Nestled in the foothills of the Andes, Sucre retains much of its Spanish colonial charm. Its cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and wrought-iron balconies create a time capsule that is perfectly preserved. The city's white facades earned it the nickname 'La Ciudad Blanca', or 'White City'. Sucre is the constitutional capital of Bolivia, and its streets and centers are lined with government ministries and cultural attractions to delight tourists from all over the globe.
Tips for expats in Sucre
Visa requirements
Citizens of some countries, such as Chile, Colombia, and Venezuela, are granted a 90-day tourist visa upon arrival. Expats from other countries should check the Bolivian embassy or consulate in their home countries for visitor visa requirements, as processes and fees vary.
Language resources
Though Spanish is spoken primarily, a few indigenous languages, including Quechua and Guarani, are still spoken by some locals. Expats should take Spanish lessons before relocating to Sucre to increase their chances of securing employment and be better integrated into the community. The Bolivian Academia de Español offers courses, as do some private schools.
Cost of living for expats in Sucre
Housing
A modest room in a shared house costs around Bs. 500 (USD 60) a month. One-bedroom apartments in the city center go for around Bs. 700 - Bs. 1,100 (USD 85 - USD 130), and two-bedroom apartments range from Bs. 1,050 to Bs. 2,650 (USD 125 – USD 315). Move-in fees are typically two months' rent, while water and electricity bills are paid separately. Renters should inquire about included utilities, security deposits, and lease durations.
Groceries
Sucre's markets offer reasonably priced fruits and vegetables, which are a prominent feature of the Bolivian cuisine. Meat, poultry, and fish are a bit pricier, particularly imported products. Olive oil, butter, and canned goods often exceed the expat's budget. Personal preferance, dietary restrictions, and cooking skill level will affect how much is spent on groceries.
Transportation
Bicycles, motorbikes, taxis, and horse carriages are popular modes of transportation in Sucre. Avoid taxis without meters, as these could be overpriced. Challenging bike lanes, steep hills, and heavy traffic make cycling in the city center a challenging affair. Taxis and colectivos are reasonably priced, as are horse carriages that offer a stunning view of the city's colonial heritage.
Climate in Sucre
Sucre enjoys a mild tropical climate that is ideal for its stunning architecture. The city's altitude (around 2,800 meters above sea level) moderates temperatures, which have been known to dip below freezing at night and never climb above 25°C during the day. The dry season lasts from April to October, while the wettest months, from November through March, tend to bring occasional thunderstorms.
Job market in Sucre
Sucre's economy has mainly been based on services, like healthcare, education, and tourism. Over the past decade, foreign investment has been channeled into the city's burgeoning tech sector, producing jobs in engineering, design, and development. Expats looking for work in Sucre should have a degree or certification in a field with high demand. While the job market is competitive, opportunities are available for those with the right skills and qualifications.
Healthcare in Sucre
Medical facilities in Sucre, such as Clínica Caracas and Hospital San Francisco Xavier de Chuquisaca, offer top-notch healthcare services at competitive prices. For preventive care, the Centro Nacional de Salud (CENSANA) provides vaccinations and check-ups. Médicos de la Comunidad del Valle offer private healthcare services for expats. Residents of Sucre can also rely on the Servicio Boliviano de Salud, a public medical program that entitles them to medical care, medication, and hospital stays at little or no cost.
Transport in Sucre
Sucre's center is small enough to explore on foot. Inside the narrow streets of the city center, the free tourist bus 'Selva Mágica' is an excellent way to navigate the city. Popular routes include Mirador de la Floresta, Cementerio General, Jesús de Machaca, and the diamante engraved on the glaciers of Illimani. For longer trips to nearby towns and attractions, private taxis and colectivos (shared taxis) are readily available. Buses and vans depart for destinations such as Potosí, Tarabuco, and Vallegrande, where the landscape varies from lush vegetation to barren mountains.
Safety in Sucre
Crime in Sucre is low compared to other Bolivian cities like La Paz and Santa Cruz. Expats should, however, abide by local customs and avoid carrying valuables in the streets. The majority of crimes are non-violent and typically occur in the dimly lit alleys of the city during the late hours. Robberies, thefts, and burglaries occur but infrequently. To stay safe, expats should keep their door locked and windows closed, especially after dark.
Neighborhoods in Sucre
San Francisco
San Francisco is Sucre's oldest and most historical neighborhood. Its picturesque streets, vivid colonial architecture, and thriving cultural scene make it a popular choice among expats. The area is home to popular landmarks such as the Plaza 25 de Mayo, the Rosario Cemetery, and the Museo Textil Andino Boliviano.
Yauri
Yauri is located northwest of San Francisco and boasts a more relaxed atmosphere, punctuated by verdurous nature and green spaces. The Jufera Park, just beyond Calle Santa Cruz, provides an excellent spot for picnics, and romantic strolls. The neighborhood's central location makes transportation easy.
Attractions in Sucre
Calle 16 de Julio
Sucre's picturesque main street takes its name from Bolivia's declaration of independence on July 16, 1825. The street's wrought-iron balconies, preserved colonial-era structures, and cobblestone streets offer a remarkably atmospheric stroll through time. Some of the area's most memorable landmarks include Plaza 25 de Mayo, the Archaeological Museum, and Sucre's exceptional wall art.
La Recova
Originally a market for animal products, La Recova has been converted into an artisan's market that sells handmade textiles, pottery, and souvenirs. It's the perfect place to buy authentic gifts for loved ones back home.
International Schools in Sucre
Colegio Internacional Santa María
The school's sprawling, gated compound is located in the city's northern residential area, with easy access to nearby attractions such as the National Museum of Bolivia. Additionally, it's adjacent to retail centers, restaurants, and pharmacies, making it easily accessible.
Abiding by the International Baccalaureate curriculum, this school provides top-quality teaching to students from pre-primary to high school. The school campus features well-equipped libraries, multimedia centers, and purpose-built sports grounds for football, basketball, skating, and other sports. Expats can enroll their children for short or long-term stays, and the school also offers boarding services and extended extra-curricular activities.
Useful expat resources in Sucre
Asociación de Empresarios del Valle
A business association helping entrepreneurs in the local community.
Sol Café
A popular coffeehouse chain with locations throughout Sucre.
