Embark on an exciting tour of El Alto, exploring Aymara mansions and the vibrant economy through cholets and cable car rides. Discover the fascinating history and growth of El Alto’s economy through these unique buildings and the events they host.
Embark on an exciting tour of El Alto, exploring Aymara mansions and the vibrant economy through cholets and cable car rides. Discover the fascinating history and growth of El Alto’s economy through these unique buildings and the events they host.
The City of El Alto was once part of La Paz until 1987, when it became an independent and autonomous city. This separation spurred rapid growth and expansion, fueled by significant immigration from rural areas and the rise of a new socialist government, leading to substantial economic development. This swift growth enabled the construction of new…
The City of El Alto was once part of La Paz until 1987, when it became an independent and autonomous city. This separation spurred rapid growth and expansion, fueled by significant immigration from rural areas and the rise of a new socialist government, leading to substantial economic development. This swift growth enabled the construction of new designs and structures throughout El Alto. During this construction boom, architect Freddy Mamani gained recognition for creating the remarkable structures now known as Andean mansions or Cholets (a blend of the words Cholo and Chalet). Although El Alto has modernized significantly, it has preserved its roots and traditions, evident in the rich blend of ancient and modern elements in these buildings’ designs. The city is now adorned with vibrant, colorful, and unique buildings. Another notable artist is Mamani Mamani, a local painter renowned for his colorful, bright, yet deeply traditional designs. He has painted several facades across the city, with his most significant project being the WHIPALA COMPLEX, consisting of six large apartment buildings with facades painted by Mamani Mamani. This structure is so prominent that it is visible from planes landing or taking off from El Alto Airport.
Points of Interest
- HanaqPacha Travel

- Professional guide
- Driver and local transportation
- All activities
- Professional guide
- Driver and local transportation
- All activities
- Food and drinks
- Gratuities
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Food and drinks
- Gratuities
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
Gather in front of the San Francisco Church and join the guide to proceed to the central station. From there, board the Red Line cable cars, then transfer to the Blue Line. Enjoy a panoramic view of several avenues lined with Cholets. After the cable car ride, visit one of these remarkable buildings to discover their purpose and learn about the…
Gather in front of the San Francisco Church and join the guide to proceed to the central station. From there, board the Red Line cable cars, then transfer to the Blue Line. Enjoy a panoramic view of several avenues lined with Cholets. After the cable car ride, visit one of these remarkable buildings to discover their purpose and learn about the significant growth of El Alto’s economy, driven by these venues and the events they host. Next, explore the Mamani Mamani apartment complex “WHIPALA.” Finally, return to the center of El Alto and make your way back to the city of La Paz.
- Dress code is smart casual
- May be operated by a multi-lingual guide
- Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.