From La Paz: Day Trip to Chacaltaya and Moon Valley

Exploring the lunar landscapes of Moon Valley and the lofty heights of Chacaltaya is a must-do day trip from La Paz. For just €35.93 per person, adventurers can embark on an 8-hour journey that promises breathtaking views and a deeper understanding of Bolivia’s unique geography. With a knowledgeable bilingual guide leading the way, travelers will discover the world’s highest ski area and have ample time to soak in the mesmerizing surroundings. But what makes this excursion truly unforgettable goes beyond the awe-inspiring scenery – it’s the chance to step into a world that’s unlike anything you’ve ever experienced before.

Key Points

• A day trip from La Paz to Chacaltaya and Moon Valley costs €35.93 per person and lasts approximately 8 hours.
• The tour includes exploration of Moon Valley’s lunar landscapes, a visit to the world’s highest lift-served ski area Chacaltaya, and guided sightseeing.
• Transportation is provided with pickup from La Paz city center and Ritz Apart Hotel, and drop-off at Church of San Francisco.
• The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or vertigo due to the high altitude and challenging terrain.
• Recommended items to pack include a windbreaker, jacket, and food, as options are limited at high elevation.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Trip Overview and Pricing

This day trip from La Paz to Chacaltaya and Moon Valley costs from €35.93 per person and lasts approximately 8 hours.

Travelers can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now & pay later option.

The tour provides a mix of guided sightseeing and free time to explore the lunar landscapes and bizarre geological formations of Moon Valley, as well as the former ski resort of Chacaltaya, which claims the title of the world’s highest lift-served ski area.

With pickup available from La Paz city center and the Ritz Apart Hotel, and drop-off at the Church of San Francisco, this day trip offers a convenient way to experience some of Bolivia’s natural wonders.

Itinerary and Activities

The day trip allows travelers to explore Moon Valley, renowned for its lunar landscapes and bizarre geological formations.

Visitors then venture to Chacaltaya, Bolivia’s former ski resort and the world’s highest lift-served ski area, where they can admire views from the mountain peak at over 5,000 meters above sea level.

The itinerary offers a mix of guided sightseeing and free time, providing opportunities to fully take in the unique and otherworldly environments.

Throughout the experience, travelers can expect a blend of exploration, sightseeing, and appreciation for the region’s remarkable natural wonders, all while navigating the challenges posed by the high altitude and rugged terrain.

Transportation and Pickup Details

The day trip includes pickup service from the La Paz city center and Ritz Apart Hotel, with a bilingual guide accompanying participants throughout the journey.

This seamless transportation service ensures a hassle-free experience, allowing travelers to focus on exploring the stunning landscapes of Chacaltaya and Moon Valley without the worry of navigating the local roads.

Tourists are then dropped off at the iconic Church of San Francisco in La Paz at the end of the excursion.

The inclusion of a knowledgeable guide further enhances the tour, providing valuable insights and historical context as the group ventures to the highest accessible point in the region.

Altitude and Preparedness

Altitude sickness poses a significant challenge for visitors embarking on this day trip, as the excursion reaches a maximum elevation of 5,435 meters above sea level. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, proper preparation is essential. The tour operator recommends packing a windbreaker, jacket, and food, as options may be limited at higher altitudes. Plus, the trip is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, or those with vertigo, as the walks can be challenging.

Preparation Tips	Symptoms of Altitude Sickness
Stay hydrated	Headache
Acclimate slowly	Nausea
Pack warm layers	Fatigue

Heeding these recommendations and being mindful of one’s physical capabilities will help make the day trip to Chacaltaya and Moon Valley a memorable and safe adventure.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Customer Ratings and Feedback

Reviewers have provided the tour operator with an overall rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars based on 44 experiences.

While the transportation was rated 4.1/5, with some complaints about shuttle bus comfort, the tour’s highlights received positive feedback. Customers praised the empathy and knowledge of the bilingual guide, as well as the fascinating locations visited, including the lunar landscapes of Moon Valley and the breathtaking vistas from Chacaltaya mountain.

However, some suggestions were made for clearer communication regarding the altitude and necessary preparation needed for the challenging walks.

Tour Suitability

This day trip to Chacaltaya and Moon Valley may not be suitable for everyone.

Individuals with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, or those prone to vertigo are advised to reconsider, as the tour involves challenging walks and reaches a maximum altitude of 5,435 meters. The high-altitude environment can be physically demanding, and the lunar landscapes and steep paths may pose difficulties for those with limited mobility.

However, for those with the necessary physical fitness and acclimation, the tour offers a unique opportunity to explore Bolivia’s dramatic geological formations and the former ski resort of Chacaltaya.

Appropriate preparation, such as packing warm clothing and bringing snacks, is recommended to ensure a comfortable and safe experience.

Recommended Items

For this day trip, travelers should pack a windbreaker, jacket, and food, as the limited options available at the destinations may not suffice. The high-altitude environment can be quite cold, so having appropriate clothing is crucial.

Plus, bringing snacks is recommended, as the tour reaches a maximum elevation of over 5,435 meters, where meal options may be scarce.

With the tour’s itinerary including exploring the lunar landscapes of Moon Valley and visiting the former ski resort of Chacaltaya, visitors should be prepared for challenging walks and the effects of high altitude.

Packing the right gear and provisions will help ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience throughout the excursion.

Cancellation Policy

The tour offers a flexible cancellation policy, allowing travelers to receive a full refund up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure. This policy provides peace of mind and flexibility, ensuring that customers can plan their trip with confidence.

Some key points about the cancellation policy include:

• Full refund available for cancellations up to 24 hours prior to the tour

• No refunds for cancellations made within 24 hours of the tour

• Travelers can opt to reschedule the tour for a different date if their plans change

• Tour operator allows customers to reserve now and pay later, making it easier to book

• Straightforward and transparent cancellation terms, so there are no surprises.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Minimum Number of Participants Required for the Tour?

The information provided does not mention a minimum number of participants required for the tour. The tour appears to be available for individual bookings, though the exact group size policies are unclear.

What Types of Payment Methods Are Accepted?

The tour accepts a variety of payment methods, including credit/debit cards and cash. There’s also a "reserve now, pay later" option available, allowing customers to book the tour and pay closer to the departure date.

Can I Extend the Duration of the Tour?

Yes, customers can typically extend the duration of the tour, though this may incur additional fees. It’s best to inquire with the tour operator about options and pricing for extending the excursion prior to booking.

Is There an Option to Customize the Itinerary?

Unfortunately, the tour itinerary cannot be customized. It’s a pre-arranged day trip with a fixed schedule. However, travelers can request additional time at certain sites by communicating with the guide during the tour.

Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available?

There are no specific discounts or special offers mentioned for this tour. However, travelers may find the "Reserve now & pay later" option helpful in managing their budget. The standard price range is provided for reference.

Recap

This day trip from La Paz takes travelers to the iconic Chacaltaya and Moon Valley, offering breathtaking views and a chance to explore lunar-like landscapes.

With an affordable price, knowledgeable guide, and convenient pickup, it’s an excellent opportunity to experience Bolivia’s natural wonders.

The high altitude requires proper preparation, but the stunning scenery and unique experiences make this excursion a must-do for visitors to La Paz.

You can check if your dates are available here: