About Cochabamba
Cochabamba, Bolivia's vibrant heartland province, is a captivating blend of fertile valleys, dramatic Andean foothills, and rich cultural heritage. Known as the 'City of Eternal Spring' for its pleasant climate, the provincial capital, also named Cochabamba, is a bustling metropolis where colonial architecture meets modern energy. The region is famed for its gastronomy, considered Bolivia's culinary capital, where you can savor hearty dishes like *pique a lo macho* and *silpancho*. Beyond the city, the stunning Tunari National Park offers hiking trails with breathtaking views of the Cordillera Tunari mountains. The iconic Cristo de la Concordia statue, taller than Rio's Christ the Redeemer, provides panoramic vistas. History buffs explore the Inca ruins of Incallajta, a significant archaeological site. The lively La Cancha market, one of South America's largest open-air markets, immerses visitors in local life. Cochabamba's warm, welcoming people and festive spirit, especially during Carnival, make it an unforgettable destination that showcases Bolivia's diverse soul beyond the well-trodden Altiplano.
Major Hub
Things to do in Cochabamba
Adelante Mujer Bolivian Cooking Workshops
From $29
5.0 (54)
City of Eternal Spring: Self-Guided Tour of Downtown Cochabamba
From $5.99
5.0 (2)
Tour to Valle Alto (Tarata)
From $82.2
5.0 (1)
Torotoro 2 Day 1 Night Package With Vision Tours Bolivia
From $549
4.8 (22)
Adventure Through Toro Toro National Park. 3 Days 2 Nights. Spanish Guide
From $512.83
Adventure Through Toro Toro National Park. 3 Days 2 Nights. English Guide
From $600
Adventure Through Toro Toro National Park. 4 Days 3 Nights. English Guide
From $779.49
One Full Day Trip Incachaca from Cochabamba
Romantic tour in Cochabamba
From €410.25
The Best of Cochabamba Walking Tour
From €410.25
Cochabamba to Cochabamba Airport CBB Departure by SUV or Car
From $30.9
MiniVan or Suv Transfer from Cochabamba Airport CBB to Cochabamba
From $36.16
Departure by MiniVan or Suv from Cochabamba to Cochabamba Airport
From $35.02
2 Days Private Tour Toro Toro National Park
From $475
Places to visit in Cochabamba
Mirador Laguna Achocalla
Mirador Laguna Achocalla, Senda Lagunas Gemelas-Corani, Colomi, Bolivia
Chakana
Chakana, Camino Santiváñez-Quillacollo, Quillacollo, Bolivia
Plaza de Quiroz Rancho
Plaza de Quiroz Rancho, Quiroz Rancho, Quillacollo, Bolivia
Simón Bolívar
Simón Bolívar, Calle General Pando, Quillacollo, Bolivia
Centro Ecoturístico El Poncho
El Poncho Eco Center, Calle Cochabamba, Vinto, Bolivia
Hotel Samay Wasi
Hotel Samay Wasi, Avenida La Paz, Colcapirhua, Bolivia
Bailarina Vallenesa
Bailarina Vallenesa, Avenida Pairumani, Vinto, Bolivia
Las Lilas Hostel
Las Lilas Hostel, Quillacollo, Bolivia
Plaza Jacaranda
Plaza Jacaranda, Tunari, Cochabamba, Cercado, Bolivia
Plaza Topater
Plaza Topater, Tunari, Cochabamba, Cercado, Bolivia
Parque Ima Sumaj
Parque Ima Sumaj, Tunari, Cochabamba, Cercado, Bolivia
Plaza Beijing y T'ikay Ñan
Plaza Beijing y T'ikay Ñan, Tunari, Cochabamba, Cercado, Bolivia
Parque Wiracocha
Parque Wiracocha, Tunari, Cochabamba, Cercado, Bolivia
Franja de Seguridad Torrentera Cantarrana
Franja de Seguridad Torrentera Cantarrana, Adela Zamudio, Cochabamba, Cercado, Bolivia
Parque Hallein
Parque Hallein, Tunari, Cochabamba, Cercado, Bolivia
Travel Tips for Cochabamba
Getting Around
Within Cochabamba city, *micros* (small buses) and *trufis* (shared taxis on fixed routes) are cheap but crowded and confusing for newcomers. Registered radio taxis (white with a phone number) are safer and affordable; agree on a fare before departure or ensure the meter is used. Ride-hailing apps Uber and Bolt operate reliably. For exploring the province, renting a car offers flexibility but driving in the city is chaotic; consider hiring a local driver. For longer trips, interprovincial buses depart from the Terminal de Buses.
Best Time To Visit
April to October (dry season) is ideal, with sunny days, clear skies, and minimal rain, perfect for hiking and city exploration. May to July offer the coolest, most comfortable temperatures. The rainy season (November to March) brings lush greenery but frequent afternoon showers and muddy trails. Visit during Carnival (February/March) for spectacular parades and water fights, but expect closures and booked accommodations.
Local Customs
Cochabambinos are friendly and value polite greetings. A handshake is common; close friends may hug or kiss on the cheek. Dress is generally casual but modest when visiting churches. Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated: 5-10% in restaurants if service isn't included; round up taxi fares. Bargaining is expected in markets like La Cancha. Respect local festivals and religious processions. The pace is more relaxed than in La Paz; patience is valued. Always ask before photographing people, especially in indigenous communities.
Safety Information
Cochabamba is generally safe, but petty theft like pickpocketing and bag-snatching is common in crowded areas (markets, bus stations, public transport). Avoid displaying valuables. Use registered radio taxis or ride-hailing apps (Uber, Bolt) at night. Be cautious in less crowded areas after dark. Scams involving fake police or distraction techniques occur. The city center and southern zones (like Queru Queru) are relatively safe. Political protests can occur; avoid large gatherings. When hiking in Tunari National Park, go with a guide and stay on marked trails.
Health Information
Medical facilities in Cochabamba city are the best in the region, with private hospitals like Hospital Belga and Hospital Los Olivos offering good care. Public hospitals are under-resourced. Travelers should have comprehensive travel insurance. Altitude sickness is less severe than in La Paz but can still affect some (Cochabamba sits at ~2,550m). Ensure routine vaccinations are up-to-date; Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Yellow Fever (if arriving from a risk country) are recommended. Drink only bottled or purified water to avoid traveler's diarrhea. Mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue are present; use repellent. Pharmacies (*farmacias*) are widely available.
Languages Spoken
SpanishQuechua
Quick Facts
Currency
Bolivian Boliviano (BOB)
Bs
Bs
Timezone
America/La_Paz -04:00 (GMT)
Calling Code
+591
Electricity
Driving Side
Right
Population
2.1 million
Area
55631 km²
Government
Departmental Government (Departamento) with a Prefect and Departmental Assembly
ISO Code
BO-02
Emergency Contacts
Also known as: Municipio Cochabamba, Cochabamba, Ayopaya, Independencia