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El Alto

El Alto, La Paz, Bolivia

Soar Above the Clouds in El Alto, Bolivia Forget skyscrapers - El Alto offers a different kind of high. Perched on the altiplano overlooking La Paz, this vibrant city in the clouds is a sensory explosion of color, cultur…

#high altitude#urban sprawl#Andean culture#marketplace#Bolivia

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Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in El Alto.

Currency

Bs. | BOB | Boliviano

Population

1.1 million

Languages

Spanish, Aymara, Quechua

Average weather

El Alto

Jan

13°4°

Feb

13°4°

Mar

13°3°

Apr

13°1°

May

13°-2°

Jun

12°-4°

Jul

12°-4°

Aug

13°-3°

Sep

14°-1°

Oct

15°1°

Nov

15°2°

Dec

14°3°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on El Alto.

What people love

El Alto, located in La Paz, Bolivia, offers several advantages for travelers. Here are some pros of traveling to El Alto:

Stunning Views: El Alto is situated at a high altitude, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The views from certain vantage points in El Alto are truly remarkable and provide a unique perspective of the region.
Cultural Experience: El Alto is known for its vibrant cultural scene, with colorful markets, traditional festivals, and indigenous communities. Travelers can immerse themselves in the local culture by exploring the markets, trying traditional foods, and interacting with the friendly locals.
Gateway to La Paz: El Alto serves as the main gateway to La Paz, Bolivia's capital city. Travelers can easily access La Paz from El Alto, allowing them to explore the city's attractions, museums, and historic sites.
Adventure Opportunities: El Alto is a great starting point for outdoor adventures such as trekking, mountain biking, and hiking in the nearby Andes Mountains. The region offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to explore the stunning natural landscapes.
Authentic Experience: El Alto provides travelers with an authentic Bolivian experience, away from the tourist crowds. Visitors can witness daily life in a bustling Bolivian city, interact with locals, and gain a deeper understanding of the country's culture and traditions.

Overall, traveling to El Alto can be a rewarding experience for those seeking a unique cultural and outdoor adventure in Bolivia.

Please note that the information provided is based on general knowledge and may not be exhaustive.

What to know

Traveling to El Alto, located at El Alto, La Paz, Bolivia, may have the following cons:

Altitude sickness: El Alto is one of the highest cities in the world, sitting at an altitude of over 4,000 meters (13,000 feet) above sea level. Travelers who are not acclimated to high altitudes may experience symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, and shortness of breath.
Harsh weather conditions: Due to its high altitude, El Alto experiences cold weather throughout the year. Travelers may need to pack warm clothing and be prepared for temperature fluctuations.
Safety concerns: El Alto has a reputation for being less safe than other areas in La Paz. Travelers should exercise caution, especially at night, and be vigilant of their surroundings to avoid becoming a target of theft or other crimes.
Limited tourist infrastructure: El Alto is primarily a residential and commercial area, with fewer tourist amenities compared to La Paz. Travelers may find limited options for accommodation, dining, and transportation in El Alto.
Language barrier: While Spanish is the official language in Bolivia, some residents of El Alto may primarily speak Aymara or Quechua. Travelers who do not speak Spanish or the local indigenous languages may face challenges communicating with locals.
Lack of tourist attractions: El Alto is known more for its markets and local culture rather than traditional tourist attractions. Travelers seeking a more tourist-friendly experience with historical sites and museums may need to venture into La Paz.

Please note that these cons are based on general information and may vary depending on individual experiences and circumstances. It is always recommended to research and plan accordingly before traveling to any destination.

El Alto, located in the La Paz Department of Bolivia, is a city with a rich and dynamic history. It is one of the highest major cities in the world, situated at approximately 4,150 meters (13,615 feet) above sea level. Here is a detailed history of El Alto:

Early History

Origins: El Alto's origins can be traced back to the pre-Columbian era, where the Aymara people inhabited the high plateau region known as the Altiplano. The area that is now El Alto was historically used for agriculture by these indigenous communities.

20th Century Growth

Railroad Development: The significant development of El Alto began in the early 20th century. In 1903, a railway was constructed connecting La Paz to Lake Titicaca, and El Alto served as a crucial rail station. This facilitated trade and movement, encouraging settlement in the area.
Migration and Urbanization: The city began to grow rapidly in the mid-20th century as people from rural areas migrated to El Alto in search of better opportunities. This migration was partly driven by the Bolivian National Revolution of 1952, which aimed to implement land reforms and improve the conditions for indigenous people.

Significant Events

October 2003 Gas War: One of the most significant events in El Alto's history is the Gas War in October 2003. Protests erupted against the government's plan to export natural gas through Chile. The citizens of El Alto, alongside others, played a crucial role in the demonstrations. The unrest resulted in the resignation of President Gonzalo Sánchez de Lozada.
2005 Unrest: Further protests occurred in 2005, leading to the resignation of another president, Carlos Mesa. These events highlighted El Alto's role as a center of political activism and indigenous rights movements.

Historical Figures

Evo Morales: Although not from El Alto, Evo Morales, Bolivia's first indigenous president, received significant support from the residents of El Alto. His presidency (2006-2019) was marked by policies that aimed to empower indigenous communities and improve social conditions.

Modern Day

Economic Hub: Today, El Alto is one of Bolivia's most populous cities, with a vibrant economy centered around trade and commerce. It hosts a bustling open-air market, one of the largest in South America.
Cultural Significance: El Alto is known for its strong cultural identity. The city is a hub for traditional Aymara culture and has a vibrant arts scene.

Important Landmarks

Teleférico: The city is connected to La Paz by the Mi Teleférico, an extensive cable car system that is both a critical transportation link and a tourist attraction for its breathtaking views.
Mercado 16 de Julio: Known for being one of the largest open-air markets in the region, it is an essential part of the city's economy and cultural life.
Cholet Architecture: El Alto is famous for its unique "cholet" architecture, designed by architect Freddy Mamani. These colorful, multi-story buildings combine traditional Andean design elements with modern architecture.

El Alto continues to grow and evolve, maintaining its significance as a cultural, economic, and political center in Bolivia.