La Paz, Bolivia: Exploring Life At High Altitudes

La Paz, Bolivia, is the world's highest administrative capital city, sitting at a lofty 3,640–3,650 metres (11,942–11,975 feet) above sea level. This elevation has earned La Paz the title of the highest national capital city in the world. The city's location in the Bolivian altiplano, a high-altitude plain, means that the effects of its height are even more pronounced.

La Paz is located in a canyon created by the Choqueyapu River

La Paz, the administrative capital of Bolivia, is located in a canyon created by the Choqueyapu River, also known as the La Paz River. The river originates in a spring called Achachi Qala, in the Cordillera Real near the mountain Chacaltaya, at a height of 5,395 metres. It then crosses the city of La Paz from north to south.

La Paz is situated in west-central Bolivia, 68 kilometres southeast of Lake Titicaca. The city is set in a bowl-like depression, part of the Amazon basin, and is surrounded by the high mountains of the Altiplano. The triple-peaked Illimani, which overlooks the city, is always snow-covered and can be seen from many parts of La Paz.

The Choqueyapu River runs northwest to southeast through La Paz, and the city's main thoroughfare follows its path, changing names over its length. The central section, which runs through the downtown core, is called the Prado.

La Paz sits at an elevation of approximately 3,640 to 3,650 metres (11,942 to 11,975 feet) above sea level, making it the highest administrative capital city in the world. The metropolitan area of La Paz, which includes the city of El Alto, is the second most populous urban area in Bolivia, with around 2.2 million residents.

Due to its high altitude, La Paz has a unique subtropical highland climate, characterised by rainy summers and dry winters. The city's altitude also affects various aspects of daily life, including cooking and class structure. For example, the more affluent neighbourhoods are typically found at lower elevations in the city, while makeshift brick and adobe houses are more common in the surrounding hills.

The city is 3,640-3,650m above sea level

La Paz, Bolivia, is located at a very high altitude. The city sits at approximately 3,640-3,650m (11,942-11,975 ft) above sea level, making it the world's highest administrative or national capital city.

The city's elevation is so high that it affects nearly every aspect of life in La Paz. The thin, oxygen-poor air at this altitude can cause severe breathing difficulties and even altitude sickness for those who aren't accustomed to it. The low air pressure and oxygen levels also affect cooking, with water boiling at a lower temperature and starches requiring longer cooking times to avoid being undercooked.

The altitude of La Paz has also influenced the city's layout and infrastructure. The wealthier neighbourhoods are located in the lower, central areas of the city, while the poorer residents live in makeshift brick houses in the surrounding hills. Additionally, the city has invested in a cable car system to transport residents between the city centre and El Alto, a neighbouring city located at an even higher altitude of 4,150m (13,615 ft).

The extreme altitude of La Paz has not deterred tourists, who are drawn to the city for its amazing views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. However, the high altitude does present challenges for visitors, who are advised to take precautions such as gradual acclimatisation, proper hydration, and the consumption of coca leaves to prevent altitude sickness.

Altitude sickness is common in La Paz

La Paz, Bolivia, is the highest administrative capital city in the world, sitting at 3,640 metres (11,942 feet) above sea level. Altitude sickness is a common problem for travellers to La Paz, and it is important to understand the risks and how to prevent it.

Altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness or "soroche" in Spanish, is caused by low oxygen levels at high elevations. The human body can acclimatise to high altitudes, but it must be given time to do so. Symptoms of altitude sickness include dizziness, tiredness, nausea, and insomnia, and can be worsened by factors such as dehydration and natural bodily reactions.

To avoid altitude sickness in La Paz, it is recommended to acclimate gradually to the higher altitude. This can be done by spending time in lower altitude cities before ascending to La Paz and avoiding strenuous activity for the first few days. Proper hydration is also crucial, as increased respiration at high altitudes can lead to dehydration. Alcohol should be avoided, as it can increase the risk of dehydration and worsen symptoms. Consuming coca leaves, which are legally sold in Bolivia, is another way to help prevent and treat altitude sickness.

While altitude sickness is a common issue in La Paz, it can be managed and prevented by following these precautions. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, it is important to seek medical attention as severe cases of altitude sickness can be life-threatening.

La Paz is the world's highest administrative capital city

La Paz, Bolivia, is the world's highest administrative capital city. It sits at a dizzying 3,640 metres (11,942 ft) to 4,100 metres (13,451 ft) above sea level. The city is nestled in a canyon, in a bowl-like depression, and is surrounded by the high mountains of the Altiplano.

The altitude of La Paz has a significant impact on its climate, giving it rainy summers and dry winters. The thin air at such heights affects the human body, with visitors often finding exertion difficult due to the rarefied atmosphere. The lower oxygen levels can cause altitude sickness, with symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and dizziness. The locals, however, are accustomed to the altitude.

The geography of La Paz is marked by social differences, with the more affluent residents living in the lower, central areas of the city, and lower-income residents occupying makeshift brick houses in the surrounding hills.

Despite the challenges posed by its high altitude, La Paz is an important political, administrative, economic, and cultural centre of Bolivia. It is the seat of the government and home to numerous government departments and agencies, as well as embassies and international missions. The city also boasts several landmarks from colonial times, a vibrant nightlife, and renowned markets, including the Witches' Market.

La Paz's unique topography offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains of the Cordillera Real from numerous natural viewing points. The city is also home to the world's largest urban cable car network, providing residents and tourists with a novel way to navigate the steep terrain.

The city is the third-most populous in Bolivia

La Paz, Bolivia, is the world's highest administrative capital city, sitting at 3,640 metres (11,942 ft or 11,975 ft according to different sources) above sea level. The metropolitan area of La Paz, which includes the city itself, El Alto, Achocalla, Viacha, and Mecapaca, is the second most populous urban area in Bolivia, with a population of 2.2 million. As of 2024, the population of La Paz is estimated to be 755,732, making it the third-most populous city in Bolivia. The city's population has been steadily increasing, with an annual change of 1.55% between 2023 and 2024.

La Paz is located in west-central Bolivia, 68 kilometres southeast of Lake Titicaca. The city is set in a canyon created by the Choqueyapu River and is surrounded by the high mountains of the Altiplano. La Paz's elevation makes it the highest capital city in the world. Due to its high altitude, La Paz has a unique subtropical highland climate, with rainy summers and dry winters. The city's location in the Altiplano also protects it from the cold winds of the highlands.

La Paz is an important cultural, political, administrative, economic, and sports centre of Bolivia. It is home to several landmarks from colonial times, such as the San Francisco Church, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Plaza Murillo. The city is also known for its markets, particularly the Witches' Market, and its nightlife. La Paz is the site of the seat of the government of Bolivia and the presidential palace, known as the Palacio Quemado. It is also the seat of the Bolivian legislature and numerous government departments and agencies.

The city of La Paz has a diverse economy, with industries ranging from food processing to the manufacture of textiles, clothing, shoes, and chemicals. La Paz is connected to neighbouring countries through railways and highways and is home to the international El Alto Airport, the highest international airport in the world.

Frequently asked questions