City of Eternal Spring: Self-Guided Tour of Downtown Cochabamba

Cochabamba , Bolivia

City of Eternal Spring: Self-Guided Tour of Downtown Cochabamba

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(2 reviews)

1h - 1h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

On this self-guided walking tour of Downtown Cochabamba, I’ll show you vibrant spots not often mentioned in guidebooks, like convents, cloisters, galleries, and enchanted passages. You’ll also see main attractions like picturesque September 14 Square and the impressive Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint Sebastian. Starting in Colon Square, we’ll weave through the city streets, learning how Bolivia’s fourth largest city drives the country’s economy. You’ll pass Francisco del Granado Square en route to the jewel of Cochabamba, the Monasterio de Santa Teresa. Discover why certain shops dominate specific streets, hear about Cholitas’ traditional dress, and find the best foods to sample downtown. Walk through Pasaje Histórico San Rafael (the Devil’s Passage) and visit Teatro Achá, once a convent. Explore art galleries like Gildaro Antezana’s studio, Museo Arqueológico, and the Mercado 25 de Mayo. By the tour’s end near Santo Domingo Church, you’ll understand Cochabamba’s history and charm.

Available options

City of Eternal Spring: Self-Guided Tour of Downtown Cochabamba

What's included

Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it

Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

App for Android and iOS

Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour

Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

Detailed itinerary

Visitors will see this lively square surrounded by colonial-style architecture and vibrant greenery. As you pause here, you'll feel the heartbeat of Cochabamba’s bustling downtown life.

Admire the simple yet elegant design of this historic church. Passing by, you’ll hear about its significance to the local community.

Explore this legendary alleyway, also known as the Devil’s Passage, shrouded in myths and tales. Walking through, you'll uncover stories of Cochabamba’s intriguing past.

Discover this charming square, a quiet spot amidst the urban buzz. You'll learn about its cultural importance and the events that have shaped its history.

Marvel at the beautifully preserved Santa Teresa Convent, a treasure of colonial-era architecture. From the outside, you’ll hear about its spiritual and historical legacy.

Gaze upon this iconic theater that once served as a convent. Passing by, you’ll appreciate its role as a hub for the arts in Cochabamba.

Peek into this gallery showcasing local artists and their work. While entry isn’t included, you’ll get a sense of Cochabamba’s thriving art scene.

View this vibrant gallery dedicated to traditional and contemporary Bolivian art. You’ll learn about the artists who have shaped the region’s creative identity.

This picturesque square is surrounded by fountains, gardens, and colonial landmarks. Strolling through, you’ll feel its historic and cultural vibrancy.

Admire the grandeur of Cochabamba’s Metropolitan Cathedral with its ornate design. From the square, you’ll hear tales of its construction and place in local traditions.

Discover the Museo Arqueológico de la Universidad, home to fascinating artifacts from Bolivia's ancient cultures. From outside, you’ll gain insights into the country’s rich archaeological history.

This grand church boasts intricate colonial architecture and a storied past. Stopping here, you’ll hear about its enduring role in Cochabamba's religious life.

What's not included

Smartphone and headphones

Personal expenses for attractions not included during the tour

Available languages

Audio guide

Written guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

While strollers can navigate most areas, certain sections with steps and uneven terrain may be challenging.

Meeting point

The tour starts in Plaza Colón. Stand in the center of the plaza while the tour begins. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS

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Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:

Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app

Create an account

Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes

Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE
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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.

This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.

When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.

Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About Cochabamba

Cochabamba, known as the 'City of Eternal Spring' for its pleasant climate year-round, is a vibrant city nestled in a valley in central Bolivia. It offers a mix of colonial architecture, bustling markets, and proximity to stunning natural landscapes, making it a unique and appealing destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Plaza 14 de Septiembre

This is the main square of Cochabamba, surrounded by colonial buildings, cafes, and shops. It's a great place to experience the local culture and history.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Cristo de la Concordia

This is one of the largest statues of Jesus Christ in the world, standing at 40.5 meters (133 feet) tall. It offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding valleys.

Landmark 1-2 hours Moderate (entry fee for the statue and museum)

Tunari National Park

This national park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, birdwatching, and exploring waterfalls. It's a great place to experience the natural beauty of the region.

Nature Full day Free or low (depending on the activity)

Museo de Historia Natural Alcide d'Orbigny

This natural history museum houses a wide range of exhibits, including fossils, minerals, and information about the region's biodiversity.

Museum 1-2 hours Low (entry fee)

La Cancha Market

This is one of the largest markets in Bolivia, offering a wide variety of goods, from fresh produce and meats to clothing and household items.

Market 1-2 hours Free to enter, but bring cash for purchases

Must-Try Local Dishes

Silpancho

A traditional Bolivian dish consisting of a breaded and fried beef cutlet, served with rice, potatoes, and a fried egg on top.

Dinner Contains beef and eggs, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Pique a lo Macho

A hearty dish made with diced beef, fried potatoes, onions, tomatoes, and boiled eggs, often served with a spicy sauce.

Dinner Contains beef and eggs, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Salteñas

A type of Bolivian empanada filled with meat, vegetables, and sometimes fruits, baked until golden brown.

Snack Can be made with various fillings, some vegetarian options available.

Chuño

A traditional Andean food made from freeze-dried potatoes, often used in soups and stews.

Side Dish Vegan and gluten-free.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Tunari National Park Adventure activities in Toro Toro National Park Rock climbing and zip-lining in Incahuasi Island Visiting spas and wellness centers Strolling through parks and gardens Enjoying coffee and pastries at local cafes Exploring museums and historic sites Attending local festivals and events

Best Time to Visit

May to October (Dry Season)

This is the best time to visit Cochabamba with clear skies and minimal rainfall, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: Quechua, Aymara
English: Limited

Currency

Bolivian Boliviano (BOB)

Time Zone

GMT-4

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Cochabamba is generally safe, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in tourist areas and crowded places. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Use reputable tour operators and guides.
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night.

Getting there

By air

Jorge Wilstermann International Airport • 10 km (6 miles) from city center

By bus

Terminal Bimodal Cochabamba

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is the primary mode of public transportation in Cochabamba. It is affordable and covers most of the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: InDriver, Uber (limited availability)

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Calle Sucre Temporales Quillacollo

Day trips

Toro Toro National Park

150 km (93 miles) from Cochabamba • Full day

This national park offers stunning landscapes, including waterfalls, canyons, and prehistoric dinosaur footprints. It's a great destination for hiking, wildlife spotting, and adventure activities.

Incahuasi Island

180 km (112 miles) from Cochabamba • Full day

This island in Lake Titicaca is known for its giant cacti and stunning views of the surrounding lakes and mountains. It's a popular destination for hiking and nature lovers.

Tarata

70 km (43 miles) from Cochabamba • Half day

This small town is known for its colonial architecture, historic sites, and traditional festivals. It's a great destination for those interested in history and culture.

Festivals

Carnaval de Cochabamba • February or March (dates vary each year) Fiesta de Urkupiña • August 15th Feria de la Alasita • January 24th

Pro tips

Visit the Cristo de la Concordia statue for panoramic views of the city, especially during sunset.
Try the local street food, such as salteñas and empanadas, for an authentic and delicious culinary experience.
Explore the La Cancha Market for a glimpse into the local culture and to practice your bargaining skills.
Hire a local guide for a more informative and safe experience when exploring natural attractions and outdoor activities.
Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your interactions with locals and show respect for the culture.