High in the mountains of Bolivia, far above sea level where the air feels thinner and the sky seems almost close enough to touch, lies a city unlike any other: Oruro. At first glance, it may look quiet — a cluster of homes, markets and old mining streets surrounded by wide open plains. But when you look closer, Oruro is full of music, colour, legend and a spirit that feels larger than the land itself. Throughout the year it is peaceful, but when carnival season arrives, the entire city bursts into a celebration so powerful that UNESCO declared it a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.
Oruro began as a mining town centuries ago. Hidden beneath its mountains were rich deposits of silver and tin, which brought explorers, workers and traders from across the region. Life in the mines was hard, dangerous and full of uncertainty. Miners often worked long hours underground, guided only by the flicker of lamps. But alongside the hard work grew a tapestry of beliefs and stories meant to protect them. One of the most famous figures was “El Tío,” the spirit of the underworld, believed to watch over the tunnels. Miners would leave offerings — coca leaves, food or candles — to stay safe and avoid accidents. These traditions blended with ancient Andean beliefs as well as Spanish influences, creating a unique cultural identity that still shapes Oruro today.
The heart of Oruro’s identity is its Carnaval, a festival so dazzling that people travel from around the world just to witness it. It begins each year with dancers, musicians and performers preparing for weeks — sewing costumes, practising steps and polishing masks. On the day of the carnival, the entire city transforms into a giant stage. Thousands of dancers fill the streets, moving in long processions with bright feathers, embroidered skirts, golden helmets and masks that sparkle in the sun. The air vibrates with the beat of drums and brass bands, while crowds cheer from balconies and sidewalks.
One of the most iconic dances is the Diablada, or “Dance of the Devils.” Despite the name, it is not frightening — it is dramatic and beautiful. Dancers wear large colourful masks with horns and jewels, symbolising the battle between good and evil. They leap and twist in complex movements, telling a story that is part mythology, part history and entirely Oruro. The lead performer plays the role of the Archangel Michael, who faces off against devil characters in a dance that represents light overcoming darkness. Watching the Diablada feels like stepping into a living storybook where every character moves to the rhythm of centuries-old tradition.
But Oruro’s carnival is not only about spectacle; it is also an act of devotion. The celebration honours Nuestra Señora del Socavón (Our Lady of the Tunnel), the city’s patron saint. At the peak of the festival, dancers climb the steps to her shrine, exhausted but filled with pride, offering their performance as a form of faith and gratitude. Many dancers train all year for this moment, believing it brings spiritual strength and blessings for families and communities.
Beyond the carnival, Oruro is full of natural beauty and cultural surprises. The city sits on the Bolivian Altiplano, a vast highland plateau where llamas graze, cold winds sweep across the grass and the horizon stretches far into the distance. Nearby lies the famous Uru Uru Lake, home to flamingos and migratory birds. The people of Oruro — warm, welcoming and deeply connected to their traditions — speak both Spanish and Aymara or Quechua, preserving languages and stories passed down for generations.
Oruro also hosts vibrant markets where craftsmen sell woven textiles, silver jewellery and colourful masks made for carnival dancers. Each mask tells a story — of heroes, guardians, devils or animals — painted with detail and pride. Visiting these markets feels like walking through a gallery where art and identity blend together.
What makes Oruro truly special is how it balances the past and the present. The mines that once defined the city are now quieter, but the cultural spirit built by miners and communities still thrives. Young people learn the traditional dances from elders. Families pass down costumes that have been worn for decades. Schools teach music that echoes through the carnival streets each year. Tradition isn’t just preserved in Oruro — it is lived, breathed and danced.
High altitude
Oruro sits about 3,700 metres above sea level — higher than many mountain peaks.
UNESCO honour
Oruro’s Carnival was named a UNESCO Masterpiece of Humanity’s Heritage in 2001.
Diablada origins
The Diablada dance blends Andean mythology with Spanish colonial influences.
Miners’ spirit
“El Tío,” the guardian spirit of the mines, is still honoured with offerings.
Costume weight
Some carnival costumes weigh more than 20 kg due to metal and embroidery.
Marching music
Bands in Oruro often play for hours without stopping during carnival processions.
Sacred climb
Dancers end their performance by climbing to the Shrine of the Virgin of Socavón.
Lake haven
Flamingos gather near Uru Uru Lake, creating bright pink spots across the water.
Mask makers
Artisans spend months crafting carnival masks from tin, leather and paint.