cholitas wrestling
January 2025
A new blog post is here from a summer in La Paz, cold, a bit rainy, but full of charm.
I hope you’re doing well wherever you are. And if you’re in La Paz or on your way here, don’t let the rain stop you!
There are plenty of fun activities to enjoy even on a rainy day, and today, I’ll write about one of the most unique experiences in the city: Cholitas Wrestling!
But first, let me share a little story from earlier this week.
At the start of every year, we host a special dinner for the incredible women we work with at the Rodríguez Market. It’s our way of showing appreciation for their hard work and the amazing ingredients they provide, which help us create flavors from around the world.
These dinners aren’t just about business, they’re a time to share stories, laugh, and learn from each other. I truly believe that the more you connect with different cultures and traditions, the more humble and open you become toward life itself.
Now, back to Cholitas Wrestling and why is it a must-see in La Paz!
Even though it’s gaining popularity every year, many travelers don’t know it exists until they arrive here. And when they find out?
They’re amazed! Cholitas Wrestling is unlike anything you’ve seen before. Indigenous Bolivian women, dressed in their iconic pollera skirts, shawls, and bowler hats, step into the ring for theatrical and high-energy wrestling matches. It’s a mix of culture, drama, and empowerment, where every move tells a story. Whether you’re a wrestling fan or just curious, it’s an unforgettable way to experience Bolivia’s vibrant culture.
What’s a Cholita?
The Cholita Paceña, with her pollera, shawl, and bowler hat, is much more than a cultural icon, she’s a symbol of strength, pride, and resilience. Whether she’s selling goods in the market or wrestling in the ring, she challenges stereotypes and shows just how incredible Bolivia’s Indigenous women are.
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The Story Behind Cholitas Wrestling
Many travelers go to a match without knowing its origins, but understanding the history adds so much depth to the experience.
Cholitas Wrestling began in the early 2000s in El Alto. It started as a way for Indigenous women to blend traditional wrestling with dramatic storytelling, creating a space to celebrate their culture and challenge societal norms.
What to Expect at a Cholitas Wrestling Match
The matches are often held in a cholet, a colorful, traditional building.
Your ticket usually includes popcorn and a Coke, and the atmosphere is intense. The wrestlers put on a show filled with drama, flips, and spins, but it’s the passionate crowd that brings the event to life. Their cheers fuel the wrestlers and make the experience unforgettable.
Tips for Enjoying Cholitas Wrestling
Shows happen almost daily in different venues around La Paz and El Alto. Tickets are usually around $15 USD.
What to bring: Warm clothes (especially in El Alto), cash for snacks or souvenirs, a camera for great photos, and make sure to eat something beforehand.
Arrive early to grab a seat close to the ring and interact with the locals—it makes the experience even better!
Café del Mundo is a perfect starting point for the adventure, where you can book your Cholitas Wrestling tour
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Cholitas Wrestling is more than just a show, it’s a celebration of culture, history, and tradition that you won’t find anywhere else. So go ahead, explore something truly unique, and make memories you’ll never forget.
