The historic village of Padcaya lies at an altitude of 2,000 meters, roughly 50 kilometers south of Tarija and has a population of about 1,500. The small town fought valiantly in the war of independence (1810-1825) resulting in the church being attacked and ransacked. You can climb the near-by montana de Cabildo, which has miradors over-looking the city, or visit the local caves that contain archaeological remains and petroglyphs.

The village celebrates New Year, Easter and la Fiesta de la Virgen de Guadalupe with gusto. The Carnaval de Padcaya is another great time to visit.

There’s not much in the way of restaurants or hotels - Residencia Doña Vicky has basic rooms and also serves food. Don’t leave without trying the sweet empanadas blanqueadas, which are speciality here.

Buses leave from the corner of Plaza Sucre and Calle Virginio Lema in Tarija every 20 minutes ($0.60).