THE GUIDE - The Rough Guide to Bolivia - page 368

imaginative toppings (Bs25-80), and big, juicy churrascos (Bs38-40). Mon-Sat for lunch
and dinner.
La Oveja Negra Calle Campero. A relaxing spot for a coffee, beer, glass of wine, slice of
apple crumble cake or portion of tiramisu , La Oveja Negra (“The Black Sheep”), also has
a book exchange, plenty of board games and a dart board to keep you occupied. Deserts
Bs12-15, alcoholic drinks from Bs12. Daily except Tues 6pm-late.
La Ranita Av del Estudiante. Delightful French café-bakery producing some of the best
croissants, pain auchocolats andbreads inBolivia, aswell asfine coffees, teas andbreakfasts
(Bs16-40). The artwork on the walls and a selection of crafts and jewellery are for sale too.
Thurs-Mon 8am-noon & 2-6.30pm.
La Vaca Loca Sucre, on the main plaza. This bovine-themed restaurant and ice cream
parlourisagoodspotthroughouttheday,withcoffees,sandwiches,pancakesandmainmeals
(dish of the day around Bs22). The highlight, however, is the sundaes (Bs15-25), includ-
ing the Copa La Vaca Loca (Bs49), which features eight flavours and serves two. Wed-Sat
noon-10pm.
Zen Tro Bolívar. Serene café-cum-cultural centre specializing in tea (Bs10-20) - infusions
include jasmine and mint green tea. Once you've quenched your thirst, the owners aim to
soothe your body and soul with excellent massages, yoga sessions, reflexology, salsa and
samba dance classes, film screenings and art exhibitions all on offer. Thurs-Sun 4-7pm.
DIRECTORY
Exchange There is no bank in Samaipata, but Cooperativa La Merced (daily except Sun),
onSucre, just offthe plaza, changes dollars andsometimes offerscash withdrawals oncredit
cards.
Internet Café Internet Anyi has slow connections (Bs7/hr).
Laundry Michael Blendinger Tours charges Bs40/5kg. Amboro Tours and several hotels
also offer services.
Shopping Along Sucre from the plaza, Carmen Luz Art has an array of artwork from local
craftspeople on sale.
Telephones There's an ENTEL office on the plaza.
< Back to Santa Cruz and the Eastern Lowlands
Around Samaipata
The fascinating site of El Fuerte is the key attraction in the surrounding countryside, but too
many tourists see nothing else before they shuffle back to the bright lights of Santa Cruz. The
opportunities to explore the surrounding countryside are immense in this beautiful region of
rugged, forested mountains, divided by lush valleys whose lower slopes are covered by rich