La Paz, Bolivia

Nestled near the beautiful Andes region in South America, lies the capital city of La Paz, Bolivia with its vibrant nightlife and blanket of stars that light up the sky. La Paz is the world’s highest capital city- 3500 metres above sea level. The views of the city are absolutely fabulous from El Alto (a small city perched on top of La Paz), as you gaze down upon a city full of Latin-American culture, music and enchantment.

The people who live in La Paz are very friendly and down-to-earth. Many not only speak Spanish but indigenous languages as well, such as Quechua, Aymara and Gurani.

Taxis are very inexpensive and they are available everywhere. You can hire a driver for the day and he can take you to see the ancient ruins of Tiwanaku, which date back thousands of years. Stop at the Valle de la Luna (Valley of the Moon) and marvel at the view, or perhaps head to the edge of the Mount Illimani to go for a hike and if you are lucky, see llamas, vicuñas, alpacas or the majestic condor.

In February, Bolivians celebrate “Carnival Time”, and one of the best cities to watch the festivities is in Oruro, about a 45-minute drive from La Paz. There you can admire the festive costumes, dance with the locals and enjoy Bolivian culture at its best.

Take a walk down to San Francisco Church to visit all the shops that sell handicrafts, sculptures and other exotic items, and be amazed by the market place where all the colours seem to come alive.

Take a day trip to visit Lake Titicaca, which is situated on the border with Peru- this lake is said to be the highest lake in the world and offers delicious trout as well as extraordinary views.

While you are in La Paz, don’t forget to go to a “peña”, a restaurant where live, traditional, Bolivian music is played. The music usually consists of a band with drums, pan flutes and a musical instrument called a “charango” which looks like a small guitar made with the shell from an armadillo. The music is upbeat and lively and is definitely fun for the whole family.

From the gorgeous views of the sunset overlooking Lake Titicaca, to the awe-inspiring Mount Illimani, Bolivia has something for everyone to enjoy.