.

      * Plaza Murillo. Contains government buildings and the city cathedral.

      * The Valle de La Luna. Surreal, weathered rock. Just outside the town of Mallasa. 30-40 minute bus ride (depending on traffic) down the La Paz valley. Take local bus #43 to Mallasa (Bs 2.40), from San Francisco Plaza or Prado, mini-bus #273 or #902 (Bs 2.30 - 3), a taxi (Bs 35) or join a tour. The entrance to the park is located next to the flags and costs Bs15. Opening hours: 8 a.m - 5.30 p.m. UPDATE: As of Oct. 9, 2013, you can show up at the paradero near the Iglesia de San Francisco and Sagarnaga Street and jump on a combi/micro headed towards Mallasa and the cost is only Bs 2 per person.

      * The Thursday & Sunday Market in El Alto or Feria de 16 de Julio. A huge market held in El Alto every Thursday and Sunday. This mostly Aimara market is one of the world's biggest, and a person can find just about anything. The latest software and DVDs are practically free as are high quality used clothes, jackets, sweaters and everything else imaginable. For newbies, stick to the railroad tracks starting at the ceja and ending at Plaza Ballivian. Do not bring anything valuable (like camera or mobile phone) and keep your money (except small bills like 10's) inside your clothing. Bring sunblock. As a long time resident of Bolivia, this is one of my favorite pass times and the area where I have practically furnished my house, dressed my kids and bought plants for my garden. On fair days there are hundreds of mini buses leaving from the Prado.

      * The Self-guided Public Transport Tour. The best way to see the real La Paz is to jump on and off public transport minibuses and micros at random, go to the end of the line, turn around and jump off at any place that looks interesting. There is no way to get lost and each jump on and off costs about $US 0.15. Buy fruit and so on along the way and talk to people in the peripheral zones. Quite safe.

      *The tourist entry ticket is pricier but includes some snacks and souvenirs. The show starts around 5pm with men fighting for the 1st hour before letting the Cholitas on the ring. You can go there with a tour or on your own with a mini-bus (Bs 2).
      • Museums

        CIRCULAR Circuit of Culture and Art: One ticket for three awesome museums [url=http://www.circularbolivia.com],]Visit La Paz museums, one ticket for three within a week! With the aim of promoting the cultural and historical heritage of La Paz and Bolivia, we launched a single ticket to access the circuit, which will be sold at tourist agencies, hotels and The museums of the circuit. The Three Museums of the Circuit are San Francisco Museum: a Catholic-indigenous face, the National Ethnographic and Folk Museum: a Trip through Bolivian Cultures, and the National Museum of Art: Exhibitions, collections, history and more.

        * Museum San Francisco [url=http://www.centrocultural-museosanfrancisco.org[/url],]Plaza San Francisco. This restored religious complex has housed some of Bolivia's most important historical moments, including the birth of the Independence Revolution of 1809. Also, one can climb the church tower to get a panoramic view of both the indigenous and Mestiza quarters. Displays are in Spanish and English along with personal guides.

        * National Ethnographic and Folk Museum [url=http://www.circularbolivia.com[/url],]Ingavi 916, esq. Jenaro Sanjinés. The MUSEF shows us the Bolivian cultures in their historic dimension and their current situation. These cultures are alive in the cities and the countryside, in markets, schools and churches, in streets, the jungle or a minibus. Not a single corner of Bolivia escapes its diversity. And to understand this complexity better, the MUSEF offers us an incomparable tour. 20Bs entrance. Very good but all in Spanish.

        * National Museum of Art [url=http://www.circularbolivia.com[/url],]Calle Comercio esq. Socabaya. No doubt, the tour through the National Museum of Art is a ride through the history of Bolivian art, its paintings, sculptures, photos and other artistic expressions; a singular experience for both national and foreign visitors.

        * Tiwanaku Museum (Museo Tihuanaco)

        * Museum of Contemporary Art (Museo de Arte Contemporaneo), Av. 16 de Julio 1698 (Prado). The permanent collection upstairs (Bs15) contain many works by renowned Aymara painter Mamani Mamani. The downstairs gallery containing work by students and up-and-comers is free.

        * A favorite of foreign tourists, this small museum details the history and significance of the coca plant, including the effect of the U.S. War on Drugs. The displays are in Spanish, but booklets of complete translations in other languages are provided. According to the museum, crack cocaine is the greatest epidemic since the Plague in the Middle-Ages. And yes, there are free samples of coca leaf for visitors.

        * Musical Instrument Museum (Museo de Instrumentos Musicales de Bolivia), Calle Jaen 711. Displays a huge collection of sound-producing devices from Bolivia and beyond, some of which you can play yourself. The museum was founded by charango master and inventor Ernesto Cavour, and some of his creations on display (such as multi-bodied guitars) are downright bizarre.

        * Museum of Precious Metals (Museo de Metales Preciosos Precolombinos), Calle Jaen 777. Pre-Columbian treasures in silver and gold.

        * Submerged Museum (Museo Subterraneo), in front of the city stadium. Hardly deserving the name "museum", it's essentially a small outdoor plaza sunk into the ground with a huge replica Tiwanaku monolith in the middle of it. The original one used to be there, but it was moved back to Tiwanaku for preservation.

        * Bolivian Andean Textile Museum (Museo de Textiles Andinos Bolivianos), [http://www.museodetextiles.org[/url] Plaza Benito Juarez 488. It exhibits a large variety of textiles and weaving's from all the Bolivian/Andean communities. It's a must-see for weaving lovers. It also displays several garments, like ponchos, from all these regions. The museum also includes a shop (90% of your purchase belongs to the artists) and it is located at lovely house in Miraflores.

      • Views

        La Paz is a city which can be a sight in itself, and there are several viewing places or miradores offering impressive panoramas.

        * Mirador Killi Killi, (from Avenida Sucre take Avenida La Bandera and then walk straight up, the mirador is on the right side). You can get the best view of La Paz from here. No entrance fee. You can either walk or take a taxi to get there.

        * Parque Laikacota, (at the top of Av. Ejercito west of the city center). The best panorama from within the bowl, with clear views of the city and the rugged terrain to the east, all the way to Mt. Illimani. Admission is Bs 3.50.

        * Mirador Monticulo, (next to Plaza España). This small park (free entry) has a church and lots of trees which block much of the city, but the clear view of Illimani makes it an evening hotspot for couples.

        * Av. Camacho, (In the heart of downtown). Points straight to Illimani, and from the intersection with the Prado it's framed by skyscrapers in an interesting juxtaposition.

    • filter_dramaDo
      Take the cablecar "Teleferico" above the city. The Red line, starting from the Estación Central "Taypi Uta" (close to the bus terminal) will take you past the Cemeterio "Ajayuni" and on up to El Alto "Feria 16 de Junio". The Green line starts in Zona Sur and passes over Obrajes before ending at the beginning of the Yellow line. The Yellow line then continues up to "Satelite" in El Alto. Excellent views of the city with snowcapped mountains as the backdrop. 3 BOL per line (each way). These are fairly new and in excellent condition. opening hours 5:30 - 22:30.
      *La Paz Golf Club is a must for any golf enthusiast. Apart from being the highest grass golf course in the world, this course is also famous for it´s par 3 Moon Hole, voted one of the most exotic holes in the world. The best way to visit this course as a tourist is to do a tour with "Golf and Tours Bolivia". They organize everything for a reasonable fee.

      *The El Choro Trek is an amazing trek starting in the mountains at La Cumbre (4700m)and ending in the jungle at Chairo (1500m). From Chairo you can follow the road all the way to Corico, which would make for a very long day, walking along a road/hwy, or you can get transport from Chairo to Corico, either private taxi or hitch a ride along the road. Maps of the route are available in La Paz at most gear shops - but don't trust the time estimates that are given. There are many places to camp and buy basic food, as well as warm meals along the way. You can also buy bottled water, at a premium, or purify your own along the way. La Cumbre --> Corico will take 3 days, as it is about 60kms, however depending on your time of arrival in Corico, it may be possible to catch a bus back to La Paz the same day (about 3 hours return).
      • Peñas

        One of the most recognizable aspects of Andean culture is its folk music, which you can enjoy at a number of peñas, or music clubs.

        * Huari, Calle Sagarnaga 329. Its location makes it the convenient choice for foreign tourists, so be prepared for extreme tourist prices and slightly tacky decor. (The ancient Incas probably didn't have black lighting.) Nonetheless, the music and dance performances are excellent.

        * Marka Tambo, Calle Jaen 710. Considered among the best for serious fans of the music.

      • Cinemas

        MegaCenter, (in the entrance to Irpavi in the "Zona Sur"), From downtown you must go on public transportation.
        * MultiCine, 2631 Avenida Arce, (a couple of blocks south of Plaza Isabel de Catholica), [url=http://www2.multicine.com.bo].]Brand new multiplex cinema with 3 3D screen. Shows current Hollywood blockbusters as well as independent films when available.

        * The Cinemateca Boliviana, Guachalla and Federico Suazo St). Most modern movie theater in the city. You can see new mega-releases as well as local films and international festivals.

        * 'Monje Campero, (at the beginning of Av. 16 de Julio), [http://monjecampero.com.bo[/url]

        * 16 de Julio (near to Plaza del Estudiante).

        * Cine Azul', (at the beginning of Av.16 de julio). Despite the best efforts to censor it Latin America's premier underground bluey showhouse is still up and running. The steam is literally dripping off the walls, amongst other things.

    • filter_dramaLearn
    • filter_dramaBuy
      • Handicrafts

        Fair trade shop, 958 Calle Linares. Weavings are upstairs, better quality than the stuff on the street with comparable prices. Nicely mounted with wood panels and ready for hanging.

        * Good quality handicrafts. Has a café (Café El Consulado), travel agency; Topas Adventure Travel Bolivia, and 5 great rooms.

        * Fair trade store member of World Fair Trade Organization WFTO, has 26 different groups, with a wide variety of handicrafts (alpaca, wood, ceramics, native textiles, table cloth, greeting cards). One store is located inside Hotel Rosario and other at the street.

      • Luxury Apparel and Items

        Alpaca clothing company, owned and managed by Bolivian women. Suritayka uses 100% of the highest quality of Alpaca (Baby, Super Fine and Royal) to produce pullovers, cardigans, wraps, ponchos, hats and more. The store also offers high quality leather products and jewelry. www.facebook.com/SuritaykaAlpacaClothing

      • Gear & equipment

        Offers offers a wide range of trekking, camping equipment and similar requirements. They also rent things like tents and sleeping bags. Many books in English and many other languages and have Bolivia's best book exchange. English-speaking staff available. This is more of a book store than anything else, they do not have much equipment at all.

      • Maps

        La Paz is a good place for buying maps of the country. Topographical maps are available in 1:50 000, 1:100 000 and 1:250 000. The most popular maps, including the 1:250 000 version of Cordillera Real and the 1:50 000 version of Volcan Sajama are sold by street vendors that roam Calle Sagarnaga and from stalls along el Prado. But the best place to buy maps is the "Instituto Geografico Militar", IGM. The instituto has two offices in town, listed below.

        *Edificio Murillo No. 100, Calle Juan XXIII Parallell to Calle Murillo at the end of Calle Rodríguez. This office is likely to be closest to where you stay and sometimes has as map or two on offer, but most often asks you to come back mañana when they still don't have the map you want. It's has a nice atmosphere though, and makes a nice visit for mapophiles needing that fix of fresh map air.

        *Oficina Central, Estado Mayor General, Av. Saavedra No. 2303. This is the place to go, but a little out of the way. It is said to be open afternoons, but it's best to visit between 9PM and 11PM Closed if there's a soccer game in the nearby Stadium. Take a micro marked "E. Mayor" from Plaza San Francisco. The unmarked entrance is 20 m down Av. Saavedra from the main car entrance to the Estado Mayor. Surrender your passport in the window marked IGM, get a number tag to hang around you neck and walk down the road and to the left. Many maps are only available in copies for Bs 30 a sheet. An original is Bs 40.

    • filter_dramaEat
      For lunch try the little almuerzo kitchens. You'll get a decent menu for between 10 and 30Bs. Often you order at a window and receive a ticket for you meal, then take a seat and someone will come take your ticket and bring your food. If you don't know what to order, just ask for el especial.

      Most of the fancier restaurants in La Paz are at the bottom of the Prado, around the vicinity of Plaza Isabel La Catolica and Plaza Avaroa.
      • Budget

        Good Bolivian Chinese food prepared by real Chinese cooks. The fried trout with noodles is beautifully flavored with ginger and the delicious stir-fried noodles (linguine) are not swimming in a liquid sauce for once.

        *Excellent and authentic Lebanese food. Upstairs. Don't be put off by unappealing entrance. Has some vegetarian dishes. Best falafel I have ever tasted.

        * Carcajada, Calle 20 de Octubre #2060 (entre Aspiazu y J.J. Perez) (Mujeres Creando). Anarcha-feminist cultural cafe. Plates for around 10bs, generous lunchs for 25, various cakes. Browse books and contemplate the fall of capitalism and patriarchy while you eat.

        *Utama, top floor of Plaza Hotel, Av. 16 de Julio 1789 (Prado). With its fabulous view of the city, the Utama has served the likes of Fidel Castro and Alberto Fujimori (embattled former President of Peru), yet the main dishes (Bolivian and international, in portions ample for two) are only around Bs 50 (US$6.50).

        *Tambo Colonial, in Hotel Rosario. Great international and local dinner. Try the Lake Titicaca trout with Beni almonds.

        *Reencuentro for vegans, vegetarians, or people looking to get away from the meat-heavy dishes that are common throughout the country. Just 15Bs gets you bread, an entree, soup, and main as well as choice of hot beverage. All vegan. Lovely staff and location. Found behind Inglesia San Francisco at Calle Murillo 826, on the first floor of a courtyard set back from the street. Look for the black sign protruding from the wall that simply says "CAFE" and the entrance to the courtyard is there.

        *Sultan, San Miguel, Zona Sur. Great Arabic fast food in a tiny setting. Try the falafel for 7 Bs. Order a "super" for 10 Bs if you're hungry and be there for lunch when the boss isn't around (bigger portions).

        * There's a string of inexpensive pizza and hamburger joints on the west side of Avenida 6 de Agosto south of Plaza del Estudiante. Sergio's is considered the best, and is good for checking upcoming music venues.

        * La Mia Pizzeria, Calle Ilampu, below one of the two "Pizzeria Italia" branches on Calle Ilampu. Cheaper than "Italia" with more American style pizzas. Take-away available.

        * Al amir, Murillo 824, has nice Arabic food.

        * 100% Natural, Calle Sagarnaga 345. Often full, especially around 11PM, but serves huge sandwiches and great vegetarian burgers in a cosy atmosphere. Good food, better juices.

        * The Star of India, (the highest Curry House in the world!) is one of the few places you can get curry in Bolivia (and also can deliver to your hostel). The curries and side dishes are mediocre at best, if you're longing for a UK style curry you'll be disapointed. Open from 9AM for breakfast, then lunch served M-Sa from 11:30AM and Sun from 4PM (with good veggie and vegan options.) They offer a free "I survived the world's most dangerous vindaloo" t-shirt to anyone who finishes it - people generally don't. Portions are small for a curry house.

        * Open 24 hr. Mediocre at best. Expensive for what you get. Location and 24/7 are the only outstanding features.

        * Now a bar featuring Salsa music and dancing. Cover 20bs and gets you first beer free.

        * cheap pizzas (12 bs for a big slice)

        *Bs20" lat="" long="">Good value restaurant, packed with local just a few blocs from Calle Murillo. Fast service, tasty and cheap food in a popular atmosphere. Different kind of fishes available. Fried trucha with rice and patatoes costs Bs22 (Much better than in Copacabana)

        *Notable for the pictures of MaPo Tofu out the front. This chifa does more than just the standard Arroz Chaufa. Spring rolls, steamed dumplings and the aforementioned MaPo Tofu are available here, along with more traditionally Chinese stirfrys. Menu for 24Bs (Jan 2014) but the more traditional dishes are a la carte.

        *An amazing restaurant on top of the Estrella Andina hotel. Has a fantastic rooftop terrace overlooking the city with a view of the snow peaked mountain in the back. The daily menu is 30Bs (12:00 - 14:00) includes an amazing(and unique) salad, soup and mouth watering meat finished of by a delicious dessert. One of the better lunch options in La Paz for the money.

      • Mid Range

        Pizzeria EL TOMATE is your best bet if you crave for italian style pizza while in La Paz, they also have vegan stuff for those who are into healthy food. A cozy/small gem in the heart of [wiki=7677280732d5d9638ba72020d2469ad5]Sopocachi[/wiki] (Avenida Sanchez Lima y Fernando Guachalla). Expats go there when they look for a slice of great pizza.
        *An approachable bistro style restaurant. Decor with great sense of humour. Menu is seasonal and the plates offered change daily. Full bar, ample wine list and affordable prices.

        *'El Consulado, Calle Bravo 299 (Behind Hotel Plaza(Prado)). New place in La Paz. Best brunch in town, gourmet food in beautiful surroundings. Wifi and garden. Working with the "New Andean Kitchen" and organic coffee.

        *Restaurant Sabrosa Taiwanesa, Calle Chichas No. 1208, Zona Miraflores, 2221186 (a short walk or quick taxi from Plaza Isabela Católica, just on the other side of the Puente de Las Americas). New family-run Taiwanese restaurant. Flavourful dishes and a good sized menu (veg and non-veg) in a clean setting.

        *Angelo Colonial, Calle Linares 922. A dark, bohemian cafe set in an old mansion decorated with scads of antiques. Serving Bolivian and mediocre international food. The best drip coffee in La Paz. Painfully slow service. Another location on the Prado. Serves llamas.

        *Alo Cubano, Av. Aniceto de Arce. Best place to pretend you're back in the 50s plotting a pan-American revolution with Fidel and Che.

        *Contigo Peru, second floor of Edificio Alameda (on the Prado). Good ceviche and other seafood.

        * Pizzeria Italia', Calle Ilampu 809, serves nice breakfasts with a friendly smile. Pizzas are not good, and also overpriced.

        *An elegant coffee shop in the hip southern part of La Paz. Serves fantastic food all day.

        *In the heart of the city, San Pedro. Serving possibly the best homestyle vegetarian cookin w/much flavour and love. Deep fried vegan patties. Fixed lunch starts midday. Music w/your organic coffee/tea/food. If you want the menú del dia, be sure to reserve it in advance by calling!

        *On el Prado. A nice (and expensive) restaurant-cafe for Bolivian standards but majority of place smells of cigarettes. Only very small area dedicated for non-smokers. Good coffee, only average cakes.

        *Authentic Japanese food in this restaurant run by the Japanese Society in La Paz. Japanese specialties such as ramen, chicken katsu and karaage in addition to the expected sushi. Set meals with miso soup, (Japanese) rice are available.

        *In the Sopocachi district, about a block and a half from Plaza Avaroa, La Coca is an almuerzo style restaurant offering a very good four course menu for the price. Choice of 3 soups and 5 main courses, at least one of each guaranteed to be vegetarian. Quiet, pleasant decor, friendly and competent staff.

      • Splurge

        [url=http://restaurantgustu.com/] Gustu Restaurant[/url] , Calle 10 no. 300 Calacoto, half a block from Av. Costanera. Noma's Claus Meyer venture in South America in partnership with the NGO Ibis and Melting Pot Bolivia created what is not only a restaurant but also an experience. The restaurant works as a school for Bolivian youth with few opportunities to learn how to cook and work in the hospitality industry. More than that, the food is focused on seasonal and local produce, so don't be surprised if you never heard of the ingredients used or you catch the word Llama on the menu. The idea whole idea is nice, the prices aren't cheap for Bolivian standards but in comparison to a dinner at Noma is well worth the buck.

        * Naira, Calle Sagarnaga 161. Catering mostly to travelers (and guests of the hotel -- see below), but a good sampling of Bolivian dishes. Expensive.

        * Eli's New York Deli, on the Prado. Try ordering with a thick New York accent and see what you get. Prices can go sky high.

        *Lebanese food, with real authentic lebanese owners. Great platters for vegeterians and mea eaters alike. Also real quality Baklava. great hosts there and atmosphere. It is a little more pricy than the usual fare but definitely worth it.

    • filter_dramaDrink
      Local law prohibits serving alcohol after 4AM. There are a number of speakeasies defying this.

      *Traditional Brazilian cuisine. Feijoada (hot bean pot with smoked pork rib, smoked sausages, sun dried meat and bacon), moqueca de Peixe (pirarucu filet [white meat amazonian river fish] slowly cooked in coconut milk and spices). A caipirinha is the perfect cocktail for this meal or you can also have wine or beer if you aren't feeling that adventurous. Variety of grilled meats (not "rodizio" style), chicken and trout. Cozy and owned by a Brazilian and French Canadian couple.
      • Cafes

        Alexander The Great, Av. 16 de Julio 1832 and other locations. Many thought the legendary Macedonian slayer had long since died. Not so infact, although he is considerably tamer after a rough encounter with a fiery cholita.

        *Blueberries, Av. 20 de Octubre 2475. This café serves very delicious coffee, and also has a very appealing breakfast menu. The café is situated at the east end of Plaza Avaroa, where you may also find an "Alexanders Coffee". Free WiFi for custemers.

        *Free WiFi for customers

        *Llama burgers, terrines, pates. Quinoa tabulets and salads, highland cheeses. Specialized in coca sours drinks. Saya home made beer.

      • Bars

        Hallwright's Avenida Sanchez Lima #2235 between Rosendo Gutierrez and Guachalla, +591 6803 1510. Open Monday to Saturday from 5 to Midnight. Wine bar that serves share plates of cheese and cured meats. Serves lots of Bolivian wine and all their food is locally produced. Also has some Argentine and Chilean wines, local craft beer and a good selection of spirits. Relaxed atmosphere with good staff (most speak English as well). Nice place to chill. Free wifi. No smoking. Decent happy hour every day 5 to 6:30.

        * Blue Note Café/Wine Bar [closed down, as of April 2012], Plaza gaston Velasco, Viluyo esq. Linares (1 block from sagarnaga and illampu; at the top of the stairs when you exit Oliver's). Great vibe; it's a fantastic place to chill with friends, have a drink & a bite to eat. The people behind the bar know their stuff (from martinis to wine to local beer), and there's excellent chili, lamb chops and tapas on the menu. Good prices compared with other bars in the area; it's open from the late afternoon onwards.

        * The English Pub Calle Linares corner of Calle Tarija N |89, + 591 2124302. Northern English owned backpackers bar serving standard English fare at mid-range prices. Under new managment. Fun party atmosphere,and a warm welcome from Eglish speaking staff. Also has travel Has WiFi and TV for most sporting events and a book exchange (very good, but expensive). great happy hour 5pm-8pm everyday. fridays and saturdays amazing partys & surprises. Available for large bookings and tour groups. Great food, the breakfast is nice and good for a hangover. good place to meet with locals practice your Spanish.

        *Sol Y Luna, address: Corner Calle Murillo 999 and Calle Cochabamba, Tel. +59122115323 Website:[https://www.facebook.com/solylunalapaz] Openingshours: open from Monday to Sunday from 09.00 till 01.00 Price range between 3 and 9 USD. Dutch owned & managed traveller's hangout. Good atmosphere, 4 different areas, live music every Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, free WiFi, large screen TV's and beamer for important sport games, Pool table. Try coca leaf mojitos, where the mint leaves are replaced for coca leaves!! Have a try of the famous Dutch snack Bitterballen!! (meat croquettes)or if you have trouble choosing, try one of their mixed plates for 2.

        * Irish, Plaza Avoroa. Food is overpriced but good, and the cocktails are reasonable, though not as good as some from some of the other bars. Mostly frequented by Bolivians and is of course a themed bar.

        * Traffic, San Jorge. Bar with a good atmosphere and fairly good music. There is a large dance floor and a comfortable bar. Owner Asher has taken 6 steps back from managing the place after a sting operation codenamed 'superhuey' .

        *Antique Pub, Pichincha 662. Recorded rock music, and all sorts of old things including fob watches, photographs, a kid's tricycle and a six shooter to keep you amused. They serve food too.

        *Pomp Pomp Salty Man, Loayza and Comerceo. Known for its great clandestine happy sauces. ATM on premises.

        *Open all week long, great parties, all kind of music. The biggest bar in Bolivia serves almost every drink there is. Full of backpackers and locals, great music and atmosphere.

        * ¨BackStage¨, La Florida, Calacoto. Trendy karaoke lounge with a great ambience and an amazing variety of songs both in Spanish and English. A good option if you visit the Zona Sur.

      • Clubbing

        Mongo's, Hermanos Manchego 2444. Since 1995 has remained one of the most popular places for travellers with a good mix of locals. It's a lively atmosphere every night of the week at this place.

        * Forum, (near Plaza Espana). Bolivian hangout and a proper disco venue, the other one is called Soundbar. Very dressed up Bolivians frequent the establishment. Worth a look if you're missing a big club with big pretensions.

        * La Gitana, Zona Sur, Calle 8 de Calacoto, is a bar/club hangout for upper class youth of La Paz's South Zone. Dress well.

        * Dry Law, Zona Sur, Cota Cota, is a pretty hip club in La Paz's rich South Zone that's slightly on the right side of pretentious. Good alternative to Mongo's or RamJam if you're sick of bumping into Gringos all the time. Dress well.

        * Ttkos, Calle Mexico 1553, San Pedro, is a renowned alternative reggae/ska/punk venue. Known for its relaxed atmosphere and well mixed drinks. Ask for the "tutuma".

    • filter_dramaSleep
      There are plenty of options to suit all budgets in La Paz, alternatively if you do not want to pay for a bed, you can pass a night in loco along Calle Sagarnaga or Calle Illampu (at your own risk).
      • Camping

        Colibri Camping and Eco Lodge [http://colibricamping.com/] Calle 4, JUPAPINA (camino al rio), near Mallasa, La Paz, ☎ 7629 5658. A new option for La Paz, Colibri camping offers a great space for tent campers, cyclists and overlanders alike, offering a modern campsite with kitchen, hot showers and communal area all with great views over the surrounding mountains just outside the bustle of La Paz. You can rent tents and camping equipment and a cabin or a Teepee if that is more your thing. For how to to get there or for more information see the website at colibricamping.com

      • Hostels

        Be sure to inspect your room before signing the register.

        *Hostel Maya [url=http://www.hostalmaya.com/]]Calle Sagarnaga 339, ☎ +591 2 231 1970. Quality, hostel in La Paz with very friendly, helpful, bilingual staff. The terraces have a fantastic view of the city, and they're located in the best neighborhood near all the bars, museums, restaurants, and great events. Right the next door on the street is mountain bike tour operator Downhill Madness, where you could jump into a ride down the Death Road. 70BOB with shared bathroom, 100BOB private bathrom.
        Update September 2015: doubles/matrimonials are 180/140BOB with/without private bathroom

        * Loki Backpackers Hostel, Calle Loayza 420. ☎ +591 2 211 9024, [url=http://www.lokihostel.com/la_paz[/url].]Set in a beautiful new building, with a nice view from the top floor (which is the bar). Amenities include real duvets, comfortable beds, hot showers, breakfast, English speaking staff, tour desk, internet and WiFi, International phone service, pool table, TV-room with DVDs, cable, and enough partying to keep you up until 3AM. Dorm beds from Bs 50. Doubles, triples and twin rooms also available.

        * Arthy´s Guesthouse, Avenida Montes #693. Small family run hostel with friendly and helpful staff. All private rooms (no dorms) with shared bathrooms. Internet access on site through pc's (with a fee) or Wifi (free). Beware they do have a midnight curfew(not a party hostel). Rate goes from B$ 70 to B$ 80 per person/night.

        * 24 hr hot showers, movies, in-house bar, attentive staff, free breakfast, free internet, pick up service, and comfortable beds.

        * Adventure Brew Hostel and Brew Too. Avenida Montes 533. ☎ +591 2 246 1614, [url=http://www.theadventurebrewhostel.com[/url].]New, bright and clean. Micro-brewery on-site, and a rooftop bar, with BBQs most nights. Just down the road is the annex: The Adventure Brew Too. there, dorm beds are Bs 48-72, single with bath Bs 192. Includes all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast, slow internet, WiFi, a range of DVD-films and a small Saya beer. Although their internet booking engine will state they are full, they might have a bed if you call. The location is good for the bus terminal, but a bit off for other things. US$20 per night for a single.

        *Wild Rover Backpackers Hostel, Calle Comercio 1476, [url=http://wildroverhostel.com/[/url]]☎ +591 2 2 211 6903. Un-officially the highest Irish owned hostel/bar in the world and with a crowd to match, Wild Rover is a new backpackers just 3 blocks from the famous Plaza Murillio in a beautiful old ex presidents house. Facilities include 24 hr reception, travel agency, backpack lockers, 24 hr gas powered hot showers, extra wide beds with specially made winter/summer duvets, fun bar with daily activities, all day food menu with the food you miss from home, wifi and free internet, pool table and TV room. Very popular with British/Irish backpackers. Some rooms are very noisy due to proximity of the bar, ask for a room in the back. Dorms from Bs 40.

        * El Solario, Calle Murillo 776. Clean and cheap backpacker joint, located one and a half block from Calle Sagarnaga along Murillo. It is a 10-15 min walk from the bus station or a short taxi-ride. Warm water, shared bathrooms with electrical showers, cheap laundry service, free internet and wifi as well as free use of a kitchen. Nice mix of people - especially popular with Japanese and French travellers. Occasionally full but back-up options are available in the same block, albeit not quite as good value. No lockers so valuables must be left with the office. Singles Bs 35, Doubles Bs 60, Triples Bs 90, 4 bed dorm Bs 25, 6 bed dorm Bs 20.

        * Bacoo Hostel, 693 Alto de la Alianza St.. Big sized party hostel, guests are mostly very young. Dorms around 50 Bs (depending on the size), 2 pivates; 140-160 Bs, but very poor beds and bad shower in the privates (April 2012).

        * Full Hostel, [http://www.fullhostelbolivia.com/[/url] Diagonal Juan XXIII, Nº 132. Good wifi, free kitchen, showers ok, nice staff. Close to the mercado Rodriguez. Dorm 35, single 65.

      • Other Budget

        Brand new in 2012. (Feb 2014) Very bright, new, clean but basic hotel. Rooms larger than average with private bath and large windows that actually seal, but only basic furnishings. Cable TV with BBC (75), CNN (74), TV5Monde (105). Very hot shower (mostly, except can be only just warm at peak use time in the morning) but only cold water in sink. No heating -- may be a problem in the winter (but warm enough now in February). Adequate breakfast included. Great location, one block from tourist street Sagàrnaga. One block from large market. Only about four blocks from Plaza San Francisco/Plaza Mayor and the same from Plaza Murillo. Staff very friendly and helpful. 24hr reception. A laundry and a good Chinese restaurant next door. Across the street from 'The English Pub'.
        Update October 2015: double/matrimonial costs 220BOB.

        *Hotel la Valle Great location, great prices (double with private bath (no tv), 90 bs) and very friendly staff. Popular with Bolivians. Great place. ☎ +591 22456085, info@lavalle.com

        *Inkaterra Backpackers Home, across the bus terminal, singles from Bs. 30.

        * Hostal Illimani Calle Illimani #1817 In Barrio Miraflores, a few blocks from the Stadium, ☎ +591 2 220 2346. Basic and secure accommodations with shared bath and sink in room. Ms. Filomena is the manager who keeps an eye on the place and is always happy to help. Has a courtyard and places to wash and dry clothing. Expect to pay 25 b for a single. Doubles are available. Is not in the normal city central tourist area. If you want to be by the tourist stuff, do not stay here. If you want less gringos around this is a good place.

        * El Carretero, about 5 blocks north of San Francisco, dorm for 30 Bs. Basic. Gets a lot of "Artisans" staying there.

        * Hostal Austria, Calle Yanacocha ☎ +591 2 235 1140. Very popular with backpackers. Offering warm water, a kitchen, and a central location. Shared room Bs35.

        * Hosteria Blanquita, Santa Cruz 242, is a nice place, with a friendly staff, offering doubles for 80 Bs 12 midnight curfew. Be wary of confusing billing calculations and over charging. Use your own calculator to check the totals.

        * Hotel Continental, top end of Calle Illampu. Doubles with shared bath are 80 Bs. 10% discount with HI-card. Former members of Status Quo tend to use this hotel whilst in town.

        * Hostal Cactus, Calle Jimenez. Kitchen, laundry service, lousy Nestle instant coffee maker, rooftop terrace, nice quiet street. Very popular with the pseudo-hippie types. Can be very loud outside the rooms near the employees reception area (Friday night fiesta time). 30 Bs for privates (10 Bs for lentil soup).

        *Hotel Majestic Calle Santa Cruz. Splurge just a little and for 130 bolivianos you get a nice comfy double (Single 100 Bs) with tv (loads of movie channels) and private bathroom with hot shower. All in the heart of the backpacker area. Breakfast is also included, but isn´t great. The Senora in charge is a lovely lady and will take good care of you.

        * Hostal Lobo, c/Illampu esq Santa Cruz, low prices, friendly staff, a home away from home taste of Tel Aviv.

        * Hotel Savoy, Calle Chuquisaca 675, very friendly staff, free wifi, basic breakfast (ask for more and youll get more for free), hot showers, clean, doubles from Bs160. Quite street, though stinks a bit. Recommended!

        *Hotel Milton - Calle Illampu #1126-1130. ☎ +591 22353511, +591 22368003. email: h_milton@acelerate.com. A bit worse for wear, but excellent value for the price. Friendly and honest staff. Singles from 100 Bs which includes a real breakfast, cable TV, room with view, bathroom with solar/gas hot water (not electric), decent furnishings, and wifi, which is rare to find in this price range. They also run a travel agency and bus company for tours.

        *Tiquina Palace Hotel - Pasaje Tiquina 150. Good central location, nice rooms and very good hot shower. Free wifi. Doubles with 2 beds are of better quality than the ones with one bed. Rooms on the right side (if standing in front of it) have the most windows and are a bit bigger. The higher in the building the less noise from outside. 160 Bs for a double, basic breakfast included (May 2012).

      • Mid-range

        Lhamourai Living, Calle Yungas, Zona Miraflores, [url=http://tinyurl.com/lhamourai].]Clean, artsy, and in the center of the City, fit for group of 6 or a family, for when you need a place for a day or for a few months. Prices are about $US35 (a day).

        * Apartment Collita, Calle 6, Los Pinos, [url=http://www.bolivia-apartments.com/[/url].]Gorgeous, spacious and tastefully equipped apartment for 4-6 people in the Zona Sur of La Paz. Prices are between $US140-$175 (per week).

        * La Posada en La Paz, Calle Hermanos Manchego 2551, ☎ +591 2 243 5204, [url=http://www.laposadaenlapaz.com/[/url].]Small, friendly and bilingual staff run this posada in the heart of the restaurant and pub district. Between Mongo´s and Traffic, and just steps from Mamprahon's Asian Food. Singles US$20, doubles US$30.

        * Hotel España, Av. 6 de Agosto 2074, 244-2643. Located in the Sopocachi district close to numerous nice restaurants, the España has a charming garden courtyard as well as a solarium. There's a single net-connected PC in the lobby. Singles US$24, doubles $34.

        * Hotel Rosario, Av. Illampu 704, ☎ +591 2 245 1658, [url=http://www.hotelrosario.com/[/url].]Located in the Aymara District close to the Witches Market and many touristic attractions. Has a colonial style building with sunny patios. Free Internet and WiFi. Has a travel office. Beautiful rooms. Friendly and helpful staff. Complimentary tea and mate de coca. Singles US$28-31, doubles US$63 per night. Book ahead as it fills up. Note June 2013 - room prices at the Rosario are significantly higher than those listed above.

        * Hostal Naira, Calle Sagarnaga 161, ☎ +591 2235 5645, Fax+591 2 231 1214, [http://www.hostalnaira.com/[/url]. In business since 1975, with a good restaurant in the basement and a popular cafe (Coffee Banais) on the ground floor.

      • Splurge

        *

        * Ritz Apart Hotel, Plaza Isabel La Catolica 2478, [url=http://www.hotel-ritz-bolivia.com/].]5 stars and all suites in the heart of Sopocachi.

        * Radisson Plaza Hotel La Paz, Av. Arce 2177, [http://www.radisson.com/lapazbo[/url]. Luxury hotel situated in Sopocachi in the heart of La Paz.

    • filter_dramaStay safe
      In crowded areas be careful for [wiki=3b2847685fe39e2c971c38b97b52b5de]pickpockets[/wiki] and bagslashers. A common trick is that one person spills something on your clothes and, while you or he wipes it off, another person lifts your wallet or slashes your bag. Be vigilant when checking into a hotel or hostel. Keep a hand on all your bags and belongings at all times. Acting as if they work for the hotel, opportunist thieves will create a diversion and snatch the nearest unattended bag.

      If you are approached by plain-clothed police officers, don't show any valuables or your passport. Certainly, don't get in a taxi with them as it is a trap. Undercover police are strictly ordered not to hassle tourists. There have been several cases of muggings and things going missing from bags or luggage after "drug searches". Insist on being taken to the police station before giving them access to your things. If you can, call the 110, which is the Bolivian number for emergencies. Take care: an Austrian couple was found murdered in 2006 after following false police into a taxi.

      A recent twist in the above scam is the involvement of accomplices where they try to befriend you on a bus and when the 'plain clothes' policeman approaches the accomplice claims that the same thing happened to them and that you should cooperate with them. This is a trap and the same scam as described above.

      There have been several cases of violent muggings in taxis. Take only Radio Cabs (they will have the telephone number and their call centre listed above the cab). The taxis, or Gypsy Cabs, have no boarding above the taxi and have taxi written on the side and are are dangerous to take at night, as many of the drivers are paid to drive tourists to specific locations for muggings. Be especially careful if you are at one of the illegal after-hours bars such as Fin Del Mundo or Route 36, as most of the muggings happen in taxis from these locations. Lock the doors and don't allow other people to share the journey with you.

      There are more reliable taxi firms to use:

      Magnifico Taxis, ☎ +591 2 2410410

      La Paz Taxis. ☎ +591 2 2221212

      Gold Taxis, ☎ +591 2 2722722.

      La Paz is a very safe city, and if you keep your wits about you there shouldn't be any problems.

      Standard "spinning disk" computer hard drives can be damaged by operating them at altitude, and so if you use a laptop or any device (older/larger capacity iPods/mp3 players etc) containing one of these hard drives, you are taking a risk. Most of these sold today safely work up to 3,000 m/10,000 ft; however, La Paz exceeds this altitude by one-third. While you may get by without anything bad happening, use of the hard drive could be end up in data corruption so at the very least, back up your data before arriving. Note that this caution does not apply to newer SSDs (Solid State Drives) as they use flash memory and have no moving parts that are affected by high altitude. If you hear a "whirring sound" when accessing data, you have an older "spinning-disk" style hard drive and should cease operation until at lower altitudes.
    • filter_dramaStay healthy
      Travelers to La Paz often become ill the moment they arrive in the city. Why? La Paz is 11,900 feet above sea level, the highest metropolis in the world. People with ailing hearts or bronchial problems are warned to stay away, and even those in perfect health usually cannot avoid some illness resulting from the altitude.

      The altitude of La Paz is well within the zone where [wiki=72105e5ef78506d8d9b4f4c127fe06bf]altitude sickness[/wiki] could be a problem, especially for those arriving from at or near sea level. (Just spending a day or two at an intermediate elevation may not be enough.) It's is highly recommended that you have adequate [wiki=68cc42e95fafa81392587b51634c8c0f]travel insurance[/wiki], familiarize yourself with the symptoms of altitude sickness, and inform your physician to what elevation you will be traveling (up to 4,000 m/13,000 ft. for La Paz, and 6,000 meters/20,000 ft. if you want to climb [wiki=1c2f6beef0df2216d09c2146707cae64]Huayna Potosi[/wiki]). Taking Ginko Biloba supplements for a couple weeks before a climb in altitude has been known to eliminate altitude sickness. On your first night in La Paz you are likely to find difficulty in breathing and wake up panting for breath. Mate de Coca (Coca Leaf tea) is a popular remedy. Take it easy when walking around town and if you are young and healthy don't be lured into a false sense of security. Marathon runners can get altitude sickness while those far less healthy can have few symptoms.

      Despite being only 16 degrees south of the equator, it does occasionally snow a little in the highest parts of La Paz yearly (1-4 times a year), due to being 13,000 feet/4,000 meters above sea level and packing some warm clothing is a must year-round. Snowfall would be much greater were it not for the extreme dryness in the winter, and snow in the summer happens on occasion every few years and is actually not that rare. Frost happens every month in the highest parts as well. In the highest parts La Paz has an "equatorial tundra" climate, in which it does snow, and in the middle a temperate climate where there are frosts often but no snow (except on rare occasions), and in the lowest parts a subtropical climate in which snow is extremely rare and there are very few yearly frosts. It is at this altitude, with year-round mild weather, in which hotels, shopping centers, and residences for the upper class are located, as opposed to the tundra at the top of the city which sometimes experiences snow in the summer.

      Public health assistance (Asistencia pública; basic tests, medical advice, prescriptions) can be found at av. Camacho 1519 (near the corner of av. Bueno).
    • filter_dramaContact
      • Internet

        If you have an unlocked smartphone, consider buying a local SIM (make sure to ask for a "4G SIM") with an internet package.

        Internet cafés are on each street corner in La Paz. Current standard fare is Bs 2-4/hour. There are four internet cafés around Plaza Mendoza at this price, all with good connection. A lot of internet cafés in calle Comercio too.

        If you have a laptop computer you can find WiFi access at several cafes and similar establishments.

        Sol Y Luna cafe, Calle Cochabamba.

        Oliver's Travel Bar.

        Café El Consulado. Fast internet in the café and patio

        The Eglish Pub. Fast internet at your service :)

        Cafe Torino - Sacabaya 457 . WiFi and has an Internet café as well. Okay café with snacks, they let you sit for hours even only just drinking a coffee and eating a cake.

        Tomate Cafe - Ayacucho 376/corner Mercado. Good vegetarian place with very good internet connection. Only locals come here!

    • filter_dramaCope
      There are many laundrettes situated around the city, charging from Bs 6 per kilo wash and dry.

      * Many barbers can be found on Calle Santa Cruz (off Calle Figueroa). 15 Bs for beard shaving.

      * Changing money on the street does not give you a better rate, and some tricks will most likely be tried such as false Alasitas or Banco de la fortuna Notes (toy money). Still, it is convenient on weekends and after hours, -just stay alert.

      * If you need to Extend your Bolivian visa this is easily done at the Immigration Office, located at Avenida Camacho (between streets Loyaza and Bueno). Bring a photocopy of your passport's photo page, your entry stamp as well as immigration card (the green one). The copy store across the street from the Immigration Office is well versed with the requirements, cost for copies is less than Bs 1. Bring your passport and copies (of the photo page, the stamp page and the immigration green paper) to counter #2 and ask politely for an extension ("más días"). Note that you cannot extend your stay to more than 90 days in total.
      • Embassies

        *

        *

        *

    • filter_dramaGet out
      The most popular day trips from La Paz are to [wiki=b104c76f9c59def9704b3c7912365e36]Tiwanaku[/wiki], [wiki=34d5f663674d280186feb606e7dd7e6c]Chacaltaya[/wiki], and [wiki=425e9dcfadc08a078199d2f4c608f9a3]Lake Titicaca[/wiki] (buses leave near the cemetery), though the latter (especially [wiki=75daa5cb5d7bdaf1b1fc789883e70f84]Copacabana[/wiki]) is pushing it a bit in terms of time.

      A great day hike is Muela del Diablo. Get combis from Prado for Predregal, stay on til the end and ask locals the way to hike up the hill for incredible views and an imposing peak. For a half day come back the way you came or for a long one go down the other way to Valle de la Luna.

      You can head to [wiki=1d9e6be57b7780e3d08b600d31b0d395]Quime[/wiki] for some good trekking, [wiki=a529a5797f2393bbfeaafcafea0ad2fd]Uyuni[/wiki] for the world's largest salt flats or [wiki=b00e2ae8e45e2ba27b2ee84e19f28ce6]Rurrenabaque[/wiki] for pampas and Madidi national park.

      [wiki=d32fe5c06b9a2eacfbc0a8a3e175f07e]de:La Paz[/wiki]
      [wiki=4d6ee8f09f0cc22655030bc71950f80d]es:La Paz[/wiki]
      [wiki=b4c6f0d697ed524df5280f7d786acf11]fi:La Paz[/wiki]
      [wiki=c8410578f68357b5b6a5a0dcd974fbca]fr:La Paz[/wiki]
      [wiki=70aff9cbf66dec61006a2315bb2ee2e2]it:La Paz (Bolivia)[/wiki]
      [wiki=5831dc75371d6c504b373af44c5d16a4]ja:ラパス (ボリビア)[/wiki]
      [wiki=60e8222a5b762588ecfa2e798ef32dca]nl:La Paz (Bolivia)[/wiki]
      [wiki=105fbe559862ec87f21255a1c7a9b7ee]pl:La Paz[/wiki]
      [wiki=ac81bbbc8b750ed40c707a94abc2512f]pt:La Paz[/wiki]
      [wiki=c7e37858c9df706fcd8773a8fda385b9]wts:Category:La Paz (Bolivia)[/wiki]

      [[WikiPedia:La Paz, Bolivia]]
      [wiki=80becd079c563775abe167d177bf6bd6]World66:southamerica/bolivia/lapaz[/wiki]
    Points of Interestkeyboard_arrow_rightCosta Rica
    Point of Interest
    Point of Interest
    Point of Interest
    Enrique Echandi
    Enrique Echandi
    San Jose
    Joaquin Garcia Monge
    Joaquin Garcia Monge
    San Jose
    Jose Figueres
    Jose Figueres
    San Jose
    Jose Ma. Castro Madriz
    Jose Ma. Castro Madriz
    San Jose
    Juan Mora Fernandez
    Juan Mora Fernandez
    San Jose
    Juan Rafael Mora
    Juan Rafael Mora
    San Jose
    Museo Postal, Telegratico y Filatelico de Costa Rica
    Museo Postal, Telegratico y Filatelico de Costa Rica
    San Jose
    Sala Leon Fernandez Bonilla
    Sala Leon Fernandez Bonilla
    San Jose
    Vargas Calvo
    Vargas Calvo
    San Jose
    Museums
    Museums
    Museums
    Gold Museum
    Gold Museum
    San Jose
    Museo Colegio Superior de Senoritas
    Museo Colegio Superior de Senoritas
    San Jose
    Museo de Oro y Numismatica
    Museo de Oro y Numismatica
    San Jose
    Tourist Attractions
    Tourist Attractions
    Tourist Attractions
    Water Park, Playa Den Bossa
    Water Park, Playa Den Bossa
    San Jose
    Landmark
    Landmark
    Landmark
    Far de punta grossa
    Far de punta grossa
    San Jose
    Monument or Landmark
    Monument or Landmark
    Monument or Landmark
    Torreta
    Torreta
    San Jose
    Popular Area
    Popular Area
    Popular Area
    Space Ibiza Dance
    Space Ibiza Dance
    San Jose
    Playa d'en Bossa
    Playa d'en Bossa
    San Jose
    Pacha
    Pacha
    San Jose
    Airport - Transportation
    Airport - Transportation
    Airport - Transportation
    Ibiza (IBZ)
    Ibiza (IBZ)
    San Jose
    Quepos Managua Airport
    Quepos Managua Airport
    Quepos
    County
    County
    County
    Abangares
    Abangares
    Guanacaste
    Bagaces
    Bagaces
    Guanacaste
    Cañas
    Cañas
    Guanacaste
    Carrillo
    Carrillo
    Guanacaste
    Hojancha
    Hojancha
    Guanacaste
    La Cruz
    La Cruz
    Guanacaste
    Liberia
    Liberia
    Guanacaste
    Nandayure
    Nandayure
    Guanacaste
    Nicoya
    Nicoya
    Guanacaste
    Santa Cruz
    Santa Cruz
    Guanacaste
    Tilarán
    Tilarán
    Guanacaste
    Local Administrative Area
    Local Administrative Area
    Local Administrative Area
    Aguas Zarcas
    Aguas Zarcas
    San Carlos
    Buenavista
    Buenavista
    San Carlos
    Cutris
    Cutris
    San Carlos
    Florencia
    Florencia
    San Carlos
    Fortuna
    Fortuna
    San Carlos
    Monterrey
    Monterrey
    San Carlos
    Palmera
    Palmera
    San Carlos
    Pital
    Pital
    San Carlos
    Pocosol
    Pocosol
    San Carlos
    Quesada
    Quesada
    San Carlos
    Tigra
    Tigra
    San Carlos
    Venado
    Venado
    San Carlos
    Venecia
    Venecia
    San Carlos
    Laguna de Arenal
    Laguna de Arenal
    Tilarán
    Libano
    Libano
    Tilarán
    Quebrada Grande
    Quebrada Grande
    Tilarán
    Santa Rosa
    Santa Rosa
    Tilarán
    Tierras Morenas
    Tierras Morenas
    Tilarán
    Tilarán
    Tilarán
    Tilarán
    Tronadora
    Tronadora
    Tilarán
    Town
    Town
    Town
    Puerto Viejo
    Puerto Viejo
    Tamarindo

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