Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
La Paz & Around
Includes »
Why Go?
La Paz is a city of Gothic proportions, world-class views and a multi-ethnic cultural im-
print unique to the Americas. It's sinister and serendipitous - often at the same time. While
there's plenty of petty crime, traffic and pollution, La Paz is somehow so unique and so odd
that it could very well become the highlight of your trip.
Most of the city lies within a preposterously steep valley at around 3660m. Medieval-
looking buildings ascend the slopes with Seussian haphazardness finally spilling over the
edge into the rough commerce hub of El Alto, while to the south the three-peaked Illimani
(6402m/21,003ft) watches over it all in stately serenity.
A few days wandering the frenetic markets, high-quality museums, crafts stalls,
cloistered nightclubs and winding alleyways will not disappoint. This is also the staging
center for many hikes, bike trips and excursions into the fascinating Andean wilderness
areas that surround the city.
