La Paz is the world’s highest capital city, at a whopping 3,640 metres altitude. Thanks to its altitude La Paz has a really interesting subtropical climate, with hot, rainy summers and dry winters. You will also find that the UV index is always high in La Paz, even on fairly cold days, due to the altitude, so this is something to consider when you’re heading to stay in La Paz. When I was there, it was very tempting to lay out in the sunshine to get some warmth when it was just 20 degrees in the shade, but the UV index was 13 at the height of the day!
You will find some people who say that there isn’t much to do in La Paz, and whilst I wouldn’t recommend staying there for more than just a few days, there are plenty of things to keep you occupied. From exploring Plaza Murillo and the San Francisco Cultural Center Museum to taking cable cars from various teleferico stations, La Paz offers a unique South America experience that’s unlike anywhere else on the continent. So, keep reading to find out which are the best hostels in La Paz, Bolivia.
The Best Hostel in La Paz
Wild Rover La Paz
It has to be said: In La Paz, there is one hostel that stands out above all others, and you might not like it: it’s a true party hostel. Wild Rover La Paz is the kind of hostel where the staff stand on the bar and pour shots directly into your mouth, the kind of hostel where nineteen year old British uni students go round hitting on absolutely everyone (yep, even 28 year old me – I’m practically old enough to be your mother, darling), and where you wake up in the morning discussing whose bed was creaking last night like you’re on Love Island.
Okay, that last point may have been because we were in lockdown in this hostel due to a country-wide census, but you catch my drift.
If you look at the reviews for any other hostel in La Paz they just don’t compare, which is why the majority of backpackers end up staying here whether they like to party or not. Wild Rover Hostel La Paz consistently receives great reviews for its atmosphere, friendly staff, and great bar that keeps the party going late into the night.
Luckily the hostel is big enough to accommodate plenty of parties and more, so I spent the majority of my weekend in Bolivian lockdown lounging in the gardens playing Monopoly Deal and eating the emergency sandwiches I’d made with some friends I’d made on the bus from Puno to La Paz. The shared lounge areas provide plenty of space to meet new friends, and the communal areas are perfect for socialising even if you’re not into the party scene.
Wild Rover La Paz offers comfortable beds, hot showers, and free Wi-Fi throughout the property. The helpful staff at the front desk can arrange airport transfers and provide information about tours to Lake Titicaca and other attractions. While it’s primarily known as a party hostel, it also provides private rooms for those seeking a bit more privacy whilst still enjoying the social atmosphere.
Okay, we did join in the party for a rendition or two of Sweet Caroline, but it is the kind of hostel you can avoid that sort of thing if you want to.
Other Great Hostels in La Paz by Neighbourhood
Best Hostels in Sopocachi – The Bohemian Quarter
Sopocachi is La Paz’s bohemian neighbourhood, where you’ll find a lot of cafes, restaurants, and co-working spaces. It’s slightly outside of the touristic centre of La Paz, which means you get a bit more of a down to earth experience of La Paz, whilst still being in a relatively safe area with access to modern amenities. The Sopocachi Teleferico Station provides easy access to other parts of the city via cable car.
This is where the aforementioned Wild Rover La Paz is located, making it a great place to base yourself if you want to experience both the party scene and the local bohemian culture. The area offers a good location with easy access to restaurants and cafes, whilst being a short walk from the city centre.
Best Hostels in Sagarnaga Street – The Heart of La Paz
Sagarnaga Street is one of the most famous things to do in La Paz. They call it the Witches’ Market, and the street is full of souvenir shops with brightly coloured umbrellas hanging above. It’s a really cute vibe, but this is a very touristy spot.
Staying here puts you right in the heart of La Paz, with easy access to tours, restaurants, and the main attractions in La Paz. You’ll be within walking distance of Plaza San Francisco and have a convenient location for exploring the downtown neighbourhood of La Paz.
Adventure Brew Hostel
Split between two buildings (B&B and Downtown), Adventure Brew Hostel in La Paz is famous for its free breakfast and continental breakfast options, plus excellent buffet breakfasts that fuel your adventures. The rooms are basic but clean rooms with comfortable beds, and there is a really social atmosphere where you’ll find a little less chaos than a hostel like Wild Rover.
Adventure Brew Hostel offers private bathrooms in some rooms, shared kitchen facilities, and a great location in the heart of the city of La Paz. The friendly staff provide excellent service, and the tour desk can help arrange excursions throughout Bolivia. With free wifi access, hot water, and luggage storage, it’s one of the great hostels offering the best value for money.
Best Hostel in San Pedro, La Paz
San Pedro is, of course, the area which San Pedro Prison is in (but don’t worry, that doesn’t make it less safe than other areas of La Paz). This area is home to some of the city’s most affordable accommodation options and cheap hostels. It’s also close to the San Pedro Market, where you can find amazing local food at unbeatable prices.
El Prado Capsule Hostel
One of the newer additions to La Paz’s hostel scene, El Prado Capsule Hostel has pod-style dorm beds, which are great if you’re looking for a little more privacy. It’s modern, clean and has really nice common areas as well as a rooftop hostel terrace with views of the city. The capsules include USB ports and cable TV, providing the comfort of a hotel at hostel prices.
That being said, I tend to avoid capsule hostels like these because I find they attract the types of travellers that don’t want to socialise as much. No shade to them, but I prefer a more social vibe! It really just depends what you’re looking for. However, if you’re seeking private rooms at a reasonable average price of a hostel, this could be your best place to stay.
Best Hostel Outside of La Paz
Colibri Camping & Eco Lodge
Colibri Camping & Eco Lodge is a hostel just outside of La Paz. It’s at lower elevation (3,200 metres instead of 3,600 metres), so it’s a good place if you don’t have much time to acclimatise to the altitude or if you’re affected badly by altitude in general.
It has incredible views of the city and the mountains, so it’s perfect if you want to escape the chaos of La Paz. It’s around a 30 minute taxi ride into the centre of La Paz, so it’s a much quieter vibe and you’d need to plan well to make the most of your time there. The hostel is closer to El Alto International Airport, making it convenient for early flights.
FAQs About the Best Hostels in La Paz
What’s the best party hostel in La Paz?
Wild Rover La Paz is undoubtedly the city’s premier party hostel. Known for its lively atmosphere, great bar, and bar-top shot pouring, it’s popular with younger backpackers. However, the hostel is large enough that you can still find quiet communal areas to relax if you’re not in the mood to party. The friendly hostel atmosphere means you’ll have a good time whether you’re partying or just socialising.
What are the cheapest hostels in La Paz?
The cheap hostels in La Paz include lower-priced hostels in the San Pedro area and some options near the bus terminal. Hostal Bivouac, Anata Hostal, and Casa de Huéspedes offer some of the best price options whilst still providing clean rooms and basic amenities. These great hostels prove you can have an amazing hostel experience without breaking the bank.
Is it safe to stay in hostels in La Paz?
Yes, hostels in La Paz are generally safe, but you should take standard precautions. Don’t walk alone at night, and use official taxis arranged by your hostel. Most best hostels in La Paz have good security measures in place, with 24 hours reception and helpful staff who can arrange safe transportation.
How do I deal with the altitude when staying in La Paz?
At 3,640 metres, La Paz’s altitude can be challenging. Most hostels offer coca tea to help with acclimatisation. Consider staying at lower-altitude options like Colibri Camping & Eco Lodge (3,200m) if you’re sensitive to altitude, and plan for rest time when you first arrive. The friendly staff at most hostels can provide advice and assistance.
Which area in La Paz is best for backpackers?
Sagarnaga Street (the Witches’ Market) is ideal for first-time visitors and backpackers, offering easy access to tours, restaurants, and attractions. You’ll be in the heart of the city of La Paz with a convenient location for exploring. Sopocachi is great place for those seeking a more local experience with cafes and co-working spaces, whilst still being close to the Sopocachi Teleferico Station.
How long should I stay in La Paz?
While La Paz isn’t typically a long-term destination, a few days is enough to explore the city’s main attractions. Consider your acclimatisation needs when planning your stay – you might want to add an extra day or two to adjust to the altitude. Most great hostels offer luggage storage if you need to extend your stay.
Conclusion
La Paz’s steep streets can be challenging given the altitude, especially when you’re walking around with a large backpack on! So, consider the location of your hostel wisely and make sure you have a plan of how you’ll get to and from the bus terminal or the nearest airport (El Alto International Airport).
Most hostels offer coca tea to help with acclimatisation, but you will still need some time to rest after you arrive if you come from a low altitude area. The best hostels in La Paz all provide this essential service, along with friendly staff who understand the challenges of altitude adjustment.
While La Paz is generally safe for tourists, it’s not safe to walk around alone at night. Most hostels will be able to call you a reliable taxi if you need to go somewhere, otherwise stay in groups if you go out after dark. Whether you choose Wild Rover La Paz for the party atmosphere, Adventure Brew Hostel for a more relaxed social vibe, or one of the cheap hostels for budget-friendly accommodation, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience in this unique South America destination.
