Walking on the Moon: Exploring Valle de La Luna’s Otherworldly Labyrinth
A step-by-step encounter with La Paz’s jagged moonscape—short trails, big perspectives, and high-altitude practicality.
You step off the combi and the city’s noise folds away as if a curtain were being drawn. Underfoot the path is a crisp mix of dust and crumbly clay; ahead, a skyline of spires and serrated ridges silhouettes against the high-altitude sky. This is Valle de La Luna — a few kilometers from the heart of La Paz, but distant in mood and scale: a miniature badlands carved out of time and wind, where the ground seems to have been folded and peeled back like pages. A single clear day here feels cinematic. Watch the light, because shadows and angles turn the landscape into a constantly changing sculpture garden.
Trail Wisdom
Acclimatize first
Spend 24–48 hours in La Paz before visiting—even short walks feel harder at 3,600–3,800 m.
Wear grippy shoes
Trails are loose and clay can be slick; hiking shoes with good tread reduce slips.
Go early or late for light
Morning and late afternoon deliver the best contrast for photos; avoid peak midday glare and crowds.
Respect fragile formations
Stay on marked paths—these clay pinnacles are easily damaged and erosion is ongoing.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Walk the lesser-used north loop for quieter viewpoints
- •Combine a visit with a ride on the Mi Teleférico lines for dramatic city-to-valley perspectives
Wildlife
Andean gull, Vizcacha (rock-dwelling rodent)
Conservation Note
Trails are fragile—stick to routes, avoid carving or removing material, and support local vendors to incentivize conservation through community benefit.
The valley is a product of millennia of erosion; it’s a small-scale reminder of the geological forces that shaped the Altiplano and surrounding Andes.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: fewer crowds, wild transitional light
Challenges: occasional rain showers, muddy patches
Spring (Sep–Nov) is a transition toward the rainy season—expect pleasant temperatures but occasional afternoon storms.
summer
Best for: dramatic skies, lush surrounding valleys
Challenges: frequent afternoon rain, mud that can make trails slippery
Summer (Dec–Feb) brings storms; the valley is greener but trails may be wet and some gullies unstable.
fall
Best for: clear light, stable weather
Challenges: cooler mornings, shorter daylight hours
Fall (Mar–May) moves toward the dry season—skies clear and trails firm up, making for reliable hiking conditions.
winter
Best for: crisp blue skies, excellent visibility
Challenges: cold mornings and evenings, strong UV at midday
Winter (May–Oct) is the most predictable time to visit: dry, clear days with great photographic contrast.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking shoesEssential
Provides traction on loose clay and narrow ridges.
Layered clothingEssential
Temperatures swing widely—pack a windproof shell and insulating mid-layer.
Sun protection (hat + SPF)Essential
High-altitude sun is intense; protect face and hands during long exposures.
Water bottle (1–2 L)Essential
Hydration aids acclimatization and keeps you energized on exposed trails.
Common Questions
How long does it take to tour Valle de La Luna?
Most visitors spend 1–2 hours, following short loops that total about 1–3 km; allow extra time for photos and slow walking at altitude.
Is Valle de La Luna difficult to hike?
The terrain is not technically hard but can be slippery and uneven; good footwear and cautious pacing make it accessible to most people in moderate fitness.
Can I visit on a day trip from La Paz?
Yes—Valle de La Luna is a short ride from central La Paz and is commonly visited as a half-day outing or combined with other city attractions.
Are guided tours necessary?
No—trails are marked and the site is easy to navigate, but guides add geological context and local history if you want a deeper experience.
What about altitude sickness?
Signs include headache, nausea and fatigue; acclimatize in La Paz, hydrate, move slowly and descend if symptoms worsen.
Is the valley family-friendly?
Families can visit, but supervise children around steep edges and avoid exposed ridgelines if you have very young kids.
What to Pack
Water (1–2 L) for hydration at altitude; sun protection (hat & SPF) for intense UV; layered jacket for cold winds; sturdy shoes for traction on loose clay.
Did You Know
Valle de La Luna’s pinnacles and gullies are the result of differential erosion of clay and sandstone layers, creating formations that can change noticeably over decades—this makes the site geologically young and dynamically fragile.
Quick Travel Tips
1) Acclimatize in La Paz for 24–48 hours; 2) Take the Mi Teleférico or a taxi to save time; 3) Visit early or late for the best light; 4) Carry small bills to buy snacks or souvenirs from local vendors.
Local Flavor
Pair your visit with a stop at La Paz’s markets—try a salteña (Bolivian baked empanada) and a cup of api morado (purple corn drink) to ground the landscape experience in local flavors.
Logistics Snapshot
Distance from La Paz center: ~10–15 minutes by car; trail length: 1–3 km loops; elevation: ~3,600–3,800 m; best time to visit: early morning or late afternoon; facilities: basic vending near parking.
Sustainability Note
Stay on established trails to minimize erosion, avoid removing soil or rocks, and support local vendors to ensure the community benefits from tourism.