DESTINATIONS IN BOLIVIA

Here you can find descriptions of the various regions of Bolivia.

CENTRAL VALLEY

The Bolivian central valley encompasses the provinces of Cochabamba, Chuquisaca und Tarija. In the central valley you will find amazing landscapes, culturally-rich villages and a lot of history. Overall, in the white city of Sucre you will feel and see the colonial atmosphere.
Apart from this, you will find hot springs, dinosaur tracks and many more attractions worth visiting.

The average altitude is 2390 Ms above sea level. The central valley represents close to 13% of the size of the country, or about 144.778 km².

Sucre - Cochabamba - Tarija

This beautiful colonial city is nestled between several hills at an altitude of 2.790 ms and was declared a World Cultural Heritage Site by the UNESCO in 1991 in recognition of its rich history and wealth of colonial architecture. Sucre is also called the city of four names due to its changing history, but has been named in honour of General Sucre who, along with Simón Bolívar, fought for independence from the Spanish rule. Sucre is known as the 'cradle of freedom' as it was here that the declaration of independence in 1809 and the founding of the Republic of Bolivia took place in 1825.

As the inner city of Sucre is relatively small and constitutes a uniform townscape, you can go on a pleasant walk through the lovely narrow streets and admire the well-preserved colonial buildings. Attractive sights are the cathedral and several other churches, as well as the Casa de la Libertad, where in 1809 the declaration of independence was signed. Further places of interest are the Museo de Arte Moderno (Museum of Modern Art), the Museo de la Historia Natural (Natural History Museum) and the convents of Sta. Clara with a small affiliated museum displaying religious paintings and silver works.
Sucre is also a good starting point for numerous excursions into the surrounding area such as a visit of the Sunday market of Tarabuco or the Termas de Talula (thermal springs).

TOP

Cochabamba is known for its mild climate. The town is situated at an altitude of only 2.570 Ms. It is the centre of the same named province where corn, wheat, vegetables and fruits are cultivated. Here you will also find the large coca plantations of the Chapare region. The city of Cochabamba is the fourth largest city in Bolivia and popular for is colourful markets. A visit to the La Cancha market is recommended as well as a visit to the highest Christ statue of the worlds where you will have fantastic views over the town and the region.

Cochabamba also serves as starting point to the Toro Toro National Park.

TOP

Tarija is Bolivia's southernmost town and, with its 1850 M altitude, is still part of the central valley. The town is capital of the same named province, Tarija, which borders Argentina and Paraguay to the South. This region has a year-round mild climate.

The town is known for its richness in culture, its colourful celebrations and culinary specialties. In the surrounding areas you will find a huge traditional wine growing area, which is an important influence of the area. Furthermore, sugarcane and fruit are cultivated here. Tarija belongs to the more modern towns of Bolivia with a charming outgoing population and almost a European lifestyle society. Even though the town has not been discovered by many tourists, it has a lot to offer. The town has various interesting churches, cathedrals and museums. Outside of the town you will find an observatory for stars belonging to the academy of sciences. At night visitors are welcome to have a look at the planets, stars and moon.

TOP