Where to Stay in La Paz
Safe neighborhoods, social hostels, and practical tips for women travelling alone
Best Neighborhoods for Solo Female Travellers
Ranked by relevance for solo female travellers visiting La Paz
Sopocachi
Mid-rangeBohemian and artsy with charming streets and great city views.
- +Beautiful architecture
- +Good restaurant and cafe scene
- +Quieter than the city center
- -Can be hilly, requiring effort to walk
- -Further from some major tourist attractions
🛡️ Generally safe during the day, but be aware of petty theft in quieter streets; at night, stick to well-lit main avenues and avoid walking alone.
Zona Central (Downtown)
BudgetThe bustling heart of the city, packed with government buildings, commerce, and historical sites.
- +Centrally located for most attractions
- +Abundant public transport options
- +Wide range of dining and shopping
- -Can be very crowded and noisy
- -Higher risk of petty crime
🛡️ Busy during the day, but keep a close eye on belongings; at night, stick to main, well-lit streets and avoid dimly lit alleys.
Zona Sur (Calacoto, San Miguel)
LuxuryAffluent and modern, characterized by wide avenues, upscale shopping, and a vibrant nightlife.
- +Safer and cleaner than the central areas
- +Excellent dining and nightlife options
- +More spacious and modern accommodations
- -Far from most historical attractions
- -Public transport to the center can be crowded
🛡️ Considered the safest area in La Paz, with good lighting and police presence day and night.
Daily Budget (Budget)
BOB 200/day
Hidden Gems in La Paz
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Mercado de las Brujas (Witches' Market)
Explore this fascinating market where you can find traditional Andean remedies, amulets, and medicinal herbs. It's a unique glimpse into local beliefs and practices.
Mi Teleférico (Cable Car System)
Ride the world's longest urban cable car system for breathtaking panoramic views of the sprawling city and the surrounding Andes mountains. It's an efficient and scenic way to get around.
Calle Jaén
FREEStroll down this beautifully preserved colonial street lined with colorful houses, now home to several small museums showcasing Bolivian art and history. It feels like stepping back in time.
El Alto Market
FREEExperience one of South America's largest street markets, a vibrant hub of commerce where locals buy and sell everything imaginable. It's a chaotic but authentic slice of La Paz life.
Safety in La Paz
ModerateSolo Female Travel
Exercise caution, especially at night. Stick to busy, well-lit areas and avoid walking alone in quiet streets. Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure.
At Night
Generally safe in well-populated tourist areas and Zona Sur, but avoid poorly lit or deserted streets. Be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help or drinks.
Emergency
110 (Police), 119 (Ambulance)
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Fake police demanding fines on the spot.
- 2Pickpocketing in crowded areas like markets and buses.
- 3Taxis overcharging or taking longer routes.
1 area to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for La Paz