La Paz Urban Trek: El Alto, Andean Views & Traditional Markets
A full day across La Paz and El Alto by cable car and local transport, ending with the Comca Sisters' wool-dyeing workshop in Viacha.
Destinations: La Paz
Operator: La Paz on foot
About this journey
This full-day La Paz urban trek offers a different perspective on Bolivia's capital, connecting the high-altitude city of El Alto with the markets and neighbourhoods of La Paz. The day begins with a local minibus journey to the cable car station before ascending towards El Alto, where the route continues to the village of Viacha. Here, you will meet the Comca Sisters, a community-based women's project working to conserve traditional wool-dyeing skills among rural-to-urban migrants. During a hands-on workshop, learn how alpaca and sheep's wool can be dyed using materials including coca leaves, onion skin and purple corn. After a traditional lunch, return towards La Paz through its hillside neighbourhoods, known for their expansive views across the Andes and the city. The day finishes in the heart of La Paz's market district, where you will visit five different markets before reaching the famous Witches' Market. The combination of local transport, community-based craft, food, markets and walking makes this an engaging way to experience La Paz beyond its main tourist landmarks. Trip Highlights - Travel by cable car from La Paz towards the heights of El Alto. - See the distinctive cholets of El Alto. - Visit the Comca Sisters, a community-based women's project in Viacha. - Take part in a traditional wool-dyeing workshop using materials such as coca leaves, onion skin and purple corn. - Enjoy a traditional lunch. - Walk through La Paz's hillside "Hanging Neighborhoods" with views of the Andes and the city. - Explore five different city markets before finishing at the Witches' Market.
About the location
La Paz stretches through a dramatic Andean valley, while the neighbouring city of El Alto sits high above the capital on the Altiplano. Together, they form a densely populated urban area where Indigenous traditions, contemporary commerce and distinctive architecture intersect. El Alto is known for its colourful cholets, elaborate buildings associated with the city's growing merchant class. Around La Paz, steep hillsides create the city's characteristic "hanging neighbourhoods", with views extending across the surrounding Andes. The region is also home to long-standing textile traditions and vibrant markets. This itinerary connects these different elements, taking travellers from El Alto and Viacha into La Paz's market districts while introducing them to a community-based wool-dyeing project.
Frequently asked questions
How long is this trek?
The trek runs to 1 day.
Which places does this trek cover?
The route takes in El Alto, COMCA Textiles Project and City Markets & Foods.
How much does this trek cost?
Prices start from USD 140 per person. You book directly with La Paz on foot and Rerooted takes no commission on the booking.
How demanding is this trek?
It is graded easy. The walking and the daily distances are gentle and no previous experience is needed.
What is included in the price?
The inclusions and the exclusions for this trek are listed in full on this page.
Who runs this trek?
La Paz on foot, a local operator assessed by Rerooted against the GSTC criteria. You book and travel with them directly, and nothing is added to their price.