Things To Do
in Tarija
Tarija is a sun-drenched valley city in southern Bolivia known for its relaxed pace and wine-country charm. The colonial center is lined with pastel buildings, shaded plazas, and a vibrant market life that pulses from morning to night. Surrounded by vineyards, valleys, and the hills, Tarija offers easy access to scenic viewpoints and outdoor adventures.
With friendly locals, affordable eats, and a growing wine scene, Tarija makes for a welcoming taste of southern Bolivian culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the historic center of Tarija, where you can admire the beautiful colonial architecture. Visit the iconic Plaza Principal, where locals gather and vendors sell fresh produce and traditional snacks. Don’t forget to stop by the Museo Nacional de Arqueología to learn about Bolivia's rich history.
After a delicious lunch at a local restaurant serving traditional Bolivian fare, continue exploring the charming streets lined with boutiques and artisan shops. Visit the stunning Catedral de San Bernardo, known for its intricate interior and historical significance. As the afternoon sun sets, take a moment to relax in Parque de la Cultura, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
As night falls, head to one of the local taverns to experience Tarija's lively nightlife. Sample some of the region's famous wines, such as the robust Tannat or the refreshing Sauvignon Blanc. Enjoy live music or traditional folk performances, immersing yourself in the local culture.
Kick off your wine tasting adventure with an early morning drive to the Valle de la Concepción, known for its picturesque vineyards nestled in the foothills. Start at the Bodega Kohlberg, where you can learn about the winemaking process and sample some of their exquisite wines. Enjoy a delightful breakfast paired with local cheese and fresh fruits.
Continue your tour to Bodega Casa Real, where you can stroll through the vineyards and enjoy a guided tasting of their award-winning wines. Participate in a wine blending workshop to create your own unique blend, guided by experienced winemakers. Take a leisurely lunch at a vineyard restaurant, savoring freshly prepared dishes that complement the local wines.
Return to Tarija and unwind at a cozy restaurant, reflecting on your day of wine exploration. Try some traditional dishes such as charquekan, a local specialty, paired with a glass of wine from the region. End your evening with a peaceful walk along the Rio Guadalquivir, enjoying the serene ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-10 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-2 |
| 🧃Bottled water (1.5L) | $1 |
| 🍷Glass of local wine | $3-6 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short) | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Excellent wine country and pleasant climate
- Friendly locals and affordable travel
- Compact city center and walkable historic core
- Limited direct international flights
- Smaller scale nightlife compared to big cities
- Some areas may have limited English speakers
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el mercado?" - Where is the market?
Places to Visit in Tarija
Visit one of these nice places.
The heart of the city with colonial buildings, fountains, and daily life.
Colorful façades and narrow street views ideal for street photography.
A classic religious-adorned site with architectural details.
Ridge roads offering sweeping views of vineyards and the valley.
Food in Tarija
Tarija Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich peanut soup often with vegetables and pork or beef; a Bolivian classic found in Tarija’s eateries.
Must-Try!
Dried, salted beef or llama meat served with corn, potatoes, or fried yuca.
Savory or sweet corn tamales cooked in corn husks; common as street or home-cooked fare.
Potato pie with cheese and vegetables, a comforting staple in many Tarijeño homes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bursting with fresh produce, grains, cheeses, and prepared snacks.
Empanadas, salteñas, and grilled corn offered by vendors near plazas.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Acknowledge people with a handshake or a light kiss on the cheek; address elders with respectful titles.
Social visits are often relaxed on timing; plan to arrive a bit late when invited.
Safety
Tipping in Tarija
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a 5-10% tip is appreciated for good service. Cash is widely used, while many places also accept cards; smaller venues may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with a chance of afternoon showers; stay hydrated and seek shade in the heat.
Mild days with cooler nights; layer up, especially in the evenings; mornings can be crisp.
Tarija at Night
Hiking in Tarija
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short to moderate hikes with sweeping valley views and vineyard scenery.
Popular hiking route offering city-wide panoramas and sunset views.
Airports
How to reach Tarija by plane.
Domestic flights connect Tarija with La Paz and other Bolivian cities; taxi ride into town is about 15-20 minutes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A growing student population in Tarija with affordable living and cultural events.
Longstanding communities in the city center and surrounding valley.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Very popular across Bolivia; local games and bars show matches regularly.
Common outdoor activities on hills and vineyard roads around Tarija.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tarija.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose vegetable stews, fresh salads, grains, legumes, and cheese; ask for meat-free broths and sauces.