A clutter of colonial monuments and colourful markets on the roof of the Americas, La Paz sets the tone beautifully for Bolivia!
Arriving into La Paz, the road drops away from you to reveal a vast natural bowl ringed by lofty snow-capped Andean peaks. At its heart, a jumble of markets, churches and high-rise towers cascades up in all directions clinging precariously to the canyon walls. Welcome to La Paz, a fitting introduction to Bolivia! Founded in 1548, “Nuestra Señora de La Paz” is the highest administrative capital in the world, a city that drops from a heady 4100m above sea-level to 3200m at its centre. Sadly much of the colonial architecture has been left abandoned, empty shells amidst modern blocks. Yet La Paz still has its fair share of monuments from the cathedral and impressive San Francisco Church to the Government and Legislative Palaces which are complemented by excellent museums. However, La Paz’s indigenous heritage remains as strong as ever. The narrow cobbled streets are awash with colourful markets tended by the bright flowing skirts and bowler hats of the Aymara people. Most famous of all, the witches market is a firm favourite on the tourist circuit selling all manner of trinkets and potions including dried frogs, medicinal plants and even llama foetuses for use in shamanic rituals.
La Paz Hotels
La Casona$$$
The Hotel La Casona is a charming colonial mansion and museum to the rich history and architecture of La Paz. Dating back to the 17th century, the original house was built at the same time as the adjoining San Francisco convent and echoes the convent’s hallmark features from the adobe walls and gabled arches to the fountains and hand-carved, walnut wooden doors. Now lovingly restored, La Casona recreates its former glory with a heady mix of patios, terraces, towers and parquet floors includ...
Atix Hotel$$$$
Hotel El Consulado$$$
Hotel Europa$$$
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