Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Lay of the Land
The La Paz metropolitan area is divided into three very distinct zones. North of the city
center is the separate municipality of
El Alto
(where you arrive if coming by plane). This
fast-growing commercial and industrial city is the center for Aymará culture, has fascinat-
ing markets and few tourist attractions. Down from here in the valley is the city of
La
Paz
, where most travelers spend their time. On the west side of the valley are the notable
commercial districts Rosario, Belen, San Pedro and Sopocachi. To the east, the action cen-
ters on the Plaza Murillo, Santa Bárbara and Miraflores neighborhoods. If you get lost in
La Paz, head downhill. You'll soon enough find yourself somewhere along the main thor-
oughfare,
El Prado
. Further down the valley to the south is the Zona Sur. This is where
the city's wealthy live and, with safety a concern in the town proper, many businesses
(and businesspeople) are moving here. There's a good collection of upscale restaurants
and hotels.
IMMERSING YOURSELF
La Paz will give you what you put in. But the true heart of the city lies behind closed doors, and the only way to
really break through is by learning the language and engaging with locals.
Several
language courses
will give you the vocabulary you need to learn about La Paz' unique history, culture
and arts scenes. An especially recommended experience is setting up a homestay, which you can arrange through
some hostels or language schools.
Volunteering
is another way to learn about the city. Many travelers end up spending a few extra weeks in La
Paz either working for their hostel or donating their time to one of the many nonprofits in the area.
La Paz' Best Views
»Mirador Laikakota (
Click here
)
is a
mirador
(lookout) set above the city's largest park.
It's popular with young lovers and old dreamers alike.
»The Radisson Plaza Hotel's top-floor Aransaya Restaurant (
Click here
)
has spectacular
city views. The food can be overpriced and formal, but the views more than make up for
it.
