The best things to do in Cochabamba
Cochabamba is a vibrant city located in the heart of Bolivia. Known for its friendly locals, delicious food, and stunning natural beauty, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this charming city. Whether you’re looking to explore the city’s rich culture and history, or simply relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery, Cochabamba has something to offer everyone. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the top things to do in Cochabamba, including a mix of must-see sights and lesser-known gems.
Explore the City Center
One of the best ways to experience the heart of Cochabamba is to explore its lively city center. Here, you’ll find a mix of colonial-era architecture, bustling street markets, and a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes. Some of the top sights to see in the city center include the main square, Plaza 14 de Septiembre, the Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of the Sea, and the Museum of Indigenous Art.
Visit the Valle Alto
Just outside of the city, you’ll find the beautiful Valle Alto region. Known for its stunning natural beauty, this area is home to a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Visitors can also take a tour of the valley’s many traditional indigenous communities, where you can learn about the local culture and history. Some of the top sights in the Valle Alto include the Tunari National Park, the Tarabuco market, and the Incallajta archaeological site.
Relax in the Hot Springs
One of the most popular things to do in Cochabamba is to relax in the hot springs. The city is home to a variety of hot springs, including the Pojo hot springs, the Jardin de las Aguas hot springs, and the Incallajta hot springs. These natural hot springs are the perfect place to unwind after a long day of exploring the city and the surrounding area.
Try the Local Cuisine
No trip to Cochabamba would be complete without trying some of the delicious local cuisine. The city is known for its delicious traditional dishes such as salteñas, a type of savory pastry filled with meat and vegetables, and silpancho, a dish of rice, potatoes, and beef. There are also many street vendors and small restaurants that serve traditional Bolivian dishes at an affordable price.
Visit the Cochabamba Museum of Anthropology and History
For those interested in learning more about the rich history and culture of Bolivia, the Cochabamba Museum of Anthropology and History is a must-visit. The museum showcases the history of Bolivia from pre-Columbian times to the present day, with a focus on the indigenous cultures of the region. Exhibits include artifacts from the Inca, Tiwanaku, and Aymaran cultures, as well as a variety of traditional textiles and pottery.
Take a Day Trip to the Surrounding Towns
Cochabamba is a great base for exploring the surrounding towns and villages. Some of the top day trips from the city include a visit to the town of Tarata, known for its colonial-era architecture and beautiful churches, or a visit to the town of Sacaba, known for its traditional indigenous markets.
Attend a Traditional Festival
Bolivia is known for its vibrant traditionalfestivals and celebrations, and Cochabamba is no exception. Some of the most popular festivals in the city include the Carnaval de Oruro, which takes place in February and features traditional dances and colorful costumes, and the Virgen del Carmen Festival, which takes place in July and features parades, music, and traditional foods. Attending one of these festivals is a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture and experience the vibrant energy of the city.
Visit the Jesus Statue
One of the most iconic landmarks in Cochabamba is the statue of Jesus Christ, also known as Cristo de la Concordia. Standing at 34 meters tall, it is one of the largest statues of Jesus in the world, and offers breathtaking views of the city from the top. Visitors can take a elevator to the top of the statue for a panoramic view of the city.
Take a Food Tour
Cochabamba is known for its delicious traditional cuisine, and a food tour is a great way to experience the best of the local flavors. Food tours typically include a mix of traditional Bolivian dishes, such as salteñas and silpancho, as well as a visit to local markets and street vendors to sample traditional snacks and drinks.
Visit the Cala Cala Zoo
The Cala Cala Zoo is a must-visit for families and animal lovers. The zoo is home to a variety of animals, including lions, tigers, monkeys, and reptiles. Visitors can also learn about the conservation efforts in place to protect endangered animals in Bolivia.
Take a Coffee Tour
Cochabamba is also known for its high-quality coffee, and a coffee tour is a great way to learn about the history and culture of coffee production in the region. Visitors can tour coffee farms, learn about the different varieties of coffee grown in the area, and sample a variety of freshly brewed coffee.
Visit the Cochabamba Botanical Garden
The Cochabamba Botanical Garden is a beautiful place to spend a relaxing afternoon. The garden features a variety of plants and flowers from around the region, including many exotic species. Visitors can also learn about the different varieties of plants used in traditional medicine in Bolivia.
Take a Day Trip to Incallajta
For those looking to explore the rich history of Bolivia, a day trip to Incallajta is a must-do. Incallajta is an ancient Incan fortress located just outside of Cochabamba, and is considered one of the most important archaeological sites in Bolivia. Visitors can explore the ruins of the fortress, learn about the Incan culture and civilization, and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Go Hiking in the Tunari National Park
The Tunari National Park is located just outside of Cochabamba and offers a variety of hiking trails for visitors to explore. The park is home to a variety of flora and fauna, and visitors can also enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The park also offers activities such as horseback riding and mountain biking.
Visit the Cochabamba Planetarium
The Cochabamba Planetarium is a great place for visitors to learn about the stars and planets. The planetarium offers a variety of shows and lectures on astronomy and space science, as well as interactive exhibits and hands-on activities.
Shop at the Mercado Central
The Mercado Central is one of the most popular places to shop in Cochabamba. The market offers a variety of goods, including traditional textiles, handcrafted pottery, and local food products. The Mercado Central is a great place to pick up souvenirs and gifts to bring back home.
Take a Day Trip to Tarata
The charming town of Tarata is located just outside of Cochabamba and is known for its well-preserved colonial architecture and beautiful churches. Visitors can take a tour of the town and learn about the history and culture of the region. Tarata is also famous for its traditional music and festivals, visitors can experience the local traditions and customs.
Visit the Cochabamba Museum of Contemporary Art
The Cochabamba Museum of Contemporary Art is a great place for art lovers to visit. The museum features a variety of contemporary art from Bolivia and around the world, as well as temporary exhibitions, lectures and workshops.
In conclusion, Cochabamba is a city full of surprises, with a wide range of activities and experiences for visitors to enjoy. From exploring the city’s rich cultural heritage, to relaxing in the hot springs, to immersing yourself in the local culture, Cochabamba has something for everyone. With so much to see and do, this charming city is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit.
