Museo Costumbrista Juan de Vargas
Explore colonial architecture and historical models, part of a multi-museum ticket. Be ready for language barriers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit
Museo Costumbrista Juan de Vargas
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore colonial architecture and historical models, part of a multi-museum ticket. Be ready for language barriers.
"While the colonial houses are beautiful, be prepared for language barriers and potential photo restrictions. "
Brush up on Spanish
Staff may only speak Spanish and can be unhelpful if you don't. :speech_balloon:
Photography restrictions
Foreigners may not be allowed to take photos. Check rules first. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Colonial Houses & Patios
Accessed via the museum entrance
Explore three beautiful colonial houses and their charming patios, offering a glimpse into historical architecture.
Historical Event Models
Main exhibition halls
See detailed models depicting significant historical events, bringing the past to life.
Period Clothing & Masks
Exhibition rooms
Discover traditional clothing from different eras and a collection of masks, though a dedicated mask museum is nearby.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Language Barrier Alert
Ticket & Photography Rules
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Brush up on Spanish
Staff may only speak Spanish and can be unhelpful if you don't. :speech_balloon:
Photography restrictions
Foreigners may not be allowed to take photos. Check rules first. :camerawithflash:
Combined ticket option
Access three municipal museums with one ticket, starting here. :ticket:
Quick visit possible
You can see most exhibits in under an hour. :stopwatch:
Tips
from all over the internet
Brush up on Spanish
Staff may only speak Spanish and can be unhelpful if you don't. :speech_balloon:
Photography restrictions
Foreigners may not be allowed to take photos. Check rules first. :camerawithflash:
Combined ticket option
Access three municipal museums with one ticket, starting here. :ticket:
Quick visit possible
You can see most exhibits in under an hour. :stopwatch:
Check closing times
The museum can close a bit earlier than expected. :clock:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
This museum offers a glimpse into historical events and colonial architecture, with the potential to visit multiple sites on a single ticket. However, visitors should be prepared for significant language barriers and potential restrictions on photography, which have led to some negative experiences.
"We tried to buy tickets at the front desk and when we politely asked in Spanish if he spoke a little English he rudely responded with no solo espanol and refused to help any further. We really wanted to see the museums here and purchase tickets for all of them, but sadly was not welcomed!"
Anastasia Dounas
"If you are a foreigner and don't understand Spanish perfectly, this is not the place for you.
Foreigners have to pay 20, but you are not allowed to take photographs, and not allowed to use Google Translate!!!!
Location of fraud."
pt qma
"The museum is one of the municipal museums of Jaen Street that you access with a single ticket. You can three of them entering through the “museo costumbrista” at the corner of the street and visit three colomial houses that house them. The museum contains some clothung of the period and maks (to see a full mask collection go to “museo de etnografia and folklore” close by), but mainly models of historial events. The three houses and patios alone mane the visit worthwile, but if you are short of time I recomeend you to do only the museum of precious metals and the house of Pedro Domingo Murillo of these four museums."
Manuel Urquidi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located on Jaen Street in La Paz, Bolivia. It's part of a circuit of municipal museums, and you can often access three of them with a single ticket starting at this location.
Yes, it's situated on the corner of Sucre Avenue and Apolinar Jaén Street, across from Riosinho Square.
Given its central location, walking or taking a taxi/ride-sharing service is recommended. Public transport might be available but can be crowded. :taxi:
Parking in this historic area can be challenging. It's advisable to use public transport or a taxi. :car:
The colonial houses may have stairs and uneven surfaces. It's best to inquire about accessibility beforehand. :wheelchair:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Foreign visitors typically pay a higher admission fee (around 20 Bolivianos), while locals may pay less.
Yes, tickets can usually be purchased at the front desk. However, be prepared for potential language barriers when asking for information.
Yes, you can often access three municipal museums, including this one, with a single ticket.
The museum generally closes a bit early, so it's wise to check the exact closing time before your visit to avoid disappointment. :clock:
Advance booking is usually not required for this museum, but it's always a good idea to check their official website or social media for any special announcements. :computer:
📸 📸 Photography & Exhibits
Photography may be restricted, especially for foreign visitors who might be explicitly told not to take pictures.
The museum frequently hosts temporary exhibitions, such as photographic displays like 'Jumara Juwa' or cultural events related to Bolivian traditions like the Morenada. 
You'll find period clothing, masks, and detailed models of historical events.
Guided tours might be available, particularly for specific exhibitions. However, communication might be limited to Spanish.
For a more extensive mask collection, the 'Museo de Etnografía y Folklore' nearby is recommended.
🎫 🗣️ Language & Visitor Experience
Communication can be difficult as staff may only speak Spanish and can be unhelpful to non-Spanish speakers. Using translation apps might also be discouraged.
Most visitors find that they can see everything in less than an hour.
While some visitors find it 'really cool' and 'worth seeing,' others have reported negative experiences due to rudeness and language barriers.
One reviewer mentioned being explicitly forbidden from using Google Translate.
Try to use simple Spanish phrases, have a translation app ready (though it might not be allowed), or visit with someone who speaks Spanish. :pray:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
However, be aware that photography is often restricted for foreign visitors, and you may be explicitly told not to use your camera or even translation apps. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Museum Circuit
Visitors can enter through the 'Museo Costumbrista' and then proceed to visit two other colonial houses that house different collections. This integrated approach makes it a convenient way to experience several facets of La Paz's history and culture in one go. The architecture of the houses and their patios alone are often cited as a significant part of the visit's appeal.
While the museum offers a good overview, for those particularly interested in specific themes like masks, it's worth noting that other nearby museums, such as the 'Museo de Etnografía y Folklore,' might offer more specialized collections. Planning your visit to include these adjacent sites can enhance your cultural immersion.
Understanding Exhibition Themes
Photographic exhibitions are also common. 'Jumara Juwa' by Lois Iglesias showcased the role of indigenous women, while 'Q'onoy. La noche del fuego' by Pilar Pedraza documented the vibrant 'Virgen del Carmen' festival in Paucartambo, Peru. These exhibitions offer a dynamic and evolving experience for repeat visitors.
+3Beyond temporary displays, the permanent collection includes period clothing and masks, alongside models of historical events. These exhibits provide context for the region's past, though the mask collection is more extensive at a nearby museum.
Visitor Experience: The Good and The Challenging
However, a significant number of visitors report negative experiences, primarily due to a strong language barrier. Staff may exclusively speak Spanish and can be unhelpful or even rude to foreigners.
For a smoother visit, it's recommended to have basic Spanish phrases ready, be aware of potential photography limitations, and manage expectations regarding staff interaction. Despite these challenges, the historical significance and architectural beauty of the site continue to draw visitors.
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