Valley of the Moon (Valle de la Luna) Bolivia
Just a few miles outside of the bustling city of La Paz, Bolivia is the Valle de la Luna (Valley of the Moon), a park full of rock-like shires jutting out of the earth. Once you begin your hike on the trail, you’ll understand why you can’t miss Valley of the Moon on your trip to Bolivia. For you have stumbled into a whole new world so exotic you won’t believe your eyes. Monoliths rise up from the Bolivian badlands as sharp, harsh remains from centuries-old wind and weather that have eroded the mountains.
“A valley of unique erosion patterns
lends to a view like nothing on Earth. “
How was Valle de la luna created?
What looks like a blanket of stalagmites canvasing a crater, Valle de la Luna, or “Valley of the Moon,” is all that is left of a mountain formed of clay and sandstone that has been hammered by strong winds and time. Like many mountains surrounding the La Paz area of Bolivia, the formations contain rich variations of minerals, creating colorful compositions throughout the landscape.
The different sides of the mountain are different colors, creating crazy optical illusions on the spires. So be careful where you step, as the trail is sometimes difficult to navigate.
hours of operation
- Open daily from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
- Entry fee costs $15 USD so make sure you bring some cash with you.
- No stores or facilities
Where is the Valley of the moon located?
It’s rumored that astronaut Neil Armstrong, named the Valley of the Moon. The trails are located 10 km southwest of La Paz, near the small town of Mallasa. Some portion of the valley has been preserved, however, housing is steadily popping up on the unstable soil. While trails are provided and clearly marked for hikers, they are narrow and a bit treacherous; come prepared for sharp edges and uneven paths.
How to get to the Valley of the Moon
We took a taxi to get to the Valley of the Moon. This is the fastest way, and it’s only 15 minutes away from the city of La Paz. There are also several bus lines that will take you to Valle de la Luna from La Paz.
If you want a double adventure, take the Teleferico- a public cable car and an exciting alternative if you’re not in a rush. To reach the Valley of the Moon via Teleferico, take the green line to the last station (Irpavi). From there, you can either walk to the 8th Street of Calacoto and catch a bus to the town of Mallasa or take a taxi to get to the entrance.
Why Visit Valle De La Luna in Bolivia
Most people reading this probably never heard about Valle de la Luna in La Paz, Bolivia, before. Since Bolivia is not a big well-known travel destination, you will be one of the rare visitors to explore this place before it becomes overrun by mass tourism. We were the only tourists on the trail and it was so nice to be able to take our time and get a better feel for how the locals live.
You can also visit the Valley of the Moon via an organized tour, which includes transportation, a bilingual guide, and entrance fees. Taking a tour is a good option if you aren’t comfortable making the journey via public transit.
valle de la luna best tours
What To Bring & What To Wear
Cash to pay the entry fee. As per the rest of Bolivia – dress in warm layers. The sun doesn’t reach all the cracks and crevices and the valley can get cold, especially with a crisp breeze.
How cool is this!?! The landscape looks fascinating!
I did miss Valley of the Moon when I was in La Paz & I’m trying to remember how. I think it was probably a case of travel fatigue as I had been quite sick with food poisoning. La Paz was a fascinating city & maybe I’ll be able to go back one day. I hope so!
Oh no! I understand. I also was really sick/had food poisoning when I was in La Paz, so I missed the cable car ride to see the city. I’m still so bummed about it but what can you do right?
I’m definitely adding this to my bucket list! All of your photos are so beautiful, and I love that idea of discovering something that isn’t totally overrun by tourists. I would especially love to do some hiking where we are surrounded by crowds. Thanks so much for sharing – this is awesome! XX Sara
I’m glad you liked it! It was really nice having the place to ourselves. Bolivia in general is not very touristy so the culture is still very much intact and not full of tourist traps.