Tarija Travel Guide
Travel to Tarija - The Capital of Smiles
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Tarija or San Bernardo de la Frontera de Tarija is a city in southern Bolivia. Founded in 1574, Tarija is both the capital and largest city within the Tarija Department, with an airport offering regular service to primary Bolivian cities, as well as a regional bus terminal with domestic and international connections. Its climate is Mediterranean (similar to the Bolivian cities of Cochabamba and Sucre), in contrast to the harsh cold of the Altiplano (La Paz) and humid heat of the Amazon Basin (Santa Cruz de la Sierra). Tarija has a population of approximately 170,900.
The city and valley of present-day Tarija was first occupied by Western Hemispheric indigenous groups, such as the Churumatas and the Tomatas, among others. Subsequently, the Inca Empire; administered by the Quechua civilization, conquered these territories and dispersed the Churumatas and other local groups over wide territories of the Andes. Mitimaes is the Quechuan name that the Incas used for the resisting ethnic groups they uprooted and then dispersed geographically.
When the Spanish conquerors and colonials first arrived to the valley of Tarija, they encountered several stone roads, most likely the remnants of pre-Incaic cultures, such as that of the Churumatas. However, during that period, the presence of indigenous peoples remained sparse within the valley. Several of the pre-Incaic roads and trials have been preserved and currently function as a walking trail for Tarijenos.
Attractions in Tarija
For many Tarijeños, the city's main plaza is regarded as a picturesque and pleasant place to take a break or stroll around. The plaza is aligned with restaurants of various cuisines, local handicraft shops and internet cafes within the immediate vicinity. Within immediate walking distance is the public market, a university campus and a number of sights including the world-renowned Paleantology Museum of Tarija City.
Activities in Tarija
Attend the Festival of Wine and Cheese which is held annually in Tarija.
Relaxing
There are various high-quality restaurants, such as El Gato Pardo and Cafe Moca. There are also various fast food restaurants (McDonalds, Kukis, and Homeros). The small town is also not lacking nightlife. Clubs include Vertigo and Bunker.
Getting Around
You can get around most of Tarija by foot.
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