This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Tarija.
Tarija, Bolivia, located in the southern part of the country, is a popular destination for Bolivian tourists in search of a weekend of wine and gourmet food, but it is also boasts fabulous, warm weather and a relaxing atmosphere for the budget-conscious backpacker with a range of Tarija, Bolivia hostels and hotels to choose from.
It's slightly more expensive than other Bolivian destinations; the main reason you would visit Tarija is to sample the delicious wines the city and region have to offer. At just under two thousand metres above sea level, the high altitude gives the wine here a healthy dose of fresh, fruit flavours, rivaling the likes of vineyards in France or Italy. The region currently produces Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Riesling, and Tannat. Tours are available through several operators at very reasonable prices and often also include an introduction to the region’s other famous beverage, singani, a drink similar to grappa.
After you’ve had your fill of wine, you can unwind in one of several shady plazas or further indulge your palate at any of the restaurants in town. You will find a myriad of cuisine from local fare at the Central Market to high-end Argentinian-style BBQs. Tablitas are also popular, and pair perfectly, of course, with a bottle of wine! Or, for an authentic local meal, visitors should also try saice, a spicy, ground beef dish commonly served with potatoes and salad.
For the tourist, there is a small Anthropological Museum (with free entry) with many real dinosaur fossils on display, and several waterfalls close to town that can be explored. When it’s time to sleep, there are several hotels and hostels in Tarija, Bolivia for many standards of price and comfort, but most should provide a free continental breakfast (bread, jam, tea, and/or coffee).
With gorgeous weather, palatable wine, and gourmet food on offer, you may find yourself not wanting to leave this little gem in the south and possibly trying to move into your Tarija, Bolivia hostel permanently!
Written by local enthusiast for Tarija hostels
Global Runaways