What to do in El Alto

Activities, attractions and tours

A densely populated city with a mix of high-rise and low-rise buildings, surrounded by hills and mountains.
A town nestled in a valley with snow-capped mountains in the background.
A cityscape with a densely packed urban area, a prominent hill in the background, and a mix of modern and older buildings.
A cable car system over a city with mountains in the background.
A bustling street market with numerous stalls under colorful umbrellas, set against a backdrop of buildings and a cable car.

Places to Visit in El Alto

Ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Let Expedia.co.nz help you find the most exciting and fun things to do in El Alto, La Paz while also allowing you to save a ton on travel arrangements. Regardless of whether you’re an urban explorer or an intrepid outdoor enthusiast, we can help you decide exactly what to do and see during your time in town.

Our thorough travel guides offer you an insider’s perspective on all of the best El Alto attractions from NZ$5, making it easy for you to decide which places to visit and when. And by using Expedia.co.nz to set your sightseeing schedule, you can take in more of the enchanting attractions this area is famous for.

From group El Alto tours and must-see landmarks to personal guides who take you off-the-beaten track, Expedia.co.nz offers you over 224 of the most popular events, activities, and attractions in this corner of the world. So whether you’re travelling alone, alongside a loved one, or with the whole family in tow, be sure to browse through our extensive travel guides prior to your plane touching down in this spectacular El Alto. We even have a massive selection of flights, car hires, and accommodation for you to choose from. So what are you waiting for? Start your search today, and you’ll be having the time of your life before you know it.

Activities


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Top places to visit

1. Witches' Market

Discover Aymara medicine and witchcraft at the lively Mercado de Hechicería, also known as the Mercado de las Brujas (Witches’ Market). Browse eclectic market stalls to find an array of herbal medicines, amulets, and handmade crafts and clothing from the Andes Mountains.
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A variety of colorful, intricately designed containers and decorative items, including a prominent horn with beadwork and a figure with a headdress.

2. La Paz Metropolitan Cathedral

The La Paz Cathedral (Catedral Nuestra Señora de La Paz), also known as Cathedral Murillo, is the central building in the Plaza Murillo. With neoclassical 19th-century architecture, stained-glass windows with images of former presidents and the tomb of a former Bolivian president, this cathedral pays tribute to a number of events in Bolivia's past.
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A Gothic cathedral with intricate architecture and a flag.

3. Plaza Murillo

Relax in the Plaza Murillo, see some of La Paz’s most majestic architecture and discover the political history of the city. Since the colonial years, this square has been the centre of Bolivia's political life and it remains the central place for town activities. Named after Pedro Domingo Murillo, an important figure in the war of independence, the plaza is symbolic of Bolivia’s fight for independence.
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A historic building with a prominent dome and columns, surrounded by pedestrians and flags.

4. Valle de la Luna

The Valle de la Luna is an unusual geological terrain comprising clay spires and troughs. Erosion has worn down a mountain, creating a colorful and moon-like topography. Admire the reds, violets and browns of this fascinating landscape just outside of La Paz.
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A winding road in a mountainous area with rocky terrain and flags.

5. Plaza San Francisco

Plaza San Francisco is one of the liveliest squares in La Paz, where people gather to watch street performers, magicians and comedians, buy handcrafted goods and taste fresh local delicacies.
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A street market with colorful textiles and handicrafts displayed outside shops.

6. San Francisco Church

The San Francisco Church (Iglesia de San Francisco) is a Catholic church and museum renowned for its displays of religious paintings and artefacts. Climb to the top of the tower to see the impressive views of the convent, the square and the city.
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A historic cityscape with terracotta-roofed buildings, a prominent dome structure, and a hillside in the background.

What to do in El Alto


Stay near popular El Alto attractions

Our guide on where to stay in El Alto

Find the best El Alto areas for the activities you enjoy most.

Yunguyo

While Yunguyo isn't home to many top sights, Saint Gabriel Theatre and Centro Cultural "Prefectural" are some notable places to visit nearby.


 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 


 

Day trip destinations from El Alto

Frequently asked questions

Is El Alto worth visiting?
One of the most popular things to do in El Alto is explore La Paz Metropolitan Cathedral. Tick this top attraction off your itinerary, then experience more of the area's views and culture.
How do I spend a day in El Alto?
Mirador Killi Killi and Palacio Legislativo are two good places to kick-start your adventures. Remember to check out the dining and shopping options in El Alto while you're in town too.
What is the top tourist attraction in El Alto?
The top tourist attraction in El Alto is La Paz Metropolitan Cathedral, so make sure to include it on your agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in El Alto?
You can easily tour popular attractions like Saint Gabriel Theatre, San Francisco Church and Plaza San Francisco with a three-day trip to El Alto. On average, many travellers book two days here. There's plenty to do and see nearby too, so stay a little longer and venture to La Paz.
What are some activities to do in El Alto with kids?
Whether you're travelling with hard-to-please teens or tiny adventurers, a fun-filled itinerary is the key to a stress-free getaway. Take a look at our recommendations for what to do in El Alto with kids.

What to do in El Alto for adults?
There are lots of things to do in El Alto, with entertainment for adults of all ages. End the day with a visit to Calle Jaen or Calle Comercio.
Are there free things to do in El Alto?
In El Alto, Plaza San Francisco is an unmissable spot for anyone wanting to experience the city without opening their wallet. Also, wander around the local neighbourhoods and parks, and ask a local tour guide for ideas. It's a good way to explore the best free things to do in El Alto.