3 Days in La Paz 2025: Sky-High Adventures in Bolivia's Capital
Discover La Paz in 3 perfect days: cable cars, mystical markets, and breathtaking altitude. Complete itinerary with acclimatization tips, costs, and insider insights.
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What's the perfect 3-day itinerary for La Paz?
Spend Day 1 gently exploring the historic center and Witches' Market, Day 2 discovering local markets and Moon Valley, and Day 3 riding cable cars and immersing in culture. Budget $30-115 per day for attractions and meals.
Related questions:
- • How much does 3 days in La Paz cost?
- • What's the best area to stay in La Paz?
- • Is 3 days enough for La Paz?
Your 3-Day La Paz Adventure
TL;DR: Explore La Paz's highlights in 3 action-packed days covering 22 attractions with a budget of €$90-$270-345 per person.
- 1 Day 1 focuses on gentle acclimatization with historic center and markets ($25-70 in activities)
- 2 Day 2 explores authentic markets and surreal Moon Valley ($30-85 total cost)
- 3 Day 3 combines cable car adventures with cultural immersion ($35-100 budget needed)
- 4 Take altitude seriously - coca tea, hydration, and slow pace essential at 3,640m
- 5 Stay in Sopocachi for comfort or San Pedro for backpacker vibe
- 6 Total 3-day budget: $90-325 per person including all attractions and meals
La Paz offers an incredible 3-day journey through the world's highest capital city, where indigenous traditions blend with colonial history at a breathtaking 3,640 meters above sea level. From the mystical Witches' Market to the innovative cable car system soaring over tin-roofed neighborhoods, and from chaotic markets to serene Moon Valley landscapes, this carefully crafted itinerary balances must-see attractions with crucial altitude acclimatization. With daily costs ranging from $30 to $115 per person, La Paz is one of South America's most budget-friendly capitals. The best time to visit is May through October during the dry season. This itinerary covers approximately 50 kilometers of exploration, carefully paced to help you adjust to the thin air while discovering Bolivia's fascinating capital.
Your 3-Day La Paz Itinerary
Day 1: Gentle Acclimatization & Historic Heart
History & Acclimatization
Day 1
Ease into La Paz's extreme altitude while exploring the colonial center, mystical markets, and getting your first cable car views
Total Cost
USD25-70
Walking Distance
4 km
Activities
3 stops
Duration
Full Day
Today's Highlights
🌟 Pro Tip: Start early to beat the crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photos. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for today's 4 km journey!
Day 1 Schedule
Morning (9:30 AM - 12:30 PM)
Duration: 3 hours
Altitude Adjustment Breakfast
Start slow with coca tea and light breakfast. Your body needs time to adjust to 3,640m elevation. Don't rush!
💡 Tip: Drink coca tea (mate de coca) throughout the day. It's legal and helps with altitude. Avoid alcohol and heavy meals first day
Plaza Murillo
Explore the main square surrounded by Cathedral, Government Palace, and Congress. Pigeons, shoe shiners, and political protests common
💡 Tip: Photography restricted near government buildings. Shoe shine boys are friendly but establish price first
San Francisco Church
Visit this stunning baroque-mestizo church from 1549. The facade blends Catholic and indigenous symbols uniquely
💡 Tip: Rooftop access offers great city views. Museum inside worth quick visit
Calle Jaén Museums
Stroll this preserved colonial street with colorful houses and small museums. Most photogenic street in La Paz
💡 Tip: Museums are small - pick one or two. Costumbrista has good city history
🍽️ Lunch Recommendation
Gustu • Modern Bolivian (splurge)
💰 USD25-40 per person
Must try: Tasting menu with local ingredients, Quinoa variations, Llama preparations
Budget option: Alexander Coffee for salteñas $2-5
World-renowned, reservation essential
Afternoon (2:00 PM - 6:00 PM)
Duration: 4 hours
Mercado de las Brujas (Witches' Market)
Browse this mystical market selling dried llama fetuses, potions, and amulets. Aymara spiritual traditions on display
💡 Tip: Ask permission before photographing vendors. Llama fetuses are for blessing new constructions. Prices negotiable
Coca Museum
Learn about coca leaf's cultural importance and controversial history. Important context for Bolivia visit
💡 Tip: Small but informative. Explains difference between coca and cocaine. English displays
Rest & Coca Tea
Take a break - altitude exhaustion hits suddenly. Find a cafe for coca tea and rest
💡 Tip: Don't be embarrassed to rest. Everyone struggles with altitude initially
Mi Teleférico Red Line
Take your first cable car ride on the Red Line for sunset views. World's highest and longest urban cable car system
💡 Tip: Red Line connects central station to El Alto. Best views at sunset. Locals use it for commuting
Evening (6:30 PM onwards)
Duration: 3+ hours
Early Dinner
Eat early and light your first night. Heavy meals at altitude can cause problems
💡 Tip: Bolivians eat late but tourists should eat early when adjusting
🍽️ Dinner Recommendation
Popular Cocina Boliviana • Traditional Bolivian
💰 USD8-15 per person
Must try: Sopa de mani (peanut soup), Silpancho, Chicharrón
Local favorite, generous portions
🚇 Getting Around
pacing: Go SLOW - altitude is no joke
transport: Walk in center, taxi after dark
money: ATMs work, have small bills
safety: Centro safe daytime, careful after 8 PM
🏨 Where to Stay: Choose lower floor rooms - less stairs to climb. Sopocachi or Centro best for tourists. Have coca tea in room
Day 2: Markets, Culture & Moon Valley
Local Life & Natural Wonders
Day 2
Dive deeper into local life at authentic markets, then escape to the surreal landscapes of Moon Valley
Total Cost
USD30-85
Walking Distance
5 km
Activities
3 stops
Duration
Full Day
Today's Highlights
🌟 Pro Tip: Start early to beat the crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photos. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for today's 5 km journey!
Day 2 Schedule
Morning (8:30 AM - 12:30 PM)
Duration: 4 hours
Mercado Rodriguez
Experience La Paz's largest traditional market. Overwhelming but authentic - everything from electronics to dried fish
💡 Tip: Watch your belongings. Go with minimal valuables. Great for photos but ask permission. Morning less crowded
San Pedro Area Walk
Walk through this working-class neighborhood. Home to infamous San Pedro Prison - view from outside only!
💡 Tip: Don't attempt prison tours - illegal and dangerous. Area safe during day but stay alert
Teleférico Yellow Line
Take Yellow Line cable car for different city views and to experience local transport
💡 Tip: Connects to other lines. Buy multi-trip card for convenience. Great photos through windows
Afternoon (2:00 PM - 6:00 PM)
Duration: 4 hours
Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley)
Explore this bizarre eroded landscape 10km from city. Looks like lunar surface with clay spires and formations
💡 Tip: Afternoon light best for photos. Bring sunscreen - high altitude sun intense. Some climbing on trails
Mirador Killi Killi
If energy remains, this viewpoint offers panoramic city views. Less touristy than cable cars
💡 Tip: Best late afternoon. Can be windy. Safe area but take taxi
Evening (6:30 PM onwards)
Duration: 3+ hours
Sopocachi Neighborhood
Explore La Paz's trendy area with cafes, restaurants, and nightlife. More cosmopolitan than historic center
💡 Tip: Safe area for evening walks. Many restaurant options. Young professional crowd
🍽️ Dinner Recommendation
Ona • Contemporary Bolivian
💰 USD15-30 per person
Must try: Quinoa risotto, Alpaca steak, Local wine
Modern take on traditional dishes
🌙 Evening Options
- • Hallwright's - expat pub with quiz nights
- • Diesel Nacional - local rock venue
- • Early night still adjusting to altitude
🏨 Where to Stay: Second night usually better sleep as body adjusts. Keep hydrating through night
Day 3: Cable Car Network & Cultural Immersion
Transport Marvel & Culture
Day 3
Explore the world's most extensive cable car system while diving deep into Bolivian culture, with option for day trips
Total Cost
USD35-100
Walking Distance
4 km
Activities
3 stops
Duration
Full Day
Today's Highlights
🌟 Pro Tip: Start early to beat the crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photos. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for today's 4 km journey!
Day 3 Schedule
Morning (8:00 AM - 12:30 PM)
Duration: 4.5 hours
Mi Teleférico Grand Tour
Ride multiple cable car lines for complete city overview. Each line shows different facets of La Paz life
💡 Tip: Buy day pass for unlimited rides. Start early to avoid commuter crowds. Download route map
El Alto Market (Thursday/Sunday)
If Thursday or Sunday, visit massive El Alto market. Largest market in South America - overwhelming but incredible
💡 Tip: Go with guide or group if possible. Absolutely massive. Everything imaginable for sale
Alternative: City Museums
If not market day, visit Museo Nacional de Etnografía y Folklore for indigenous culture overview
💡 Tip: MUSEF has excellent mask collection. English labels limited but visuals strong
Afternoon (2:00 PM - 5:30 PM)
Duration: 3.5 hours
Option A: Tiwanaku Day Trip
Visit pre-Columbian archaeological site. UNESCO site predating Incas. Mysterious ancient civilization
💡 Tip: Tours include transport and guide. Bring sunscreen and hat. Can be combined with Lake Titicaca stop
Option B: Chacaltaya & Moon Valley
Visit former world's highest ski resort at 5,375m for incredible views. Combine with Moon Valley if not done Day 2
💡 Tip: Very high altitude - only if feeling well adjusted. Views of Andes spectacular
Option C: Cultural Afternoon
Stay in city for museums, church visits, and souvenir shopping. More relaxed option
💡 Tip: San Francisco cultural center has workshops. Museo de Instrumentos interesting
Evening (7:00 PM onwards)
Duration: 4+ hours
Traditional Peña Show
Experience traditional Andean music and dance at a peña. Tourist-oriented but entertaining
💡 Tip: Peña Huari most famous. Book through hotel. Includes dinner usually
🏨 Where to Stay: Pack night before if early flight. Airport at even higher altitude can cause issues
Complete Budget Breakdown
Complete 3-day costs per person in La Paz, excluding accommodation. All prices in USD with boliviano conversions at 2025 rates.
Budget Traveler
💰$30-45 per day
per person per day
Daily Breakdown
Money-Saving Tips:
- • Street food and markets cheapest
- • Set lunch menus (almuerzos) great value
- • Teleférico only $0.50 per ride
- • Many museums under $3
3-Day Total
$90-135
Attractions
$30-60 total
Meals
$30-45 total
Transport
$15-30
Extras
$15-25 (souvenirs, coca products)
Mid-Range
💎$60-85 per day
per person per day
Daily Breakdown
Money-Saving Tips:
- • Restaurants in Sopocachi good value
- • Group tours economical
- • Radio taxis safer than street hails
- • Happy hours common
3-Day Total
$180-255
Attractions
$60-105 total
Meals
$75-105 total
Transport
$45-75
Extras
$40-60 (shopping, tours)
Luxury
👑$90-115+ per day
per person per day
Daily Breakdown
Money-Saving Tips:
- • Gustu worth the splurge
- • Private guides recommended
- • Zona Sur has upscale options
- • Hotels arrange everything
3-Day Total
$270-345+
Attractions
$90-150
Meals
$150+
Transport
$60-105
Extras
$60+ (quality alpaca, silver)
💡 Smart Money-Saving Tips
Street food safe and delicious at $1-3
Teleférico cheaper than any world transit
Markets better prices than shops
Set lunch menus $2-5 at local spots
Free walking tours available
✨ Worth the Splurge
Gustu restaurant - $40-60 world-class dining
Private Tiwanaku tour - $60-80 for expertise
Quality alpaca sweater - $50-100 lasts forever
Death Road biking - $100 if you dare
Note: All prices are estimates for 2025 and exclude accommodation. Actual costs may vary by season and booking timing. Prices shown in EUR.
Essential Planning Tips
Altitude Sickness (Soroche)
At 3,640m, altitude affects everyone. Drink coca tea constantly, hydrate obsessively, avoid alcohol first days, move slowly, eat light. Symptoms: headache, nausea, fatigue, insomnia. Severe symptoms: seek medical help. Diamox can help but consult doctor.
Getting Around La Paz
Mi Teleférico cable cars best for views and comfort (BOB 3/$0.50). Minibuses cheap but chaotic (BOB 2-3). Radio taxis safer than street hails. Uber exists but limited. Walking in center ok daytime. Trufi (shared taxis) for locals.
Money & Costs
Bolivia incredibly affordable. ATMs common but often empty weekends. USD accepted some places. Small bills essential - nobody has change. Markets cash only. Credit cards in nice restaurants only. Tipping 10% restaurants.
Safety Awareness
La Paz generally safe but stay alert. Avoid San Pedro prison area at night. Don't accept prison 'tours'. Fake police scam exists - real police have ID. Radio taxis safer. Minimal jewelry. Copy of passport sufficient.
Cultural Sensitivity
Indigenous culture strong - be respectful. Ask before photographing people. Cholitas (women in traditional dress) often don't want photos. Learn basic Spanish. Coca leaf sacred - not a drug here. Conservative dress away from tourist areas.
Best Times to Visit
May-October dry season ideal. June-August coldest but clearest. November-April rainy season with afternoon showers. Altitude makes sun intense year-round. Layers essential - temperature varies greatly. Wind strong in afternoon.
Customize Your Itinerary
Customize your 3 days based on interests and acclimatization
Adventure Seekers
- ✓ Death Road biking (if fit)
- ✓ Huayna Potosí base camp
- ✓ Urban Rush cable activities
- ✓ Chacaltaya mountain visit
Additional cost: $80-150 for activities
Cultural Deep Dive
- ✓ More time in El Alto markets
- ✓ Textile workshops with locals
- ✓ Multiple museum days
- ✓ Indigenous ceremonies (if invited)
Additional cost: $30-60 for workshops
Lake Titicaca Focus
- ✓ Day 2: Copacabana trip
- ✓ Day 3: Sun Island boat
- ✓ Overnight in Copacabana
- ✓ Return via Tiwanaku
Additional cost: $60-120 for lake tours
Extreme Budget
- ✓ All meals at markets
- ✓ Only free attractions
- ✓ Walking tour donations only
- ✓ Teleférico sightseeing
Savings: Possible on $20/day
Photography Focus
- ✓ Sunrise at El Alto
- ✓ Cemetery during Day of Dead
- ✓ Multiple cable car lines
- ✓ Street photography tours
Additional cost: $40-80 for photo tours
Slow Acclimatization
- ✓ Gentler Day 1
- ✓ Skip high altitude trips
- ✓ More cafe breaks
- ✓ Lower activity options
When to Visit: Seasonal Guide
dryWinter
May-August • 0-15°C (32-59°F), sunny days, cold nights
Highlights:
- • Clear mountain views
- • No rain
- • Best for photos
- • Festival season
Events:
- • Alasitas (January)
- • Gran Poder (May/June)
- • Independence Day (August 6)
shoulder
April & September-October • 5-18°C (41-64°F), variable
Highlights:
- • Fewer tourists
- • Moderate weather
- • Spring flowers (Sept)
- • Good visibility
rainyWarm
November-March • 8-18°C (46-64°F), afternoon rains
Highlights:
- • Warmer temperatures
- • Green landscapes
- • Dramatic clouds
- • Summer festivals
Events:
- • Christmas
- • New Year
- • Carnival (February)
special
•
Events:
- • Day of the Dead (Nov 1-2)
Frequently Asked Questions About 3 Days in La Paz
1 Is 3 days enough to see La Paz?
Three days allows you to see La Paz's highlights while acclimatizing to the 3,640m altitude. You'll experience the historic center, markets, cable cars, and either Moon Valley or a day trip. More time allows deeper exploration and better altitude adjustment.
2 How bad is altitude sickness in La Paz?
At 3,640m, most visitors experience some symptoms: headache, fatigue, shortness of breath, insomnia. Take it slow, drink coca tea constantly, avoid alcohol initially, and hydrate obsessively. Severe symptoms (vomiting, confusion) require medical attention. Most adjust within 2-3 days.
3 What's the best area to stay in La Paz?
Sopocachi offers comfort, restaurants, and safety ($30-80/night). San Pedro provides backpacker vibes but requires caution ($10-30/night). Zona Sur has luxury options at lower altitude ($60-150/night). Centro is central but noisy ($20-60/night).
4 How much money do I need for 3 days in La Paz?
Budget $90-135 for basic costs ($30-45/day), $180-255 for comfortable travel ($60-85/day), or $270-345+ for luxury ($90-115+/day). This covers all meals, attractions, and transport but excludes accommodation. La Paz is extremely affordable.
5 Is La Paz safe for tourists?
La Paz is generally safe with normal precautions. Avoid flashy jewelry, use radio taxis at night, and stay clear of San Pedro prison area after dark. Beware fake police asking to see money. Most crime is opportunistic theft. Tourist areas are well-patrolled.
6 What should I buy in La Paz?
Alpaca clothing (verify authenticity), textiles, silver jewelry, and handicrafts offer great value. Witches' Market has unique souvenirs. Start bargaining at 50% of asking price in markets. Quality varies widely - check carefully. Coca products make interesting gifts.
Is 3 days enough to see La Paz?
How bad is altitude sickness in La Paz?
What's the best area to stay in La Paz?
How much money do I need for 3 days in La Paz?
Is La Paz safe for tourists?
What should I buy in La Paz?
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About the Author
Isabella Rodriguez
Born in Buenos Aires and raised across Latin America, Isabella brings 15 years of travel writing experience to WanderTheWorld. Fluent in Spanish, Portuguese, and English, she specializes in uncovering authentic South American experiences beyond the tourist trail. When not exploring new neighborhoods in Lima or sipping wine in Mendoza, she's teaching tango in her adopted home of Montevideo.