Discovering Sucre
Sucre is a picturesque colonial city located in the south-central part of Bolivia, and it’s known as the country’s constitutional capital. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its historic center features charming narrow streets with white buildings and red-tiled roofs. Sucre is an ideal destination for history lovers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking to immerse themselves in a vibrant Bolivian culture.
Places to Visit in Sucre
1. La Recoleta
La Recoleta is a beautiful colonial-era building that houses a museum, a church, and a convent. Visitors can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the city from its rooftop and explore the church and its extensive collection of religious artwork and artifacts.
2. Dinosaur Park Cal Orck’o
Dinosaur Park Cal Orck’o features the largest collection of dinosaur footprints in the world, and visitors can see over 5,000 tracks from 294 different species. A guided tour will help provide an insight into the history of the dinosaur age.
3. Potosi Mines
A two-hour drive from Sucre, Potosi Mines is a historic silver mine that has been in operation for over 400 years. Visitors can take guided tours of the mine, learn about its history and the daily lives and struggles of the Bolivian miners who work there.
4. Cementerio general de Sucre
Cementerio General de Sucre is a unique and peaceful cemetery located in the city centre, and features the graves of notable historical figures an d several magnificent tombs. It’s a peaceful spot to enjoy a walk and be surrounded by history.
5. Tarabuco Market
Tarabuco Market is a famous Saturday market located in a small town close to Sucre, and visitors can find a wide range of traditional textiles, clothes, and crafts from the surrounding villages. Tarabuco is a must-visit for anyone interested in local Bolivian culture.
6. Mirador de la Recoleta
Mirador de la Recoleta is the quiet terrace area that offers one of the best views of the city. The view is precious to behold, and visitors will be delighted to be surrounded by nature’s beauty in a serene atmosphere.
7. Parque Cretacico
The Parque Cretacico is an extensive park which contains dinosaur footprints preserved from the past, possibly dating back to thousands of years. A full guided tour of the park provides an insight as the guide highlights on the history of the park, and the importance of history to the survival of the Earth.
8. Casa de la Libertad
Casa de la Libertad is a national monument, built in the 18th century and now serves as a museum that documents the country’s rich history. Visitors can admire the building’s colonial-era architecture and learn about the Bolivian independence movement that took place on these grounds.
9. San Felipe Nery
San Felipe Nery is a beautiful church located just a few blocks away from the city’s central square. Visitors can explore the building’s stunning interior, which features intricate carvings, artwork, and stunning stained-glass windows.
10. Museo de la Catedral de Sucre
The Museo de la Catedral de Sucre is located inside the oldest church in Sucre, and displays an impressive collection of colonial-era religious art and artifacts. Visitors can see works by prominent artists of the time and learn about the role of the church in Bolivian society.
Places to Avoid in Sucre
1. Parque Bolivar
Parque Bolivar is a popular spot for locals that lack cleanliness, and the park is notorious for its pickpockets and petty thefts. It’s best to avoid this park unless traveling in a large group with security guards.
2. La Paz Street Market
The La Paz Street Market is known for selling counterfeit goods to unsuspecting tourists, be wary of what you buy, and ensure you are purchasing quality merchandise.
3. Train Graveyard
The Train Graveyard is a dangerous spot at night and attracts a lot of homeless people looking for shelter. It’s best to explore this spot during the day and avoid it after dark.
4. Camino de la Muerte
The Camino de la Muerte, also known as the “Death Road,” is a popular adventure spot in Bolivia but is also infamous for its dangerous terrain and numerous landslides. Visitors should exercise extreme caution if attempting this activity.
5. San Francisco Church
The San Francisco Church is closed for maintenance indefinitely due to the heavy December 2020 flooding and is likely to remain so throughout 2021.
Overview about the City
| Language | Currency | Average Temperature by Season | Best Time to Visit | City | Trip Advisor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish and Quechua | Boliviano (BOB) | Autumn: 10 to 20 °C Winter: 5 to 15 °C Spring: 10 to 20 °C Summer: 15 to 27 °C |
April to November (dry season) | https://www.sucre.bo/ | https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g295432-Sucre_Chuquisaca_Department-Vacations.html |
The best time to visit Sucre is in the dry season, which runs from April to November. The climate is mild with average temperatures ranging between 10°C to 27°C. Visitors should note Sucre has two seasons: winter and summer, and altitude affects the weather; be sure to prepare accordingly. The official language spoken in Bolivia is Spanish, and Quechua, although many locals speak English. For sightseeing and exploring the city, tourists are encouraged to bring comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and a rain jacket, and prepare to be amazed by the city’s stunning architecture and vibrant culture.