Free Guide La Paz City
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La Paz is dizzying, not only because of its high altitude, but for its eccentric beauty. What sets this capital city apart from the rest in South America are the sights, sounds, and smells of streets. Lying at the bottom of a massive canyon, La Paz is the highest capital city in the world. The buildings cling to the sides of the canyon, and on a clear day the snowy peak of Mountain Illimani is visible. Wander through lively markets, fascinating museums, or chat with locals in a comedor but be sure to take your time, not only to acclimate to the altitude but to experience the city’s many facets. You can golf at the highest golf course in the world, fly into the highest commercial airport in the world, or ski on the highest ski slope in the world. Just don’t miss…
1. The markets. Every inch of space seems to be taken up by Aymara women in traditional bowler hats and voluminous skirts shouting at passing people to buy their goods. There is a vast array of handicrafts, entire markets devoted to faux designer labels, food and drink, bags of coca leaves, and everything else. There is even a Witches’ Market where you can find everything you need to put a spell on a pesky hotel guest or annoying travel mate, or you can buy dried llama fetuses to bury in the foundations of a new house to rid it of evil spirits.
2. The Valle de la Luna. The Moon Valley is one of the best excursions near La Paz. The route passes through the wealthy suburbs of Calacoto and La Florida, following the river road past some bizarre rock formations. Just before la Luna are the Aranjuez Forest, the Ancieto Arce cactus gardens and the Playa de Arnjuez, a popular bathing spot. Approximately 3 km from the bridge at Calacoto the road forks, take a sharp right to Caza y Pesca Club and Mallasilla Golf Course. Walk a few minutes east of the valley entrance with a comfortable pair of shoes on your feet. The valley is always much warmer than the city. Beyond the Valley is Achumani which offers good views of the valley and glimpses of the palatial mansions of the wealthy.
3. Sopocachi’s nightclubs. Friday is the big night out in La Paz, while Thursday and Saturday are quieter. The two most popular drinks are beer and Singani, a spirit that is generally mixed 50-50 with Sprite or 7-up. Many of the best bars and clubs are in the area of Sopocachi, South of Plaza del Estudiante. For live music try Equinoccio, Café Montmartre, or Thelonius Jazz Bar.
4. Chacaltaya. Located 1 ½ hours from La Paz by car, Chacltaya is the world’s highest ski resort. When there is a lot of snow, the roads become impassable. At 5,000 meters you have excellent views of Huyana and Potosí and on a clear day, all the way to Lake Titicaca.
