San José de Chiquitos - Discovering Bolivia

Travelling to San José de Chiquitos

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in San José de Chiquitos, 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 José de Chiquitos 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 José de Chiquitos, 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 José de Chiquitos for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to San José de Chiquitos

San José de Chiquitos is a small town located in the department of Santa Cruz, in eastern Bolivia. It is part of the Chiquitania region, known for its beautiful landscape and its Jesuit missions, which are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. San José de Chiquitos was founded in the 17th century as a Jesuit mission and today it has a population of approximately 10,000 people. The town is famous for its beautiful colonial architecture, including the San José de Chiquitos church, which is a must-see attraction. The town is also a hub for tourism in the region, offering visitors a range of cultural activities and outdoor adventures, such as hiking, cycling, and birdwatching.

What to visit in San José de Chiquitos

Certainly! Here are some of the top tourist attractions in San José de Chiquitos, Bolivia: 1. Jesuit Missions of Chiquitos: San José de Chiquitos is best known for its well-preserved Jesuit missions, which were built in the 17th and 18th centuries. The missions are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and feature stunning Baroque and Mestizo architecture. 2. Parque Nacional Kaa-Iya del Gran Chaco: This is the second-largest protected area in Bolivia and is located just north of San José de Chiquitos. The park offers a diverse range of ecosystems, including dry forest, savannah, and wetlands, and is home to a variety of wildlife, including jaguars, pumas, armadillos, and capybaras. 3. Serranía de Tucabaca: This is a beautiful mountain range that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. There are several hiking trails in the area, including a challenging trek to the summit of Cerro Tucabaca. 4. Laguna Volcán: This is a beautiful crater lake that is located about 35 kilometers from San José de Chiquitos. The lake is surrounded by lush vegetation and is a popular spot for swimming and canoeing. 5. Mercado Municipal: This is a vibrant local market where you can find a variety of fresh produce, handicrafts, and traditional food. It's a great place to experience the local culture and sample some delicious Bolivian cuisine. 6. Museo de la Música: This museum is dedicated to the music of the Chiquitano people and features a collection of traditional instruments, recordings, and exhibits on the history of the region's musical heritage. Overall, San José de Chiquitos is a fascinating destination that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
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 José de Chiquitos

The best time to visit San José de Chiquitos in Bolivia is between May and September, during the dry season. During these months, you can enjoy sunny days with moderate temperatures, and the natural scenery is at its finest. It is important to note that the weather can be quite unpredictable in the region, and rainfall can occur at any time of the year. Therefore, it is advisable to check the weather forecast before planning your trip.

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

How to get to San José de Chiquitos

To get to San José de Chiquitos, Bolivia, you can take a bus from Santa Cruz de la Sierra. The bus journey is approximately 6 hours and buses depart regularly from the terminal located in the center of Santa Cruz.
There are several bus companies that operate this route including Trans Copacabana, Flota Bolivar, and Expreso Norte. It is recommended to book your bus ticket in advance to ensure availability.
Alternatively, you can hire a private car or take a taxi from Santa Cruz de la Sierra to San José de Chiquitos. However, this option can be more expensive.
It is important to note that roads in Bolivia can be in poor condition and travel times may vary depending on the weather and road conditions.
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 José de Chiquitos, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in San José de Chiquitos

San José de Chiquitos is a town located in Bolivia, and it has a unique cuisine that includes a mix of traditional and colonial influences. Here are some typical foods of San José de Chiquitos: 1. Chicharrón: This dish is made from pork meat that is fried until crispy. It is usually served with boiled potatoes, boiled corn, and salad.
2. Majado de Yuca: A dish made from boiled cassava that is mashed with salt and butter until it has a smooth texture. It is often served with meat stew or grilled meat.
3. Sopa de Maní: A soup made from peanuts that are boiled and blended with onion, garlic, and other spices. It is usually served with rice and vegetables.
4. Asado de Chancho: Roast pork dish that is marinated with spices such as cumin, oregano, garlic, and vinegar. It is usually accompanied by boiled potatoes, salad, and roasted corn.
5. Mocochinchi: A refreshing drink made from fermented peaches. It is sweetened with sugar and served cold with ice.
6. Cuñape: A small cheese roll made from cassava starch and cheese. It is usually served as a snack or appetizer.
7. Empanadas: A pastry filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables. It is usually served as a snack or appetizer. 8. Chajá: A dessert made from sponge cake, whipped cream, peaches, and meringue. It is a famous dessert in the region and claimed to have been invented in Uruguay by a group of young people in the 1950s. These are some of the typical foods of San José de Chiquitos that you can find and enjoy while visiting Bolivia.
You can find general info about typical foods in Bolivia here.

Is San José de Chiquitos an expensive destination for tourists?

San José de Chiquitos is a small town located in eastern Bolivia, famous for its beautiful Jesuit Mission Church and its colonial architecture. It is not known to be an expensive tourist destination, although prices can vary depending on the type of accommodation and activities you choose.
The cost of lodging in San José de Chiquitos is usually affordable and offers various options, from basic hostels to mid-range hotels. In terms of food and drinks, prices are also reasonable, especially if you choose to eat in local markets and small shops instead of restaurants.
As for activities, there are plenty of free or low-cost options, such as visiting the Jesuit Mission Church, exploring the nearby national parks, and taking guided tours. However, if you are interested in specific activities like horseback riding or off-road tours, you may have to pay a little extra.
Overall, San José de Chiquitos is considered to be an affordable and budget-friendly destination for travelers.

Where to find accomodation in San José de Chiquitos

The best areas to find accommodation in San José de Chiquitos are usually near the town center or near the historic Jesuit Missions site. Some popular options include hotels and hostels in the Plazuela and Avenida Quijarro areas, as well as lodges in the nearby foothills of the Cordillera Oriental mountain range. Keep in mind that accommodations in San José de Chiquitos tend to be basic and rustic, so it's important to manage your expectations accordingly.
You can check hotel prices at San José de Chiquitos here:
Booking.com

Is San José de Chiquitos a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, San José de Chiquitos is generally considered a safe place for tourists. Like any destination, it's always important to exercise caution and take basic safety precautions, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and not venturing into unfamiliar or isolated areas after dark. However, overall, San José de Chiquitos is known for its friendly and welcoming community, and tourism is an important part of the local economy. Just be sure to use common sense and stay aware of your surroundings while enjoying all the wonderful experiences this charming town has to offer.
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 José de Chiquitos.

What type of travelers will enjoy San José de Chiquitos the most?

San José de Chiquitos is a great place to visit for travelers who are interested in history, culture and nature. It is a fantastic destination for families with children, couples, and solo travelers. The town is known for its beautiful colonial architecture and churches, as well as the San Ignacio de Velasco mission complex, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can also explore the Chiquitano dry forests, which are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and bird watching.
For those looking for a more relaxing trip, San José de Chiquitos offers a peaceful and tranquil environment with a small town atmosphere, perfect for a romantic getaway or a family vacation. Overall, San José de Chiquitos is a great destination for anyone who wants to experience the mix of culture and nature that Bolivia has to offer.

How to get around San José de Chiquitos

The most common and convenient modes of transportation for getting around San José de Chiquitos may include walking, biking, and taxis. Since San Jose de Chiquitos is a small town, most of the attractions and tourist spots are within walking distance, and you can easily explore the town on foot. Alternatively, renting a bike is a great way to get around the town and its nearby areas. Taxis are easily available in San José de Chiquitos, and they are relatively affordable and a good option for traveling longer distances or to nearby towns.

What to see around San José de Chiquitos

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from San José de Chiquitos: 1. Santa Ana de Velasco: This small and picturesque town is known for its well-preserved Jesuit Mission architecture and is located just 44 km northeast of San Jose de Chiquitos.
2. Cuevas de Umajalanta: These cave system is a natural wonder located close to San Jose de Chiquitos. Visitors can explore the caves and admire the impressive formations inside.
3. Lomas de Arena Regional Park: This beautiful park is located about 100 km from San Jose de Chiquitos and features sand dunes, lagoons, and diverse flora and fauna.
4. Santiago de Chiquitos: Located about 70 km from San Josè de Chiquitos, this small town offers visitors an opportunity to learn about the Jesuit Mission history and admire the colonial churches.
5. El Fuerte de Samaipata: This impressive archaeological site features a pre-Incan ceremonial complex and is situated about 250km from San Jose de Chiquitos. It is considered one of the most important archaeological sites in South America.
I hope this list helps!
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