1. Bring Crisp, Clean U.S. Dollar Bills
In La Paz, cash is still king—but only if your U.S. dollars are fresh and crisp! Bolivia is known for rejecting damaged bills, so make sure to pack well-kept currency. Exchange services won’t take anything with rips or marks, but if you end up with crumpled bills, try a bank for a better exchange. Remember, smaller denominations are more useful in smaller towns, so ask for a mix of bills and coins.

2. Drink Plenty of Coca Tea
Don’t worry—drinking coca tea won’t get you high! In fact, it’s an essential remedy for the altitude sickness that many visitors face in La Paz. This natural tea helps reduce headaches, nausea, and breathlessness. Enjoy a cup at any local cafe or buy some leaves at a market to brew your own. It’s an authentic, culturally rich experience!

3. Use Public Transportation (Or Uber!)
Getting around La Paz is an adventure in itself. You can hop on buses, collectivos, or ride the Teleferico cable cars for stunning views. If you prefer a more straightforward option, Uber is reliable and popular with locals. Just make sure you have the right change for bus rides and don’t forget to greet your driver with a “Buenos días” or “Buenas tardes.”

4. Pack Layers, Layers, and More Layers
With La Paz’s ever-changing weather, it’s crucial to be prepared for anything. Mornings can be chilly, afternoons warm, and nights downright cold. Pack versatile items like comfy boots, a jacket, and plenty of layers so you can adjust to the weather throughout the day.

5. Carry Hand Sanitizer and Kleenex
While most public places in La Paz are clean, you’ll want to carry tissues and hand sanitizer with you, especially when using public restrooms. Bolivia can be a bit stingy with toilet paper, so be prepared to clean up on your own.

6. Carry Small Bills
Cash can be tricky in Bolivia, especially when many businesses don’t have small bills or coins for change. Always carry a variety of smaller notes and coins so you can pay easily for small items like snacks or bus fares.

7. Haggle for Market Goods
Street markets are a major part of La Paz’s charm, and haggling is a must! Prices for items like scarves, jewelry, and souvenirs are often inflated for tourists, so don’t be afraid to negotiate. Just be fair and respectful, as vendors rely on these sales for their livelihoods.

8. Enjoy the Local Culture and Cuisine
Whether you’re sipping on coca tea, exploring the unique markets, or interacting with locals, make sure to embrace the Bolivian culture. From the food to the festivals, La Paz offers plenty of opportunities to learn and grow from the local culture.