Altitude Sickness Risk — Not a Scam But Criticalhigh
La Paz sits at 3,640m and El Alto (where the airport is) at 4,150m. Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) affects up to 75% of visitors within 24–48 hours — symptoms include headache, nausea, fatigue, and in severe cases, HAPE (high altitude pulmonary edema) which can be fatal. Rest for the first 24 hours, avoid alcohol, drink 3–4L of water daily, and take Diamox (acetazolamide, available in pharmacies) if prescribed. If symptoms worsen, descend immediately.
Death Road (Yungas Road) Safetyhigh
Mountain biking Death Road (Yungas Road) is La Paz's most popular tourist activity — and genuinely dangerous. The road drops 3,600m over 64km with a sheer cliff edge and no guardrails. Fatalities do occur. Only use established, reputable operators (Gravity Bolivia, Barracuda Bolivia) who include quality helmets, full-body padding, and mechanical bike checks. Avoid operators offering the cheapest prices — equipment failure at 60 km/h on a cliff edge is fatal.
Express Kidnapping (Secuestro Express)high
Express kidnapping — being forced into a taxi and driven to ATMs to withdraw cash — has been reported in La Paz, particularly when using unregistered taxis or sharing rides with strangers. NEVER hail street taxis; only use radio taxis arranged through your hotel or official taxi apps. If forced into a vehicle, remain calm, comply with cash demands (limit set by your daily ATM limit), and do not resist. Report to police and your embassy immediately afterward.