San Javier - Discovering Bolivia

Travelling to San Javier

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in San Javier, a pretty good destination in Bolivia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to San Javier and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around San Javier, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Bolivia, here's everything to know about San Javier for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to San Javier

San Javier is a small town located in the Santa Cruz department of Bolivia. It is situated in a lush green valley surrounded by the Chiquitania mountains. The town is known for its charming colonial architecture, including the San Francisco Javier church, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. San Javier is also an important center for Jesuit cultural heritage and has a museum dedicated to the Jesuit missions that were established in the region during the 17th and 18th centuries. The town is a popular destination for tourists looking to explore Bolivia's rich history and natural beauty.

What to visit in San Javier

San Javier is a small town located in the Santa Cruz department of Bolivia. Some of the top tourist attractions in San Javier are: 1. San Javier Mission: This 18th-century Spanish mission is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its impressive Baroque architecture.
2. San Ignacio de Velasco: This Jesuit mission is located about an hour from San Javier and is another UNESCO World Heritage Site. It features a beautiful church, museum and a colonial-style plaza.
3. Chochís Hill: This hill is located close to San Javier and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can climb to the top and enjoy the picturesque scenery.
4. Ñuflo de Chávez National Park: This national park is located about 2 hours from San Javier and features diverse ecosystems ranging from tropical forests to savannas, as well as wildlife including jaguars and monkeys.
5. Tucavaca Waterfall: This waterfall is located about an hour from San Javier and is a popular spot for hiking and swimming. It cascades down from a height of 80 meters and is surrounded by lush vegetation.
6. Viru Viru International Airport: The closest major airport to San Javier is Viru Viru International Airport, located in the nearby city of Santa Cruz. It offers international flights and connections to other destinations in Bolivia.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Bolivia, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to San Javier

San Javier is located in the Beni region of Bolivia and has a tropical climate. The best time to visit San Javier depends on what activities you have planned. If you are interested in wildlife and bird watching, the best time to visit is during the dry season from May to October as the animals gather around water sources making them easier to spot. If you are interested in river activities like swimming, kayaking or fishing, the wet season from November to April is the best time to visit as the water levels are higher. Additionally, during the wet season, the landscape is lush and green which makes for great scenery. However, keep in mind that the wet season can bring heavy rainfall and flooding in some areas, so make sure to plan accordingly. Overall, the best time to visit San Javier is during the dry season from May to October for the most comfortable weather and optimal wildlife viewing opportunities.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to San Javier

San Javier is a small town in Bolivia located in the department of Beni, approximately 280 km northeast of the city of Santa Cruz. One of the best ways to get to San Javier is by taking a bus or private car from Santa Cruz. The journey usually takes around 6-7 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. There are several bus companies such as Trans Copacabana, Expreso Brasilia, and Flota Yungueña; all of them offer daily departures from Santa Cruz to San Javier. Another option is to take a domestic flight from Santa Cruz to Trinidad, the capital city of Beni, and then continue by land to San Javier, which is around 4 hours away. There are several airlines that fly from Santa Cruz to Trinidad, such as Boliviana de Aviación and Amaszonas. Once you arrive in San Javier, there are several local transportation options such as taxis, tuk-tuks, and motorbikes that can take you around the town and nearby areas.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit San Javier, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in San Javier

San Javier is a small town in Bolivia known for its delicious and unique cuisine. Here are some typical foods of San Javier with a short description for each of them: 1. Pacumutu: These are small fried doughnuts that are made with mashed potatoes, flour, and sugar. They are typically served as a sweet snack or dessert.
2. Puyunuca: This is a traditional soup made with chicken or beef, potatoes, corn, onions, and garlic. It is commonly served as a hearty meal during colder months.
3. Chicha: This is a fermented corn drink that is a popular beverage in San Javier. It is made from boiled corn and water, and sometimes sweetened with sugar or honey.
4. Empanadas: These are small pastries filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables. They are a popular snack or street food in San Javier, and can be found in most local markets.
5. Locro: This is a hearty stew made with corn, potatoes, beans, and meat. It is typically served during festivals or special occasions.
6. Humintas: These are small corn cakes made with fresh corn, cheese, and spices. They are typically steamed or boiled and served hot as a side dish or snack.
7. Tamales: These are similar to humintas, but they are made with a mixture of corn flour, spices, and meat or vegetables. They are wrapped in banana leaves and steamed until cooked.
8. Buñuelos: These are small fritters made with flour, sugar, and eggs. They are typically served as a dessert or snack and can be filled with cheese or dulce de leche. 9. Asado: This is a grilled meat dish that is a popular meal in San Javier. Beef and pork are the most commonly used meats, and they are marinated in a mixture of spices and cooked over an open flame. These are just a few examples of the typical foods of San Javier. If you have the opportunity to visit the town, be sure to try as many of these delicious dishes as possible!
You can find general info about typical foods in Bolivia here.

Is San Javier an expensive destination for tourists?

San Javier, Bolivia is typically not considered an expensive destination for tourists. The cost of living in Bolivia is generally lower than in many other countries, making it an affordable place to visit. However, the cost of traveling to San Javier may depend on factors such as the time of year, the type of accommodations you choose, and the activities you plan to do during your visit. It's always a good idea to research and compare prices before planning your trip, but overall, San Javier is typically a budget-friendly destination for tourists.

Where to find accomodation in San Javier

San Javier is a small town in the eastern region of Bolivia and there are not many options for accommodation within the town itself. However, there are some options nearby that offer good access to San Javier. One option is to stay in the nearby town of San Ignacio de Velasco, which is about 70 kilometers away from San Javier. San Ignacio de Velasco has several hotel and hostel options ranging from budget to mid-range. Another option is to stay in the city of Santa Cruz, which is about 250 kilometers away from San Javier. Santa Cruz is a bigger and more developed city than San Ignacio de Velasco and offers a wide range of accommodation options, including luxury hotels, budget hostels, and cozy guesthouses. If you are looking to explore San Javier and its surrounding areas, staying in San Ignacio de Velasco would be a good option. If you want more variety and opportunities to explore other parts of Bolivia, Santa Cruz would be your best bet.
You can check hotel prices at San Javier here:
Booking.com

Is San Javier a safe destination for tourists?

San Javier, Bolivia is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, as with any destination, it is always important to exercise caution and take necessary safety precautions. Visitors should be aware of their surroundings, avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables, and stick to well-lit and populated areas, especially at night. It is also recommended to travel with a trusted guide or local, who can provide information and guidance on the best places to visit and how to stay safe.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Bolivia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting San Javier.

What type of travelers will enjoy San Javier the most?

San Javier in Bolivia is a great destination for travelers who want to get a taste of the country's history, culture, and natural beauty. The town is known for its Jesuit Missions, which date back to the 17th and 18th centuries, and are worth exploring for history enthusiasts.
Families and couples who enjoy learning about different cultures will appreciate the rich history and traditional way of life in San Javier. The Jesuit Missions are also a great educational experience for children.
Furthermore, nature lovers and adventure seekers will enjoy the beautiful landscapes, nearby lakes, and hiking opportunities in San Javier. The region is abundant with wildlife, and visitors can spot different species of birds, monkeys, and other animals. On the other hand, San Javier is not a place for young people looking for fun and nightlife, as the town is rather quiet and peaceful, with limited options for entertainment. Overall, San Javier is a great destination for those seeking a unique and cultural travel experience.

How to get around San Javier

In San Javier, the primary modes of transportation are taxis and moto-taxis (motorcycle taxis). These are readily available and can be hailed on the streets. Buses or coaches also operate within the city and to nearby towns and cities. However, they can be infrequent, so it's best to plan accordingly. It's advisable to negotiate the fare with the taxi or moto-taxi driver before hopping in to avoid any confusion or overcharging.

What to see around San Javier

Here are some suggestions for day trips from San Javier in Bolivia: 1. San Ignacio de Velasco: This colonial town is known for its beautiful 18th century Jesuit church and is just about an hour's drive from San Javier.
2. Samaipata: This charming town is home to the famous "El Fuerte", a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring pre-Incan ruins of an ancient civilization that dates back over 1,500 years.
3. Laguna Volcanes: A beautiful crater lake surrounded by volcanic hills that can be reached by a scenic 2-hour drive from San Javier.
4. Tariquia Reserve: An impressive nature reserve preserving the Chaco ecosystem, with several trekking trails that allow you to admire unique flora and fauna.
5. La Mision de Chiquitos: Another charming town with a beautiful 17th century church declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and also offers interesting indigenous cultural insights.
6. Amboro National Park: A breathtaking nature reserve located a little further out from San Javier, but definitely worth the extra travel time for its lush vegetation, stunning waterfalls and diverse wildlife.
For every travel information about Bolivia you can click here.

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