Exploring Tarija, Bolivia: Activities And Adventures

Tarija, Bolivia is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy good wine, food, and a pleasant climate. It is one of the least visited cities in Bolivia, with a mild climate and a walkable colonial centre full of shops, cafes, and restaurants. It is also Bolivia's premier grape-growing region, with affordable, high-quality wine. Tarija has several museums, churches, and tours of nearby canyons and Inca trails. The city also boasts a laid-back atmosphere, friendly locals, and a rich history. Here are some of the top attractions and things to do in Tarija, Bolivia.

Visit the Museum of Paleontology and Archaeology of Tarija

The Museum of Paleontology and Archaeology of Tarija is a must-see attraction in the city. Located just a block away from the central Plaza Luis de Fuentes, the museum houses an extensive collection of fossils and specimens dating back millions of years. The two-story building, constructed in 1941, has a fascinating history and was used for various purposes before becoming a museum in 1964.

The first floor of the museum, dedicated to paleontology, showcases an impressive array of fossils, including well-preserved animal remains from prehistoric creatures that once roamed the Tarija region. Visitors can marvel at the skeletons of a 9-foot giant sloth (Megatherium americanum), a mammoth, and a giant armadillo-like creature called a glyptodon. The fossils provide a glimpse into the ancient past when enormous mammals inhabited the area.

Upstairs, the focus shifts to archaeology, with exhibits exploring the history, geology, and anthropology of early human settlements in Tarija. Here, you will find displays of ancient household items, weapons, ceramics, and prehistoric hunting tools, offering insight into the daily lives and cultural practices of these early peoples. One notable exhibit includes the mummified remains of a man from the Pampagrande area, who shrunk naturally to just 35cm in length.

The building's façade is adorned with sculpted trilobites and brachiopods, adding to its unique character. The museum is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., and on Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. There is no admission fee, but visitors are required to register upon entry.

A visit to the Museum of Paleontology and Archaeology of Tarija is an enriching experience, providing valuable insights into the prehistoric and ancient history of the region. It is a place where science and history come alive, offering a deeper understanding of the world that existed long before our time.

Explore the Sama Biological Reserve

The Sama Biological Reserve, also known as the Sama Cordillera Biological Reserve, is a protected area in Bolivia, located about 70 to 90 km from the city of Tarija. The reserve is easily accessible by road and makes for a great day trip from the city. With its natural and archaeological significance, the Sama Biological Reserve is a must-visit destination when exploring Tarija, Bolivia. Here are some essential details and things to do when visiting this incredible nature reserve:

Explore the Natural Environment

The Sama Biological Reserve boasts a diverse natural environment, including sand dunes, lagoons, and an array of flora and fauna. The reserve is home to several species of birds, including migratory birds and endangered flamingo species. Other wildlife in the area includes pumas, llamas, vicuñas, alpacas, Andean deer, Andean foxes, and viscachas. The most common forest species in the area are the Queñua tree, Kiswara tree, alder, and yareta, which are well-adapted to the cold, high altitude, and dry climate of the reserve.

Discover the Archaeological Treasures

The Sama Biological Reserve is rich in archaeological treasures, showcasing the millennial presence of indigenous people in the area. Explore ruins, mineral deposits, rock carvings, cemeteries, forts, and agricultural constructions from the Inca and pre-Inca periods. These archaeological elements provide valuable insights into the history and culture of ancient civilisations.

Hike the Inca Trail

For an immersive cultural experience, hike the Inca Way, which was once populated by the pre-Inca Chichas people (Aymara tribes). This trail takes you through rocky paths, lush valleys, and peaceful villages, offering breathtaking views of the Tarija Valley and the chance to observe ancient rock engravings. The Inca Way can be hiked in one or two days, depending on your preference and hiking experience.

Visit the Tajzara Lagoon

Within the Sama Reserve lies the beautiful Tajzara Lagoon, surrounded by sand dunes and home to a variety of bird species. Hiking trails around the lagoon provide opportunities for birdwatching and taking in the stunning landscapes.

Practical Information

The Sama Biological Reserve covers an area of 108,500 hectares, with altitudes ranging from 1800 to 4700 meters above sea level. The climate is cold, with temperatures dropping to -20°C in winter. The reserve is home to approximately 4000 residents from 11 communities, including Aymara and Quechua indigenous groups.

Tour the vineyards and wineries

There are several vineyards and wineries in Tarija, Bolivia, that are worth visiting. Here is a detailed guide to help you plan your tour:

Bodega Aranjuez 1976

Bodega Aranjuez is one of the most well-known wineries in Tarija and has won several awards for its wines. It is a large, commercial winery that is still run as a family business. The winery offers informative and well-organized tours in English and Spanish, which include visits to the barrel and bottling areas, the vineyards, and a beautiful tasting room overlooking the vineyards. The tour also includes wine tastings with cheese and meat pairings. Bodega Aranjuez is easily accessible by public bus, and they also provide transportation between the two locations.

Bodega Campos de Solana

Campos de Solana is another highly regarded winery in Tarija, known for its modern and technology-forward practices. It has received recognition for its wines, including a second-place finish in a Tannat competition. The winery offers a wonderful outdoor space, a small gift shop, and a tasting room. It is located about 20 minutes by car from Tarija.

Casa Vinicola El Potro

Casa Vinicola El Potro is a winery in Tarija that offers a unique and comfortable experience. They have a very nice tasting room and provide a special flavor of wine. It is recommended to check their Facebook page for updates and promotions.

Barbacana Vinos Boutique

Barbacana Vinos Boutique is another excellent option for wine enthusiasts. They offer a range of wines and a pleasant tasting experience.

Bodegas Magnus SRL

Bodegas Magnus SRL is Bolivia's largest Singani distillery, producing the country's national spirit, Singani. Visitors can enjoy free guided tours to learn about the distillation process and appreciate the beautiful hillside vineyards. The distillery has a boutique and a tasting room available for visitors.

Singani Casa Real

While not a winery, Singani Casa Real is worth a visit as Bolivia's largest producer of Singani. It is a distillery located just outside of Tarija, boasting beautiful architecture and a modern, spotless interior. They offer informative tours in English and Spanish, including a tasting of Singani straight and in cocktails.

Bodega Cañón Escondido

Bodega Cañón Escondido is a hip and modern winery located about 30 minutes outside of Tarija. It is operated by young individuals who have spent time in the US, so English is spoken here. They specialize in adaptations of the Tannat grape and offer stunning views from their tasting area.

Khulmann Bodegas y Viñedos

Khulmann Bodegas y Viñedos is a long-standing winery, claiming to have been around since 1930. They produce wine and Singani under various labels and are known for their sparkling wine. The winery is located just outside of Tarija and offers tastings in a beautiful tasting room with gorgeous views.

Bodega Juan Diablo

Bodega Juan Diablo is a small winery located close to Tarija, offering typical Bolivian wines, including Tannat. One of the highlights of this winery is its underground cellar, where you can taste wine in a unique setting.

Bodega Masía Guerrero

Bodega Masía Guerrero is a winery located in the town of Uriondo, in the Valle de la Concepción. They specialize in very sweet wines that are popular among Bolivians. The tasting room is tourist-friendly, with English-speaking staff, and they also offer grape juice for those who don't want to drink wine.

When planning your tour, keep in mind that some wineries require advance booking, and transportation or a driver is recommended for reaching most of the vineyards. Also, while some wineries accept credit cards, it is a good idea to have some cash on hand for purchases.

Relax in Plaza Luis de Fuentes

If you're looking to relax in Plaza Luis de Fuentes, you've chosen the perfect spot. This beautiful plaza is located in the heart of Tarija, surrounded by stunning colonial architecture, vibrant flowers, and lush trees. Here are some tips to make the most of your time in this idyllic setting:

Immerse yourself in nature: Take a leisurely stroll and admire the diverse flora, including vibrant flowers and towering trees. The plaza is known for its natural beauty, offering a unique encounter with the lush surroundings of Tarija.

Unwind on a bench: Find a quiet bench and relax while soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. Watch the locals and tourists go about their day, and don't be surprised if you find playful pigeons joining you, adding a touch of whimsical charm to your day.

Discover historical monuments: As you wander, you'll come across historical monuments honouring notable figures. The statues of Luis de Fuentes y Vargas, the founder of Tarija, and Aniceto Arce, a former president of Bolivia, stand proudly within the plaza. These monuments provide a glimpse into the city's rich history.

Indulge in people-watching: Plaza Luis de Fuentes is a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists alike. Sit back and observe the bustling activities around you, from families enjoying a day out to young people socialising. You might even strike up a conversation with one of the friendly locals.

Explore the surroundings: The plaza is surrounded by important buildings, including the Patio del Cabildo, the Assembly Legislative Department, and La Gobernación. You'll also find a variety of restaurants, banks, and museums nearby, making it a convenient spot to explore Tarija's cultural and culinary offerings.

Remember, Plaza Luis de Fuentes is easily accessible by taxi, and its central location makes it a great starting point for discovering the charms of Tarija, Bolivia's best-kept secret.

Hike to Chorros de Marquiri waterfall

If you're looking for a moderately challenging hike with a beautiful reward at the end, look no further than the Chorros de Marquiri waterfall trail near Villa San Lorenzo, Tarija. This 1.8-mile trail will take you about an hour to complete and is considered a moderately challenging route. The trail is great for hiking and offers some of the most impressive landscapes you will find in Tarija. The waterfall itself is tucked into a narrow nook between the rock walls of the river canyon, and you will be rewarded with stunning views of the lush, green mountains.

To get to the Chorros de Marquiri waterfall from Tarija, you will need to drive towards San Lorenzo and Potosí. Turn left when you see the sign for 'Chorros de Jurina' and follow that road for about 15 minutes. Once you pass a checkpoint, continue on a narrow and rocky road for another ten minutes. You can park your car in a plain by the river and then walk up for about 45 minutes, following signs to 'Chorros de Marquiri'. There is an entry fee of 5 Bs (0.65 euros) per person at the checkpoint.

The road to the waterfalls is steep at times, and the walk can be a bit dangerous as there is only a wooden handrail. The road follows a deep canyon, so be careful not to get too close to the edge. The last portion of the trail is shaded by the canyon and can be cold, while the rest is very sunny, so make sure to wear good shoes and sun protection. If you are scared of heights or walking on narrow paths with long drops, this may not be the trail for you.

Once you reach the waterfall, you will be amazed by the sight of the water falling from the mountains. You can climb the slippery rocks to get a closer look, but be careful of the strong cold water. If you are looking for a place to swim, this waterfall also offers the opportunity to take a dip and go under the waterfall.

Frequently asked questions