Step away from the tourist trail in this rapidly developing city, considered by many local residents to be Bolivia’s food capital.
Occupying a fertile valley in the Andes, Cochabamba offers a look at typical life in Bolivia. While recent years have seen the city experiencing a boom, Cochabamba has traditionally been poorer than the two capitals. As such, it remains an affordable destination for a lovely vacation. Visit Cochabamba and you may find yourself staying longer than expected in the city for its volunteer opportunities, excellent Spanish schools and weather that has led to its nickname as the City of Eternal Spring.
Join locals in embracing the year-round good weather by relaxing in the parks and squares of the city. At its heart you’ll find the Plaza 14 de Septiembre, the site of the town’s founding in 1574. Sit here to watch people go by and admire the Cochabamba Cathedral that overlooks the square. Street vendors abound in this part of the town, offering a chance to sample some of Bolivia’s favorite foods. Try charque, a local delicacy similar to jerky but made from llama.
Stop at one of the city’s many restaurants and bars to mingle with the area’s large student population and booming young professional class. Restaurants range from local fare to European cuisine. Try a glass of chicha, a fermented corn drink that is typical of the Cochabamba region.
The natural beauty that surrounds the city is an ideal playground for hikers, climbers and adventurers. Make the short cable car trip to Cristo de la Concordia, a towering statue of Jesus atop San Pedro Hill, for stunning views of the city. Farther afield you’ll find paragliding and trailheads that lead into the Andes.
Cochabamba is located in central Bolivia, between Sucre and La Paz. Get here by air via the Jórge Wilstermann International Airport or by bus from other parts of the country. Accommodations are plentiful and affordable here and the city’s buses and shared taxis are cheap and easy to access.
