Cochabamba

This is your travel guide for Cochabamba, Bolivia

1 : Parque Mariscal Santa Cruz [2 hrs]

Start your day in Cochabamba at Parque Mariscal Santa Cruz, a vibrant urban park that offers a glimpse into local life. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the gardens, watch locals playing chess, or relax on a bench under the shade of towering trees. Don’t miss the iconic statue of the park’s namesake, General Andrés de Santa Cruz.

2 : Cristo de la Concordia [3 hrs]

Next, head to the towering monument of Cristo de la Concordia, overlooking the city. Take a cable car ride up to the foot of the statue for panoramic views of Cochabamba. Learn about the history of the monument, which was inspired by the Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro and is one of the tallest statues of Jesus in the world.

3 : Mercado Cancha [2 hrs]

Visit Mercado Cancha, one of the largest open-air markets in South America, to experience the vibrant colors, sounds, and smells of Bolivian street life. Wander through the maze of stalls selling everything from fresh produce to handcrafted goods. Don’t forget to try some local delicacies like salteñas and api.

Background Info

Weather

Cochabamba has a subtropical highland climate with mild temperatures, with average highs of 22°C (72°F) and lows of 6°C (43°F). The rainy season occurs from November to March, while the dry season is from April to October. Humidity levels range from 39% to 70%, and air quality is generally good.

Language

The official languages in Cochabamba, Bolivia are Spanish, Quechua, and Aymara. Spanish is the most widely spoken language and is used for official purposes, business, and education. Quechua and Aymara are also spoken by indigenous communities.

Cost Of Living

Cochabamba has a relatively low cost of living compared to many Western countries. Rent, groceries, and dining out are all more affordable in Cochabamba. The cost of living index is around 38.64, indicating that it is much cheaper to live in Cochabamba than in major cities in Europe or North America.

Other

Cochabamba is known for its vibrant cultural scene, with traditional music, dance, and festivals celebrated throughout the year. The city is also famous for its delicious cuisine, including dishes like salteñas, pique macho, and chicha. Cochabamba is considered one of Bolivia’s gastronomic capitals, offering a wide variety of local and international culinary options.