Many nationalities (US, EU, Australia, etc.) can enter visa-free for up to 90 days. Check the official Bolivian government site for your country.

What’s the best way to avoid altitude sickness?

Ascend gradually, rest on arrival, drink mate de coca, stay hydrated, and consider Diamox. Avoid alcohol for the first two days.

Is the tap water safe?

No, tap water is not potable. Drink only bottled or boiled water, and avoid ice in drinks.

What currency is used?

The Bolivian Boliviano (BOB). US dollars are sometimes accepted in tourist areas but have limited use. ATMs dispense BOB.

Do I need to speak Spanish?

Basic Spanish is helpful; in rural areas Aymara is spoken. Learn a few phrases – locals appreciate the effort.

How do I get to Lake Titicaca?

Buses from La Paz to Copacabana take 3-4 hours. From there, boats connect to Isla del Sol and Isla de la Luna.

What vaccinations do I need?

Routine shots plus yellow fever (mandatory for Amazon areas), hepatitis A, typhoid. Malaria precautions if visiting the lowlands.

Is it safe to take taxis?

Only use radio taxis (call-in) or apps like Yango. Avoid hailing street taxis, especially at night.

Layers! Warm clothing for cold nights, sun protection (UV is intense at altitude), sturdy shoes, and rain gear if travelling Nov–Mar.

Can I use credit cards?

Cards are accepted in upscale hotels/restaurants in La Paz, but cash is essential for markets, small shops, and rural areas.

What is the altitude of La Paz?

The city center is about 3,640m (11,942ft) above sea level.

Is it safe to drink tap water?

No, always drink bottled or purified water.

What language is spoken?

Spanish is official; Aymara and Quechua are also common. English is limited to tourist areas.

How do I get from El Alto Airport to La Paz?

Take a taxi (30-45 min, ~$10-15) or the cable car from the airport station.

Is the Death Road safe?

Yes, with a reputable tour company. Use proper gear and follow guide instructions.

Yes, in La Paz and major towns, but carry cash for rural areas.

Can I visit Lake Titicaca from La Paz?

Yes, it's about 1.5 hours by bus to Copacabana.

What is the tipping etiquette?

10% in restaurants is appreciated; not expected in taxis.

La Paz Department - Travel destination image

La Paz Department

La Paz, Bolivia

La Paz Department is a STATE in La Paz, Bolivia.

La Paz Department is Bolivia’s high-altitude heartland, where jagged Andean peaks plunge into steamy Amazonian lowlands. The administrative capital, La Paz city, clings to a vertiginous canyon at 3,600 metres, its streets a kaleidoscope of indigenous Aymara culture, colonial architecture, and frenetic markets. Ride the world’s highest urban cable car network, Mi Teleférico, for jaw-dropping views of snow-dusted Illimani mountain. Just west, Lake Titicaca shimmers at 3,800 metres – visit the sacred Isla del Sol, birthplace of Inca mythology, or the pilgrimage town of Copacabana. For archaeology buffs, the pre-Inca ruins of Tiwanaku reveal a mysterious civilisation. Thrill-seekers cycle the infamous Death Road, descending from frigid altiplano to lush Yungas cloud forest. Beyond, the Amazon basin awaits in Madidi National Park, teeming with jaguar, macaw, and pink river dolphin. With colourful festivals, coca-leaf rituals, and some of the continent’s cheapest eats, La Paz Department is an immersive Andean adventure.

Best time to visit La Paz Department

The dry season (May–October) offers crisp, sunny days ideal for trekking, mountain views, and Lake Titicaca crossings, though nights are freezing. This is peak tourist season with clear skies. The rainy season (November–March) brings afternoon downpours, occasional flooding, and muddy trails, but the landscape is greener and festivals like Carnival and Alasitas add cultural flair. The shoulder months of April and November are quieter and can be excellent compromises. High-altitude cold persists year-round; pack layers.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather: Dry 6-20°C

Travel notes

Crowds: Moderate
Prices: Moderate

Spring blooms; last dry month before rains. Great value and fewer crowds.

Know before you go

Getting there

LPB

El Alto International Airport

International

13 km away

CBB

Jorge Wilstermann International Airport

International

230 km away

Getting around

"In La Paz city, Mi Teleférico cable cars are a scenic, safe way to hop between neighbourhoods. Shared minibuses (trufis) and micros cover the city cheaply but are confusing for non-locals. Radio taxis and apps (InDrive, Yango) are affordable. For regional travel, long-distance buses connect to Copacabana, Tiwanaku, and Uyuni; book semi-cama for comfort. Flights from El Alto airport serve Rurrenabaque (Amazon) quickly. Roads are winding and sometimes unpaved – allow extra time. For Death Road, join an organised cycling tour."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

15 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Widely available in cities and tourist areas

Local SIM

Tigo, Entel, Viva SIMs available from $2 at airport kiosks or city shops

Stay safe

Overall

6/10

Petty crime and road safety are concerns; high-altitude hazards and occasional protests require awareness.

Night safety

4/10

Petty crime and road safety are concerns; high-altitude hazards and occasional protests require awareness.

Transport

6/10

Scam risk

5/10

"La Paz is generally safe for tourists but requires street smarts. Pickpocketing and bag-snatching occur in crowded markets (El Alto, Rodríguez) and on public transport. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit areas. Use only registered radio taxis or ride-hailing apps; never hail street taxis. Political protests and road blockades are frequent and can disrupt travel. The Yungas road (Death Road) is notoriously dangerous; choose reputable operators with good safety records. Scams like the ‘mustard trick’ or fake police exist – keep valuables hidden. Altitude and extreme weather pose their own risks."

Police

110

Ambulance

118

Fire

119

Entry and health

Health information

"Altitude sickness (soroche) is the primary health concern – La Paz city sits at 3,600 m, and many attractions are higher. Acclimatise slowly, drink coca tea, avoid alcohol and heavy meals for 24–48 hours, and stay hydrated. If heading to the Amazon lowlands, yellow fever vaccination is mandatory; anti-malaria prophylaxis is recommended for forest areas. Tap water is unsafe to drink; stick to bottled or boiled water. Medical facilities in La Paz city are adequate, but evacuation is needed for severe altitude illness. Travel insurance covering high-altitude activities and remote-area evacuation is essential."

Culture

Local customs

"Always greet with ‘Buenos días/tardes’. Dress modestly, especially in indigenous communities and churches. Chewing coca leaves is widely accepted; offer them with both hands. Ask permission before photographing locals, particularly Aymara women in traditional dress. Haggling is expected in markets but done politely. Respect sacred sites: don’t climb ruins or remove stones. Punctuality is relaxed. Use your right hand for passing items. The word ‘hermano/hermana’ (brother/sister) signals friendliness."

Spanish (official)Quechua (official)Aymara (official)Guaraniother indigenous languagesSpanishQuechuaAymaraGuaraní

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Budget

Meals

$3 | a cheap local meal costs around $3

Hotels

$10-50 | budget hotels range $10-50/night

Local transport

$0.30 | local bus ride ~$0.30

Cost notes

La Paz is one of South America’s cheapest capitals; even Western meals rarely exceed $10.

Timezone

America/La_Paz
Local time 17:52

More facts

Population

2,900,000

ISO code

BO-04

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Viaca, Viacha, Viača, Vijacha, Wiyacha, bi ya cha, biacha, viacha, Вијача, ვიაჩა, ビアチャ, 比亞查, 비아차, La Paz

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