Bolivia, a landlocked country in central South America, refers to itself as a "plurinational state," highlighting the coexistence of 36 recognized indigenous groups. Among the most well-known are the Andean people of the Quechua and Aymara communities, the Guarani of the tropical lowlands, the Moxeño indigenous group found in the Amazon rainforest, and the Uros people who reside on the "floating islands" of Lake Titicaca, often visited by tourists. Each group has its own traditional music, dances, languages, and spiritual practices, often centered around the worship of nature. Other cultural influences in Bolivia include its Spanish colonial heritage and Afro-Bolivian communities.

Bolivia is also fascinating in terms of its variety of landscapes: The country is traversed in the western part by two extensive and widely spaced chains of the Andes, reaching altitudes of over 6500 meters. In between lies the central "Altiplano" at an elevation of 3000 to 4000 meters above sea level, where approximately 80 percent of Bolivians reside and where cities such as La Paz, Oruro, and Potosí are located. To the east, towards Brazil, lie the sparsely populated tropical lowlands, encompassing the dry savannah landscape of the Gran Chaco and the tropical rainforest of Amazonia.

The base for our programs in Bolivia is the city of Cochabamba, where we arrange volunteering placements, internships, and language lessons. Located in the transition zone between the plateau and the lowlands, Cochabamba enjoys a pleasant climate throughout the year and is therefore often referred to as "the city of eternal spring."

Some of our programs require Spanish language skills, while others can be joined with proficiency in English. You can also book Spanish language lessons in Bolivia with us or try to learn the indigenous languages of Quechua and Aymara.

Cochabamba

With a population of 1.4 million inhabitants, Cochabamba is Bolivia's fourth-largest city. It is also home to 14 universities, resulting in a significant student population and a vibrant nightlife scene with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues. In downtown Cochabamba, you can find two lively squares called "Prado" and "Plaza Colon," as well as the beautiful and inviting botanical garden.

Cochabamba is renowned for being the location of "La Cancha," one of the largest markets in South America. Additionally, it is overlooked by the "Cristo de la Concordia," the second-highest statue of Christ in the world.

The Valley of Cochabamba enjoys a mild and sunny climate, with pleasant temperatures throughout the year.

Due to its central location in Bolivia, Cochabamba serves as an excellent starting point for visiting other sites of interest. These include the historic mines and the famous Carnival in the city of Oruro, which takes place every year in February, as well as Tunari National Park with its impressive Cerro Tunari mountain (5035 meters/16,500 feet). Other notable attractions within reach of Cochabamba include the Inca ruins of Incallajta, the misty forest of Incachaca, and numerous Christian and indigenous festivals celebrated in nearby villages and cities. Examples include Intiwatana on the 21st of June (Andean midwinter) and Urqupiña in August.

Accommodation in Cochabamba

Other Locations in Bolivia

Mizque is a town located in the Eastern Mountain Range of the Andean Mountains, approximately a 2.5-hour drive from Cochabamba. In Mizque, we can arrange a stay on a Permaculture Farm.

We offer several remote internships with organizations based in Bolivia. Additionally, we can arrange remote language lessons in Spanish, Aymara, and Quechua.

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