In the shadow of the immense triple snow-capped peaks of Mount Illimani and at altitudes reaching 4,000m, Bolivia’s cultural capital, La Paz has earned itself the moniker of the ‘Tibet of the Americas’ and life at these lofty heights is admirable if not spectacular.

The city’s indigenous, colonial, and modern influences might be as jumbled together as the electrical lines between the houses, yet a majestic Hispanic church and a modern high-rise bookending a street illustrates how it all sits captivatingly and stoically side by side.

With two-thirds of Bolivia’s population of Aymaran or Quechuan indigenous descent, La Paz is home to many of these colourful and determined people. Watch local Bowler-hatted Aymaran women trailed by tightly woven black plaits, selling artisanal trinkets or looking after their children whose cheeks prickle pink with the cold, high winds. You can also catch one of the vibrant and raucous street parades and carnivals taking place throughout the year or visit the equally lively daily markets, in particular the extraordinary Witches Market.

We offer a range of La Paz’ best hotels, where you can take time out to adjust to the altitudes, explore the city or simply relax in high comfort. To help you get the most from this enigmatic city we have great local guides available to show you around.

The Sajama Volcano and National Park is within easy distance of La Paz and with Lake Titicaca only 2 hours away this city makes for a great destination from which to explore some of Bolivia’s best known natural spectacles and vibrant culture of the high plains.