Your stay — Bash n' Crash Backpackers Hostel
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The Property — Bash n' Crash Backpackers Hostel
Bash n' Crash Backpackers Hostel is a lively, no-frills hostel in La Paz, Bolivia, where the eclectic decor and vibrant atmosphere make it a favourite among young travellers. The hostel's bohemian vibe is reflected in its colourful mural-covered walls and lively common areas, perfect for meeting fellow adventurers. It's a social hub, with a 24-hour kitchen and regular events, ideal for those looking for a fun, laid-back experience. The staff are warm and welcoming, making it a great choice for solo travellers and backpackers on a budget.
Chronicles of La Paz
La Paz, Bolivia's administrative capital, was founded in 1548 by Spanish conquistador Alonso de Mendoza, and was originally a small settlement near the Tiwanaku ruins. Over the centuries, the city's architecture evolved, with the Spanish colonial style giving way to a mix of modern and traditional buildings. In recent years, La Paz has become a hub for cultural and artistic expression, with a thriving street art scene and a vibrant nightlife. The city's rich history and cultural identity are palpable, with many museums, galleries and historical landmarks to explore. Today, La Paz is a melting pot of indigenous and European influences, with a unique and captivating cultural identity.
Best Time to Visit
Full La Paz guide →Best months
The best months to visit La Paz are October and November, when the weather is mild and sunny, with average highs around 18°C (64°F), and the crowds are smaller compared to the peak season. The shoulder season is also a great time to enjoy the city's festivals and events, such as the Fiesta de la Vendimia in October.
Peak / festival surge
January is the peak month for tourism in La Paz, with the peak season running from December to February. The city hosts the Carnaval de Oruro, a UNESCO-recognised festival, which attracts large crowds and drives up hotel prices. Prices for accommodation and tourist services increase significantly during this time, making it a more expensive time to visit.
Budget shoulder season
April and May are great budget months to visit La Paz, with mild weather and smaller crowds. Prices for accommodation and tourist services are lower, making it an excellent time for budget-conscious travellers.
Weather & packing
La Paz is known for its unpredictable weather, with sudden changes in temperature and precipitation. Pack layers for your visit, with a waterproof jacket and warm sweaters for the cooler mornings and evenings.
Live City Briefing — La Paz
- The new La Paz cable car system has been extended to the Mirador Killi Killi, offering stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
- The Museo de Etnografía y Folklore has reopened after a major renovation, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Bolivia's indigenous communities.
- The city's main bus station has been renovated, making it easier to navigate and access the city's various neighbourhoods.
Your Perfect Room
✨ AI-generated · Jul 2026Before you check in to Bash n' Crash Backpackers Hostel, here's what to know about choosing the right room.
Best rooms to request
Request rooms on the higher floors (above 5th floor) to minimize street noise from Ingavi Street. These rooms tend to be quieter due to being farther away from the main road.
Rooms to avoid
Avoid rooms near the lift (elevator), as the hostel is a 3-star property and the lift might be a older model, potentially making it noisier. Additionally, rooms near the service entrance may experience noise from staff and deliveries.
Best views
Unfortunately, the address on Ingavi, La Paz, doesn't indicate a view worth requesting, as the area is likely to be densely populated and surrounded by buildings.
Quietest floors
Floors 6-10 are likely to be relatively quiet, as they are higher up and away from the main road.
🔊 Noise notes
Be prepared for some street noise from Ingavi Street, which is a main road in La Paz. Additionally, the hostel's concrete floors may amplify noise from above and below.
Insider tips
Arrive early for check-in to secure a spot in the hostel's parking lot, as spaces are limited and Ingavi Street can be congested. Request a room with a fan instead of air conditioning, as the latter might not be the most efficient or effective in La Paz's high altitude and temperate climate.
- Call the hotel directly 24–48 hours before arrival and ask for a specific room type
- Add a note in your booking comments field
- Ask at check-in — front desk staff can often accommodate if a room is available
Hotel Facilities — Bash n' Crash Backpackers Hostel
free, 100 Mbps, no login constraints
serves all floors, one staircase-only section in historic wing
no complimentary digital newsstand, physical papers available in lobby
12:00, 10:00 for early arrivals, BOB 50 late check-out fee until 14:00
available, BOB 10 per bag per day
step-free access, wheelchair entries, limited elevator capacity for lifts
on-site parking BOB 20 per night, nearest public car park BOB 15 per hour, no EV charging
Fees, Taxes & Deposits
City / tourist tax: BOB 12 per person per night
Deposit & card hold: Advance deposit BOB 100, incidental card hold BOB 200
Faith & Dietary Nearby
- Church: La Iglesia de Jesucristo de los Santos de los Últimos Días (139 m · ~2 min walk)
- Church: La Casa de Dios Puerta del Cielo (451 m · ~6 min walk)
- Church: Templo de La Recoleta (479 m · ~6 min walk)
- Church: Pare de Sufrir (696 m · ~9 min walk)
Local Lifestyle & Recreation
Artensanias 147 — 516 m · ~6 min walk
Tambo Quirquincho — 189 m · ~2 min walk
Centro Sinfónico Nacional — 688 m · ~9 min walk
5-Minute Radius Essentials
Cajero BCP — 124 m · ~2 min walk
Farmacias Bolivia — 54 m · ~1 min walk
Almacen Don Franz — 252 m · ~3 min walk
Trufi 408 San Pedro - Ciudad Satélite — 1.4 km · ~18 min walk
Money & Currency
Get a travel card →Boliviano, BOB
You can change currency at banks, casas de cambio or money changers in the markets, but be aware that rates at the El Alto International Airport may be unfavorable. Some hotels and tour operators may also exchange money, but with less favorable rates.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in La Paz, especially in tourist areas, but cash is still king, especially for small purchases. Contactless payments are not common, but mobile payments like E-Money and Payza are becoming more popular.
Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated for good service. For restaurants and bars, 5-10% is sufficient, while for taxi drivers, rounding up the fare is acceptable.
Eat, Shop & Travel on a Budget
Cheap car hire →A traditional Bolivian coffee costs around 15-20 BOB (around $2.20-$2.90 USD) from street vendors or small cafes.
A plate of solterito (a Bolivian salad) at a market stall costs around 20-30 BOB ($2.90-$4.35 USD).
A traditional Bolivian dinner of papas rellenas (stuffed potatoes) at a local restaurant costs around 40-60 BOB ($5.80-$8.70 USD).
Street food is abundant in the Witches' Market and the Mercado de San Francisco. You can find affordable options like grilled meats, fruits, and snacks.
Local supermarkets like Tiko and Hiperbol are common in La Paz, offering a range of affordable products.
The Feria 16 de Julio market offers a wide range of affordable clothing and textiles.
The cheapest way to get around La Paz is by using the city's colectivos (shared taxis), which cost around 2-3 BOB ($0.30-$0.45 USD) per ride. A day pass for the city's bus system costs around 10 BOB ($1.45 USD).
Bargain when shopping at markets and from street vendors.Use the city's bus system or colectivos instead of taxis for transportation.Eat at local markets or street stalls for affordable and authentic meals.
Emergency Contacts
La PazLa Paz, Bolivia - Police: 110, Ambulance: 911, Fire: 119. Tourist Police (POLITUR): +591-2-2110122. Main Tourist Information: +591-2-2118633. Always keep hotel contact information available.
💡 Save these numbers in your phone. In life-threatening emergencies, call immediately.
Where to Eat
💡 Booking tip: For popular restaurants in La Paz, book at least a week ahead — especially for weekend evenings and during festival season.
Your arrival at Bash n' Crash Backpackers Hostel
🕒 Check-in is from . Arriving earlier? Most hotels store luggage free — just ask at reception.
🧭 First things nearby: cash · Cajero BCP — 124 m · ~2 min walk — pharmacy · Farmacias Bolivia — 54 m · ~1 min walk
🚐 Pre-book an airport transfer →Getting Around
La Paz city center to suburbs → Hotel Madrid area & surrounding neighborhoods
💡 Iconic red, yellow, green, blue lines offer scenic views. Best for local transit around La Paz. Not direct from airport but efficient for city exploration.
Hotel Madrid, Centro, La Paz → Local destinations within La Paz
💡 Safest local transit option. App-based pricing prevents overcharging. Download Uber or use local Whatsapp taxi services for neighborhood navigation.
El Alto International Airport (LPB) → Hotel Madrid, Centro, La Paz
💡 Use radio taxis from official airport counter, not street taxis. Negotiate price before boarding or use Uber/Whatsapp services for fixed rates.
El Alto International Airport (LPB) → Hotel Madrid, Centro, La Paz
💡 Most budget-friendly option. Shared minibus stops at major hotels. Allow extra time due to multiple drop-offs.
About La Paz
Wikipedia ↗
La Paz (Spanish: [la ˈpas] ; lit. 'peace'), officially Nuestra Señora de La Paz is the seat of government of Bolivia. With 755,732 residents as of 2024, it is the third-most populous city in Bolivia. Its metropolitan area, which includes the neighboring city of El Alto, and other smaller towns, is t...
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best rooms at Bash n' Crash Backpackers Hostel?
Request rooms on the higher floors (above 5th floor) to minimize street noise from Ingavi Street. These rooms tend to be quieter due to being farther away from the main road.
Which rooms should I avoid at Bash n' Crash Backpackers Hostel?
Avoid rooms near the lift (elevator), as the hostel is a 3-star property and the lift might be a older model, potentially making it noisier. Additionally, rooms near the service entrance may experience noise from staff and deliveries.
Is Bash n' Crash Backpackers Hostel noisy?
Be prepared for some street noise from Ingavi Street, which is a main road in La Paz. Additionally, the hostel's concrete floors may amplify noise from above and below.
Which rooms have the best views at Bash n' Crash Backpackers Hostel?
Unfortunately, the address on Ingavi, La Paz, doesn't indicate a view worth requesting, as the area is likely to be densely populated and surrounded by buildings.
What are insider tips for staying at Bash n' Crash Backpackers Hostel?
Arrive early for check-in to secure a spot in the hostel's parking lot, as spaces are limited and Ingavi Street can be congested. Request a room with a fan instead of air conditioning, as the latter might not be the most efficient or effective in La Paz's high altitude and temperate climate.
What time is check-in at Bash n' Crash Backpackers Hostel?
Check-in at Bash n' Crash Backpackers Hostel is from null. Check-out is by null.
Does Bash n' Crash Backpackers Hostel have Wi-Fi?
free, 100 Mbps, no login constraints
Is there a city or tourist tax at Bash n' Crash Backpackers Hostel?
BOB 12 per person per night
Where can I eat cheaply near Bash n' Crash Backpackers Hostel?
A plate of solterito (a Bolivian salad) at a market stall costs around 20-30 BOB ($2.90-$4.35 USD).
What is the cheapest way to get around from Bash n' Crash Backpackers Hostel?
The cheapest way to get around La Paz is by using the city's colectivos (shared taxis), which cost around 2-3 BOB ($0.30-$0.45 USD) per ride. A day pass for the city's bus system costs around 10 BOB ($1.45 USD).
When is the best time to visit La Paz?
The best months to visit La Paz are October and November, when the weather is mild and sunny, with average highs around 18°C (64°F), and the crowds are smaller compared to the peak season. The shoulder season is also a great time to enjoy the city's festivals and events, such as the Fiesta de la Vendimia in October.
Top Attractions in La Paz
💡 Go early morning (around 9am) to see stallholders setting up and avoid the midday crowds. Don't touch the fetuses unless invited.
💡 Check the changing of the guard at the palace, usually at 10am and 4pm. Avoid sitting on the grass if you value clean trousers.
💡 The museum is small—allow 45 minutes max. The guided tour in Spanish is worth it if you understand basic Spanish.
💡 Buy a single ticket for the best photo stop at the intermediate station. Ride at 5pm for sunset light over Illimani mountain.
💡 Take the 'Chasquipampa' micro bus from Plaza San Francisco (cheap and direct). Go late afternoon for cooler temperatures and better light. Entry under £2.