Alright, let me tell you about my trip through La Paz airport, El Alto they call it. Heard stories about the altitude, but you never really get it until you’re there.
Getting Ready, Sort Of
So, before I even left, folks were telling me, “Take it easy in La Paz, the altitude’s no joke.” I nodded, yeah yeah, altitude. Packed my bags, got my flight sorted. Didn’t think too much more on it, honestly. Figured I’d just walk slow, drink water, you know?
The Landing and First Steps
Flying in was pretty standard, maybe the landing felt a bit longer, hard to say. But the moment those doors opened and I walked out onto the jet bridge… woah. It wasn’t like hitting a wall, more like a gradual squeeze. My first thought was just, “Okay, air feels thin.” Walked towards the terminal building. Even that short walk felt… different. Like my legs were heavier, my lungs weren’t pulling in enough juice.
Inside the terminal, it really started to sink in. Just standing there, I felt a bit dizzy. Saw other people, some looked fine, others were definitely pale and moving slow like me. It was quiet, almost like everyone was concentrating on just breathing.
Going Through the Motions
Got to immigration. The line wasn’t huge, but it felt like it took ages. Every few steps, I had to consciously take deeper breaths. The officer did his thing, stamped my passport. Didn’t say much, probably used to seeing tourists looking like they’ve run a race.
Then it was off to baggage claim. Found my suitcase eventually. Lifting it onto the cart felt like a major effort. Seriously, tasks that are usually nothing suddenly required focus. I just kept telling myself, “Slow and steady.”
Dealing with Soroche
This altitude sickness thing, “soroche,” is real. I definitely felt it. Not terrible, like some people get, but enough to make me uncomfortable. Headache started creeping in, felt a bit nauseous, definitely breathless.
- Walked super slowly everywhere.
- Drank tons of water.
- Avoided any big meals right away.
Everyone talks about coca tea. Found a little cafe place after customs, figured I’d give it a shot. They give you the leaves and hot water. Tasted earthy, like grass. Did it help? Hard to tell immediately, maybe psychologically? But I kept sipping on it for the next few days while I was adjusting.
Leaving the Airport
Finally got outside to find a taxi. Even negotiating the fare felt tiring. The drive down into La Paz city itself was wild, visually stunning but also a relief as we descended slightly, though the city is still incredibly high.
Looking Back
So, yeah, La Paz airport. It’s an experience alright. Not your typical fly-in-fly-out. The airport itself is functional, nothing fancy, but the sheer fact of operating at that height makes it memorable. It forces you to slow down immediately. My biggest takeaway? Respect the altitude. Don’t try to be a hero on day one. Just land, breathe, move slow, drink water (and maybe try the coca tea). It’s a unique welcome to a unique place.
