Come with me to visit different places around the world together...
Come with me to visit different places around the world together...
Perched on the edge of the Altiplano at an altitude of over 4,000 meters, El Alto is one of the highest cities in the world. It overlooks Bolivia’s administrative capital, La Paz, offering a unique vantage point and a cultural experience deeply rooted in Bolivia’s indigenous Aymara traditions. Though often overshadowed by its famous neighbor, El Alto is a vibrant, fast-growing city with a character of its own, attracting visitors who want to explore authentic Bolivian culture and history. From its bustling markets to breathtaking views of the surrounding Andes, El Alto provides a rich, immersive experience. In this blog, we’ll delve into the city’s top attractions and cultural events, along with highlights that are within an hour’s reach.
One of the best ways to experience El Alto is by taking the Mi Teleférico cable car system, which
connects the city to La Paz. The Red Line offers an aerial journey that ascends from La Paz up to El
Alto, providing some of the most breathtaking panoramic views of the Andes and the sprawling
cityscape below. Once at the top, the vista from Mirador Killi Killi gives you a 360-degree
perspective of both El Alto and La Paz, with Mount Illimani dominating the skyline.
Every Thursday and Sunday, El Alto hosts one of the largest open-air markets in South America.
Spanning several kilometers, the market offers an incredible range of goods, from electronics and
clothing to artisanal crafts, antiques, and traditional Aymara medicines. It’s a vibrant cultural
experience where visitors can haggle for treasures, try local street food, and interact with the warm
and friendly vendors. For tourists, this market is a true window into daily life in El Alto.
One of El Alto’s most unique and entertaining attractions is Cholita Wrestling, where indigenous
Aymara women in traditional dresses (polleras) take part in wrestling matches that are equal parts
sport and performance. Held at the Multifunctional Center, this lively event blends humor,
athleticism, and local culture, making it a must-see for visitors who want to experience something
truly authentic and offbeat. The matches are held regularly, usually on Sundays, and are attended
by both locals and tourists.
The 16 de Julio area is one of the most important and vibrant districts in El Alto. This neighborhood
is known for its colorful buildings and unique architectural style, often referred to as cholets,
designed by renowned Bolivian architect Freddy Mamani. These brightly colored, multi-level
buildings are a fusion of indigenous Andean culture and modern design, making for a fascinating
architectural tour. Visitors can take guided tours of the cholets, many of which double as
community centers and event spaces.
While primarily associated with La Paz, the Fiesta del Gran Poder spills into El Alto as well. Held in
May or June, this religious and cultural festival celebrates the power of Jesus Christ with
processions, traditional dances, and elaborate costumes. In El Alto, the celebrations have a strong
Aymara influence, showcasing the city’s deep indigenous roots. Dancers perform in the streets, and
the festival is filled with music, color, and joy, representing the blending of Catholic and indigenous
traditions.
Like in La Paz, the Alasitas Fair is celebrated in El Alto during January. The fair is dedicated to
Ekeko, the Aymara god of abundance, and features miniatures that represent people’s hopes and
dreams. Participants buy miniature versions of homes, cars, and money and have them blessed in
the hope that they will be manifested in the coming year. The Alasitas Fair in El Alto is a vibrant,
cultural event with a distinct local flavor.
El Alto plays a significant role in Bolivia’s Independence Day celebrations. On August 6, the streets
of El Alto are filled with parades, military demonstrations, and civic pride. While this is a nationwide
event, El Alto’s version often focuses more on honoring indigenous leaders and the city’s role in
modern Bolivia’s social and political movements, making it an important cultural experience for
visitors.
Less than an hour’s drive from El Alto, the Tiwanaku Archaeological Site is one of Bolivia’s most
important pre-Columbian ruins. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was the center of the Tiwanaku
civilization, which predated the Inca Empire and significantly influenced the Andes region. Visitors
can explore ancient temples, the Gateway of the Sun, and stone carvings that provide a glimpse
into the spiritual and political life of this advanced civilization. The site is also home to a museum
displaying artifacts and relics from the Tiwanaku people.
A short drive from El Alto is Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley), a surreal landscape of eroded rock
formations that resemble the surface of the moon. The valley is a popular hiking destination,
offering short trails that wind through the bizarre, spire-like formations. The natural beauty of the
area makes it an excellent escape for those looking to explore Bolivia’s unique landscapes without
venturing too far from the city.
For adventurous travelers, the towering peak of Huayna Potosí offers a challenging but rewarding
experience. Located just 25 kilometers from El Alto, this snow-capped mountain rises to 6,088
meters and is considered one of the most accessible high-altitude climbs in the world. Many
trekking and climbing tours are available, making it possible for even relatively inexperienced
climbers to summit this iconic Andean peak. For those not interested in reaching the summit, the
area also offers lower-altitude treks with stunning views.
Closer to El Alto, Chacaltaya offers an easy day trip for those seeking high-altitude adventure
without a technical climb. Once home to the world’s highest ski resort, Chacaltaya now serves as a
hiking and scenic viewpoint, offering spectacular views of the surrounding Cordillera Real
mountains and even Lake Titicaca on clear days. The drive to Chacaltaya is scenic, and a short
hike can take you to the summit, where the altitude exceeds 5,300 meters.
El Alto’s culinary offerings reflect its Aymara heritage, with a focus on hearty, high-altitude dishes
that sustain the local population. Street food is an essential part of life in El Alto, and visitors should
take the time to sample the traditional fare.
• Api Morado: A sweet, purple corn-based drink often served hot, making it perfect for the
chilly high-altitude mornings.
• Salteñas: A classic Bolivian pastry filled with meat, potatoes, and a flavorful broth, often
eaten as a mid-morning snack.
• Fritanga: A popular dish made with fried pork, potatoes, and spices, perfect for those
looking for a filling meal after exploring the city.
• Sopa de Maní: A rich peanut soup often served with chunks of beef or chicken, vegetables,
and fries.
Many local restaurants and street vendors offer these dishes, giving visitors a taste of El Alto’s
traditional flavors. The city’s bustling markets are also great places to sample fresh produce and
local treats.
El Alto is much more than just a high-altitude neighbor to La Paz—it’s a cultural hub in its own right.
From its bustling markets and awe-inspiring vistas to its unique traditions and colorful architecture,
El Alto offers visitors an authentic Bolivian experience that cannot be found anywhere else.
Whether you’re exploring the open-air markets, enjoying the vibrant performances of Cholita
Wrestling, or taking a day trip to one of the many natural or historical wonders nearby, El Alto is a
city full of surprises and adventure.
