Arriving at the world's highest international airport with children requires more planning than a typical family transfer. The altitude, the descent into La Paz, and the limited infrastructure all matter. Here is what families need to know.
Altitude and children
This is the biggest concern. At 4,061 meters, the air has about 60% of the oxygen at sea level. Children — especially those under 5 — may experience headache, nausea, irritability, and fatigue. Some children handle it well; others struggle.
Practical steps: keep children hydrated from the moment you land. Move slowly through the airport. Do not carry them if you can avoid it (you will be breathless too). Coca tea is safe for older children and helps with symptoms. If your child has any respiratory conditions, consult your pediatrician before traveling to La Paz.
The good news is that La Paz city center sits about 400 meters lower than the airport, so symptoms often improve during the descent.
The airport with children
LPB is a small, basic terminal. There is no play area, no family lounge, and limited food options. Restrooms are available but not well-equipped for babies or toddlers. Bring snacks, water, and entertainment for the time between landing and reaching your car.
Luggage collection can be slow. Keep children occupied while you wait — the terminal is not stimulating.
Child seats
Child seats are not standard in Bolivian taxis. Finding one on the spot at El Alto airport is effectively impossible. Your options are to bring your own car seat (recommended if you have a young child) or to request one from a private transfer service when booking.
Availability through transfer services is limited. Confirm explicitly that they have the correct size seat and that it will be installed when you arrive. Do not assume.
The descent into La Paz
The road from El Alto down to La Paz involves steep switchbacks and can be unsettling for children prone to car sickness. The drive takes 30-60 minutes depending on traffic. Having a reliable driver in a well-maintained vehicle with working seatbelts matters.
For children who get carsick, seat them where they can see out the front window if possible, crack a window for fresh air, and have bags ready just in case. The altitude can make nausea worse.
Vehicle choice
A sedan works for a family of three or four with moderate luggage. For larger families or heavy luggage (including car seats and strollers), request a minivan or SUV. The roads in La Paz are steep and narrow — a slightly larger vehicle gives everyone more comfort on the winding descent.
Practical family tips
Have Bolivianos in cash before you arrive — ATMs at the airport are unreliable. Download offline maps. Save your hotel's phone number somewhere accessible without internet. Pack altitude medication if your doctor recommended it. Dress in layers — El Alto is cold (even in summer), but La Paz is warmer.
The family recommendation
Book a private transfer before you fly. Confirm child seat availability. Request a vehicle with enough space. The combination of altitude, steep roads, and limited options at the airport makes this one of the airports where pre-booking is not a luxury — it is the responsible family choice. Your children will be tired and possibly unwell from altitude. The last thing you want is to stand in a parking lot negotiating with taxi drivers while they feel miserable.