MUSEF Museo de Etnografía y Folklore
Explore Bolivia's rich ethnography and folklore in a stunning 18th-century colonial mansion and modern wing.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
MUSEF Museo de Etnografía y Folklore
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Bolivia's rich ethnography and folklore in a stunning 18th-century colonial mansion and modern wing.
"A must visit museum if in La Paz. Well presented."
📸 Photo Fee Check
An extra fee may apply for photos/videos . Confirm current rates upon arrival.
📱 Translation App Ready
Exhibits are in Spanish; a translation app is helpful .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Colonial Mansion & Modern Wing
Entrance and main halls
Explore artifacts within an 18th-century colonial building and a modern extension.
Diverse Cultural Exhibits
Throughout the museum
Discover a well-curated collection showcasing Bolivia's rich ethnography and folklore.
Special Events & Fairs
Courtyard and auditorium
Catch vibrant cultural fairs, concerts, and ethnology meetings .
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Culture
Navigating the Exhibits
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Photo Fee Check
An extra fee may apply for photos/videos.
Confirm current rates upon arrival.📱 Translation App Ready
Exhibits are in Spanish; a translation app is helpful.
🎟️ Affordable Entry
Foreigner admission is reasonably priced at 35 Bolivianos.
📅 Check Event Schedule
Look for special fairs, concerts, and cultural meetings.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Photo Fee Check
An extra fee may apply for photos/videos.
Confirm current rates upon arrival.📱 Translation App Ready
Exhibits are in Spanish; a translation app is helpful.
🎟️ Affordable Entry
Foreigner admission is reasonably priced at 35 Bolivianos.
📅 Check Event Schedule
Look for special fairs, concerts, and cultural meetings.
♿ Accessibility Note
The museum may not be fully wheelchair-friendly.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
MUSEF is praised for its well-curated exhibits showcasing Bolivian ethnography and folklore within a beautiful colonial building. Visitors appreciate the affordable entry fee and the depth of cultural information provided, though the Spanish-only text can be a barrier for non-speakers. Accessibility may also be a concern for some.
"This whole museum was amazing! Well-curated in seven rooms, and it looks like there are plans to expand. The foreigner admission price is cheap compared to museums in the US. It is now Bs$35, and I didn’t see any upcharge for taking pictures (as others have mentioned.) I spent 90 minutes and learned a lot. There were QR code links for more information at many of the exhibits. The entry is in a colonial mansion, and there is a new, modern addition. Neither side was wheelchair-friendly."
John Enright
"Beautiful and well presented museum in the heart of La Paz. The exhibits are a combination of old and modern pieces and explains the history of the region through visual aids very well. The museum is all in Spanish which makes it difficult for someone who doesn’t speak the language to read the texts, but it’s not entirely necessary to understand what is going on. Downloading a translate app with the camera function could be helpful before visiting!"
Paul Osswald
"Excellent museum with rooms on different aspects of Bolivia culture. Really well set out . All in Spanish so take a translation app. Apparently they had WiFi"
Jill Ford
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
MUSEF is located at Ingavi 916, La Paz, Bolivia.
It's centrally located and accessible by local taxis or public transport within the city. Many visitors find it a convenient stop when exploring the historic center.Street parking can be challenging in La Paz. It's often more convenient to use a taxi or ride-sharing service to reach the museum directly.
From El Alto International Airport (LPB), you can take a taxi or a pre-booked shuttle to La Paz. The museum is in the city center, so inform your driver of the address: Calle Ingavi N° 916.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The admission price for foreigners is 35 Bolivianos. Minors under 18 typically do not pay.
Prices can change, so it's always good to verify upon arrival.While the foreigner price is noted as affordable,
specific discounts for students or locals are not widely advertised. It's best to inquire at the ticket counter.MUSEF is generally open Monday to Friday from 8:45 AM to 12:30 PM and 2:30 PM to 6:30 PM. Saturdays are usually from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM, and Sundays from 8:30 AM to 1:30 PM.
Hours can vary, especially on holidays or during special events.Information on purchasing tickets online is not readily available. It's recommended to purchase tickets directly at the museum's entrance.
Yes, there is an additional fee for taking photos or videos inside the museum.
The exact cost should be confirmed at the entrance.🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend around 90 minutes to two hours exploring the exhibits.
This allows time to appreciate the collections and read the information provided.While children are welcome, the exhibits are primarily in Spanish.
Parents may want to use translation apps or focus on the visual aspects of the displays.According to reviews, the museum may not be fully wheelchair-friendly, with challenges in both the colonial and modern sections.
Some reviews suggest that Wi-Fi may be available at the museum,
which could be helpful for using translation apps or accessing online information.MUSEF houses a diverse collection of artifacts related to Bolivian ethnography and folklore, including traditional clothing, tools, and cultural objects.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum itself does not appear to have a restaurant. However, it is located in the heart of La Paz, with numerous dining options nearby.
Typically, museums have policies against bringing outside food and drinks into exhibition areas. It's best to consume these before entering or after your visit.
The area around MUSEF is bustling with cafes and restaurants offering traditional Bolivian cuisine and international options. Explore the streets nearby for a variety of choices.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is allowed, but there is an extra fee for taking pictures or videos.
Be sure to check the current charges at the entrance.While generally permitted with a fee, flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect the artifacts. Always be mindful of museum staff instructions.
The colonial architecture of the building itself offers beautiful photo opportunities. The diverse exhibits also provide visually interesting subjects.
Yes, phone cameras are generally accepted, subject to the standard photography fee.
MUSEF has been digitizing its collection, including over 130 pieces and 16 full costumes in high-resolution 3D.
This initiative aims to provide global access to Bolivian cultural heritage.For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the museum may not be fully wheelchair accessible, the main exhibition areas are generally navigable. Consider focusing on the visual aspects of the artifacts, such as traditional clothing and crafts, which can capture children's attention. Checking for any special family-friendly events or workshops hosted by MUSEF could also enhance the experience.
💰 Budget Travelers
To maximize savings, consider utilizing public transport or walking if your accommodation is nearby. Bringing a translation app can also save on potential costs for guided tours or translation services. The museum's central location means you can easily combine your visit with exploring other free or low-cost attractions in La Paz.
🤓 Culture Enthusiasts
Engage further by utilizing the QR codes for additional information and consider using a translation app to fully grasp the nuances of the Spanish descriptions. Keep an eye on MUSEF's schedule for special events like ethnology meetings or cultural fairs, which offer opportunities for direct interaction with cultural practitioners and experts.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Bolivian Culture at MUSEF
The museum is divided into several rooms, each focusing on different themes, allowing for a comprehensive understanding of the nation's heritage. While the primary language for exhibit descriptions is Spanish, the visual nature of the displays and the availability of QR codes for further information make it accessible. For those who don't speak Spanish, using a translation app with a camera function can significantly enhance the learning experience.
MUSEF also serves as a hub for cultural exchange, frequently hosting special events, fairs, and academic gatherings. These events provide unique opportunities to engage with local artisans, musicians, and researchers, offering a dynamic and immersive experience beyond the permanent exhibits. The museum's commitment to preserving and promoting Bolivian culture is evident in its ongoing efforts, including the digitization of its collection into high-resolution 3D models.
Practicalities for Your MUSEF Visit
Photography is permitted within the museum, but it comes with an additional fee. It's advisable to confirm the current rates upon your arrival. For those relying on digital tools, some visitors have reported the availability of Wi-Fi, which can be useful for translation apps or accessing online resources related to the exhibits.
Given that the exhibit texts are in Spanish, downloading a translation app with a camera feature beforehand is highly recommended. This will allow you to easily read and understand the detailed information presented. Checking the museum's schedule for special events, such as cultural fairs or concerts, can also enrich your visit, offering a glimpse into contemporary Bolivian cultural life.
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