This tranquil agricultural and wine centre is linguistically and visually reminiscent of the Spanish Andalucia. At 22 degrees south of the equator and 1924 metres above sea level Tarija is blessed with plenty of sun and an eternal spring-like climate almost all year-round.

Having plentiful vineyards at 1900-2100 metres above sea level Tarija region prides itself on the fact that its grape vines are grown at some of the highest altitudes in the wine-producing world.

Being on the main route to and from Argentina Tarija is a great place to stop and enjoy a few days or weeks visiting the wineries, wandering the tree-lined streets admiring the architecture, making archaeological discoveries, improving your Spanish, shopping in the markets, or simply sitting and relaxing at the cafes on the plazas. It is also a great place to stop and acclimatize to the altitude before venturing on to the Altiplano and other Bolivian cities at 4000 metres above sea level.

Please take time to check out some of the local or nearby attractions.

Tarija was founded on July 4th, 1574 as Villa de San Bernardo de Tarija by Don Luis de Fuentes y Vargas. Its name was a tribute to Francisco de Tarija, a member of Almagro's expedition who was the first Spaniard to visit the valley.

In 1810, Tarija declared independence from the Spanish rule, but the Spanish crown did not pay attention to the rebel act. On April 15th, 1817 at the Batalla de la Tablada, Tarija's citizens won a major victory over the Spanish forces, but not the long awaited independence.

Later on, Argentina was keen to annex the agriculturally favourable area, but Tarija chose to become part of Bolivia which won its independence and formally established itself as a Republic in 1825.