Cholitas wrestling is a captivating cultural spectacle in La Paz, Bolivia. These traditional Aymara women, known as cholitas, showcase their athleticism in vibrant attire featuring layered skirts and distinctive bowler hats. The matches, filled with grappling and acrobatics, create a lively atmosphere that enthralls both locals and travelers. Organized by Oficina Buhos Tours, the experience offers shared transport and snacks, providing a unique window into Bolivian culture. What makes this event so special, and why is it drawing increasing attention from around the world?
Good To Know
- Cholitas Wrestling is a unique cultural event in La Paz, Bolivia, featuring athletic Bolivian women performing traditional wrestling matches in authentic attire.
- The event takes place at 4:00 p.m. and includes shared transport, snacks, and a lively, festive atmosphere.
- The experience is not wheelchair accessible and is not recommended for pregnant individuals, but most other travelers can participate.
- Booking is available through Oficina Buhos Tours, with pricing starting at €23.61 per person and free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
- A recent mixed review highlighted concerns about authenticity and value, but the organizers are open to feedback to improve the experience.
Overview of Cholitas Wrestling
Cholitas Wrestling is a unique and captivating experience that showcases the athletic prowess and cultural heritage of Bolivian women.
Set in La Paz, this one-of-a-kind event draws in travelers and locals alike, offering a glimpse into the vibrant Cholitas culture.
Cholitas, or Aymara women, don their traditional colorful skirts, bowler hats, and braids as they engage in thrilling wrestling matches.
The experience is based at the Oficina Buhos Tours, where visitors can enjoy snacks and shared tourist transport.
While not wheelchair accessible, the event is suitable for most travelers, excluding pregnant individuals.
Booking through Buhos Tours provides a convenient and hassle-free experience, with the option to reserve now and pay later.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in La Paz.
Meeting Point and Time
To experience the excitement of Cholitas Wrestling, visitors must first make their way to the designated meeting point at the Oficina Buhos Tours on Calle Sagarnaga N° 242 in La Paz.
The tour gathers at 4:00 p.m., so participants should plan to arrive on time.
From the meeting point, the shared tourist transport will take everyone to the venue where the Cholitas Wrestling event takes place.
Knowing the exact location and start time is crucial for ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience at this unique Bolivian cultural attraction.
Inclusions and Exclusions
What does the Cholitas Wrestling tour include?
According to the provided information, the tour includes snacks such as popcorn and soda/pop.
Plus, shared tourist transport and the Goods and Services Tax (GST) are covered. Gratuities are also included in the tour price.
However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible. Infants must sit on laps, and the experience isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers, though most travelers can participate.
The tour is operated by Buhos Tours, and the price starts from €23.61 per person.
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts, and a Reserve Now and Pay Later option is offered.
Accessibility and Participation
The Cholitas Wrestling experience isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s located near public transportation.
Infants attending the event must sit on their parents’ laps. Pregnant travelers aren’t recommended to participate due to the physical nature of the wrestling matches.
However, most travelers can enjoy the spectacle, as the event is open to the general public. Attendees should keep in mind that the experience may not be suitable for all visitors, and they should consider their individual needs and preferences before booking.
The organizers strive to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.
Booking Process
Buhos Tours, the operator of the Cholitas Wrestling experience, offers a convenient booking process for interested travelers. Customers can reserve and pay for the experience in advance, with the option to reserve now and pay later. The booking can be confirmed at the time of reservation, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start of the experience. To assist travelers, Buhos Tours provides the following booking details:
Booking Option | Price |
---|---|
Reserve Now, Pay Later | From €23.61 |
Upfront Payment | From €23.61 |
Feedback to improve the experience can be provided directly to Buhos Tours at [email protected].
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Notable Review and Response
One notable review of the Cholitas Wrestling experience stands out, highlighting potential concerns.
In a review titled "Trampa para turistas" (A trap for travelers), ARIADNE_C gave the experience just 3 stars in March 2023.
The review cited several issues:
- Felt the experience was a "tourist trap" with questionable authenticity
- Disappointed by the overall quality and experience
- Believed the pricing wasn’t aligned with the value provided
The tour operator, Buhos Tours, has invited feedback to improve the experience at [email protected], indicating they’re open to addressing such concerns and enhancing the Cholitas Wrestling outing.
Exploring the Experience
Although the Cholitas Wrestling experience in La Paz, Bolivia, has received mixed reviews, it offers visitors a unique cultural encounter. Attendees can expect to witness a thrilling display of traditional Bolivian wrestling, where indigenous women, known as "Cholitas," take center stage. The event includes:
Highlights | Description |
---|---|
Authentic Attire | Cholitas don their signature bowler hats and vibrant, layered skirts. |
Competitive Matches | Intense grappling and high-flying maneuvers captivate the audience. |
Lively Atmosphere | Cheers, music, and a festive environment create an immersive experience. |
The shared tourist transport and included snacks and beverages add to the convenience and enjoyment of the Cholitas Wrestling experience. Despite the mixed reviews, this cultural spectacle remains a popular attraction for visitors seeking a glimpse into Bolivia’s rich traditions.
Getting There and Details
The meeting point for the Cholitas Wrestling experience is at the Oficina Buhos Tours on Calle Sagarnaga N°242 in La Paz, Bolivia.
The experience starts at 4:00 p.m., and visitors will receive shared tourist transport, snacks like popcorn and soda, and gratuities are included.
It’s important to note that the experience isn’t wheelchair accessible, infants must sit on laps, and it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers, though most travelers can participate.
Booking through Buhos Tours costs €23.61 and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
- Shared tourist transport
- Snacks and beverages included
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There an Age Limit for Participants?
The experience information doesn’t mention an age limit for participants. It states that infants must sit on laps, but doesn’t specify a minimum age requirement. Most travelers can participate in this activity.
Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks?
Guests are not allowed to bring their own snacks and drinks to the experience. The tour includes popcorn and soda/pop as part of the inclusions. Outside food and beverages are not permitted during the Cholitas Wrestling event.
Is There an Option for Private Transportation?
There is no information provided about an option for private transportation. The experience includes shared tourist transport, so private transportation does not appear to be offered based on the details given.
Can I Take Photos and Videos During the Event?
Visitors can take photos and videos during the event, as it is not prohibited. However, it’s best to be respectful and avoid interfering with the performance or other guests’ experiences.
What Is the Duration of the Cholitas Wrestling Experience?
The Cholitas Wrestling experience lasts approximately 3 hours. It includes the shared tourist transport to and from the event, as well as the wrestling performance itself at the venue in La Paz, Bolivia.
The Sum Up
Cholitas Wrestling in La Paz, Bolivia, offers a unique cultural experience that showcases the athleticism and vibrant style of traditional Bolivian women. Organized by Oficina Buhos Tours, the event provides shared transport and snacks, making it an accessible way for both locals and travelers to enjoy this lively and entertaining spectacle. The matches, filled with grappling and acrobatics, create a dynamic atmosphere that celebrates Bolivian heritage.
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