El Alto - Discovering Bolivia

Travelling to El Alto

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in El Alto, a pretty good destination in Bolivia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to El Alto and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around El Alto, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Bolivia, here's everything to know about El Alto for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to El Alto

El Alto is a city located in the highlands of Bolivia, adjacent to the city of La Paz. It is one of the fastest-growing urban areas in Bolivia and has a population of over one million people. It is known for its vibrant street markets, colorful architecture, and Aymara culture. El Alto is also home to the highest international airport in the world and serves as a hub for travelers exploring the Andean region of Bolivia.

What to visit in El Alto

Here are some popular tourist attractions in El Alto, Bolivia along with some information on each: 1. Cable Car (Teleférico) - The cable car system in El Alto offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains. It's a popular mode of transportation for locals and tourists alike.
2. Mercado de Las Brujas (Witches' Market) - A traditional market where vendors sell a variety of goods including herbs, potions, and amulets. It's a great place to learn about Bolivian folklore.
3. Cholets - El Alto is known for its unique architecture called Cholets. These colorful, multi-story buildings with decorative facades are a modern interpretation of traditional Andean motifs.
4. Plaza Murillo - This public square is the heart of La Paz, Bolivia’s administrative capital. It's surrounded by important government buildings, including the presidential palace and the national congress.
5. La Paz Metropolitan Cathedral - One of the most beautiful churches in Bolivia, the cathedral was built in the 18th century and is home to a collection of religious art and artifacts.
6. Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley) - Located just outside the city, this geological formation is made up of eroded earth and rock formations that resemble the surface of the moon. It's a surreal and mesmerizing landscape.
7. Cholitas Wrestling - This popular wrestling show features women dressed in traditional Bolivian attire (cholitas) facing off in the ring. It's a unique cultural experience and a fun evening out.
8. Tiwanaku Archaeological Site - Located about an hour from El Alto, this ancient city was once a major center of civilization in the Andean region. Visitors can explore ruins of temples and other structures.
I hope this helps!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Bolivia, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to El Alto

El Alto is located in Bolivia's highlands and has a relatively cool and dry climate throughout the year. The temperatures range from about 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F) during the day, and can drop to single digits at night. The best time to visit El Alto is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During this time, there is very little rainfall, and the skies are usually clear and sunny. This makes it perfect for outdoor activities, exploring the city and its surrounding areas, and enjoying the stunning views of the Andean mountains.
However, if you're interested in seeing traditional festivals and events, the best time to go would be during El Alto's patron saint festival, which takes place in July. During this time, the city comes alive with colorful parades, music, dance, and traditional celebrations.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to El Alto

El Alto is a city in Bolivia located at an altitude of more than 4,000 meters above sea level. Here are some ways to get to El Alto: 1. By Plane: The easiest way to get to El Alto is by plane. There are regular scheduled flights to El Alto International Airport from various cities in South America including Lima, Santiago, Buenos Aires, and Sao Paulo.
2. By Bus: There are also regular buses that run to El Alto from cities such as Puno, La Paz, and Cusco. It's a good idea to book your bus ticket in advance since the routes can sometimes be crowded.
3. By Car: If you're driving, El Alto is located on the outskirts of La Paz. The main road that connects La Paz to El Alto is the Autopista 1. However, keep in mind that navigating the city's narrow streets can be challenging for drivers who are not familiar with the area.
Overall, flying to El Alto is the most common and convenient way to get there.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit El Alto, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in El Alto

Sure, here are some typical foods of El Alto, Bolivia: 1. Salteñas - These are savory pastries filled with beef or chicken, peas, potatoes, and spices. They are usually baked and served hot.
2. Api con Pastel - Api is a traditional Bolivian beverage made from white corn, cinnamon, and clove, while Pastel is a type of fried empanada filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables.
3. Anticucho - This is a skewered meat dish made with marinated beef heart, onions, and potatoes. It is typically grilled and served with a spicy peanut sauce.
4. Chicharrón - This is a dish made from deep-fried pork, typically served with boiled yucca and a spicy salsa.
5. Lechón - This is a dish made from roasted pig, typically served with boiled potatoes and a salad.
6. Sajta - This is a spicy stew made with beef or chicken, potatoes, and aji pepper. It is often served with white rice.
7. Vuelta a la manzana - Literally translated to "around the block," this dish is a street food consisting of a hot dog wrapped in bacon, topped with cheese, fried onions, and spicy salsa.
I hope you find this information helpful!
You can find general info about typical foods in Bolivia here.

Is El Alto an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other destinations in Bolivia, El Alto can be considered a relatively expensive destination for tourists. Prices for accommodation and transportation tend to be higher in El Alto than in other Bolivian cities. However, food and other daily expenses might be less expensive. It's important to keep in mind that prices can also vary depending on the type of accommodation and transportation chosen, as well as the season and demand. Overall, it's recommended to research and compare prices before planning a trip to El Alto, Bolivia.

Where to find accomodation in El Alto

When visiting El Alto, there are several areas where you can find accommodation depending on your needs and preferences. Here are some suggestions: 1. Downtown El Alto: This area is the commercial heart of the city, and it's ideal for visitors who want to experience the local culture and customs. Here you can find a variety of shops, markets, and restaurants.
2. Villa Adela: This residential neighborhood is located on the outskirts of El Alto and it's ideal for visitors who are looking for a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere. This area is also close to the airport.
3. Sopocachi: This neighborhood is located in the nearby city of La Paz and it's ideal for visitors who want to be close to the city's nightlife, restaurants, and cultural attractions. It's also known for its beautiful colonial architecture.
4. Miraflores: Another great option in La Paz, Miraflores is known for its beautiful parks and gardens, and it's a great place to stay if you are interested in exploring the city's natural beauty.
Overall, it's important to choose an area that suits your needs and preferences. It's also a good idea to book your accommodation in advance to ensure availability and to get the best possible rates.
You can check hotel prices at El Alto here:
Booking.com

Is El Alto a safe destination for tourists?

El Alto can be a safe place for tourists if certain precautions are taken. It's important to be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night, especially in less crowded areas. Petty theft can be a problem, so be sure to keep valuables secure and out of sight. It's also recommended to use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services rather than taking public transportation. If you're traveling to El Alto, it's always a good idea to research the area beforehand and consult with locals or trusted sources for safety tips and recommendations.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Bolivia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting El Alto.

What type of travelers will enjoy El Alto the most?

El Alto, Bolivia is a fascinating destination that can appeal to different types of travelers, but it might be better suited for certain groups over others.
If you are interested in learning more about indigenous cultures and experiencing their way of life, then El Alto is an excellent place to visit. You can explore markets selling traditional crafts, observe local customs, and engage with friendly locals.
Families with children will appreciate the cultural diversity and the chance to visit sites like La Paz's Valle de la Luna and Tiwanaku, archeological ruins dating back to pre-Inca times, which are located close to El Alto.
Young people looking for adventure may enjoy the thrill of riding the Teleférico with its scenic views of the city and surrounding mountains, experiencing the local nightlife, or even taking part in the infamous Cholita wrestling.
Moreover, couples can enjoy the romantic atmosphere, fine dining and incredible views offered by several hotels and restaurants in the area, as well as strolling the Calle Jaen, where you can find some of the most well-preserved historical buildings of the colonial period.
So, ultimately, it depends on personal interests and activities desired. However, El Alto can be an intriguing destination for any type of traveler.

How to get around El Alto

The most common modes of transportation in El Alto, Bolivia are buses and taxis. Buses are the cheapest option and their routes cover most parts of the city. Taxis are also readily available and offer more flexibility and comfort than buses, but they are usually more expensive. Additionally, there are also shared taxis called "trufis" that operate on fixed routes and are a hybrid between a taxi and a bus. Finally, if you prefer to explore the city on your own, you can also rent a car or a motorcycle from several rental agencies located in El Alto.

What to see around El Alto

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from El Alto, Bolivia: 1. Lake Titicaca: The world’s highest navigable lake is located just a few hours from El Alto. You can take a boat tour to explore the islands and enjoy stunning views.
2. Tiwanaku: This ancient archaeological site is located about an hour away from El Alto. It is one of the most important pre-Columbian sites in South America.
3. Chacaltaya: This is the highest ski resort in the world and it is located just outside of La Paz. You can take a tour to see the stunning views from the top.
4. Valle de la Luna: This is a unique geological formation located just outside of La Paz. The rock formations and canyons create an otherworldly landscape.
5. Coroico: This is a small town nestled in the Yungas region, about 2 hours from El Alto. It has a pleasant climate and offers excellent opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and exploring the tropical forest.
For every travel information about Bolivia you can click here.

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