What to do in La Paz

Get an insight into the world of Aymara witchcraft and medicine at the lively Mercado de Hechicería or Mercado de las Brujas (Witches’ Market) in La Paz. Browse the collection of intriguing stalls for anything from amulets and herbal remedies to clothing and handicrafts from the Andes Mountains. The Aymara culture has its origins in the highlands of Bolivia and Chile.

Visit Plaza Murillo to spot some of La Paz’s finest colonial buildings then see an impressive collection of colonial and modern art. Since the colonial years, this leafy square has been the city’s historic center and today it remains the focal point of political life in Bolivia. It takes its name from Pedro Domingo Murillo, who was an important figure in the war of independence.

Visit the La Paz Cathedral (Catedral Nuestra Señora de La Paz), also called Cathedral Murillo, to admire its 19th-century architecture and collection of stained-glass windows. The cathedral contains the tomb of a former Bolivian president. Work began on this impressive building in the 1830s. The cathedral dominates Plaza Murillo, La Paz’s central public square.

The Valle de la Luna is an unusual geological terrain comprising clay spires and troughs. Erosion has worn down a mountain, creating a colorful and moon-like topography. Admire the reds, violets and browns of this fascinating landscape just outside of La Paz.

Architectural masterpieces and street performers, handicraft vendors and a food market make Plaza San Francisco one of the most animated public squares in La Paz. The square marks the point where the city’s colonial quarter bordered with the Aymara indigenous districts.

Admire the eclectic architectural styles and intricate decorations of the San Francisco Church (Iglesia de San Francisco). See religious paintings and historical artifacts in the church’s museum and enjoy city views from its bell tower, looking out over the convent’s jumble of rooftops.

Visit the Catedral de la Virgen de Candelaria, the Copacabana Cathedral, to see a marvelous early 17th-century building and its interesting collection of European art. Take the opportunity to watch unusual religious ceremonies and to be part of colorful Catholic festivals.