La Paz came as a huge surprise to me, having been told that there isn’t much to do. I, on the other hand, was astonished by the vast choice of adrenaline-filled activities La Paz has to offer for adventurers.
I fell in love with Bolivia’s second-largest city and extended my stay again and again. The altitude can have a negative effect on many and the hills will tire you out, but the mesmerizing mountain views have enough charm to draw you in. Trying to figure out what adventures La Paz has to offer? Read on to find out.
PARAGLIDING │ Fly With The Eagles.
La Paz has a lot to offer for adventurers, my favourite experience was paragliding. But it is so expensive you are saying? Well, at £50 for 30 – 45 minutes this is the cheapest I have found in South America and an opportunity to tick something off your bucket list. The guys from AndesXtremo are super lovely, speak great English, and are reliable. A massive plus is their dog accompanying you on the trip.
The scenic drive to the location takes you through the moon valley and picturesque rock formations. This experience has been anything but scary. Although the occasional questioning if I am feeling sick left me wondering if anyone has ever vomited mid-air.
When the sky is all clear you can see La Paz in the distance. If you are lucky you will have eagles flap their wings alongside the parachute during your flight.
I recommend you acclimatise to the altitude beforehand since at its peak you will reach a height of around 3770m. Some people tend to get motion sickness, if you have a tendency like me, then take some medication beforehand and you will be able to enjoy the flight to the fullest.
To book this experience of a lifetime you will have to head to AndesXtremo’s office in Sopocachi. You can either take a nice half an hour walk from most hostels or go to Sopocachi station by yellow cable car. AndesXtremo Calle Francisco Bedregal 2962, La Paz, doorbell #29
HUAYNA POTOSí │ Hiking In Thin Air.
At 6088m this hike is a challenge not everyone wants to take. Huayna Potosí is one of the least challenging above 6000s in the world and you even get to practice ice climbing, an accelerating and fun experience. Maybe you will manage not to look like a sloth going up that ice wall.
I booked the three-day hike with Jiwaki. However, if you do not need to practice ice-climbing you can book a two-day tour instead. In my opinion, the extra day gave us more time to acclimatise and probably made the hikes on the second and third day easier. Although, if you are fit and healthy and have acclimatised to the altitude you can easily accomplish it in two days. Head here for the full adventure.
The whole experience with Jiwaki including equipment, sleeping bag, rucksack, big meals, transport, and guides costs BOB 700 – BOB 900. Unsure if this is for you? If you want more of a challenge you can attempt to climb Illimani.
DEATH ROAD │ Biking The World’s Most Dangerous Road.
The main tourist attraction and most travellers reason to visit La Paz is Death Road. The price you pay reflects what you get. The feedback I have been given is that even though Xtreme Downhill is ever so slightly more expensive than other operators, the bikes are much newer and better maintained.
I cannot give you too much information about the tours, as one of the lucky short people not being able to reach the floor properly when riding a bike this wasn’t overly appealing to me. BUT everyone I know who has biked down the famous mountain road had a blast and the road is much wider than anticipated. Be mindful of the weather and bring snacks. Prices for the tour start from around BOB 450.
Did I do a good job of sharing my love for this city and all the adventures La Paz has to offer? Also, did I mention that I love ice-climbing?
Now go ahead and explore! Try not to lose your towel.
