Argentina

How to get from Buenos Aires to La Paz (Bolivia)

Compare all transport options: bus, ferry, flight. Prices, durations and practical tips.

⏱
FASTEST
≈ 3h 36min
💶
From
≈ 100€
📍
Distance
2236 km
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⚡ Quick answer

Checked offer from Buenos Aires to La Paz (Bolivia): Bus, about 49h – 58h 48min, from €206. Other options (estimates, not checked against a live listing): Flight. Main companies selling this route on 12Go (checked on October 13, 2026): Boliviana de Aviacion, Buses Royal Bolivia; main departure point: Ministro Pistarini Airport.

Distance: 2236 km. Data updated on .

There are 2 ways to get from Buenos Aires to La Paz (Bolivia)

Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.

Flight
3h 36min – 4h 30min
CHEAPEST FASTEST
≈ 100 – 350 € estimate
View
Bus
49h – 58h 48min
206 – 207 €
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🚌 Departure from Buenos Aires
📍Most international buses from Buenos Aires depart from the Retiro Bus Terminal (Terminal de Ómnibus de Retiro), the city's main bus station. This massive terminal has numerous platforms and services.
🚇Retiro Bus Terminal is easily accessible from downtown Buenos Aires. You can take Subte Line C (blue line) to Retiro station, various local bus lines, or a taxi/ride-sharing service. A taxi ride from the city center typically costs between 3-7€ and takes 10-20 minutes, depending on traffic.
⏰International bus departures to La Paz are not daily but typically several times a week, often in the late afternoon or evening. Frequencies can vary, so it's essential to check the latest schedules for your specific travel dates.
💸 Transport from 100€ per person
⚡ Fastest: 3h 36min
🗓 Book now Secure payment · via 12go.asia

Companies selling this route on 12Go

Offers listed on 12Go on October 13, 2026 for a departure on November 3, 2026. Timetables and prices change with the date: check them before booking.

CompanyModeDeparts fromFromOffers
Buses Royal Bolivia Bus Retiro Bus Station €206 1
Boliviana de Aviacion Flight Ministro Pistarini Airport €331 3

See all offers on 12Go ›

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Practical tips

💡
Consider the Time-Cost Balance

While the bus is cheaper, a 49-hour journey is very long. Weigh whether saving a day or more by flying for a higher price is worth it for your itinerary and comfort levels.

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Book Flights in Advance

Especially for international routes, flight prices can increase significantly closer to the departure date. Booking early usually secures better deals and availability.

💡
Understand Bus Seat Classes

For such a long bus journey, choosing a 'cama' (bed) or 'semi-cama' (reclining) seat can make a huge difference in comfort, although they are more expensive than conventional seats.

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Prepare for Border Crossings

If you opt for the bus, ensure all your travel documents (passport, visa if needed) are in order for the Argentina-Bolivia border crossing to avoid delays.

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Arrive Early at the Terminal/Airport

Whether by air or bus, arriving well before your scheduled departure gives you ample time for check-in, security, or finding your platform without stress.

The journey experience

Planning your trip from Buenos Aires to La Paz, Bolivia, involves a crucial decision: flight or bus? Argentina's vastness makes knowing the best transport option key to a smooth journey. This comparison is designed to help you instantly weigh up travel times, comfort levels, and costs, ensuring you pick the most suitable option for your independent adventure.

For this significant international route, flying is by far the quickest option. A flight takes approximately 4 hours and costs around 100€, offering a direct and efficient way to reach La Paz. The bus journey, while more economical at roughly 206€, is a substantial commitment, spanning about 49 hours. This can mean spending over two full days on the road, crossing multiple borders.

While the bus might seem appealing for its lower cost, consider the time investment. For a journey of this magnitude, a domestic flight often proves to be the smarter choice, saving you valuable time and ensuring a more comfortable arrival. Always check schedules and book in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred option and avoid any last-minute surprises at the terminal.

Frequently asked questions — Buenos Aires → La Paz (Bolivia)

Why visit La Paz (Bolivia)?

  • ✓ Explore the historic city center, including Plaza Murillo and the Presidential Palace.
  • ✓ Ride the Mi Teleférico cable car system for panoramic city views and easy transportation.
  • ✓ Discover the Witches' Market (Mercado de las Brujas) for unique Andean curiosities and traditional remedies.
  • ✓ Visit the Valle de la Luna (Valley of the Moon) for its unique eroded geological formations.
  • ✓ Immerse yourself in local culture at the Coca Museum, learning about its history and significance.
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Recommended stay
3 to 4 nights — enough time to acclimate to altitude and explore the main attractions.

When to visit La Paz (Bolivia)?

HIGH ALTITUDE SEMI-ARID

May to October — dry season with clearer skies and milder temperatures, ideal for sightseeing.

Jan 😐
Feb 😐
Mar 😐
Apr 😊
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Jun 😊
Jul 😊
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Nov 😐
Dec 😐
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In La Paz (Bolivia) — Plan your stay
Accommodation, activities and tips selected for you
🏨 Accommodation
Hotels in La Paz (Bolivia)
Compare the best rates available
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What to do in La Paz (Bolivia)?

Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you

INCONTOURNABLE
🚠
Ride Mi Teleférico
Experience La Paz from above with Mi Teleférico, the world's highest and longest urban cable car system. It offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. Ride the Red Line to El Alto for stunning vistas, especially at sunset. A round trip typically costs less than 1€ per line.
🧙
Explore Mercado de las Brujas
Wander through the Mercado de las Brujas (Witches' Market), a unique cultural experience. You'll find a variety of traditional remedies, amulets, and offerings for Pachamama (Mother Earth). Respectful observation is key; ask before taking photos. Open daily, it's best visited in the morning to see it in full swing.
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Visit San Francisco Church
Admire the impressive San Francisco Church and its adjoining monastery, a stunning example of Mestizo Baroque architecture. Climb the bell tower for excellent views of the city and the bustling Plaza San Francisco below. The church is generally open from morning to late afternoon, with an entrance fee of around 2-3€ to access the museum and bell tower.
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Stroll Calle Jaén
Step back in time on Calle Jaén, one of La Paz's best-preserved colonial streets. Its colorful buildings house several small museums, including the Museo de Instrumentos Musicales and the Museo Costumbrista Juan de Vargas. It's a great spot for photography and a peaceful escape. Free to walk, museum entries are typically under 2€ each.
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Discover Valle de la Luna
Explore the surreal rock formations of Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley), just a short drive from central La Paz. Erosion has sculpted an otherworldly landscape of spires and canyons, perfect for a unique hike. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water. The entrance fee is minimal, about 2-3€, and it's best visited in the morning or late afternoon for softer light.
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Taste Local Street Food
Indulge in La Paz's vibrant street food scene. Try salteñas (baked empanadas), anticuchos (skewered beef heart), or api con buñuelos (purple corn drink with fried dough). Look for busy stalls frequented by locals, especially around lunchtime or late afternoon. Prices are very affordable, often less than 1-2€ per item. Be adventurous but choose vendors with good hygiene.
🖼️
Visit Museo Nacional de Arte
Housed in a beautiful colonial palace, the Museo Nacional de Arte showcases a rich collection of Bolivian art, spanning from pre-Columbian times to contemporary works. It offers a deeper understanding of the country's cultural heritage. Allow 1-2 hours for your visit. Entrance fee is typically around 2-3€, and it's usually closed on Mondays.
🎭
Attend a Peña Folklórica
Immerse yourself in Bolivian culture by attending a Peña Folklórica, an evening of traditional music, dance, and food. Several venues in La Paz offer these shows, often including a dinner option. It's a lively and authentic way to experience local traditions. Prices vary, but expect to pay around 15-30€ for a show with dinner. Book in advance, especially on weekends.

How long to visit La Paz (Bolivia)?

3 to 7 days

For an independent traveler, plan at least 3-4 days to fully acclimate and explore La Paz's main attractions, including its markets, cable car system, and nearby Moon Valley. With 5-7 days, you can also venture to Lake Titicaca or Tiwanaku. A shorter trip limits exploration and might be challenging due to altitude.

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