El Alto and Aymara Mansions
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Meet in front of the San Francisco Church and go with your guide towards the central station to catch the Red Line cable cars, then switch over to the Blue Line, ride the cable cars and have a birds eye view of a couple of avenues full of Cholets, once of the cable cars you will head over to visit one of these amazing buildings and learn what they are used for and how the El Alto economy has grown so much thanks to theses places and the events that take place in them. Then visit the Mamani Mamani apartment complex “WHIPALA”. Afterwards head back to the center of El Alto and back to the city of La Paz.
Available options
El Alto and Aymara Mansions
What's included
Professional guide
Driver and local transportation
All activities
What you'll see
The City of El Alto was part of the city of La Paz until the year 1987, since then it is an independent and autonomous city. Thanks to this division El Alto started growing and expanding very rapidly, along with the massive waves of immigration from the rural area and the new socialist government came a big economic growth. This sudden growth made it possible for new designs and structures to be build all over El Alto, it was in this big construction wave that Arquitect Freddy Mamani became well know and sought after for building the amazing structures that we now call Andean mansion or Cholets (mixture between the word Cholo and Chalet). Although the city of El Alto has become more and more modern they have kept their roots and traditions very strong and this can be seen in the rich mixture between the ancient and the modern of the designs of these buildings. Very colorful, bright and unique amazing buildings now decorate the city of El Alto. Another important artist that has become very well known is Mamani Mamani, local painter that makes these very colorful and bright, yet deeply local and traditional designs for his paintings. He has painted a few facades over the city but his biggest project is the WHIPALA COMPLEX, a total of 6 big apartment buildings that have the whole façade painted by Mamani Mamani, the structure is so massive that you can actually see it from the planes when landing or taking off from the El Alto Airport.
What's not included
Food and drinks
Gratuities
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.6
12 reviews
5★
10
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.9
15 reviews
5★
14
4★
0
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Dress code is smart casual
May be operated by a multi-lingual guide
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
Meeting point
Departure Point: Tour departs from the San Francisco square, right in front of the San Francisco Church, meeting time is 14:50 to check in with the guide. The church is right on the main Avenue Montes and the corner of Sagarnaga St.
Address: Montes Avenue and Sagarnaga Street. San Francisco Church
Important notes
• Dress code is smart casual
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• Please note: entrance tickets and transport included. This voucher will not be accepted if presented directly at the venue.
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
