Travel to Bolivia: Cochabamba Tours

Why travel to Cochabamba

Known as the “city of eternal spring”, Cochabamba lies in the heart of Bolivia, halfway between the tropical plains of the east and the high Altiplano. The city’s name is derived from the Quechua khocha pampa, meaning ‘swampy plain.’

Economically, the region around Cochabamba is of vital importance to the country; the Cochabamba valley is a major agricultural area. Thanks to its origin as an agricultural center, Cochabamba also claims to have the best food in Bolivia.

The tropical lowlands of the Chaparé to the east are the world's biggest producer of coca leaves. Coca leaves are used in many indigenous foods and drinks, most famously for coca tea, a drink that helps relieve altitude sickness—we highly recommend sipping some when you arrive in La Paz. Despite the construction boom Cochabamba underwent in the last decades, the city center still retains much of its colonial character.

What to do in Cochabamba

City tour. Visitors to Cochabamba will enjoy strolling though Bolivia’s fourth largest city. The town has a vibrant character, with a mix between lower and upper classes. Start with a visit to Plaza 14 de Septiembre, where you’ll see the main Cathedral, which dates back to 1571. You can also enjoy the nearby colonial churches of Santo Domingo and San Francisco. Don’t pass up the city’s Museo Arqueológico, which houses mummies, pottery, and other artifacts, or the Palacio de Portales, a lovely mansion with sprawling grounds.

Cristo de la Concordia. Be sure to visit this massive statue of Jesus Christ, the tallest in the world until topped by Poland in 2010 and then Peru in 2011. Its total height is 132.7 feet (40.44 meters). Take the scenic cable car ride up Cerro de San Pedro to admire the statue from up close.

Browse the market. If you’re an adventurous soul and don’t mind a bustle, the outdoor Mercado Cancha is worth a visit. It is the largest market in Bolivia, and contains aisle after aisle of produce, electronics, clothing, talismans, hardware, and everything and anything else you can imagine.  

Learn how to fly. Paragliding is very popular in Cochabamba, which is often called Bolivia’s paragliding capital. If you’d like to feel the wind beneath your wings, consider taking a tandem flight or, if you’ll be in town for awhile, taking a paragliding course.

When to visit Cochabamba

City of eternal spring, Cochabamba enjoys a yearlong warm and sunny climate that pleases locals and visitors alike with an average temperature of about 70°F.

Travel Testimonials

Peru For Less hooked us up with all the tools and plans to have an unforgettable experience. We toured Lake Titicaca, which was fascinating, especially the floating islands of Uros. The main part of Bolivia that I highly recommend is the Salt Flats of Uyuni. It's like being on another planet. We spent two days driving on and around the flats in a four runner with a guide and a driver. I couldn't recommend Peru For Less more if you're planning a trip to Peru or Bolivia.

Chris from New Orleans traveled to Bolivia in July 2011

The Atacama desert and the trip to Bolivia were quite an adventure; we can recommend it to those who are healthy, tough and enduring. We would go back there anytime. We thank you very much for all your help in preparing this wonderful and memorable trip for us. Being addicted to South America, we might come back to you at some time in the future!

Hannelore & Joe from Arizona, USA, traveled to Bolivia and South American in December 2010

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Cochabamba Hotels

There are no 5-star hotels in Cochabamba. The best option in town is the colonial style Hotel Aranjuez. Another good accommodation option is the Gran Hotel Cochabamba with its beautiful garden. There are good quality 3- and 4-star accommodations. Ask your travel advisor for more information.