Palca Canyon & Valley of Souls Full-Day Trek
Leave La Paz behind for a full-day trek through the Valley of Souls and Palca Canyon. Walk among towering rock and mud spires, take in views of the Illiman…
Destinations: La Paz
Operator: La Paz on foot
About this journey
Just under an hour from La Paz, the Valley of Souls and Palca Canyon offer a dramatic change of scenery from the city's busy streets. This full-day excursion combines geology, hiking and Andean countryside as you travel from the southern part of La Paz into a landscape of towering rock and mud formations. The journey begins at 9:00 am, travelling through the city's South Zone before heading into the surrounding mountains. The first stop is the Valley of Souls, where the distinctive formations provide views towards Illimani and Mururata. From here, a short walk leads into the "roadway of the souls" before continuing to the small farming village of Uni. The main hike follows a mostly downhill route through the red rock walls of Palca Canyon. As you descend towards the riverbed, the canyon opens into a colourful landscape of striking geological formations. After lunch, continue walking towards Palca Village, where private transport will be waiting to take you back to La Paz. Trip Highlights - Explore the distinctive Valley of Souls rock formations. - Hike through Palca Canyon and its red rock walls. - Enjoy views of Illimani and Mururata mountains. - Walk through Andean farming landscapes and the village of Uni. - Descend towards the colourful canyon riverbed. - Finish the trek in Palca Village. - Experience the geology and landscapes surrounding La Paz.
About the location
The Valley of Souls and Palca Canyon lie just outside La Paz in a landscape shaped by erosion, with tall rock and mud spires rising from the surrounding terrain. The area provides a striking contrast to the densely built environment of the Bolivian capital. The route also passes through Andean farming landscapes and small rural communities, offering a glimpse of the countryside surrounding La Paz. From the Valley of Souls, travellers can admire views of the Illimani and Mururata mountains before descending into Palca Canyon. For travellers interested in geology, hiking and Andean landscapes, the area offers an opportunity to experience the natural environment beyond La Paz while remaining close to the city.