Solo female travel in Tarija

Located in the southern region of Bolivia, Tarija is a charming city known for its sprawling vineyards and rich cultural heritage. Nestled in a valley within the eastern range of Andes, the city offers a remarkable array of breath-taking landscapes, complemented by a warm, temperate climate all year round. Tarija is globally famous for its vibrant wine industry, with a plethora of local wineries offering tours and tastings that reveal the secrets of Bolivian wine-making. The city is also home to El Gran Chaco, a large park showcasing diverse Bolivian fauna and flora. Its lively bustling markets, cobbled streets, annual carnivals, and colonial architecture make this city a must-visit destination for any traveler seeking an authentic Bolivian experience.

Travel rating

3.7 /5

Based on our research

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Is Tarija good for solo travel?

Safety:Safe

Tarija is generally considered safe for solo female travelers. The people are friendly and it is a low-crime city when compared to others in Bolivia. However, like any destination, it's important to keep personal belongings secure and avoid isolated areas especially at night. Learning a little Spanish can also enhance your ability to interact with local people and handle situations. Always remain aware of your surroundings and stick to populated, well-lit areas when possible.

Transport:Moderate

Tarija is reasonably navigable but can present some challenges. On foot or bicycle, the city's relatively small size and grid patterned streets make travel easy. For longer distances, public transportation, like buses and taxis, are accessible, but they might be a bit crowded and the traffic can often be busy. Moreover, the language barrier (as Spanish is commonly used) can sometimes cause minor difficulties. Always remember to carry a city map or a translator app to aid in communication.

Things to do:Interesting

Tarija is a captivating city with a unique charm. Between wine tasting at some of South America's best wineries to exploring the city's architecture on foot, it offers a variety of enjoyable activities. Nature lovers will appreciate the vivid landscapes at Reserva Biológica Cordillera de Sama, and foodies will get to sample mouthwatering cuisine. There is always something new to discover in Tarija, making it a significant destination for solo female travelers.

Food:Above average

Tarija offers a unique experience for food enthusiasts, particularly those interested in local South American cuisines. The city's culinary scene is rich with traditional Bolivian dishes, using ingredients from the region. You will find meals flavored with local spices, peppers, corn, cheese, lots of vegetables, and meats. Some unique offerings include 'Saice', a traditional spicy stew, and 'Empanadas Tarijeñas', a variation of the famous empanadas. Not to mention, Tarija is a wine region, pairing your meals wonderfully. However, for those looking for significant global diversity in food options, the experience may be slightly limited.

Budget:Affordable

Tarija is quite budget-friendly for solo female travelers. Accommodation, food and transport are considerably cheaper when compared to many other tourist destinations. Local markets offer a wide variety of fresh products at affordable prices and there are also cost-effective public transportation options. Additionally, many of the city's attractions, such as the main plaza and local parks, are free to visit. However, some activities such as wine tours in the surrounding area might come at an additional expense.