Santa Ana Astronomical Observatory


The country's first observatory, built in collaboration with the then USSR, is around 14km southeast of Tarija. Best to call in advance.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. San Jacinto Reservoir

6.83 MILES

This 17-sq-km reservoir, 7km southwest of town, makes for a pleasant afternoon trip, especially on hot days. It gets very busy on weekends with families…

2. Castillo de Moisés Navajas

7.91 MILES

The exterior of this oddly prominent and deteriorating private mansion is worth a look for its garish blue-and-white-striped extravagance. It’s still…

3. Basílica de San Francisco

8.23 MILES

This basilica was founded in 1606 as the Jesuit 'base camp' in Bolivia and is now a national monument. The 16th-century convent library and archives,…

4. Museo de Arqueología y Paleontología

8.31 MILES

The university-run Archaeology & Paleontology Museum provides a glimpse of the prehistoric creatures and lives of the early peoples that once inhabited…

5. Casa Dorada

8.36 MILES

With heavy coats of gold and silver paint, the appropriately named Gilded House whose roof is topped with a row of liberating angels looks impressive from…

6. Coliseo Luis Parra

8.36 MILES

Entertaining basketball, futsal (five-a-side soccer) and volleyball games are played at the Coliseo Luis Parra.

7. Iglesia de San Roque

8.43 MILES

Architecturally, Tarija’s most unusual church and major landmark is the bright, white 1887 Iglesia de San Roque. Dedicated to the city’s patron saint, the…

8. Cathedral

8.43 MILES

This rather dull-looking cathedral contains the remains of prominent chapacos, including Tarija’s founder, don Luis de Fuentes y Vargas. It was…