15 Cool and Unusual Things to do in Sucre, Bolivia

Sucre, the capital of Bolivia, is one of people’s all-time favorite South American cities. Sucre should be on your itinerary for Bolivia because of the delicious food, stunning architecture, museums, and outdoor adventure activities.

Adventure opportunities abound in this lovely, laid-back city, from excursions to rarely traveled to rural settlements to hiking through prehistoric, unearthly landscapes.

Let's uncover fifteen cool and unusual things to do in Sucre, Bolivia.

Cool things to do in Sucre, Bolivia

Here is a list of amazing things to do in Sucre.

1.     See Dinosaur Footprints in Parque Cretácico.

Visit Park Cretácico, sometimes called Cal Orck'o, for one of the top things to do in Sucre. Visit this dinosaur museum to view actual prehistoric dinosaur footprints.

In 1985, a cement mill stumbled onto the dinosaur tracks. They have discovered more than 5000 ancient footprints in the region, including those left by various dinosaur species. This implies that Sucre was formerly home to many dinosaurs. Isn't that awesome? Whether you like dinosaurs, going to Parque Cretácico is still a pretty enjoyable experience.

2.    Visit Plaza 25 de Mayo

You must visit the main square when in Sucre. One of Bolivia's loveliest plazas, it's an excellent site to become acquainted with Sucre. Most tourist sites are nearby, and there are a few great coffee and cake shops on this square. Plaza 25 de Mayo is a fantastic area to unwind and observe Sucre's bustling everyday life.

Sucre was included in the UNESCO world heritage list in 1991 because its historical center is the quietest colonial city in South America. Its stunning white structures have also given it the moniker “White City” or Ciudad Blanca.

3.    Maragua Crater Trekking

We suggest the Maragua Crater Trek if you have more time in Sucre and want to go hiking. In addition to allowing you to explore the magnificent Maragua crater and get up close to over a hundred remarkable dinosaur tracks, this walk will take you along the Cordillera de Los Frailes. A visit to Pumamachay, which features 2000-year-old cave drawings, is also a part of several treks. Joy Ride Tours, Condor Trekkers, and Jaku Trekkers are the most famous companies.

You can plan the walk alone, but joining a tour is better because the paths can occasionally vanish, and there are few signs to indicate the right way. The Maragua Crater Trek could be one of the most unique things to do in Sucre.

4.    Visit Mercado Campesino

Without a doubt, this is the largest and busiest market in Sucre. It covers ten blocks and is equipped with every convenience. There is an organization, even if it may appear chaotic. If you seek anything specific, enquiring with the suppliers is worth your time. Check out the handmade textiles. These works of art are lovely!

There is plenty of delicious street food available. Come in for a filling lunch and then do some shopping!

5.    Take a City Walking Tour in Sucre.

One of the best ways to explore Sucre is on foot. You will visit all the major attractions, discover Sucre's past, and even partake in delectable delights.

Of course, you are free to explore the city on your own. Nonetheless, the guides' thorough explanations of Bolivia's history and culture are a fantastic opportunity to learn more about Bolivia.

6.    Visit Bolivia’s Only Royal Castle

In Bolivia, just two persons have ever held royal positions. As the only royals to ever reside in Bolivian history, Princess Clotilde and Prince Francisco did so in the Castle de la Glorieta.

The Glorieta Castle, finished in 1897 and blended Byzantine, Gothic, and Moorish architectural elements, is one of Sucre's most spectacular buildings.

7.    Feast on Some of Sucre’s Best Local Food

There are other gastronomy attractions in Sucre if you're wondering what else there is to do besides culture. A well-known area specialty is the saltea empanadas, which come in various fillings. El Patio Saltearia is one of the most outstanding venues to eat them.

In addition, the central market and Café el Mirador, a restaurant with a view, both serve delectable Bolivian cuisine.

8.    Explore Glorieta Castle

This stunning pink castle is located approximately 5 miles from Sucre. It combines Byzantine, Italian, Russian, Chinese, and English architectural styles in an odd and eclectic way. The castle's history and aesthetics make it a fascinating study of Bolivian history.

You can take a taxi for approximately B$15 or walk the entire distance to the castle, which takes about an hour. If you want to take in the architectural beauty of the castle, it is worth the B$20 entrance fee. But remember that it needs renovation, and many chambers are empty. A lengthy stroll there on a bright day will best serve your trip in enjoyment.

9.    Exploring Sucre from La Recoleta Viewpoint

Finding a vantage point from which to view a city is one of our favorite things when traveling there. La Recoleta is the closest vantage point in Sucre. The Plaza de Anzures and the arches through which you can get a breathtaking panorama of Sucre are the primary draws, even though the museum and monastery are unquestionably worthwhile stops.

You may relax on the Café Gourmet Mirador's terrace behind the arches. The food and juices are fantastic, and the view is magnificent but not overly expensive. The ideal location for a leisurely afternoon in the sun is La Recoleta.

10. Visit the Bolivar Park

The Park is a beautiful area to unwind and take a stroll. Hence, you should visit here if you need a break from seeing everything Sucre has to offer.

The crimson miniature Eiffel Tower is the main attraction at Sucre's Bolivar Park. The only other thing to see and do in Bolivia's stunning capital, Sucre, is simply relax in a green area.

11. Learn Spanish

Learning Spanish is one of the favorite activities for foreigners in Sucre. All of us want to be able to interact with the natives more when traveling to South America. Thus, if you're going to Bolivia, we can advise you to learn some Spanish; Sucre is known for being the spot to take a Spanish course.

Several hostels provide week-long Spanish classes with lodging. So, enrolling in a class is a must if you want to spend a whole week learning Spanish and enjoying everything Sucre has for you.

12. Catch a Show at Espacio Cultural Origenes.

A trip to Bolivia is only complete with taking in some of the local dances. While it is common to see dancers in spectacular costumes marching through the streets of Bolivia during Carnaval or other celebrations, the Origenes show in Sucre offers dance performances every day of the year.

To experience the sounds and sights of dances like the Tinkuy, Saya afroboliviana, Morenada, Pujllay, and the famous Caporales, make a reservation for supper (170 BOB; USD 25) or only the two-hour performance (120 BOB; 18 USD). The version includes explanations and details about the dances' significance and history in addition to the dances themselves.

13. Try Chorizo Chuquisaqueño

You must try the chorizo chuquisaca while visiting Sucre! El Huerto is the place for chorizo and other traditional dishes from the Chuquisaca region. This regional pork sausage dish is in several restaurants in Sucre, usually served with grilled onions and hot peppers.

The chorizo appetizer should come first on your menu! Around 45 BOB (less than USD 7) is what it costs. The paramount course price is 60–90 BOB ($8–14 USD). If you are looking for a cheaper meal, you can head over to the Mercado Central where you find local stalls with much cheaper food.

14. Explore the City’s Stunning Colonial Core

Your visit should include Sucre's historic colonial district because it is one of the famous sites there. Explore the streets surrounding the central square, where you'll find plenty of whitewashed colonial houses and plazas designed in the Spanish architectural style.

The Freedom House, the Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe, and the San Felipe church are all nearby. The top pubs and eateries in Sucre are also there to entertain you.

15. Go Rock Climbing in the Surrounding Mountains.

Bolivia has an unexpectedly large number of climbing locations, and the mountains near Sucre provide a variety of walls to try, all with breathtaking views, no matter your skill level or previous experience.

Of course, climbing with a guide is recommended unless you have a lot of experience with rock climbing and have ropes and harnesses. Rock climbing is one of the most adventurous things to do in Sucre.

What is Sucre Famous for?

Sucre is famous for various reasons, but perhaps most significantly, it serves as Bolivia's capital. Sucre continues to serve as Bolivia's capital of justice even though it is only the sixth-largest city in the country. Instead, La Paz serves as Bolivia's administrative capital, where most of the country's business is conducted.

Pedro de Anzrez, a Spanish conquistador, founded Sucre in 1539. As a result, it was a Spanish colony for a long time, as seen by the architecture we still have today. The city has a somewhat European vibe thanks to its many churches and white residences with orange roofs.

If you are looking for things to do in Bolivia then Sucre must be a stop to make.

The Bottom Line

Sucre has played an essential role in attracting tourists from all around the world. Our article has discussed the top fifteen things and excellent activities you can enjoy there. It is time to explore and see the many things to do in Sucre. So, wind yourselves up and be ready to explore it!