Street food walking tour, La Paz Bolivia

First stop we will have our first tasting of the "Salteña Andean empanada" along with the historical explanation about El Penal de San Pedro, located in La Paz, Bolivia, it is a historic prison with a fascinating history and a unique atmosphere. Built in the 19th century, this complex is located in the heart of the city, near the historic center. What makes the Penal notable is its unique structure and internal functioning. Unlike many conventional prisons, San Pedro has a very particular social dynamic. Within its walls, communities exist and manage their own systems of government, commerce, and daily activities. The prison houses not only inmates, but also their families, who live within its confines and participate in the daily life of the prison. This has led to the creation of a complex and vibrant social microcosm within its walls, where inmates work, study, trade and even establish small businesses.

Second stop we will have the tasting of fried dwarf fish (ISPI) followed by a walk through the iconic Mercado Rodríguez, located in the heart of La Paz, Bolivia, it is one of the most vibrant and picturesque markets in the city. As you walk through the market's narrow, bustling aisles, you'll find yourself immersed in a sea of stalls packed with fresh fruits, exotic vegetables, aromatic herbs and tempting spices. The atmosphere is filled with the frenetic energy of sellers shouting their offers and buyers haggling for the best prices. Mercado Rodríguez is not only a place to stock up on fresh produce, but also a gastronomic destination in itself. Here you will find small eateries and food stalls serving a wide variety of traditional Bolivian dishes, from the iconic "salteña" to the comforting hot "api."

Third stop we will visit El Mercado de las Brujas, or "Mercado de Hechicería", is a fascinating and mysterious place located in the heart of La Paz, Bolivia. Known as "The Witches' Market" by visitors and locals, this market is a unique destination that offers a truly unforgettable cultural and spiritual experience. As you walk through the narrow streets of the market, you will immerse yourself in a world of mystery and tradition. The stalls are filled with a variety of products related to spirituality and traditional Andean medicine. One of the most iconic elements of the Witches' Market are the "chuspas", small leather bags traditionally used by indigenous people to carry coca, a sacred plant in the Andean culture. In addition, you will see llama fetuses and other animals, which are used in offering rituals to Pachamama (Mother Earth) as part of the Andean worldview.

Fourth stop we will see the Church of San Francisco is one of the most important architectural and historical treasures of La Paz, Bolivia. Located in the heart of the historic center of the city, this majestic church is an emblematic symbol that has witnessed centuries of Bolivian history and culture. Built in the 16th century by Spanish colonizers, the Church of San Francisco is a stunning example of mestizo baroque architecture, combining European elements with indigenous influences. Its imposing façade, carved from quarried stone, presents exquisite ornamental details and a profusion of religious symbols and decorative figures. Visitors are welcomed by an atmosphere of serenity and solemnity. High ceilings, elegant arches and golden details create an atmosphere of grandeur and devotion. The golden altarpieces, religious paintings and sculptures that adorn the altars stand out, with their own history and meaning.

Fifth stop we will have the third tasting which will be traditional food of the Bolivian culture accompanied by the traditional drink of the city (Secret food according to the season and menu of the day) Mercado Lanza is one of the most dynamic and busiest markets in La Paz , Bolivia. Located in the center of the city, this market is a vibrant center of commercial and cultural activity offering a wide variety of products and services to locals and visitors alike. As you enter Mercado Lanza, you will immerse yourself in a labyrinth of corridors full of color and life. Here you will find a wide variety of products, from fresh fruits and vegetables to meat, fish, dairy products, grains and dry products. The stalls are filled with local and regional products, offering a sample of the rich variety of Bolivian cuisine. In addition to food, Mercado Lanza also houses a wide variety of textile products, clothing, shoes, crafts, etc.

Sixth stop we will have the fourth and last dessert tasting representative of the city of La Paz (Cinnamon Ice Cream) we will enter La Plaza Murillo, the political and cultural epicenter of La Paz, Bolivia, and one of the most emblematic and revered places in the city. Named after revolutionary leader Pedro Domingo Murillo, who played a prominent role in Bolivia's fight for independence, this historic plaza is a symbol of the country's identity and history. Located in the heart of the historic center of La Paz, Plaza Murillo is surrounded by some of the most important buildings in the nation, including the Government Palace, the headquarters of the Bolivian Executive Branch. The imposing Legislative Palace, which houses the Plurinational Legislative Assembly, is also located in this square, along with the Metropolitan Cathedral of La Paz, a majestic neoclassical church.

Seventh stop we can see El Palacio Quemado is an emblematic building located in Plaza Murillo, in the historic center of La Paz, Bolivia. Its name comes from a fire that occurred in 1875 and partially destroyed the original building, leaving it partially in ruins. This palace has been the seat of the Bolivian government from colonial times to the present, being the home of the Executive Branch. The current building of the Palacio Quemado was designed by architect Emilio Villanueva in neoclassical style and was built between 1917 and 1921, although its construction ended in 1925. This palace has witnessed many important historical events in Bolivia, including coups d'état, revolts popular and key moments in the country's political history. The Palacio Quemado houses the offices of the President of Bolivia, as well as other government agencies. Its façade is imposing, with Corinthian columns and a series of balconies that overlook Plaza Murillo.