What to do in El Alto

Activities, attractions and tours

Häusermeer von La Paz
Häusermeer von La Paz
Huayna Potosí mountain as seen from El Alto, La Paz, Bolivia. With an elevation of 6,088 m (ca. 20,000 feet),
La Paz panoramic view, Bolivia. La Paz is the worlds highest capital.
The cable car, opened on 30th May 2014, connects La Paz to the sprawling Metropolis of El Alto high above the city. Teleférico was inaugurated by Bolivia's current president, Evan Morales, in order to improve the commute to La Paz for residents of El Alto. Although only 11 kilometres as the crow flies, by road this is a long, arduous journey which can take well over an hour. Although built for the purpose of the city's commuters, it's also great news for visitors. A ride on the cable car (which will set you back 3 bolivianos for a one-way ticket) affords some stunning views of La Paz, and can transport you up to El Alto in around 10 minutes. El Alto is where the poorer residents of La Paz live, and for that reason it can be unsafe to wander around here without a guide (even with a guide, keep your valuables close to your chest). Red Cap Walking Tours run an extended city tour, which incorporates El Alto, as well as other city attractions not covered on their standard free walking tour.
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Most fun & popular experiences in El Alto

Tours & day trips

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Full day Tour Charquini and Laguna Esmeralda

Full day Tour Charquini and Laguna Esmeralda

Activity duration is 9 hours
9.6 out of 10 with 21 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is Rp958.968 per adult
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Adventure & outdoor

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La Paz: Charquini Mountain Guided Hike

La Paz: Charquini Mountain Guided Hike

Activity duration is 8 hours
9.2 out of 10 with 43 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is Rp656.136 per adult*
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Food, drink & nightlife

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La Paz City Tour and Moon Valley

La Paz City Tour and Moon Valley

Activity duration is 6 hours
8.8 out of 10 with 3 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is Rp672.960 per adult
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Air, helicopter & balloon tours

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4-Day Bolivia Private Tour with English Guide from La Paz Bolivia

4-Day Bolivia Private Tour with English Guide from La Paz Bolivia

Activity duration is 4 days
10.0 out of 10 with 2 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is Rp43.138.588 per adult*
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Water activities

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Full Day Guided Tour in Copacabana and Isla del Sol

Full Day Guided Tour in Copacabana and Isla del Sol

Activity duration is 16 hours
9.0 out of 10 with 52 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is Rp992.616 per adult
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What to do in El Alto

Popular places to visit

Witches\' Market showing food

Witches' Market

Browse the stalls of the curious Mercado de las Brujas to discover traditional Bolivian herbal and ritual treatments while you shop for Andean handicrafts.

Witches' Market
Plaza Murillo which includes heritage architecture, a square or plaza and night scenes

Plaza Murillo

The historical heart of La Paz is home to impressive colonial buildings, statues of prominent national figures and a museum colonial art.

Plaza Murillo
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La Paz Metropolitan Cathedral

Admire the neoclassical architecture and impressive stained-glass windows of La Paz’s main cathedral, one of the striking colonial-era buildings on Plaza Murillo.

La Paz Metropolitan Cathedral
Valle de la Luna showing tranquil scenes

Valle de la Luna

Clamber around the spikes and trenches of this unusual topography and follow the circular paths for spectacular views of otherworldly scenery.

Valle de la Luna
Plaza San Francisco featuring street scenes

Plaza San Francisco

See historic architecture, watch street performers and browse the stands of handicraft and food markets at this lively central square.

Plaza San Francisco
Aerial Drone Fly Above La Paz, Bolivia, Crowder Metropolitan City, Houses, Skyscrapers and Andean Cordillera Mountain Range in the Background

Estadio Hernando Siles

Catch an event at Estadio Hernando Siles during your trip to La Paz. While you're in the area, find time to visit its shops.

Estadio Hernando Siles
San Francisco Church which includes heritage architecture, a city and a church or cathedral

San Francisco Church

Marvel at the range of architectural styles and intricate artwork of this centuries-old church, spot religious paintings in its convent then enjoy views of La Paz from its tower.

San Francisco Church
National Museum of Art showing heritage architecture, street scenes and a city

National Museum of Art

Admire an impressive collection of colonial paintings and contemporary art by well-known national and Latin American artists in this historic mansion.

National Museum of Art
La Paz which includes a city

Mirador Killi Killi

Learn about the local history of La Paz with a stop at Mirador Killi Killi. While you're in the area, find time to visit its shops.

Mirador Killi Killi

Frequently asked questions

Is El Alto worth visiting?
One of the most popular things to do in El Alto is explore La Paz Metropolitan Cathedral. Tick this top attraction off your itinerary, then experience more of the area's views and culture.
How do I spend a day in El Alto?
Mirador Killi Killi and Palacio Legislativo are two good places to kick-start your adventures. Remember to check out the dining and shopping options in El Alto while you're in town too.
What is the top tourist attraction in El Alto?
The top tourist attraction in El Alto is La Paz Metropolitan Cathedral, so make sure to include it on your agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in El Alto?
You can easily tour popular attractions like Saint Gabriel Theatre, San Francisco Church and Plaza San Francisco with a three-day trip to El Alto. On average, many travellers book two days here. There's plenty to do and see nearby too, so stay a little longer and venture to La Paz.
What are some activities to do in El Alto with kids?
Whether you're travelling with hard-to-please teens or tiny adventurers, a fun-filled itinerary is the key to a stress-free getaway. Take a look at our recommendations for what to do in El Alto with kids.

What to do in El Alto for adults?
There are lots of things to do in El Alto, with entertainment for adults of all ages. End the day with a visit to Calle Jaen or Calle Comercio.
Are there free things to do in El Alto?
In El Alto, Plaza San Francisco is an unmissable spot for anyone wanting to experience the city without opening their wallet. Also, wander around the local neighbourhoods and parks, and ask a local tour guide for ideas. It's a good way to explore the best free things to do in El Alto.