Tarabuco travel guide

To the east of Sucre are communities of the Yampara ethnic group, which maintain their traditional dress and culture. They are also known as Tarabuco people, after the best known of their communities. Their intricate textiles combine bright colours with a light background.

Other villages east of Sucre that carry on the weaving tradition include: Yamparáez, half way between Sucre and Tarabuco, it is possible to se condors at Condor Kaka nearby ; Candelaria, 24 km southeast of Tarabuco, with a colonial hacienda that offers lodging; and Zudáñez, 50 km from Tarabuco on the road to Monteagudo. Presto, 37 km north of Tarabuco, is the access to the Reserva El Palmar, one of the national protected areas, three hours beyond. The reserve lies on the flanks of the Cordillera Oriental between 1000 and 3200 m and protects temperate dry valleys, cloud-forest and semi-dry valleys.

One of the best traditional festivals in the country, held in Tarabuco on the third Sunday of March, is Pujllay (to play), which celebrates the independence Battle of Jumbate, when the local people defeated the Spaniards on 12 March 1816. Thousands of people from 30 communities, dressed in elaborate costumes, participate in a colourful traditional celebration, which involves music with native instruments and vigorous dancing in order to invoke the souls of the fallen indigenous soldiers. According to Yampara tradition, the souls of those who have died an accidental or violent death outside their homes are considered to have miraculous powers. It is a very colourful and lively affair with great music, local food and the obligatory chicha. No one sleeps during this fiesta so there are no accommodation problems, however, if you want a room, arrange well in advance.