La Paz, Mexico
Welcome to La Paz, the tranquil capital of Baja California Sur. Known as the 'City of Peace,' this port offers a refreshing alternative to the bustling resort towns of the Mexican Riviera. Often visited by cruise lines such as Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, and Viking Ocean Cruises, La Paz captivates visitors with its stunning natural beauty and world-class marine life. Its main appeal lies in authentic experiences, from strolling the art-filled Malecón to encountering incredible wildlife in the Sea of Cortez.
The number one attraction in La Paz is the incredible marine life. A popular excursion is an encounter with whale sharks, the gentle giants of the sea (seasonal, typically October to April). This unforgettable experience allows you to swim alongside these massive fish in their natural habitat.
A boat trip to Espíritu Santo Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Biosphere Reserve, is a must-do. Here, you can snorkel with playful sea lions at the Los Islotes colony and relax on pristine, deserted beaches. The journey itself offers breathtaking views of the volcanic island landscape.
For beach lovers, a short taxi ride will take you to Balandra Beach, frequently named one of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico. Its shallow, turquoise waters and iconic mushroom-shaped rock formation make it a perfect spot for relaxation and photos.
Last updated on February 23, 2026
A popular day trip from La Paz is to the charming town of Todos Santos, located about 1.5 hours south on the Pacific coast. This designated 'Pueblo Mágico' is renowned for its vibrant art scene, numerous galleries, and the legendary (though not Eagles-related) Hotel California. It offers a different vibe with its colonial architecture and surf culture.
For a journey into the region's history, consider a visit to the old mining town of El Triunfo, about a 45-minute drive from La Paz. You can explore the historic silver mine ruins, including a smokestack designed by Gustave Eiffel, and enjoy the quiet, rustic atmosphere of this once-booming town.
Last updated on February 23, 2026
Cruise ships dock at the Port of Pichilingue, a commercial and ferry terminal located approximately 11 miles (18 kilometers) north of the city center of La Paz. Due to the distance, walking to town is not feasible. Cruise lines typically provide shuttle bus services to the downtown area, often dropping passengers near the Malecón (waterfront promenade). Taxis are also readily available at the pier for a fixed fare. The terminal itself has very limited amenities, so most passengers head directly into La Paz to begin their day.
Last updated on February 23, 2026
The official currency in La Paz is the Mexican Peso (MXN). While some tourist-oriented businesses may accept US Dollars, you will get a much better rate and find wider acceptance by using pesos. ATMs are readily available in the downtown area of La Paz, particularly around the Malecón and at local banks, making it easy to withdraw local currency. Credit cards, such as Visa and Mastercard, are widely accepted in most restaurants, tour operators, and larger shops, but it's always wise to carry some cash for smaller purchases or taxis.
Last updated on February 23, 2026
La Paz is widely regarded as one of the safer destinations in Mexico, with a low crime rate, especially in tourist areas. The downtown core and the Malecón are very safe for independent exploration during the day. As with any travel destination, it's wise to practice general safety precautions: be aware of your surroundings, secure your valuables, and avoid displaying large amounts of cash. For excursions to remote natural areas like Espíritu Santo Island, booking with a reputable, licensed tour operator is highly recommended for both safety and the quality of the experience.
Last updated on February 23, 2026
La Paz enjoys a desert climate with over 300 days of sunshine a year. The main cruise season, from late fall through spring, offers ideal weather with average daily temperatures ranging from 70-85°F (21-29°C) and very little rainfall. This is the perfect time for outdoor activities and water sports. The summers are significantly hotter and more humid. While the official hurricane season runs from June through November, the peak risk for this region is typically in late August and September, which can occasionally impact cruise itineraries.
Last updated on February 23, 2026
From the Pichilingue cruise terminal, organized shore excursions are the most convenient way to see the sights. For independent travelers, taxis are the primary mode of transport to get into downtown La Paz, with fares usually posted at the pier. Cruise lines also frequently offer shuttle services. Once in the city, the main tourist area along the Malecón is compact and easily walkable. To reach nearby beaches like Balandra Beach or Tecolote, taxis or ride-sharing services like DiDi or Uber are readily available in the city center.
Last updated on February 23, 2026
The best shopping in La Paz is concentrated along the Malecón and the adjacent streets in the city's historic center. Unlike heavily commercialized ports, La Paz offers a more authentic shopping experience. You can find beautiful local handicrafts, including woven textiles, ceramics, and silver jewelry from various regions of Mexico. Ibarra's Pottery is a well-known stop for high-quality ceramics. While prices in established stores are generally fixed, you may be able to politely negotiate at smaller market stalls. Be sure to look for items made from local pearls, reflecting the city's history as a pearling center.
Last updated on February 23, 2026
Experience La Paz from a local’s perspective on a walking tour that reveals the city's unique and quirky aspects. You'll venture down unseen routes and alleyways that most tourists completely miss. On Thursdays and Sundays, the tour extends to El Alto City to include a cable car ride, a flea market visit, and a Cholitas Wrestling show.
Discover a unique circuit featuring six incredible activities set within an impressive and respected natural landscape. This eco-friendly tour supports the entrepreneurship of local Bolivian communities. The entire experience stands out for its safety, holding a European certification for your peace of mind.
Go beyond the incredible mountain scenery to understand the life that makes La Paz one of the world’s most vibrant cities. This city tour brings the complex and busy valley to life by focusing on its fascinating people, history, and customs. To truly know the city, you will walk its narrow alleys, meet its people, and learn about its past.
See the ultimate highlights of La Paz on this tour, perfectly designed for those with limited time. Your adventure begins in the stunning Valley of the Moon and continues with a breathtaking cable car ride to El Alto, offering unparalleled mountain views. Afterwards, a captivating walking tour will guide you through Jaen Street, Plaza Murillo, San Francisco Church, and the enchanting Witches Market.
Experience and understand La Paz by exploring its fascinating history, controversial politics, and rich cultural heritage. This is not a typical tour with fixed schedules or predetermined destinations. Instead, the journey is completely tailored to the time you have available and your personal interests.
Immerse yourself in a half-day tour of La Paz's natural wonders and cultural richness. Explore the mystical Valle de las Ánimas and wander through the ancient, lunar-like landscape of the Moon Valley. You will also take in a magical 360° panoramic view of the city from the Killi Killi Viewpoint before completing your journey at the bustling Witches Market.
Experience pure adrenaline while cycling 62 kilometers down one of the most dangerous roads in the world. This challenging ride descends from a high altitude of 4700 meters all the way down to 1180 meters. You will navigate through stunning mountains and past intimidating cliffs on this unforgettable adventure.
Discover the most iconic places in La Paz, from the magic of the Witches’ Market to the otherworldly landscape of the Valley of the Moon. Journey through the Coca Museum, visit the historic Plaza Murillo, and soar above the city on the Mi Teleférico cable car for spectacular views. Guided by local Aymara and Quechua people, this all-inclusive tour provides an authentic immersion into their culture with a flexible schedule.
On this 3-hour guided walking tour, a local guide will reveal the myths, history, and legends of La Paz for a small group of no more than 15 people. You will delve into the city's fascinating culture as you browse the stalls of the Witches Market. The tour also includes a visit to the La Paz Cathedral and an explanation of the infamous history of San Pedro Prison.
Join a 3-hour guided walking tour to learn about the fascinating culture, myths, and legends of La Paz. In a small group of no more than 15 people, you will explore the city with an expert local guide. Key sites include the stalls of the Witches Market and the La Paz Cathedral, and you will also learn the infamous history behind the San Pedro Prison.
Explore the colorful and exuberant "Cholet" architecture of El Alto on this unique half-day tour. Travel via the teleférico cable car system with a local guide who will explain the culture and tradition behind these unique buildings. You will see a wide array of Cholets from the outside and even have the opportunity to go inside one to view its vibrant interior.
Begin your tour at the San Francisco Church before taking the Red and Blue cable car lines for a bird's-eye view of El Alto's avenues of "Cholets". On the ground, you will visit one of these amazing buildings to learn about its purpose and economic significance. The tour also includes a visit to the colorful Mamani Mamani "WHIPALA" apartment complex before returning to La Paz.
This specialized tour is perfect for travelers who love history, politics, and culture. Your guide is the nephew of a former Bolivian president who shares personal experiences of the country's political turmoil. Using teaching materials, you will learn about the struggles, revolutions, and many coups d'état that have shaped Bolivian society.
Uncover the stunning highlights of La Paz, starting at the surreal rock formations of the Valley of the Moon. Ascend to the skies on the iconic cable cars for breathtaking vistas of the city and its towering mountains. The tour concludes with an immersive stroll through the city’s vibrant history, visiting Jaen Street, Plaza Murillo, San Francisco Church, and the enchanting Witches Market.
See the "real" La Paz on this offbeat adventure that shows you the city from the sky via its amazing cable cars. Explore the fascinating cemetery district, which serves as an open-air street art museum, before taking the teleférico up to the pulsating city of El Alto. There you will visit a local shaman and have the opportunity to get your fortune read if time allows.
This 8-to-9-hour tour takes you high into the Andes Mountains, starting with a visit to a historic cemetery. From the Charquini base camp at 4800 meters, you will begin a one-hour trek to reach the stunning Emerald Lagoon at 5024 meters. This trek includes snacks and is perfect for those who wish to acclimate before attempting to summit Huayna Potosi.
Journey into the Bolivian altiplano to Charquini mountain on a tour that departs just an hour and a half from La Paz. Along the way, you will visit the multi-colored Milluni Lagoon, a historic mining cemetery, and sacred apachetas. The tour includes a walk to another heavenly-colored lagoon and brings you to the foot of the snowy peak.
Embark on a full-day trip from La Paz to uncover the ancient mysteries of two of Bolivia's most incredible sites. You will first explore the ancient archaeological ruins of Tiwanaku. The tour then continues on to experience the natural beauty of Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world.
Visit Tiwanaku, the most antique archaeological site in South America and home to the remains of a great pre-Columbian empire. Your professional guide will lead you to discover sacred places like the Gate of the Sun, Akapana pyramid, monoliths, and the mysterious Puma Punku. This tour also includes a visit to the site's museum to see artifacts from the empire, as well as a provided lunch.
Visit the archaeological site of Tiwanaku on a unique half-day tour designed for you to experience it just as a local Bolivian would. Instead of private transport, you will travel using the city's cable car and public buses. This immersive tour includes a bilingual guide and a gastronomic tasting of Bolivian food at a restaurant where locals eat.
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Overall La Paz is fairly inexpensive as a port of call. Check out the illustration below for the monthly average cost per day. Sailings visiting La Paz during the peak seasons of summer and fall are somewhat more expensive than the low months of winter, spring, and fall.
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