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Tucked away in Bolivia’s southern lowlands, the city of Tarija is a beautiful and tranquil destination known for its sunny climate, fertile valleys, and vibrant wine culture. Often overlooked by tourists, Tarija offers a unique blend of colonial charm, outdoor adventures, and cultural richness. Its laidback atmosphere makes it a perfect destination for those seeking a slower pace, whether you’re exploring the city’s colonial streets, tasting Bolivian wines, or hiking through the surrounding mountains. This blog takes an in-depth look at the top attractions and cultural events in Tarija, as well as highlights within an hour’s drive from the city.
At the heart of Tarija is Plaza Luis de Fuentes, the city’s main square. This charming plaza is lined
with shady trees, colorful gardens, and colonial-style buildings. It’s the perfect place to start your
exploration of the city, offering a peaceful spot to relax and observe local life. Around the plaza,
you’ll find several cafés and restaurants where you can enjoy a coffee or a traditional meal while
soaking up the atmosphere.
One of Tarija’s most iconic landmarks is the Casa Dorada, a beautiful 19th-century mansion that
reflects the city’s aristocratic past. Its elaborate gold-trimmed facade and ornate interiors are a
testament to the wealth and influence of the city’s upper class during Bolivia’s silver mining boom.
Today, the mansion houses a cultural center and museum, where visitors can explore exhibits on
Tarija’s history, art, and architecture.
Tarija is often referred to as the “wine capital” of Bolivia, and one of the city’s main draws is its
flourishing wine industry. The Tarija Wine Route takes visitors on a journey through the vineyards
and wineries that dot the surrounding valleys. Tarija’s high-altitude vineyards, some of the highest in
the world, produce unique wines, particularly Tannat, a bold red variety. Many wineries offer tours
and tastings, where you can learn about the wine-making process and sample both wines and
singani, Bolivia’s national spirit made from Muscat grapes.
The Catedral de San Bernardo, located near Plaza Luis de Fuentes, is Tarija’s main cathedral and a
significant religious site. Built in the 19th century, the cathedral boasts a neoclassical design with a
striking bell tower and stained glass windows. The cathedral is an important center of religious
activity in Tarija and hosts many of the city’s religious festivals and processions throughout the year.
For history and archaeology enthusiasts, the Museo Paleontológico y Arqueológico offers a
fascinating glimpse into the prehistoric and indigenous past of the Tarija region. The museum
houses a collection of fossils, including those of giant prehistoric animals that once roamed the
area, as well as artifacts from pre-Columbian civilizations. It’s a small but informative museum that
provides insight into the region’s ancient history.
One of Tarija’s most important cultural events is the Fiesta de San Roque, held in August. This
religious festival honors Saint Roch, the city’s patron saint, and is celebrated with a series of
processions, traditional dances, and music. The highlight of the festival is the parade of the
Chunchos, dancers dressed in colorful costumes and feathered headdresses who march through
the streets to the rhythm of drums and flutes. The festival reflects the deep-rooted Catholic
traditions of the region and is a vibrant celebration of Tarija’s cultural heritage.
Every March, Tarija celebrates the Vendimia Chapaca, a harvest festival dedicated to the region’s
wine and grape production. The festival is held in honor of the grape harvest and includes wine
tastings, traditional music, dancing, and a parade of decorated floats. Visitors can enjoy sampling
local wines, singani, and regional foods, while also witnessing traditional dances and
performances that showcase the region’s agricultural roots. The Vendimia Chapaca is a joyous
celebration of the region’s identity as Bolivia’s premier wine region.
Like many cities in Bolivia, Tarija celebrates Semana Santa (Holy Week) with solemn processions,
church services, and reenactments of the Passion of Christ. The city’s churches, particularly the
Catedral de San Bernardo, host special religious events leading up to Easter, and the streets are
lined with worshippers carrying candles and flowers. The event is a reflection of Tarija’s deeply
religious community and offers visitors a chance to experience the city’s spiritual traditions.
In addition to the Vendimia Chapaca, Tarija hosts the Festival Internacional del Vino y Singani, an
annual event dedicated to celebrating the region’s winemaking heritage. Held in September, this
festival attracts wine enthusiasts from across Bolivia and beyond, offering an opportunity to taste
the best wines and singani from Tarija’s vineyards. The event also includes workshops, lectures,
and wine competitions, making it a must-attend for anyone interested in Bolivian wine culture.
Located just 30 minutes from Tarija, the Cañón de Angostura is a stunning natural canyon carved
by the Rio Guadalquivir. The canyon is a popular spot for outdoor activities such as hiking, rock
climbing, and swimming in the river’s natural pools. The area offers breathtaking views of the
surrounding landscape, with towering cliffs and lush vegetation creating a serene and picturesque
setting. It’s an ideal destination for those looking to experience the natural beauty of Tarija’s
countryside.
Just an hour’s drive from the city, the Reserva Biológica de Sama is a protected area that
encompasses a diverse range of ecosystems, from dry valleys to high-altitude wetlands. The
reserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including Andean condors, vicuñas, and llamas, as well as
rare plant species. Visitors can explore the reserve’s hiking trails, which offer stunning views of the
surrounding mountains and valleys. The Laguna de Tajzara, located within the reserve, is a
beautiful high-altitude lake that attracts migratory birds, making it a great spot for birdwatching.
A charming colonial town located just 20 kilometers from Tarija, San Lorenzo is known for its wellpreserved colonial architecture and peaceful atmosphere. The town is famous for being the
birthplace of Eustaquio “Moto” Méndez, a key figure in Bolivia’s fight for independence. Visitors
can explore the Casa de Moto Méndez, a museum dedicated to the life and legacy of the local
hero, as well as wander the town’s cobblestone streets and visit its colonial-era churches. San
Lorenzo is also known for its traditional crafts and delicious local cuisine, making it a great
destination for a leisurely day trip.
Located about 45 minutes from Tarija, the Laguna de los Sauces is a peaceful lake surrounded by
willow trees and rolling hills. It’s a popular spot for picnicking, fishing, and boating, offering a
relaxing escape from the city. The area around the lake is dotted with small restaurants where
visitors can enjoy fresh fish and traditional Tarijeño dishes while taking in the serene views.
Tarija’s cuisine is heavily influenced by the region’s agricultural abundance, and visitors will find a
variety of traditional dishes that highlight fresh, local ingredients. Be sure to try some of these
regional specialties:
• Sajta de Pollo: A traditional Bolivian dish made with chicken, potatoes, and a spicy peanut
sauce, often served with rice and salad.
• Cangrejitos: A popular snack in Tarija, cangrejitos are small fried pastries filled with a
mixture of meat, vegetables, and spices.
• Arroz con Queso: A comforting dish made with rice and cheese, often served as a side with
grilled meats or fish.
• Humintas: Similar to tamales, humintas are made with corn dough and cheese, wrapped in
corn husks, and steamed or baked.
• Vino de Tarija: No visit to Tarija would be complete without sampling the local wine,
particularly the region’s famous Tannat and Malbec varieties.
Tarija’s markets, restaurants, and wineries offer endless opportunities to taste the best of the
region’s culinary traditions.
Tarija is a hidden gem that combines Bolivia’s best-kept secrets: stunning natural beauty, a rich
cultural heritage, and a thriving wine industry. Whether you’re strolling through the colonial streets
of the city, attending a vibrant local festival, or exploring the surrounding valleys and mountains,
Tarija offers a unique and unforgettable experience. With its warm climate, welcoming locals, and
abundance of attractions both in the city and within an hour’s drive, Tarija is a must-visit destination
for travelers seeking a quieter, more authentic side of Bolivia.