Things To Do
in Apolo

A rich peanut-based soup often served with vegetables and pieces of meat; you can find it at local comedores and family restaurants.

Must-Try!

When available, river fish grilled or fried and served with rice and salad; common in eateries near waterways or during guided excursions.

A filling plate with rice, potatoes, salad and a portion of meat or fried eggs — the go-to choice at many local restaurants.

A friendly handshake and eye contact are common; use formal greetings (buenos días/buenas tardes) when entering shops or homes and ask permission before photographing people.

Many visitors pass through indigenous communities—dress modestly, follow hosts' lead, and accept invitations politely. Ask before participating in ceremonies or taking photos of rituals.

Small tokens, school supplies or fair-trade purchases are appreciated; avoid giving money directly to children and instead buy from local artisans to support families.

Wet season with frequent rain and afternoon storms; trails can be muddy and some river crossings swell, but the forest is lush, waterfalls are at their most impressive and birding can be excellent. Pack good rain gear, waterproof bags for camera gear and flexible travel plans for possible delays.

Cooler and drier weather with clearer skies—best time for trekking, longer hikes and reliable transport. Nights can be chilly, especially at higher viewpoints; bring layers.

Transitional months offer a balance: fewer tourists, some rain but generally passable trails; good for lower prices and quieter experiences.

Major international airport serving La Paz; from here expect a long overland journey (several hours by road, often via La Paz city) to reach Apolo—useful as the main national gateway.

Regional airport serving the gateway to Madidi and Amazon fronts; closer for northern route travelers and may offer connections that reduce overland travel time to Apolo depending on road conditions and season.

Some small airstrips and charter flights operate in northern La Paz region for supply and tourism; charters can shorten travel time but must be arranged in advance and are weather dependent.

A significant portion of the population belongs to indigenous groups who maintain traditional agriculture, crafts and cultural practices; community tourism initiatives are common.

Mestizo families involved in trade, services and small-scale farming live in town and run many of the guesthouses, eateries and markets.

A small number of long-term travelers, guides and NGO workers live in or around Apolo, supporting tourism, conservation and community projects.

The most popular sport, played informally in town fields and on weekends—local matches are social community events.

Local festivals include traditional races, community sports and sometimes equestrian events tied to cultural celebrations.

While not a sport in the traditional sense, hiking, birdwatching and horseback riding are widely practiced outdoor activities that form an important part of local recreation and tourism.

Vegetarian options are available but limited to vegetable stews, salads, rice and egg-based dishes; ask for simpler preparations and carry snacks if you have strict needs.

Vegan choices are scarcer; communicative Spanish helps ("soy vegano/vegana"). Bring supplements or staple items if you require more variety.

Corn- and rice-based foods are common, making gluten-free easier than some places, but cross-contamination can occur; confirm ingredients at smaller kitchens.