7 Best Tourist spots & Things to Do in El Alto | Apr 2025
Private Arrival La Paz Airport LPB to La Paz City by Sedan or SUV
Why spend your precious time waiting in long shuttle or taxi lines. Avoid the language barrier and currency exchange. Travel in style from La Paz "El Alto" International Airport to your hotel in La Paz City Center or La Paz South District by private vehicle, and reach your final destination relaxed and refreshed.
From $29.56
Chacaltaya + Moon Valley
It is an eight-hour tour where you can be in touch with nature, feel the fresh air of the mountains and appreciate beautiful landscapes of the Cordillera Real.
5.00 (6 reviews)
From $25.00
Private Transfer La Paz Airport LPB to La Paz City by MiniVan/Bus
Why spend your precious time waiting in long shuttle or taxi lines. Avoid the language barrier and currency exchange. Travel in style from La Paz "El Alto" International Airport to your hotel in La Paz City Center or La Paz South District by private vehicle, and reach your final destination relaxed and refreshed.
From $27.87
¿Are you looking for Private, Safe, Driver in English in La Paz, Bolivia?
We offer private shuttle with clean cars, drivers very polite, and take care of people, and their things. Also we have Driver in English.
4.67 (6 reviews)
From $120.00
Road to Uyuni Economic Package 4D - 3N
We will know the most touristic points of Bolivia; we will get to see the old and joint city to it, the new city. We will observe beautiful landscapes along with the history that takes away the culture where we will be.
5.00 (1 reviews)
From $1,559.00
Road to Uyuni 5D - 4N
We will know the most touristic points of Bolivia; we will get to see the old and joint city to it, the new city. We will observe beautiful landscapes along with the history that takes away the culture where we will be.
5.00 (1 reviews)
From $1,010.00
3 Days Adventure Tour to La Paz and Salar de Uyuni
We will know the most touristic points of Bolivia; we will get to see the old and joint city to it, the new city. We will observe beautiful landscapes along with the history that takes away the culture where we will be.
From $832.00
What activities can I do in El Alto?
El Alto, Bolivia is a vibrant and bustling city located just outside of La Paz. Here are some things you can do while visiting El Alto: 1. Visit the El Alto Market: This is one of the largest open-air markets in South America. Here you can find a wide variety of goods including food, clothing, electronics, and traditional crafts. 2. Explore the Cable Car System: El Alto is connected to La Paz through the famous Mi Teleférico cable car system. Take a ride on the cable cars and enjoy breathtaking views of the city and surrounding mountains. 3. Visit the Witches' Market: While the main Witches' Market is located in La Paz, El Alto also has its own version. Here you can find traditional medicinal herbs, potions, and other mystical items. 4. Admire the Street Art: El Alto is known for its vibrant street art scene. Take a walk around the city and admire the colorful murals that depict Bolivian culture and history. 5. Attend a Cholita Wrestling Match: Cholita wrestling is a unique form of entertainment in Bolivia. Watch as indigenous women dressed in traditional attire perform wrestling moves in a theatrical and humorous manner. 6. Visit the Plaza Ballivián: This central square in El Alto is a great place to relax and people-watch. The plaza is surrounded by shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it a perfect spot to soak up the local atmosphere. 7. Explore the Puma Punku Ruins: Located just outside of El Alto, the Puma Punku ruins are an archaeological site that dates back to the pre-Inca Tiwanaku civilization. Marvel at the intricate stone carvings and learn about the ancient history of the region. 8. Try Local Cuisine: El Alto is known for its delicious street food. Sample traditional Bolivian dishes such as salteñas (meat-filled pastries), anticuchos (grilled skewers), and api con pastel (a warm corn drink served with pastries). 9. Visit the Alasitas Fair: If you happen to be in El Alto in January, don't miss the Alasitas Fair. This traditional festival is dedicated to Ekeko, the god of abundance, and features miniature versions of items that people wish to have in the upcoming year. 10. Take a Cultural Tour: Join a guided tour of El Alto to learn more about the city's history, culture, and traditions. This will give you a deeper understanding of the local way of life and provide an opportunity to interact with the friendly residents of El Alto.
When is the best time to travel to El Alto?
The best time to travel to El Alto, Bolivia is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During this time, the weather is generally sunny and dry, with temperatures ranging from 10-20 degrees Celsius (50-68 degrees Fahrenheit). This makes it ideal for exploring the city's attractions and enjoying outdoor activities. It's important to note that El Alto is located at a high altitude of over 4,000 meters (13,000 feet), so the temperatures can be cooler than in lower-altitude areas of Bolivia. It's recommended to pack warm clothing, especially for the evenings when temperatures can drop significantly. The wet season in El Alto runs from November to April, and during this time, the city experiences frequent rainfall and cooler temperatures. While it can still be a good time to visit, it's important to be prepared for wet weather and potential disruptions to outdoor activities. Overall, the best time to travel to El Alto, Bolivia is during the dry season from May to October, when you can enjoy pleasant weather and explore the city without the risk of heavy rainfall.
Travel culture you should know when traveling to El Alto
El Alto is a vibrant and culturally rich city located on the outskirts of La Paz, Bolivia. It is known for its indigenous Aymara population and its unique blend of traditional and modern culture. Here are some aspects of El Alto's travel culture that you should know: 1. Indigenous Culture: El Alto has a strong indigenous presence, with the majority of its population being of Aymara descent. Aymara traditions, customs, and language are still very much alive in this city. Visitors can witness traditional clothing, music, dance, and rituals during festivals and local events. 2. Markets: El Alto is famous for its bustling open-air markets, such as the Feria 16 de Julio. These markets offer a fascinating glimpse into the local way of life, where you can find everything from fresh produce to handicrafts, clothing, electronics, and more. Exploring the markets is a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture and interact with the friendly vendors. 3. Cholita Wrestling: One of the unique cultural highlights of El Alto is Cholita Wrestling. This form of entertainment features indigenous Aymara women, known as ""cholitas,"" dressed in traditional attire, including their iconic bowler hats and layered skirts. The wrestling matches are a mix of athleticism, humor, and social commentary, providing an entertaining and memorable experience for visitors. 4. Street Art: El Alto is known for its vibrant street art scene. Walking through the streets, you'll come across colorful murals and graffiti that reflect the city's culture, history, and social issues. Many of these artworks depict indigenous symbols, traditions, and political messages, adding an artistic touch to the urban landscape. 5. Cable Car System: El Alto is connected to La Paz through an extensive cable car system known as Mi Teleférico. Taking a ride on these cable cars not only provides breathtaking views of the city and surrounding mountains but also offers a unique perspective on daily life in El Alto. You'll see people commuting, vendors selling snacks, and the city's vibrant neighborhoods from above. 6. Festivals: El Alto hosts numerous traditional festivals throughout the year, celebrating religious, cultural, and historical events. One of the most important festivals is the Alasitas Fair, held in January, where locals buy miniature items representing their wishes for the year ahead. Other notable festivals include the Day of the Dead celebrations and the Virgin of Urkupiña festival in August. 7. Food: El Alto offers a variety of traditional Aymara dishes that are worth trying. Some popular options include salteñas (meat-filled pastries), anticuchos (grilled skewered meat), api (a hot corn-based drink), and chuño (freeze-dried potatoes). You can find these delicacies in local markets, street stalls, and small restaurants. Overall, El Alto's travel culture is deeply rooted in its indigenous heritage and offers a unique experience for visitors seeking an authentic Bolivian experience.
Shopping list or souvenirs to buy when traveling to El Alto
When visiting El Alto, Bolivia, there are several shopping lists or souvenirs that you can consider: 1. Traditional Textiles: El Alto is known for its vibrant and intricately woven textiles. You can find beautiful ponchos, blankets, scarves, and other clothing items made from alpaca or sheep wool. Look for items with traditional Andean patterns and colors. 2. Handicrafts: Explore the local markets in El Alto to find a variety of handicrafts made by skilled artisans. Look for pottery, ceramics, wood carvings, and leather goods like bags, belts, and shoes. 3. Musical Instruments: Bolivia has a rich musical heritage, and you can find traditional musical instruments like charangos (small guitar-like instruments), panpipes (zampoñas), drums, and flutes. These instruments make unique and authentic souvenirs. 4. Silver Jewelry: Bolivia is known for its silver mines, and you can find beautiful silver jewelry in El Alto. Look for intricate designs featuring traditional Andean symbols like llamas, condors, or sun motifs. 5. Coca Products: Coca leaves are an important part of Bolivian culture. While it is illegal to bring coca leaves back to many countries, you can find legal products made from coca, such as tea, candies, and lotions. These make for interesting and culturally significant souvenirs. 6. Andean Musical CDs: If you want to take a piece of Bolivian music back home, look for CDs featuring traditional Andean music. These can be a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture even after your trip. Remember to always support local artisans and buy from reputable sellers. Bargaining is common in markets, so don't hesitate to negotiate the prices.
El Alto travel review
El Alto, Bolivia: A Hidden Gem in the Andes Nestled high in the Andes mountains, El Alto is a vibrant and bustling city that often gets overshadowed by its more famous neighbor, La Paz. However, this hidden gem of Bolivia offers a unique and authentic travel experience that shouldn't be missed. El Alto is located just 13 kilometers west of La Paz, making it easily accessible for travelers looking to explore the region. Despite its proximity to the capital, El Alto has managed to maintain its distinct identity and cultural heritage. This is evident in its traditional markets, colorful street art, and lively festivals. One of the highlights of visiting El Alto is exploring its bustling markets. The city is home to the largest open-air market in South America, known as the El Alto Market. Here, visitors can wander through endless rows of stalls selling everything from fresh produce and textiles to handicrafts and electronics. The market is a sensory overload, with the sights, sounds, and smells of local life filling the air. It's a great place to interact with locals, practice your bargaining skills, and sample delicious street food. Another must-visit attraction in El Alto is the Cable Car System, also known as Mi Teleférico. This modern transportation system provides breathtaking views of the city and surrounding mountains as it glides above the rooftops. Taking a ride on the cable car is not only a convenient way to get around, but it also offers a unique perspective of El Alto's urban landscape. For those interested in art and culture, El Alto is a treasure trove. The city is known for its vibrant street art scene, with colorful murals adorning the walls of buildings throughout the city. These murals often depict local traditions, historical events, and social issues, providing a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region. Additionally, El Alto is home to several cultural centers and museums, where visitors can learn more about the indigenous cultures that have shaped the city's identity. El Alto is also famous for its lively festivals and celebrations. One of the most popular events is the Alasitas Fair, held every January. During this month-long celebration, the city comes alive with street parades, music, dance, and traditional ceremonies. The fair is centered around the belief that purchasing miniature replicas of desired objects will bring good luck and prosperity in the coming year. It's a fascinating cultural experience that showcases the deep-rooted traditions of the Bolivian people. In terms of natural beauty, El Alto is surrounded by stunning landscapes that are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Just a short distance away, visitors can explore the breathtaking Valle de la Luna (Valley of the Moon), a unique geological formation that resembles the surface of the moon. The valley is a popular spot for hiking and photography, offering panoramic views of the rugged terrain. Whether you're seeking cultural immersion, outdoor adventures, or simply a break from the tourist crowds, El Alto is a destination that won't disappoint. Its authentic charm, vibrant markets, and rich cultural heritage make it a must-visit for any traveler exploring Bolivia. So, next time you find yourself in the Andes, don't forget to venture beyond La Paz and discover the hidden gem that is El Alto.