Travel Guide: Flying To La Paz, Bolivia

La Paz, Bolivia is served by El Alto International Airport (airport code LPB). It is the second-largest airport in Bolivia and is one of the highest commercial airports in the world, sitting at 3,900m (13,000 ft.) above sea level. This means that large planes such as 747s cannot land there, and smaller planes must ensure they have a light load. As a result, very few international flights fly directly into La Paz, with most landing in Santa Cruz. However, there are still a number of airlines that offer direct flights to La Paz from various destinations.

Airlines that fly to La Paz

La Paz's El Alto International Airport (LPB) is one of the highest commercial airports in the world. As such, large planes such as 747s cannot land there, and even smaller planes must ensure they have a light load. This means that very few international flights fly directly into La Paz, with most landing in Santa Cruz.

There are four airlines that fly to La Paz:

• BoA (10 routes to LPB)
• EcoJet (3 routes to LPB)
• LATAM (3 routes to LPB)
• Avianca (2 routes to LPB)

Alternative routes

If you are flying from North America, American Airlines offers nonstop flights from the United States (via Miami) to La Paz. Alternatively, you can fly with Aerosur from Miami to Santa Cruz, with a connecting flight to La Paz. Taca offers flights from New York to La Paz, but you will need to change planes in San José, Costa Rica, and Lima, Peru. LAN offers flights to Miami and New York from Santa Cruz and La Paz, connecting in Lima.

If you are flying from the U.K., there are no direct flights to Bolivia. One option is to fly with Aerosur from Madrid and then directly to Santa Cruz. You can also fly with American Airlines from London to Miami, and then from Miami to La Paz. LAN flies from Madrid to Lima, with connecting flights to La Paz or Santa Cruz. Gol Linhas Aeréas offers direct flights from London to São Paulo, Brazil, with a daily flight to Santa Cruz.

If you are flying from Australia, Aerolíneas Argentinas offers flights from Sydney to Buenos Aires, with daily flights to Santa Cruz. LAN has a similar route from Sydney, with stops in Santiago and Lima. Another option is to fly from Australia to Los Angeles, and then to Miami, before flying on to La Paz. Qantas offers flights from Australia to Los Angeles, but you will need to switch to American Airlines to fly to Miami and then Bolivia.

Airports with direct flights to La Paz

La Paz's El Alto International Airport (LPB) is the second-largest airport in Bolivia. It is an international airport and serves the area of La Paz, Bolivia. There are 4 airlines flying from La Paz to 13 airports and 16 destinations in 3 countries worldwide. These include:

• Santa Cruz de la Sierra (VVI) in Bolivia
• Cochabamba (CBB) in Bolivia
• Trinidad (TDD) in Bolivia
• Bogotá (BOG) in Colombia
• Sucre (SRE) in Bolivia
• Cobija (CIJ) in Bolivia
• Lima (LIM) in Peru
• Uyuni (UYU) in Bolivia
• Tarija (TJA) in Bolivia
• Cusco (CUZ) in Peru
• Riberalta (RIB) in Bolivia
• Rurrenabaque (RBQ) in Bolivia
• Santiago de Chile (SCL) in Chile

How to book the cheapest flight to La Paz

There are a few things to keep in mind when looking to book the cheapest flight to La Paz, Bolivia, the highest administrative capital in the world.

Be flexible with your dates

It's usually best to book at least a few weeks in advance for domestic flights and a few months in advance for international travel. The cheapest month for flights to La Paz is August, while the most expensive months are December and November. The cheapest day to fly is usually Monday, while the most expensive is Friday.

Compare prices across different airlines and airports

There are a number of airlines that fly to La Paz, including Volaris, VivaAerobus, Aeromexico, and LATAM Airlines. Prices can vary depending on the airline and the number of stops, so be sure to compare prices before booking. La Paz is served by only one major airport, El Alto International Airport (LPB), but there are also smaller airports nearby, such as Juan Mendoza Airport (ORU) in Oruro, that may offer lower prices.

Use price tracking tools

You can use price tracking tools, such as Google Flights or Expedia, to track flight prices and get alerts when prices drop. This can help you find the best deals and book at the optimal time.

Consider booking a package deal

In some cases, you may be able to lower the total cost of your trip by booking your flight and hotel together through a site like Expedia.

Be mindful of baggage fees

When comparing prices, be sure to consider any additional fees, such as baggage fees. Some airlines may offer lower base fares but charge extra for checked baggage, while others may include a baggage allowance in the price.

Be ready to book when you see a good deal

The best flight deals don't last long, so be sure to book as soon as you see a price that works for you. It's also a good idea to familiarize yourself with typical airfare costs so that you can recognize a good deal when you see one.

What to pack in your hand luggage

La Paz, Bolivia, is a fascinating place to visit, but it's important to pack wisely for the journey and the climate. Here is a list of suggestions for what to pack in your hand luggage when flying to La Paz.

Documents and Essentials

Firstly, ensure you have your passport, travel docs, and cash. and any vital medications. It is also a good idea to have some local currency, the Bolivian Boliviano, for when you arrive.

In-Flight Entertainment

To while away the hours, pack a book or a tablet with your favourite shows downloaded. If you plan to sleep, a neck pillow and earplugs are useful additions.

Toiletry Essentials

Leave some space in your hand luggage for a toothbrush, toothpaste, and facial wipes so that you can arrive feeling fresh. Lip balm is also a good idea, as the high altitude can be drying.

Clothing

La Paz's temperature ranges from 62°F to 25°F, so layers are essential. During the day, it can be warm in the sun, but at night, it can drop below freezing. Pack a mix of clothing, including long and short-sleeve shirts, and consider a pair of convertible pants, which can be turned into shorts. If you plan to visit the rainforest or lowlands, pack some shorts and a lightweight t-shirt. A raincoat and waterproof footwear are also recommended, as it rains often in La Paz, especially in the summer months.

Electronics

Don't forget your electronics and their chargers! A portable power bank will keep your devices charged on the go, and a voltage converter will be necessary as Bolivia uses 220-volt outlets.

Other Useful Items

• A money belt or pouch to protect your passport and credit cards
• A travel pillow for added comfort on the flight
• A travel first aid kit
• Hand sanitiser and travel disinfecting wipes
• A flashlight in case of power outages

What to wear on the flight

When deciding what to wear on a flight, comfort should be your top priority. Here are some tips on how to dress comfortably and stylishly for your flight to La Paz, Bolivia:

• Wear loose-fitting clothing: Opt for clothes that won't restrict your movement or impede circulation. Go for relaxed-fit jeans, leggings, or joggers.
• Choose breathable materials: Natural materials like cotton and linen are ideal as they allow air to circulate and regulate your body temperature. Avoid synthetic materials like nylon and polyester, which can trap heat and cause discomfort.
• Wear layers: Layering allows you to adjust to temperature changes in the cabin. Go for thin cardigans, pullovers, or jumpers that can be easily removed without having to take off your shoes.
• Wear stretchy fabrics: Fabrics with stretch will move with your body and provide comfort during long flights.
• Choose comfortable shoes: Your feet are likely to swell during long-haul flights, so opt for slightly roomy, flat shoes. Avoid shoes that are difficult to remove, as you'll need to take them off when passing through security checkpoints.
• Wear compression socks: Compression socks improve blood circulation and reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). They can also help alleviate swollen feet during long flights.
• Dress in layers for cold destinations: If you're travelling to a cold destination like La Paz, layer up with a warm scarf, shawl, or a light jacket.
• Avoid tight or restrictive clothing: Skip the tight jeans or restrictive skirts/dresses. Go for leggings, joggers, or loose trousers that allow ease of movement.
• Don't wear difficult-to-remove shoes: Avoid shoes with laces or multiple straps that can slow you down at security checkpoints. Opt for slip-on shoes like sneakers or ballet flats.
• Avoid clothing with metal accents: Metal zippers or accents can cause delays at security screenings.
• Casual Weekend: Joggers, a comfortable top, and a leather weekender bag.
• International Flight: A chic matching jogger set, perfect for a long flight.
• Warm Weather Destination: Lightweight and breathable pieces such as a tank top, shorts, and a light jacket.
• Business Travel: A polished yet comfortable outfit such as a blazer, a button-down shirt, trousers, and closed-toe flats.
• Cold Weather Destination: Faux leather leggings, a cosy sweater, and a warm scarf or shawl.

Frequently asked questions