Sucre The Southwest, Bolivia Travel Guide
The central square of Sucre. Named after the city’s first cry for independence on May 25, 1809. This gorgeous plaza is the social heart of Sucre. Important old buildings surround it, including the Casa de la Libertad, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Prefectura (government building). It is a pleasant place to relax, people-watch, and absorb the city’the atmosphere.
Convento de San Felipe Neri hours/fees are similar to La Recoleta. The main draw here is the rooftop access. Plan your visit for good light for the best photos.
Approximately 5 km north of Sucre. The world's largest collection of dinosaur footprints on a near-vertical cliff face. A remarkable paleontological wonder. Hours: Tue-Sun 9:00 AM-5:00 PM. Fees: 30 BOB for park entry. Additional small fee for guided "Mirador" tour.
The entire area is a museum that shows life as it was of the colonial period architecture. Uniform white buildings, red tile roofs, ornate wooden balconies, and traditional courtyards. Meander through the avenues beyond the main plaza.
San Francisco Church: Among the most ancient churches (16th century). Historically famous for its tower, from which the bell of independence first rang. The First city of the americas Church: Another significant colonial church with lovely architecture.
Statues and monuments around Plaza 25 de Mayo commemorate Bolivia's independence heroes. The Casa de la Libertad is the nation's main memorial to its independence.
While Sucre is a city, it also has access to pleasant parks plus lookout points for natural beauty.
Adjacent to the Cal Orcko dinosaur footprint site. This preserve has life-size dinosaur replicas, a museum, and a viewpoint for the footprints. An engaging and informative experience, good for families.
A pleasant urban park in the city center, popular with local families. It has a miniature replica of the Eiffel Tower, beautiful fountains, and green spaces.
Has the most iconic and comprehensive panoramic views of Sucre, with its white buildings across the valley.
Another viewpoint in the city panoramas, often less crowded than La Recoleta, with a different perspective.
Limited within Sucre. Significant wildlife viewing (jaguars, capybaras) is mainly in national parks in other Bolivian regions (e.g., Madidi National Park), which need separate travel plans.
The vast expanse of dinosaur footprints on a cliff face is an unique geological phenomenon, demonstrating the region''s old past. Beaches, lakes, and rivers are not applicable to Sucre, as it is a city not on the coast.
Beyond the main tourist circuit, Sucre holds several less-visited but intriguing spots.
Cemetery General de Sucre: Beautiful and well-maintained, with ornate mausoleums. A unique, contemplative glimpse into historical and social aspects of Sucre. Mercado Campesino: A sprawling local market, larger and more chaotic than Mercado Central. An authentic glimpse into local life.
Rooftops of San Felipe Neri and La Recoleta have stunning cityscapes, notably at sunset or sunrise. The crisp white colonial facades against Sucre's often bright blue sky create striking contrasts for photography.
Viewpoint of Sica Sica: Another hill with panoramic views of the city, often less crowded than La Recoleta. A peaceful setting for reflection and photography. Local Panaderías: Explore small, neighborhood bakeries (panaderías) for newly baked bread, pastries like pan de queso, or salteñas (in the mornings).
The magnificent dinosaur footprints at Cal Orcko, a short distance from Sucre.
The image highlights the vast expanse of dinosaur footprints on a cliff face at Cal Orcko, near Sucre. This site holds the world's largest collection of dinosaur tracks.
This unique geological phenomenon reveals the region''s ancient history, making it a destination for paleontology aficionados and families.
Cal Orcko is approximately 5 km north of Sucre, making it an accessible and worthwhile half-day trip for visitors.
For sights like Casa de la Libertad and Cal Orcko, guided tours are available and often recommended for historical context. Many encompass the entrance fee.
Book tours with GetYourGuideEntrance fees for museums and attractions are generally modest. Purchase tickets at the entrance. For particular popular sites, online booking is possible.
Check ticket availability hereAlways verify the most recent opening hours for attractions in advance of your visit. Hours can vary, especially on holidays.
Observe signs regarding restrictions on taking pictures in museums plus holy places. Some places restrict flash photography or have certain areas where photos are not allowed.
Many heritage buildings in Sucre are irregular surfaces, stairs, and cobblestone streets. Accessibility for those with mobility challenges can be limited.
Explore Sucre's deep historical roots through its churches and monuments.
Wear shoes that are good for treading on cobblestone streets. Hydrate often due to Sucre's altitude.
Consider purchasing a local SIM card for easy navigation and communication.
Explore less-visited yet captivating sites for an unique perspective of Sucre.
Discover unique aspects of Sucre away from the main tourist circuit.
Experience the genuine daily life of Sucre at its bustling local markets.
Find peaceful locations and local culinary delights.
Local Panaderías: Explore small, neighborhood bakeries for fresh bread, pastries like pan de queso, or salteñas (in the mornings). These regional spots have authentic preferences and a chance to connect with residents.
Discover the cultural depth beyond Sucre's city limits.
Camino del Inca (El Choro): This historic route is a challenging adventure plus cultural immersion. It is often accessed via multi-day hikes from Sucre, for those seeking more rigorous exploration.
Find picturesque spots for memorable photographs.
These special settings create stunning backdrops for your travel photography, highlighting Sucre's distinct charm.
This gallery within the La Recoleta monastery exhibits religious art, colonial artifacts, and historical items related to the Franciscan order.
Often visited with the Ethnographic Museum, this museum specifically concentrates on the rich textile traditions of the Andes, showing intricate artistry.
This university museum has collections on anthropology, archaeology, and ethnography of Bolivia, for a wider academic perspective on the country's diverse heritage.
