Be a Local - La Paz Walking Tour
Active
2h - 3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
BE A Local it’s a walking tour focus on showing, and teaching about unique and quirky, aspects of La Paz, and on thrusdays and sundays el Alto City. Teaching you us much as we can from a local’s perspective, and taking you to the unseen routes and alleyways of this two high metropolis.
Be a local takes you through the city of La Paz, exploring paths where not many tourists go and see. Extended Tour on Thursdays and Sundays includes: Teleférico, flea market and Cholitas Wrestling show
We advise you to bring the following:
Comfortable shoes
Extra money
Sunglasses and sunscreen
Water
Camera
Available options
Wild Rover Hotel
Local Tour Guide
What's included
Local Tour Guide (English-Speaking)
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Located in La Paz’s Casco Viejo, or old town, is a lively plaza framed by some of the city’s most important political buildings.
2
Conveniently located in the center of La Paz is one of the city’s largest and most uniquely-designed food markets.
3
Stop 3
One of La Paz’s most important and historical landmarks is the San Francisco church (Iglesia de San Francisco), also known as the San Francisco Basilica (Basílica de San Francisco).
4
Stop 4
“Do you have any dried llama fetuses?”
“How about a spell to punish a cheating lover?”
“Perhaps a little something to help altitude sickness then?”
For those suffering an ailment, searching for wealth or looking to exact revenge on a cheating partner, La Paz’s Witches Market (Mercado de Hechecería or Mercado de las Brujas), is the place to go for a variety of potions, medicinal plants, spells and spiritual advice.
5
Located only meters away from the tranquil Plaza San Pedro, lies one of the word’s most notorious and corrupt institutions, San Pedro Prison.
What makes San Pedro so interesting are the conditions in which around 1500 of Bolivia’s most hardened criminals live. A society within itself, the prison contains shops and restaurants run by inmates, women and children living voluntarily with imprisoned family members and ironically, some of the country’s busiest cocaine laboratories.
6
The manicured gardens the statues, the park benches that line the Midway between the vehicle traffic going and coming from downtown was pretty cool. El Prado is also surrounded by huge office buildings housing many restaurants.
7
Avenida Camacho: One of the most important and traditional avenues of the City of La Paz, is located in the city center. Its route begins at the Obelisk Square and ends at the former Municipal Zoo, also known as Monkey Park. This avenue was named in homage to the former President of the Republic, Eliodoro Camacho.
What's not included
Does not include food and drinks
Tips and Extras not mentioned in the Program
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
2 reviews
5★
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4★
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Tripadvisor
5.0
279 reviews
5★
271
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Murillo square
About La Paz
La Paz is the highest capital city in the world, offering a unique blend of indigenous and colonial culture. It's known for its dramatic Andean landscapes, vibrant markets, and rich history, making it a compelling destination for adventurous travelers.
Top Attractions
Mi Teleférico
A unique cable car system offering stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains. It's an efficient way to get around and a major attraction in itself.
Transportation/Attraction
Varies
Budget
Plaza Murillo
The main square of La Paz, surrounded by important government buildings and historic sites. It's a central point for understanding the city's political and historical significance.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
Witches' Market (Mercado de las Brujas)
A unique market selling traditional remedies, herbs, and other items used in local folklore and traditional medicine. It's a fascinating glimpse into the city's indigenous culture.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Free to enter, items for sale vary in price
Valle de la Luna
A surreal lunar-like landscape formed by erosion, located just outside of La Paz. It's a popular spot for hiking and photography, offering a unique natural experience.
Nature
Half day
Budget
Museo Nacional de Arqueología
A comprehensive museum showcasing Bolivia's rich archaeological heritage, including pre-Columbian artifacts and exhibits on indigenous cultures.
Museum
1-2 hours
Budget
Must-Try Local Dishes
Salteñas
A type of savory empanada filled with meat, vegetables, and sometimes cheese. It's a popular street food and a must-try in La Paz.
Snack
Vegetarian options available
Pique a lo Macho
A hearty dish made with beef, fried potatoes, eggs, and a spicy sauce. It's a popular late-night snack or meal.
Main Course
Contains meat, can be made with chicken or vegetarian options
Silpancho
A dish consisting of a thin beef patty topped with rice, fried egg, and onions. It's a flavorful and filling meal.
Main Course
Contains meat, can be made with chicken or vegetarian options
Anticuchos
Grilled beef heart skewers, often served with a spicy sauce. It's a popular street food and a taste of Bolivian cuisine.
Snack
Contains meat, can be made with chicken or other meats
Popular Activities
Mountain biking on Death Road
Hiking in Valle de la Luna
Trekking to Lake Titicaca
Coffee tasting at local cafes
Strolling through Sopocachi
Visiting spas and wellness centers
Exploring the Witches' Market
Visiting museums and historic sites
Best Time to Visit
May to October (Dry season)
The dry season offers the best weather for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The skies are clear, and the temperatures are pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the city and its surroundings.
5°C to 20°C (41°F to 68°F)
41°F to 68°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish, Aymara, Quechua
- Widely spoken: Spanish, English (in tourist areas)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Bolivian Boliviano (BOB)
Time Zone
GMT-4
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
La Paz is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas
- • Use official taxis and agree on the fare before starting your journey
- • Be wary of strangers offering help or services
Getting there
By air
- El Alto International Airport • 15 km (9 miles) from city center
By bus
Terminal de Buses La Paz
Getting around
Public transport
La Paz has a unique cable car system that connects different parts of the city. It's efficient and offers stunning views.
Taxis
Available • Apps: InDriver, Taxis La Paz
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Sopocachi
San Pedro
Zona Sur
Day trips
Tiwanaku
72 km (45 miles) • Full day
An ancient archaeological site dating back to the Tiwanaku culture, offering a glimpse into Bolivia's rich pre-Columbian history.
Lake Titicaca
140 km (87 miles) • Full day or overnight
The world's highest navigable lake, offering stunning landscapes and cultural experiences with the local indigenous communities.
Death Road (North Yungas Road)
75 km (47 miles) • Full day
A thrilling mountain biking experience on one of the world's most dangerous roads, offering stunning views and an adrenaline rush.
Festivals
Alasitas Fair • January 24
Gran Poder • May or June (varies)
Carnaval de Oruro • February or March (varies)
Pro tips
- Acclimate to the altitude before engaging in strenuous activities
- Use the Mi Teleférico cable car system for efficient and scenic transportation
- Try local street food for an authentic culinary experience
- Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your interactions with locals
- Visit the Witches' Market for a unique cultural experience and to purchase traditional remedies
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
