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Oruro, Bolivia
Oruro is Bolivia's folklore capital, home of the Carnaval de Oruro, one of the biggest carnivals in South America. Oruro is also a connecting point for reaching some of the natural wonders of the world such as the Uyuni salt desert, Laguna Colorada (a red lake, which is home to a distinctive species of flamingo) and Laguna Verde. Oruro's population is roughly 216,660, where 90% of the inhabitants are said to be of indigenous heritage. Locals refer to themselves as quirquinchos (armadillos). Many are tough, hard-working people who have seen some rough times over the years with the decline of the Bolivian mining industry and the extreme climate conditions. Oruro, Bolivia was founded in 1606 and became a prosperous mining town. With its abundance of silver and other resources, Oruro became one of the richest cities in South America and the second largest city after Potosi. The industry also gave rise to a rail network, which even today still runs through Oruro. For two centuries silver was extracted from the mines around the city, until much of the mines became depleted in the early 1800s. At that point the town was almost abandoned when many left in search of work elsewhere. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Oruro experienced another boom when the mines were re-worked for its tin, which become an important material in the world markets. Since the fall of world tin prices and depletion of resources, Oruro in not the prosperous city it use to be long time ago and certainly not one of the richest cities in South America. Although Oruro has became a poor city, the city boast one of the best carnivals in South America. During Carnival, thousands of visitors from other Bolivian towns and from neighboring countries, pour into the city to take part in the festivities. Attractions - Things to do & SeeOruro doesn't particular have any main attractions, but if you are anywhere near Oruro at carnaval time, this is a fiesta that should not be missed. Other attractions include museums, churches and mine tours. Read MoreGetting There & AroundOruro is easily reachable, located about 230 km (143 miles) southeast of La Paz on a paved road. You can take a bus or take the rail line south by train from Oruro to other Bolivian towns. Read MoreOruro Hotels - Where to SleepHotels in Oruro are normally very cheap, but if you are going to be in the city around carnival time hotel room rates can almost be triple. Read MoreRestaurants - Places to EatRecommendations on Places to eat in OruroEntertainment - Nightlife in OruroOruro's nightlife is very low-key for most of the year, however during the carnival, Oruro's nightlife comes alive. The majority of the bars, pubs, discos and karaokes are around the city center and Avenida 6 de Agosto. Read MoreShopping - Markets in OruroThe majority of shops in Oruro are located around the city center, such as around Plaza 10 de Febrero and along Calle Bolivar. There you'll find llama & alpaca wool bags, clothing, gifts or souvenirs and many other handcraft items. Read MoreCarnival - Carnaval de OruroAbout the carnival in Oruro. Carnival dates, videos and photos.Weather & Climate - Forecast for OruroOruro lies at an elevation of about 3706 meters (12,158 feet) above sea level in the Andean Mountain range. Therefore, due too its high altitude, it can get windy and weather conditions can get quite chilly in Oruro. Read MoreOruro Map - Mapa de Oruro
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