Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Muela del Diablo
The prominent rock outcrop known as the Devil's Molar is actually an extinct volcanic
plug that rises between the Río Choqueyapu and the suburban sprawl of Pedregal and
Calacoto. A hike to its base makes a pleasant - and easy to take on - half-day walking trip
from La Paz; it offers incredible views of the city and valley of La Paz, and can be easily
combined with a visit to Valle de la Luna.
From the cemetery in Pedregal, the trail climbs steeply (several times crossing the new
road that provides access to the hamlet near the base of the
muela
). After a breathless hour
or so, you'll reach a pleasant grassy swale where the 'tooth' comes into view, as well as
some precarious pinnacles further east.
At this point the walking track joins the road and descends through the hamlet. About
300m further along, a side route branches off to the left and climbs toward the base of the
muela
. From the end of this route you can pick your way with extreme caution up to the
cleft between the double summit, where there's a large cross. Without technical equipment
and expertise, however, it's inadvisable to climb further.
After descending to the main track, you can decide whether to return the way you came,
or follow the steep track that circles the
muela
in a counterclockwise direction and des-
cends to the Río Choqueyapu before climbing the other side of the valley to the zoo in
Mallasa. The latter option will turn this hike into a full-day trip, as it takes about six hours
for the hike between Pedregal and Mallasa.
Be aware that several robberies have been reported here; inquire locally about safety
before heading out and travel in pairs or groups, or with a local guide.
Getting There & Away
From La Paz the best access to the start of the hike is on minibus 288, marked 'Pedregal,'
from the lower Prado. The end of the line is the parking area a couple of hundred meters
downhill from Pedregal's cemetery. Returning from Valle de la Luna, you can board these
minibuses at Zona Sur's Plaza Humboldt or follow the difficult walking track from near
the zoo in Mallasa, which involves a descent to the Río Choqueyapu and then a stiff 600m
ascent to the eastern side of the
muela
. To return to La Paz from Pedregal, catch a 'Prado'
minibus from the parking area.
