My Favorite (Mostly Undiscovered) Places Paceña
In and around vibrant La Paz city you can find many interesting places, most within walking distance or a 30¢ crowded minibus ride. Here are a few of my hangouts, but watch out for those crazy protests and last- minute road blocks! Remember that pedestrians don't have the right of way in most South American cities, and that is especially true for La Paz, so be careful out there crossing the street - it is a menace.
1. Adventure Brew Hostel - Avenida Montes
Gringo hostel in La Paz with the best home made pints of beer - Saya Ale. Also good home-cooked dinner everynight at 8 pm for about 35 Bolivianos (Bs). Wifi also works ok most times. Free Poker night on Mondays.
2. Rodriguez Market - San Pedro (Fridays - Sundays)
Huge outdoor market for fruits and veggies. Go up Calle Sagarnaga and turn left on Illampu. Barter with the Cholitas for the best price on chicken heads and pig's ears.
3. Sopocachi
Cool and trendy spot in the south part of La Paz. Lots of upscale shops, restaraunts and bars.... and more trees! I go here often to look at the Canadian flag at the embassy in Plaza España.
4. Cohoni - get away from it all
A real little Bolivian town located at the base of Mount Illimani, 3 hours from La Paz. Gorgeous views of the landscape from about 4300 msl. Hike to the base of the mountain (about 3 hours) to experience crystal-clear glacial waterfalls and Campesinos with their herds of sheep. Ask around for a place to stay in town - there aren't many options, so bring plenty of supplies or a tent. Catch a minibus in San Pedro on Calle Luis Lara.
5. Namaste Vegitarian Food - San Pedro - Calle Zoilo Flores #1334
Undeniably the best dining experience in La Paz, and maybe even all of Bolivia. 3 course lunches for about 15 Bs. Free wifi works great too in this charming english-friendly place. Book ahead for lunch as they are limited. ph. 2481401
6. Sorata
Only 3 hours from La Paz by minibus. A not so touristy adorable colonial town situated at the base of Mount Illampu. Very picturesque and excellent hiking on lost Incan trails. See the lagoons (7 hrs hike) or spend a few days and witness the glaciers. Catch a bus by the main cementerio. Good eats and cheap lodging.
7. The Dragon Comida Chifa - San Pedro
Well not real chinese food, but as close as you will get in La Paz. Lots of dishes for about 19 Bs. HUGE portions and good soup included. Try plato B26.
8. Tucamanas del Prado
Tasty meat-filled pastry thingys with a nice selection of salsas offered on Calle Mexico (close to where it intersects with Prado - look for the hoards of people stuffing their faces on the street) from about 10 am - 2 pm. Get your hunger on for 5 Bs.
9. Insane Market in El Alto (La Ferria de La 16th de Julio) - Thurdays & Sundays
Crazy market at over 4000 msl. Buy anything you want there, lots of pirated DVD's (4 for 10 Bs) or drink some leche de burro (donkey's milk) right from the source. Eat a hearty typical lunch for about 8 Bs. Take the Ceja minibus from La Paz to El Alto.
10. The Devil's Tooth
Great hiking with excellent views of La Paz and the surrounding area. Only an hour from the city by minibus, so it can be done in a day. Take a horseback ride up or rent an ATV and go crazy. Take a minibus from Prado to Pedregal and walk up the hill to about 4100 msl.
