La Costanera Park (Tarija)
La Costanera Park is Tarija’s most classic urban-natural promenade: a green strip along the banks of the Guadalquivir River, with wide paths, shade, gardens, and spaces for sports and families. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a morning of city sightseeing or an afternoon of winery visits, because the plan here is simple and very Tarija-esque: walk, chat, take photos, have a picnic, and observe local life.
In many local tourist guides, this area was known for years as Parque de los Changuitos (for its children’s playground), and today, after renovations, it retains areas for children but adds long paths ideal for strolling and physical activity.
📍 Where exactly is it located?
La Costanera is located on Av. Víctor Paz Estenssoro, next to the Guadalquivir River, and is easily recognizable by the Bicentennial Bridge.
Some descriptions place the riverfront promenade along the Guadalquivir River between important bridges (such as San Martín and Bolívar in some newspaper articles, and from Bicentenario towards San Martín in tourist guides).
Key landmarks for finding it quickly by taxi: “La Costanera / Letras Tarija / Puente Bicentenario”.
🌿 What is “La Costanera” and why is it worth visiting?
It’s not a single “enclosed” park, but rather a recreational promenade (like a tree-lined avenue) right next to the river. Why is it so popular with travelers?
- Because it’s free (essentially, a public space for strolling).
- Because it’s easy: no tour or logistics required.
- Because you experience the real Tarija: families, joggers, young people, people drinking mate and relaxing.
- Because it’s the best place for a peaceful sunset within the city.
🏞️ What to see on the riverfront?
1) 🌊 The Guadalquivir River and the valley view
The river is a constant backdrop. It’s a gentle landscape: water, trees, bridges, and the Tarija Valley. It’s ideal for photos because the scenery changes with the light.
2) 🧒 Playground and “Parque de los Changuitos” (Little Monkey Park)
This name appears frequently in local guides: it was once well-known for its children’s play areas (wooden castles and other games), and today it maintains children’s areas within the renovated park.
3) 🏃 Trails and exercise areas
Reviews mention trails, walking areas, and exercise equipment, making it a good place for a light travel workout (walking, jogging, stretching).
4) 📸 “Tarija Letters” (must-see spot)
Within the area, the Tarija Letters stand ou
🚶♂️ What to do in La Costanera (plans that actually work)
🥾 1) Walk in sections (simple, beautiful, and inexpensive plan)
The best way to do this is to walk in sections, without rushing. You can do it like this:
- Photo section: Tarija letters + surroundings (ideal at sunset).
- Family section: playground (Changuitos) + green areas.
- Exercise section: trails + areas with exercise equipment.
🧺 2) Urban picnic (without leaving the city)
Guides to attractions highlight its large green areas: ideal for bringing something light (fruit, sandwich, water) and relaxing.
🏃 3) Jog or brisk walk
If you’re traveling for several days, this park serves as a “healthy routine”: 30–45 minutes to get your body moving before breakfast or in the late afternoon. (The environment is designed for walking and exercise).
🚲 4) Bicycles and bike paths (useful topic for travelers)
In Tarija, there’s talk about urban bike paths and their improvement/safety. There are municipal notices and announcements about signage and safety, as well as citizen complaints about lighting to improve the nighttime experience. Traveler’s translation: during the day it’s usually more pleasant and clear; at night, it’s better to go to well-lit and busy areas.
📸 5) Photography (when to take the best photos)
Sunset: the “peak time” for soft light and less heat (also highlighted in visitor reviews).
Early morning: fewer people and fresh air (ideal if you want “clean” photos).
⏰ What’s the best time and how much time should you dedicate?
Best time (for most): 4:30–7:00 PM (depending on the season), because the sun goes down and the park comes alive with local activity.
Recommended time:
- Quick: 45–90 min (photos + short walk).
- Ideal: 2–3 hrs (walking, sitting, picnic, or ice cream).
- Full afternoon plan: 3–5 hrs if you combine it with coffee or dinner afterward.
Travel reviews mention a typical 1–2 hour visit, but it’s completely flexible.
🚗 How to get there (without complications)
🚖 By taxi
Ask for: “Costanera, Letras Tarija, Puente Bicentenario” (very clear directions).
🚶♀️ Walking from the center
If you’re near the center, you can plan a city walk and end at La Costanera to watch the sunset.
🎒 What to bring (practical travel checklist)
- Water (even though it’s a city walk, it can get longer without you noticing)
- Sunscreen and a hat if you go before 4:00 PM
- A light jacket for the evening (Tarija gets chilly)
- Comfortable shoes
- Mild insect repellent if you stay near the river in the evening
- Trash bag (if you have a picnic)
✅ Helpful tips (the ones that save you trouble)
- If you want peace and quiet: go Monday–Thursday, in the afternoon.
- If you want a local atmosphere: go on the weekend at sunset (more families).
- For photos with the Tarija letters: arrive in soft light, not in bright sunlight.
- At night: prioritize well-lit areas with people, especially if you’re alone (there are local reports about the need to improve lighting in bike path sections).
🧩 How to combine La Costanera with other plans in Tarija
🍷 Plan 1: “Wineries + Waterfront”
- Morning: Winery visit or tasting
- Afternoon: Waterfront for a walk and to digest the tasting
- Evening: Relaxed dinner
🌊 Plan 2: “Lake San Jacinto + Waterfront”
- Morning: Lake San Jacinto (scenery and lunch)
- Afternoon: Waterfront (gentle end and photos)
👨👩👧 Plan 3: “Family”
- Ice cream/snack
- Games (Monkeys) + short walk
- Photos at the Tarija sign
❓ Frequently Asked Questions from Travelers
Is there an entrance fee?
Reviews and guides treat it as a public park/urban promenade for recreation.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes: it stands out for its children’s play areas and family-friendly atmosphere (Changuitos).
How long is the park?
It’s described as a corridor that stretches between bridges and sections of the river, with various landmarks (Bicentenario towards San Martín; and also mentions between San Martín and Bolívar in newspaper articles).
What’s the best plan for a first-timer?
Sunset + Tarija Letters + a leisurely walk + sitting for 15 minutes gazing at the river. That combination almost never fails.