Best Places to Visit in Bolivia for Christmas Cheer

As the holiday season approaches, Bolivia transforms into a festive wonderland, with cities and towns across the country embracing the Christmas spirit. Expats and digital nomads looking for a unique holiday experience will find a variety of destinations within Bolivia that offer vibrant markets, colorful parades, and local traditions. From the bustling streets of La Paz to the charming town of Sucre, there's a festive atmosphere waiting to be discovered. Here are some of the best places to visit in Bolivia during December to soak in the holiday cheer.

La Paz's Sagarnaga Street

La Paz, the administrative capital of Bolivia, is known for its high altitude and steep streets, but come December, Sagarnaga Street, near the San Francisco Church, is where the holiday spirit truly comes alive. The area is filled with vendors selling Christmas decorations, artisanal gifts, and traditional Bolivian holiday foods. The festive atmosphere is palpable, with lights and garlands adorning the street and the sounds of Christmas carols in the air. The Feria de Navidad, or Christmas Fair, is a highlight, offering a chance to purchase unique Bolivian crafts and gifts.

We Recommend: Don't miss the chance to try a traditional buñuelo, a Bolivian sweet treat that's especially popular during the holidays. Paired with a cup of hot api, a corn-based beverage, it's the perfect way to warm up while exploring the market.

Sucre's Central Market

Sucre, the constitutional capital of Bolivia, is renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture and tranquil charm. During December, the Central Market becomes a hub of festive activity. Stalls overflow with seasonal fruits, holiday sweets, and an array of handcrafted ornaments. The market is a great place to experience local holiday customs and to find unique gifts, such as hand-knitted alpaca sweaters or traditional ceramics. The city also hosts various Christmas concerts and events in its plazas, adding to the holiday ambiance.

We Recommend: Be sure to sample some of the local holiday pastries, like the roscas de navidad, a sweet bread adorned with candied fruits, which is a festive favorite among the locals.

Cochabamba's La Cancha Market

Cochabamba, known as the "City of Eternal Spring" for its pleasant climate, is home to La Cancha, one of the largest open-air markets in South America. During the holiday season, La Cancha is transformed with Christmas decorations and a special section dedicated to holiday goods. Shoppers can find everything from Christmas trees to nativity scenes, and the market is a great place to experience the hustle and bustle of Bolivian holiday preparations. Street vendors also sell traditional holiday foods, making it a perfect spot to indulge in festive treats.

We Recommend: Try the salteñas, a type of Bolivian empanada that's particularly popular during the holiday season. Filled with a juicy mixture of meat, vegetables, and spices, they're a delicious snack while shopping.

Santa Cruz de la Sierra's Equipetrol Neighborhood

Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Bolivia's largest city, offers a more tropical Christmas experience. The upscale neighborhood of Equipetrol is particularly known for its festive decorations and lights. Many of the area's restaurants and shops go all out with their holiday displays, creating a magical atmosphere for evening strolls. The neighborhood also hosts various Christmas events, including live music and performances, making it a lively spot to celebrate the season.

We Recommend: Enjoy a glass of somó, a traditional Bolivian Christmas drink made from corn and served cold, as you wander through the beautifully lit streets of Equipetrol.

Tarija's Central Plaza

Tarija, situated in the southern part of Bolivia, is famous for its wine production. The city's central plaza becomes a focal point for Christmas celebrations, with a large tree and nativity scene set up for the holiday season. The plaza and surrounding streets are lined with vendors selling holiday treats and crafts. Tarija also hosts a variety of cultural events, including choirs and folkloric dances, adding to the festive atmosphere.

We Recommend: Don't leave Tarija without trying a glass of the local wine, which is often enjoyed during the holiday festivities. The region's vineyards may also offer special tastings and tours during this time.

Potosí's Main Square

The historic city of Potosí, known for its rich colonial history and silver mines, offers a unique setting for Christmas celebrations. The main square is beautifully decorated with lights and a Christmas tree, and it serves as a gathering place for locals and visitors alike. The city's colonial architecture provides a stunning backdrop for holiday photos, and the festive mood is contagious. Potosí also has a tradition of hosting Christmas Eve fireworks, which light up the night sky in a spectacular display.

We Recommend: Experience the traditional Potosí Christmas Eve dinner, which often includes dishes like picana, a hearty stew made with lamb, beef, or chicken, and served with potatoes and corn.

Oruro's Artisanal Markets

Oruro, a city known for its famous Carnival, also has a vibrant Christmas scene. The artisanal markets in Oruro are particularly worth visiting during December, as they offer a wide range of handcrafted goods perfect for holiday gifts. From intricate textiles to silver jewelry, the craftsmanship is exceptional. The city also hosts cultural events and parades leading up to Christmas, showcasing the rich traditions of the region.

We Recommend: Look for the traditional Andean Christmas figurines, which are handcrafted by local artisans and make for a unique and meaningful souvenir or gift.