About
La Paz Department is one of the administrative divisions of Bolivia, in South America. It lies on the Altiplano, the high plateau of the Andes Mountains, and takes its name from the city that serves as Bolivia's seat of government.
Why visit
The department is best known for containing the world's highest capital city, which gives a visit a strong sense of altitude and open high-plateau landscape. Travellers come to see how the Andean terrain shapes daily life, from the wide, windswept Altiplano to the steep valleys that fall away from it.
What to expect
- High-altitude scenery, with the Andes forming the backdrop to much of the region.
- The Altiplano itself, a broad plateau that feels remote and expansive.
- The city of La Paz at the heart of the department, with its streets set into the hillsides.
Because of the altitude, it is sensible to allow a little time to acclimatise on arrival and to take things at an easy pace, especially on the first day.
Planning your trip
La Paz Department is a destination for those interested in mountain landscapes and Bolivia's highland character. Check current travel information for Bolivia before you go, and plan transport and accommodation in advance, as distances across the plateau can be considerable.
