Why choose a hostel in La Paz?
High in the Andes, La Paz stands as one of the highest capital cities on earth. The altitude sets the tone from the moment you arrive. Plaza Murillo anchors the historic centre, framed by centuries-old government buildings and a cathedral. The Mercado de las Brujas offers a direct encounter with Andean traditional culture and craft. Hostels in La Paz put you close to all of this. They also cost far less than hotels or private rentals in the same neighbourhoods.
Hostels here suit solo travellers and groups alike. Shared dorms keep costs low when you're stretching a longer trip, while private rooms give you your own space without the hotel price tag. You'll also find communal areas where travellers swap tips on altitude acclimatization and onward routes. That social side is something hotels and private rentals rarely offer.
How to find the best hostel deals in La Paz
Love how quick and easy it is to compare flights with us? The same smart search engine can hunt down deals on rooms and hostels too. Use these tips to find fantastic rates fast.
Book in advance
Planning ahead can make a big difference when booking budget hostels in La Paz. You'll typically get a wider selection and a better shot at cheaper rates, especially during peak travel periods.
…or bag a last-minute La Paz hostel deal.
Although prices tend to rise the closer it gets to the date of your stay, sometimes hostels discount their rates at the last minute to keep rooms from sitting empty. It's more likely this will happen in the low season.
Flexible on dates? Say hello to better rates
Even small changes to your travel dates can make a difference when searching for cheap hostels. Choose midweek stays over weekends, or travel during the low season instead of busy holiday periods.
Where to base yourself in La Paz
The Sopocachi neighbourhood is where many travellers staying in hostels in La Paz tend to gather. It sits at a manageable altitude, with tree-lined streets, casual restaurants, and low-key bars that keep evenings affordable. The Teleférico cable car network has a station nearby, making it easy to get around the city without much effort. Plaza Avaroa gives the area a relaxed focal point, popular with locals in the late afternoon. Miraflores offers a quieter pace a short ride from the centre. The Museo de la Medicina Kallawaya and nearby green spaces make it worth your time if you want a break from the more crowded streets. Dining here skews local and affordable. Both neighbourhoods sit within easy reach of Plaza Murillo and the Witches' Market, so neither choice cuts you off from the main sights.
Best hostels in La Paz
Hostel ratings on Skyscanner are based on traveller reviews, covering areas like cleanliness and service to overall experience and facilities. Whether you're keeping travel costs to a minimum or want a little more from your stay, these scores let you compare options and find a place that fits.
Best all-rounder hostels
Hostal Bivouac is popular for a reason. From its location and service to its value, this stay delivers on what matters most.
Downtown Hotel is worth keeping in mind too. It scores strong ratings for its location, service and value.
Highest-rated hostels for cleanliness
No Fear Adventure Hostel takes care of the details. Guests rate this accommodation option as one of the best in the city for cleanliness. You'll find amenities like a lounge and heating.
Casa de Huéspedes "La Casa Bonita" keeps the standard high as well, with guests giving it excellent ratings for cleanliness. Here you'll have access to shuttle services, a lounge and more.
Hostels with the best customer service
When it comes to customer service, Hostal Bivouac is among the highest-rated hostels in La Paz. This stay comes with tour services and luggage storage.
Travellers also often highlight the customer service at Downtown Hotel in their reviews. A 24-hour front desk and a barbecue are some amenities on offer here.
Centrally located hostels
Location is where Hostal Bivouac earns its reputation, according to the guests who've been there. It offers everything you need, including shuttle services and tour services.
Or start your adventure at Downtown Hotel. Extras like a bar and a nightclub bring even more value to this well-located base.
Hostels near the best neighbourhoods in La Paz
Hostels in Macrodistrito Cotahuma
Hostal Bivouac is a favourite around Macrodistrito Cotahuma. It comes with luggage storage, heating and has a guest rating of about 5 out of 5.
Downtown Hotel also knows how to make guests happy. This stay is rated around 4.8 out of 5 by travellers and has perks like a lift and luggage storage.
Hostels near the best attractions in La Paz
Where to stay near Huayna Potosi
Huayna Potosi is a glaciated mountain peak in the Cordillera Real, reaching around 6,088 metres above sea level. It's one of the most accessible high-altitude summits in South America, drawing mountaineers from across the globe. The mountain is covered in permanent snow and ice, with multiple climbing routes across its upper slopes. Travellers searching for hostels near Huayna Potosi are starting from one of Bolivia's most striking natural landmarks.
Check out Downtown Hotel for a base near Huayna Potosi. This hostel in La Paz comes with thoughtful touches like a barbecue, a lounge and more.
The Adventure Brew Hostel is another well-placed option for exploring this attraction. Amenities like a laundry and luggage storage are the start of the things you'll find here.
Hostels close to Basilica of Saint Francis
The Basilica of Saint Francis draws travellers who want to connect with centuries of history and religious tradition in one of South America's most striking settings. You can explore the ornate interior, join guided tours of the catacombs and museum, and take in the detailed stone carvings that have made this a landmark worth your time. Hostels near Basilica of Saint Francis put you within reach of a site that rewards slow, curious exploration.
With Basilica of Saint Francis on the itinerary, Downtown Hotel makes a smart base. This hostel in La Paz features tour services and a barbecue.
Or check out The Adventure Brew Hostel. It's close to this attraction and comes with amenities like Wi-Fi and a laundry.
Mi Teleferico hostels
The neighbourhoods around hostels near Mi Teleférico are some of La Paz's most lived-in, with street food stalls, local markets, and small cafes tucked along the hillside streets. You'll find vendors selling salteñas and fresh juices, and independent shops carrying handwoven textiles and everyday goods. The area gives you an honest, ground-level feel for the city, well away from the more polished tourist strips.
Put yourself in a great spot for sightseeing at Downtown Hotel. This hostel in La Paz comes with luggage storage, a ticket office and much more.
The Adventure Brew Hostel is also easy to recommend. Wi-Fi and a bar are just a couple of the amenities here.
