La Paz Getting Around

Getting Around

La Paz is built in a canyon created by the Choqueyapu River (now mostly built over), which runs northwest to southeast. The city's main thoroughfare, which roughly follows the river, changes names over its length, but the central tree-lined section running through the downtown core is called the Prado. La Paz' geography (in particular, altitude) reflects society: the lower you go, the more affluent. While many middle-class Pacenos live in high-rise condos near the center, the really rich houses are in the neighborhoods southwest of the Prado. And looking up from the center, the surrounding hills are plastered with makeshift brick houses of those struggling in the hope of one day reaching the bottom. The satellite city of El Alto, in which the airport is located, is spread over a broad area to the west of the canyon, on flat and higher ground. By bus There are two types of shared public transportation in La Paz: regular buses or micros, and shared vans, called mini buses. The former cost Bs 1,30 while the latter are Bs 1,50-2,30 depending on duration. Both types have their routes indicated on the windshield, but mini buses have the bonus of fare collectors hanging out the side, yelling out routes in a rapid, auctioneer-like manner. You can hail a bus or mini bus anywhere; to get off, just yell out "¡voy a bajar!" By taxi The easiest way to get around is by taxi. They aren't metered, so agree on a fare before boarding; a ride within downtown should be about Bs 5-6. By foot If you ever find yourself to be lost, in general the easiest thing is to simply walk downhill. You will eventually find yourself on the Prado or another main avenue, then You'll be able to take a taxi to the downtown, if your on the southside of the city (Zona sur) a taxi could cost around 12 bs.