Things To Do
in Bermejo

Bermejo is a sun-soaked border town in southern Bolivia, set along the Bermejo River and gateways to the Gran Chaco. Its streets pulse with a mix of indigenous and creole influences, reflected in markets, food stalls, and friendly hustle. The town experiences hot, humid days and lively outdoor life, especially around the riverfront and central plazas.

It’s a practical base for exploring southern Bolivia, with a developing hospitality scene and easy cross-border access to Argentina.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore Bermejo Market
morning
:

Begin your day at the vibrant Bermejo Market where you can immerse yourself in local culture. Stroll through colorful stalls filled with fresh produce, handmade crafts, and aromatic spices. Engage with friendly vendors and sample traditional Bolivian snacks.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby eatery serving authentic Bolivian cuisine. Afterward, take a guided tour around the historic town center to learn about Bermejo's rich heritage and architecture. Capture photos of colonial buildings and lively street scenes.

evening
:

Relax at a cozy café with a refreshing beverage while people-watching. As the sun sets, enjoy a peaceful walk along the riverbank, appreciating the tranquil atmosphere. End your evening with live local music in a nearby plaza or bar.

day 2
Nature and Wildlife Exploration
morning
:

Head out early for a birdwatching excursion in the surrounding forested areas. Spot native species and enjoy the sounds of nature in the crisp morning air. Bring binoculars and a camera to capture the diverse wildlife.

afternoon
:

Visit a local nature reserve or eco-park to learn about conservation efforts. Participate in a guided hike to discover unique flora and fauna endemic to the region. Have a picnic lunch amidst serene natural surroundings.

evening
:

Return to Bermejo and dine at a restaurant specializing in fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Watch the stars emerge in the clear night sky, far from city lights. Consider sharing stories with locals while sipping traditional drinks.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$4-8
🧃Bottle of water (0.5L)$0.50-1.50
🚌One-way local transport$0.50-1.50
🏨Budget hotel room (night)$15-30
🧺Groceries for a week$20-40

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Warm, welcoming people and a distinctive lowland Bolivian vibe
  • Gateway to the Gran Chaco and river ecosystems
  • Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure
  • Heat and humidity can be uncomfortable in peak season
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Buenos días" - Good morning
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Dónde está el mercado?" - Where is the market?
  • "Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
  • "No entiendo" - I don't understand
  • "Ayuda" - Help

Places to Visit in Bermejo

Visit one of these nice places.

Río Bermejo Riverside at Sunset

Wide river views with warm golden light, ideal for silhouetted birds and calm water reflections.

Plaza 25 de Mayo

Colorful central square with colonial-era architecture and locals going about daily life.

Iglesia y Pinturas Callejeras

Historic church facade and nearby murals offering urban photography opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Bermejo

Bolivian lowland cuisine in Bermejo emphasizes hearty grains, beans, corn, fresh produce, and grilled meats, with influences from indigenous and neighboring regions. Expect bold flavors, abundant street snacks, and communal meals that highlight seasonal ingredients.

Bermejo Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sopa de Mani

A thick peanut soup enriched with vegetables and sometimes meat, a staple in Bolivian lowlands and a comforting option in Bermejo.

Must-Try!

Humintas

Corn-based tamales steamed in husks, often enjoyed as a snack or side dish at markets and local eateries.

Asado

Grilled beef or pork cuts served with beans, yucca, or arepas; a common meal at family-run restaurants and parrillas.

Arepas and Galleta Salada

Savory corn cakes and crunchy biscuits served with dips and fresh salsas in casual dining spots.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Central de Bermejo

Main market offering fresh produce, cheeses, regional snacks, and affordable meals from stalls.

Street Food Alleys

Brightly colored stalls around the central plazas selling grilled meats, corn snacks, and fried pastries.

Climate Guide

Weather

Bermejo experiences a warm, subtropical climate with a hot, rainy season from November to March and a cooler, dry season from May to August; humidity is high throughout the year.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A polite hello and handshake or a warm greeting is appreciated; address elders with respect.

Dress and modesty

Light, breathable clothing is practical; modest attire is preferred in churches and formal spaces.

Respect for space

Ask before taking photos of people, and avoid sensitive topics in casual conversations.

Safety Guide

Safety

Petty theft can occur in crowded markets; keep valuables secure and use reputable taxis after dark; drink bottled water and be cautious when crossing border areas late at night.

Tipping in Bermejo

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is common for good service in restaurants and taxis; around 5-10% is customary.

Payment Methods

Cash in Bolivianos is widely accepted; US dollars are sometimes accepted in tourist spots; credit cards are less common outside larger hotels.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms; carry water, wear sunscreen, and seek shade when possible.

Winter

Generally milder days with cooler nights; nights can be surprisingly cool, so bring a light jacket.

Shoulder seasons

Pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities and exploring markets without peak heat.

Nightlife Guide

Bermejo at Night

Nightlife in Bermejo is low-key, centered on family-friendly eateries and bars with local music on weekends; most venues close around 11 PM, offering a relaxed evening vibe.

Hiking in Bermejo

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cerro de la Cruz viewpoints

Gentle hike to viewpoints offering panoramic views of the city and river valley.

Riverside wetlands trails

Relaxed trails along the Bermejo and its wetlands, ideal for birding and nature photography.

Airports

How to reach Bermejo by plane.

Bermejo Airport (local airstrip)

Small regional airstrip with limited flights, typically connecting to Santa Cruz or Tarija; verify schedules locally.

Tarija Regional Airport

Larger airport near Tarija offering more domestic connections; road transfer to Bermejo is several hours.

Getting Around

Walkability

The city center is compact and walkable, with most attractions within easy reach; shade and hydration are important in hot months, and some sidewalks can be uneven.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Mestizo and Indigenous communities

A blend of Mestizo populations with Guaraní and Chiquitano influences; communities are concentrated near the river and border areas.

Border workers and traders

People engaged in cross-border commerce with Argentina and neighboring regions.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

The dominant sport; local leagues and casual games are common on weekends.

Basketball

Popular in schools and public courts; opportunities for pick-up games.

Transportation

Traffic

Local traffic is light to moderate; taxis and moto-taxis are common; long-distance buses are the main transport between cities; some roads can be dusty in the dry season.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Bermejo.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Look for beans, corn, rice, and vegetable dishes; clearly ask for vegetarian options as some meat-rich dishes are common.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

There are basic clinics and a small hospital in Bermejo; for more advanced care or emergencies, travel to Tarija or Santa Cruz may be necessary. Check with your insurer and bring any required medications and documents.

Discover Bolivia

Read more in our Bolivia 2025 Travel Guide.

Bolivia Travel Guide