Things To Do
in Cliza
Cliza is a traditional Bolivian town in the Cochabamba Department, renowned for its vibrant Sunday market and agricultural surroundings. Set in a green valley, it is framed by fields of maize and alfalfa with the Andean horizon in the distance. The town preserves a warm, rural Bolivian culture, with family-run eateries and friendly locals.
Cliza is a convenient base for exploring the Cochabamba region’s countryside, markets, and nearby hills.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at the vibrant town of Cliza and settle into your accommodation. Take a leisurely walk around the town to soak in the local culture and architecture. Enjoy a traditional Bolivian breakfast at a local café, sampling regional delicacies.
Explore the bustling markets of Cliza, where you can find a variety of handicrafts and fresh produce. Meet local artisans and learn about their craft, gathering souvenirs to remember your visit. Stop for lunch at a local eatery offering authentic Bolivian dishes.
As the sun sets, enjoy a picturesque view of the surrounding mountains. Dine at a restaurant that showcases regional flavors, accompanied by live music. After dinner, take a stroll through the town, admiring the illuminated streets and enjoying the cool evening breeze.
Begin your day with a hike in the nearby scenic hills, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the valley. The fresh air and natural beauty will invigorate your spirit as you immerse yourself in the tranquility of the Bolivian landscape. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning vistas.
After a morning of exploration, return to town for lunch and recharge with some local specialties. Spend the afternoon visiting nearby natural attractions, such as waterfalls or unique rock formations that showcase the region's geology. Engage with local guides to learn about the area’s flora and fauna.
Return to Cliza as the sun begins to dip below the horizon, painting the sky in vibrant hues. Enjoy dinner at a cozy local restaurant, and take the opportunity to taste different Bolivian wines or liquors. As the evening unfolds, find a local spot to enjoy folk music or dance, immersing yourself in Cliza’s cultural heritage.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-7 |
| 🚌Local transportation (one-way) | $0.50-1.50 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-2 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $15-25 |
| 🍽️Meal at mid-range restaurant | $7-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic rural Bolivian experience and warm locals
- Vibrant Sunday market with fresh produce and street food
- Affordable food, lodging, and activities
- Limited nightlife and fewer English-speaking services
- Altitude can cause mild discomfort for some visitors
- Smaller selection of international dining and amenities compared to larger cities
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Buenas tardes" - Good afternoon
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hablo un poco de español" - I speak a little Spanish
- "¿Puede recomendar un buen restaurante?" - Can you recommend a good restaurant?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The bill, please
Places to Visit in Cliza
Visit one of these nice places.
Central plaza with colonial touches, bustling market mornings, and an iconic clock tower—great for street photography and golden-hour shots.
Photo opportunities around the parish church and shaded walkways with traditional balconies and colorful textiles hung to dry.
Colorful stalls, produce, and local faces provide dynamic portraits and still-life opportunities.
Panoramic overlooks giving sweeping views of the valley, terraces, and distant Andean peaks—perfect for sunsets.
Food in Cliza
Cliza Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Cochabamba staple of thinly pounded beef, rice, potatoes, and a fried egg, typically served with salsa and LLajua sauce.
Must-Try!
A generous mix of beef, potatoes, peppers, onions, and sometimes a fried egg, best enjoyed at lunch or in the evening at local eateries.
A hearty Andean soup featuring chuño (dried potatoes), potatoes, beans, and meat, perfect for cooler days.
Savory Bolivian empanadas filled with meat, olives, and peas; best enjoyed fresh from market stalls in the morning.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market on Sundays with produce, herbs, and ready-to-eat snacks like salteñas and humintas.
Morning snack spots offering fresh fruit, fresh juice, and quick bites.
Seasonal picks such as mangoes, papayas, bananas, and locally grown greens.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'Buenos días/Tardes' and a handshake; eye contact is appreciated when speaking with locals.
Address older people with politeness and use formal language where appropriate; show respect in family and community spaces.
Ask for permission before photographing people, homes, or private spaces; some locals appreciate a small tip if you take photos of children.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites or rural areas; shoulders and knees should be covered in formal spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Cliza
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated for good service in restaurants and cafes, typically 5-10% if a service charge isn’t included.
Cash (Bolivian bolivianos) is widely used in markets and small eateries; larger establishments may accept cards or mobile payments, but carry cash for street stalls.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with frequent afternoon showers; light clothing, sun protection, and a lightweight rain jacket are recommended. Hydration is essential when exploring outdoor markets and hills.
Pleasant daytime temps with cooler evenings; layer clothing to adapt to temperature changes. Great for long strolls and market photography without the peak heat.
Cool to cold mornings and nights; sunny afternoons are common. Bring a warm layer for early hours and higher elevations.
Mild and increasingly warm; blooming flora in surrounding fields provides colorful scenery and photography opportunities.
Cliza at Night
Hiking in Cliza
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Moderate loop with views over the valley, farm terraces, and distant mountain silhouettes; suitable for a half-day hike.
Gentle to moderate paths along agricultural terraces that reveal traditional farming layouts and scenic photo opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Cliza by plane.
Main international airport serving the region; about 45-60 minutes by road to Cliza. Taxis and pre-arranged shuttles are common options.
Major international gateway in western Bolivia; longer transfer to Cliza but provides additional flight options and connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of Mestizo families and Indigenous Quechua-speaking communities, with strong rural traditions and family-centered social life.
Many residents work in agriculture or run small family businesses related to markets, livestock, and crops.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region; local matches and community leagues are common in nearby towns.
Horse riding and hill-top games are part of rural cultural events and day-to-day outdoor activity for many residents.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cliza.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many vegetarian-friendly options exist via bean stews, corn dishes, and vegetable llajua; ask for dishes without meat or chicharrón and consider pulse-based soups or humintas as substitutes.