Department of Cochabamba

— The Department

What is Cochabamba?

The Department of Cochabamba is Bolivia's fourth largest (55,631 km²) and one of its most geographically diverse. Its capital — known locally as "La Llajta" — sits at 2,558m in a fertile inter-Andean valley. Bolivia's third largest city and its unanimous gastronomic capital.

The department spans three radically different ecosystems: the temperate central valleys with their chicha culture and markets, the Amazon rainforest of the Chapare (Carrasco National Park, 622,000 ha), and the peaks of Tunari National Park (5,035m), where spectacled bears and pumas live directly above the city.

For travellers, Cochabamba is the gateway to two of Bolivia's most spectacular destinations: Torotoro National Park (150m canyon, 1,400+ dinosaur tracks, oilbird caves, condors) and Inkallajta — Bolivia's largest Inca fortress, with a 78×25m ceremonial hall that was the largest in the entire Inca Empire.

— Ecosystems

Cochabamba's ecosystems

— Destinations

What to see in Cochabamba

— Love Bolivia Routes

Routes through Cochabamba

— Getting there

How to reach Cochabamba

— When to visit

Best time for Cochabamba

Cochabamba has an almost year-round spring climate (18–24°C in the city). The dry season (May–October) is best for excursions. The wet season doesn't prevent visiting the city.

— People & culture

Identity & traditions

— Gastronomy

What to eat in Cochabamba

Cochabamba is Bolivia's gastronomic capital, no question. Hearty dishes, Quechua and colonial techniques, and a street food scene that surpasses any other Bolivian city.

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— FAQ

Frequently asked questions

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— Neighbouring departments