Back in La Paz
Altitude and How to Thrive It
August 2025
Hi and welcome back to La Paz, and to a new blog post!
Today we’re diving into high altitude, altitude sickness, how it can affect you, and what you can do to feel better if you start to feel a bit off.
After a recent trip down to sea level, I came back thinking I had this altitude thing mastered. I did everything “right”, arrived early, took it easy the first day, ate light, skipped training, went to bed early… and I felt amazing. So good, in fact, that I forgot I was still in my acclimatization period.
A few days later, I got invited to a family BBQ. It was a perfect sunny day, great company, and incredible meat on the grill. I skipped the drinks but happily spent hours eating and talking. Sounds perfect, right? Well, not for my altitude-adjusting stomach. Heavy meals aren’t the best choice in those first days, and overeating meat is a good way to feel rough. I know that… or at least I should. But in the moment, enjoying the sun with friends and family, I completely forgot about it.
The result? I ended up feeling pretty bad, and with a blog post and podcast to prepare for the week, made the topic clearer than ever: how to handle the altitude when you first arrive in La Paz, Bolivia.
So, in this post, I’ll share how altitude can affect you, why you should embrace it, simple ways to feel better, and what we can learn from locals. Plus, you can grab my free “Survive & Thrive at Altitude” guide with quick tips to help you adjust faster and enjoy La Paz from day one.
Welcome to La Paz
Arriving in La Paz can be a unique experience in many ways but especially when it comes to altitude. If you’re coming from Cusco or another high altitude city, the adjustment is usually smoother. But the toughest way to arrive, and something important to mention, is by flying in from a low-altitude place. In just a couple of hours, you step off the plane and find yourself at almost 4,000 meters above sea level.
That’s a big jump for your body, and it can feel a bit rough. Still, it doesn’t mean you’ll automatically feel sick or have a bad time. You will probably notice you’re in thin air, maybe you’ll breathe a little heavier or move a little slower, but it’s just your body getting used to its new high-altitude place.
What Altitude Really Does to You
Even if you’re fit, altitude has its own way of reminding you where you are. You might get a little out of breath walking uphill, or even feel your heart beating faster after just a few steps. Some people get a mild headache, feel a bit dizzy, or notice they’re more tired than usual. Others are surprised to find they feel completely fine.
One day, three mountain climbers arrived in La Paz to meet up with two girlfriends who’d been traveling around South America. The plan? Climb Huayna Potosí together. The climbers were confident, they had experience. The girls had none, but they’d been at altitude for weeks.
A few days later, they returned. The girls had reached the summit; the climbers hadn’t. Why? The girls’ bodies were already used to the altitude, while the climbers had just arrived from sea level.
It’s a good reminder: in the Andes, no peak is a “walk in the park.” Fitness matters, but giving your body time to adjust matters even more.
The truth is, everyone’s body reacts differently. You can be an athlete and still feel it, or you can be someone who never exercises and feel totally okay. The most important thing is to listen to your body, take it easy, and give yourself time to adjust. And remember, feeling the altitude doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy La Paz. It just means you might do it at a slower, more relaxed pace… and that’s not a bad thing I would say!
Local Life at Altitude
For people born and raised here, altitude isn’t something they think about much, it’s just life. You’ll see locals carrying heavy loads up steep streets, chatting without losing their breath, or jogging in the parks at 3,600 meters like it’s nothing. There’s a natural rhythm to life here: walking a bit slower, taking the stairs at a steady pace, and drinking some coca tea like it’s the most normal thing in the world.
They also have their own ways, both in the streets and in daily habits, that make life at altitude easier. It might be choosing streets with shadow instead of steep sunny ones, taking short breaks without rushing, or eating lighter meals at certain times of the day. And the best part? As a traveler, you can pick up some of these tricks just by watching and joining in.
Thriving, Not Just Surviving
Once you’ve given your body a little time to adjust, you’ll be surprised how quickly daily life starts to feel normal again. The key is to take it slow at first, walk at an easy pace, drink plenty of water, and try local remedies like coca tea to help you feel better. Eating lighter meals and getting enough rest in the first couple of days can also make a big difference.
Altitude doesn’t have to be something you just “get through.” It can shift how you experience a place, slowing time and making every view feel even bigger.. See it as part of your trip that you won’t be able to explore in most places in the world. Write down how you feel and let those moments become part of your journey, whether you’re wandering the city streets, hiking in the Andes, or simply sitting still, breathing in the high altitude air.
And maybe that’s the secret. The altitude forces you to slow down, breathe deeper, and be more present. By the time you leave, you might just find yourself missing that thin air, and everything that comes with it.
La Paz’s high altitude can be challenging, but it also slows you down in a way that makes every detail and view feel more powerful. Take it slow, stay hydrated, and let the altitude become part of your journey rIf you want more stories, tips, and little details about La Paz, drop by our Inspiration Station – our cozy travel corner for local secrets, maps, and ideas to plan your next adventure.
🎧 Podcast – This week: first impressions of La Paz, altitude surprises, and traveler stories
📰 TravelZine: Our Weekly Travel Magazine
This week’s edition is all about what’s going on in La Paz — from music and shows to local events. We’re bringing you quick tips, exciting happenings, and everything you need to make the most of the city right now.
→ [Check it out]
☕ Visiting La Paz? Stop by Café del Mundo
We’re more than just coffee. Come in for food, travel chats, and tips. Ask your questions, share your stories, and plan your next bite or big adventure.
→ Find us at Café del Mundo
💬 Got Questions? Write to Us
Need help planning, feeling unsure about what to eat, or just curious where to start? We’re always happy to help—message us anytime on WhatsApp:
→ http://wa.me/59175817945
Well, my friends, that’s all for today. I hope you feel more inspired than worried about the altitude and arrive in La Paz knowing it will be just fine! Hope to see you here soon!
