The show is bizarre at first, then hugely entertaining with many bellyaching laughs to follow. I have to admit as a boxing fan I was very sceptical before attending one of the Sunday afternoon shows in La Paz’s suburb El Alto. BUT the Cholita Wrestling is different from anything I had seen or done during my travels.
Never thought you would see women in round skirts and long braided hair not only throw punches at each other but also male wrestlers? Neither did I. After watching these Bolivian women in wide skirts throw punches, kicks, and body slams, I somewhat reluctantly admitted that wrestling can be a lot of fun.
Head here for things to do in La Paz, as well as where to eat, stay, and let your hair loose.
WHO ARE CHOLITAS
When wandering the streets of La Paz it is difficult to ignore the distinctively dressed indigenous women walking by. Cholitas are the countries’ indigenous Aymara and Quechua women. What stands out the most is their colourful skirts. Cholitas dress in polleras (skirts), with up to 14 layers of underskirts to create a round effect. They also have long braided hair and wear distinctive bowler hats.
WHAT IS CHOLITA WRESTLING
To keep it simple. Cholita wrestling started as a form of stress relief for women experiencing domestic abuse and for the indigenous female community of El Alto to learn how to defend themselves against their oppressors. The Bolivian wrestlers now inspire and teach women to defend themselves. Needless to say, they have become a symbol of female empowerment. Let me tell you, these women are tough.
WHAT TO EXPECT
It might not be the most realistic acting, but it sure is an entertaining 2-hour Luchadora inspired show. The Mexican wrestling relative can be watched as part of a tour or visited by yourself. I recommend the tour. The price difference is minimal at BOB 30 (£3). However, my main reason for suggesting the tour is the guide. The transport includes a guide providing background information about the history of Cholita Wrestling.
Shortly before arriving at the arena in El Alto, we stopped off at a viewpoint. Here we were given some time to marvel at the city and the many mountain peaks encircling La Paz. The tour gets you to the arena slightly before doors officially open to avoid queues and get hold of a front-row seat.
There are many different acts performing during the flamboyant 2-hour show. Many props are being used as you would expect, but I did not think I would ever see someone being tied to a post with their braided hair.
The unique experience kicks off with male wrestlers that will later be fought by the Cholita wrestlers. Let me tell you, they got their a** kicked. The most fascinating part of the show is how these women fight in sandals and colourful long skirts with such ease.
In hindsight, I would have preferred to sit on the stands with the locals. Towards the end of the show audience members started to throw popcorn and water at the male Bolivian wrestlers. Maybe you will not be so lucky and get drenched sitting too close to the turmoil. At which point I started to have a bellyache from all the laughing.
The Cost & Transport.
For BOB 90 you will be picked up from your hostel at around 3.00 – 3.30 pm depending on your guide and tour operator, and dropped back off around 7.30 pm. The ticket price includes popcorn, a fizzy drink, a souvenir and two toilet entries. I booked the show through my hostel. Although, tickets can be booked online or at tourist agencies.
HOW TO WATCH CHOLITA WRESTLING WITHOUT A TOUR
To reach the Multifuncional Ceja de el Alto arena simply take the red cable car to Jach´a Qhathu followed by an 18-minute walk. Make sure to arrive around 20-minutes before the show starts to guarantee a ticket, especially on Sundays.
Doing it on your own is only marginally cheaper at BOB 60 but you will not be provided with any history of Cholita wrestling. Also, bear in mind that El Alto can be dangerous at night.
WHAT DAYS IS CHOLITA WRESTLING?
Shows are on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 4.30 pm, and at 5.00 pm on Sundays. The Flying Cholitas perform on Sundays’. They are a unique and most famous group of female wrestlers performing weekly.
Did I do a good job of sharing my love for Cholita wrestling?
Now go ahead and explore! Try not to lose your towel.
