La Paz walking tour & city guide

The centre, the markets and the hills

Plaza Murillo is the political heart of the city, surrounded by the cathedral, the presidential palace and the legislature. A few blocks away, Calle Jaén is a short colonial street of painted houses and small museums, and the Basílica de San Francisco has a carved stone facade facing a busy plaza. Uphill from San Francisco, the streets around Calle Linares and Sagárnaga form the Witches' Market, where stalls sell herbs, charms and offerings alongside textiles and souvenirs.

El Prado, the main avenue, runs down the valley through the centre, and below it Sopocachi is a calmer residential district of plazas and viewpoints. Further down, the Zona Sur is lower, warmer and more modern. Mi Teleférico, opened in 2014, links all of these areas with El Alto, and a ride on one of its lines is the best way to see the city's shape.

A classic walk: San Francisco to Plaza Murillo

Start at the Basílica de San Francisco and walk uphill into the Witches' Market, taking it slowly because of the altitude. Loop back down to El Prado and follow it a short way before turning up to Plaza Murillo and the colonial houses of Calle Jaén.

In the afternoon, ride the cable car up to El Alto for views over the whole canyon, with Illimani rising behind it. On Thursdays and Sundays, El Alto's 16 de Julio market is one of the largest open-air markets in South America.

Good to know

May to October is the dry season, with clear skies and sunny days but cold nights; the rainy season runs from December to March. The altitude affects most visitors, so rest on the first day, drink plenty of water and walk slowly. Dress in layers, as temperatures change quickly between sun and shade. Mi Teleférico is cheap and easy to use. The Valle de la Luna, an area of eroded clay spires, is a short trip from the Zona Sur. Check current travel advice before you go.