Tarija

With its pleasantly mild climate and easily walkable center, you may find yourself lingering in Tarija longer than expected on your way to or from Argentina or Paraguay. Despite the fact that many Bolivians from bigger cities regard South Central Bolivia as a backwater, Tarija's palm-lined squares, tight streets, laid-back feel and lively restaurants feel just the right amount of cosmopolitan and sophisticated. After an afternoon with a glass of local vino on the central plaza you might consider relocating.

Tarija is also the base for excursions further afield, especially to the vineyards on its doorstep in El Valle de la Concepción and to surrounding villages and nature reserves.

Chapacos – as tarijeños (Tarija locals) are otherwise known – are culturally distinct from other parts of the country.

Explore Tarija

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Top attractions

These are our favorite local haunts, touristy spots, and hidden gems throughout Tarija.

  • House

    El Picacho

    The riverfront hacienda of former Bolivian president Jaime Paz Zamora was designed by Zamora himself as his own version of Gabriel García Márquez' Macondo…

  • Lake

    San Jacinto Reservoir

    This 17-sq-km reservoir, 7km southwest of town, makes for a pleasant afternoon trip, especially on hot days. It gets very busy on weekends with families…

  • Church

    Basílica de San Francisco

    This basilica was founded in 1606 as the Jesuit 'base camp' in Bolivia and is now a national monument. The 16th-century convent library and archives,…

  • Market

    El Mercado de los Campesinos

    This sprawling maze-like scene covers several city blocks with row upon row of vendors selling everything from lemons to electronics. The vegetable and…

  • Viewpoint

    Mirador Loma de San Juan

    This park area above the tree-covered slopes of the Loma de San Juan provides a grand city view and makes it a favorite with smooching students. Climb…

  • Observatory

    Santa Ana Astronomical Observatory

    The country's first observatory, built in collaboration with the then USSR, is around 14km southeast of Tarija. Best to call in advance.

  • Museum

    Museo de Arqueología y Paleontología

    The university-run Archaeology & Paleontology Museum provides a glimpse of the prehistoric creatures and lives of the early peoples that once inhabited…

  • Museum

    Casa Dorada

    With heavy coats of gold and silver paint, the appropriately named Gilded House whose roof is topped with a row of liberating angels looks impressive from…

  • Museum

    Museo Moto Méndez

    San Lorenzo is best known as the home of José Eustaquio ‘Moto’ Méndez, the hero of the Batalla de la Tablada, whose former house is now the Museo Moto…

  • Notable Building

    Castillo de Moisés Navajas

    The exterior of this oddly prominent and deteriorating private mansion is worth a look for its garish blue-and-white-striped extravagance. It’s still…

  • Church

    Iglesia de San Roque

    Architecturally, Tarija’s most unusual church and major landmark is the bright, white 1887 Iglesia de San Roque. Dedicated to the city’s patron saint, the…

  • Church

    Iglesia de San Juan

    The Iglesia de San Juan was constructed in 1632 and it was here that the Spanish signed their surrender to the liberation army after the Batalla de la…

  • Church

    Cathedral

    This rather dull-looking cathedral contains the remains of prominent chapacos, including Tarija’s founder, don Luis de Fuentes y Vargas. It was…

  • Landmark

    Coliseo Luis Parra

    Entertaining basketball, futsal (five-a-side soccer) and volleyball games are played at the Coliseo Luis Parra.

Top experiences

Whether it’s a guided tour of a historic landmark, private tasting of local delicacies, or an off-road adventure — explore the best experiences in Tarija.

  • Activities