3 Best Sights in La Paz, Bolivia

Considered one of the finest examples of Spanish-colonial architecture in South America, the carved facade of the Church of San Francisco is adorned with birds of prey, ghoulish masks, pinecones, and parrots—a combination of Spanish and indigenous motifs created by local artisans in a style known as baroque mestizo. Built on the site of the original 1549 church, the church as seen today was constructed in various phases between 1743 and 1885. Crafts stalls line the church wall; most days you'll find colorful weavings and handmade musical instruments. Although entrance is free, it is only with a guided tour (Bs20) that you can climb the tower to appreciate the expansive views from the top.

This museum, founded by local musician Ernesto Cavour, is the most complete collection of musical instruments in the nation; if you think it's all charangos and quenas, you haven't seen half of what Bolivian music has to offer. Seven rooms feature over 2,000 percussion, string, and wind instruments used in the various regions of Bolivia. There is a special section where children can play ancient instruments made from such materials as wood, bone, turtle shells, and toucan beaks. On Saturdays after closing there is a concert (Bs. 20) led by Cavour and two invited artists.

Not to be missed, the excellent National Museum of Ethnography and Folklore, popularly known simply as MUSEF, provides the most complete review of Bolivia's varied and colorful cultures from the pre-Columbian era to the present. Highlights include the collections of pottery, traditional masks, and textiles that span 3,000 years of history and are well presented in this attractive and modern space.