The Christ Statue in Cochabamba, Larger Than Rio's

Cochabamba is located at an altitude of nearly 2,600 meters. From La Paz, it takes about 7 hours by overnight bus. Since you arrive at the bus terminal early in the morning, you’ll need to spend some time in the cold and crowded terminal. Be cautious with your belongings as the terminal is bustling with various people.

The highlight of Cochabamba is the Christ statue on the hill of Concordia (altitude 2,840 meters). Interestingly, the statue is 4 meters taller than the Christ statue in Rio, standing at 34.2 meters and weighing a total of 2,200 tons. The base of the hill is located about 2 kilometers from the flat city center, making it a walkable distance. However, the cable car to the top of the hill has been out of service for over two years due to maintenance (as of July 2025), leaving you with two options: walking up or taking a taxi.

A taxi ride to the top costs around 20 Bolivianos. If you choose to walk, there are over 1,300 steps to climb. The high altitude and physical exertion might be challenging for those who are not used to exercise. However, along the way, there are small stone statues and rest areas with viewing platforms where you can take breaks. Even local children were seen walking up on their own. At the summit, there are food stalls and souvenir shops where many people relax and enjoy the view.

While mornings and evenings in Cochabamba can be chilly, the daytime sun and dryness are intense, requiring plenty of hydration. Although photos may be backlit, it’s recommended to climb early in the morning when the air is still cool. Walking around the city in the afternoon can quickly leave you feeling parched.

For those who find walking up too strenuous, taking a taxi to the top and leisurely descending while admiring the stone statues along the way is a good alternative.

There is no entrance fee, and recommended items to bring include:
- Hat
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Plenty of water
- Snacks

Post by Traveling-around-the-world | Jul 16, 2025