What's Happening in La Paz This June? Festivals, Events & Travel Updates 2026

Travel Update: Road Blockades and Protests in Bolivia

This month of May did not turn out the way any of us hoped, not for Bolivians, not for people living in Bolivia, and not for travelers either.

Unfortunately, May is normally one of the most beautiful months to visit this country. Instead of simply sharing everything happening around us, we have been dealing with road blockades and protests since the beginning of the month. This is something that happens in Bolivia from time to time, a way for people living far from cities like La Paz to make their voices heard. 

Of course, the closed roads have affected everyone, including travelers moving around by land. Many travelers found ways to continue their trips by flying instead, allowing them still to visit places like La Paz, Sucre, and Uyuni. Others, unfortunately, were not able to travel here at all, which has been very sad to see.

We have also had a few days of protests inside La Paz. Normally, the city feels very calm, but this time things became a little more intense than usual, which affected travelers wanting to explore the city. Thankfully, those protest days were limited.

At Cafe del Mundo, our highest priority during all of this has been to stay open and continue being a welcoming space. We will be honest, though,  there have been some complicated days trying to find all the products and ingredients we normally serve. Being located in the center of the city has also meant that, for safety reasons, we have occasionally needed to close our entrance during demonstrations.

What has honestly touched us the most is how calm and understanding the people inside the cafe have been. Instead of frustration, we have seen curiosity. Travelers asking questions, wanting to understand the situation, wanting to learn more about Bolivia, and everything happening around them. And I think that is a really beautiful way of embracing a situation that is not always comfortable.

At the same time, we have tried our best to keep up with supplies. It has been very important for us not only to serve food but also to be a safe meeting point. A place where travelers can connect, feel calm, exchange information, and still find ways to enjoy their time in La Paz, even if plans have changed a little.

Because of the protests and blockades, some of the biggest and most beautiful events of May in La Paz had to be postponed. The good news is that they now have new dates in June, and we really hope there will not be any more changes.

La Paz Events, Festivals & Travel Updates 2026

Museum Night is one of the most anticipated cultural events in La Paz, with museums, galleries, and cultural spaces opening late into the night with exhibitions, live music, performances, and special activities. We have the beautiful Museum Night on June 13th, followed by the Pre-Entrada of Gran Poder on June 14th, and then the incredible Gran Poder Festival itself on June 20th, something you truly should not miss if you are in the city. Gran Poder is the largest cultural festival in La Paz and one of Bolivia’s most important celebrations. Thousands of dancers and musicians fill the streets with traditional costumes, brass bands, and folkloric dances that showcase Bolivia’s rich cultural heritage.

Photo: Alvaro Poma

But June is not only about rescheduled events. The Aymara New Year takes place on June 21 and marks the beginning of a new Andean cycle. Many visitors travel to Tiwanaku before sunrise to witness ceremonies welcoming the first rays of the winter sun. Followed by the coldest night of the year in La Paz on June 23rd,  celebrated this year with a giant hot dog festival. Yes… only in La Paz.

So despite everything, there is still so much happening.

At Cafe del Mundo, we will also have offers, fun events throughout the month, and of course, we will be showing the World Cup games as well.

Wow… what a month.

More than anything, we hope the blockades find a solution soon so we can all enjoy these moments together again.

And don’t forget to join our WhatsApp group, where we share weekly updates about events, discounts, happenings around the city, and important travel information.

See you soon,

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the biggest festival in La Paz?

Gran Poder is the largest cultural festival in La Paz, attracting thousands of dancers, musicians, and visitors every year.

Is June a good time to visit Bolivia?

Yes. June is part of the dry season, offering sunny days, clear skies, and excellent conditions for exploring Bolivia.

When is the Aymara New Year?

The Aymara New Year is celebrated every year on June 21.

What happens during San Juan in Bolivia?

Families and friends gather on the coldest night of the year to share food, hot drinks, and winter traditions.

What to Do in La Paz in May 2026: Events, Weather & Travel Tips

Planning to visit La Paz in May?
This is one of the best times of the year to experience the city. From cultural events like Gran Poder and Museum Night to perfect weather for exploring the Andes, here’s what you can expect this month in La Paz.

Hi,

Welcome to La Paz and the beautiful month of May. Every month here has its charm, but this one feels a little extra special. The rainy season is behind us, the skies open up, and according to climbers from all over the world, this is one of the best times to come here for one reason,  the Andes.

Slowly, the city starts to fill with climbers, both professionals and curious beginners, all arriving to test their limits. And one thing I’ve learned during my years here (without being a climber myself) is how different it works here compared to almost anywhere else in the world. Usually, reaching mountains at these altitudes means days, sometimes weeks, just to get to the starting point. But here, it’s different. You have a good breakfast, take a transport, and suddenly you’re at the base of a 5000-meter summit. It’s not an easy climb, but by late afternoon you can be back in the city again, sitting down for dinner and a drink. Of course, some mountains require more time and nights out in nature, but the feeling is the same, here, the focus is the climb, not the long journey to get there. It’s something quite unique, and honestly, a bit magical.

But for those of us who prefer to stay a little closer to the ground (even if it’s still very high ground), May has its own things in the city as well.

El artista y compositor, Willy Claure, en la Larga Noche de los Museos. Foto: La Paz Culturas.

On May 16th, La Paz celebrates Museum Night, where museums stay open late, but more than that, the whole city comes alive with culture, music, art, and unexpected moments in every corner. It’s one of those evenings where you just walk and see where you end up. Later in the month, on May 27th, it’s Día de la Madre, Mother’s Day, and here in Bolivia it’s a big celebration, with flowers filling the streets, small gifts everywhere, and restaurants and cafés filling up with families gathering to celebrate. And last, but far from least, Gran Poder, the biggest dance festival in the city. Culture, tradition, and an energy in the streets you have to live to understand. Just a block away from Café del Mundo, you can rent a chair for the whole day, enjoy the dances, and come back to recharge with our Nomad Tropical Burger of the month.

Pure happiness, wherever you look.

So yes, May is full of life here, both in the mountains and in the city. And we at Café del Mundo try to be part of all of it, with small events, offers, and moments to gather.

If you want to stay updated on what’s happening while you’re here, the easiest way is to join our WhatsApp group, where we share weekly highlights, or have a look at our TravelZine for what’s going on around the city.

See you soon,

FAQ - About La Paz in May

Is May a good time to visit La Paz?

Yes, May is one of the best months to visit La Paz. The rainy season ends, skies are clear, and many cultural events take place.

What is the weather like in La Paz in May?

The weather is mostly sunny and dry, with cooler mornings and evenings. It’s ideal for exploring both the city and nearby mountains.

What events happen in La Paz in May?

Major events include Museum Night, Mother’s Day celebrations, and the famous Gran Poder festival.

Can you go hiking in the Andes in May?

Yes, May is one of the best months for hiking and climbing in the Andes due to clear skies and stable weather.