Things To Do
in Chulumani
Chulumani is a small Andean town located in Bolivia’s Yungas region, east of La Paz and surrounded by lush green valleys. Perched at a high altitude, it blends coca and banana farming with cloud-forest scenery and a relaxed, welcoming vibe. The town serves as a gateway to dramatic nature trails, waterfalls, and local markets where Bolivian hospitality shines.
Visitors come for a slower pace, authentic cuisine, and easy access to day trips into the surrounding forest and terraces.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at El Alto International Airport in La Paz and take a scenic drive to Chulumani, nestled in the lush Yungas region. As you travel, enjoy stunning views of the mountains and valleys. Upon arrival, settle into your accommodation and take a moment to relax and acclimatize.
Explore the charming streets of Chulumani, visiting local markets where you can sample fresh produce and artisan crafts. Engage with friendly locals who can share stories about the town's rich culture and history. Take a leisurely walk around, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and unique architecture.
Enjoy a cozy dinner at a local restaurant, where you can savor traditional Bolivian dishes such as salteñas or pique a lo macho. As night falls, take a stroll to admire the stars in the clear mountain sky. Reflect on your first day in beautiful Chulumani, listening to the sounds of nature around you.
Set off early to explore the Yungas Cloud Forest, known for its biodiversity and breathtaking views. A local guide will lead you on an adventurous hike through the lush trails, where you can spot exotic flora and fauna. The cool, misty air adds to the immersive experience.
After your hike, enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by the beauty of the forest. Spend your afternoon birdwatching and taking in the serene atmosphere, perhaps even capturing some photos of the incredible landscape. You may also have the chance to visit a local coffee plantation.
Return to Chulumani and unwind in a cozy café, sharing stories from the day's adventures with fellow travelers. Treat yourself to a hot chocolate made from locally sourced cocoa. As you wind down for the evening, listen to live music from local artists at a nearby venue.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🥪Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel per night | $20-40 |
| 🚎Local transport ride | $1-3 |
| 📶SIM card data | $5-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm, welcoming local culture
- Proximity to lush cloud forests and waterfalls
- Limited nightlife and major sights
- Roads can be slow and challenging, especially in the rainy season
- "Hola" - Hello
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está?" - Where is it?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Sin carne" - Without meat
Places to Visit in Chulumani
Visit one of these nice places.
A quiet moment in the early light with colonial façades and local life beginning to stir—great for candid portraits and color-rich skies.
A panoramic overlook above the town offering sweeping views of the valley, banana plantations, and misty hills.
Waterfalls along the riverbanks near Chulumani; captures of motion, spray, and lush greenery make dramatic landscape shots.
Food in Chulumani
Chulumani Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A creamy peanut soup common in rural Bolivia, hearty and comforting; often served with bread or rice in local eateries.
Must-Try!
Steamed corn tamales wrapped in corn husks, often enjoyed as a snack or light meal in markets and small restaurants.
Fried ripe plantains, a frequent side dish or snack that showcases the region’s abundant bananas and plantains.
Savory baked pastries filled with meat, vegetables, and a rich sauce; common as a breakfast or midday street snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market with fresh produce, herbs, regional snacks, and small stalls selling everyday Bolivian street food.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Acknowledge people with a smile and a brief greeting. Dress modestly in public spaces and respect local customs, especially in smaller communities.
Ask permission before photographing people, particularly children or elders. A polite request and a smile go a long way.
Safety
Tipping in Chulumani
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of around 5-10% is appreciated if service is good. In small family eateries and markets, rounding up the bill is common. A little tip for guides or drivers is customary after day trips.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with high humidity; afternoon storms are common. Lush landscapes bloom, making greens vibrant but trails can be muddy after rain.
Cool to mild days with cooler nights. Pleasant for hiking, though mornings can be chilly; layering is key.
Typically from November to March with heavy rain and occasional landslides on higher mountain roads. Plan extra travel time and carry rain gear.
Chulumani at Night
Hiking in Chulumani
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible day hikes through cloud forest to waterfalls; suitable for most hikers with moderate elevation changes.
Airports
How to reach Chulumani by plane.
Main international gateway for the region; expect a mountain-road transfer to Chulumani that can take several hours depending on weather and road conditions.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Aymara heritage is visible in language, dress, and markets; Spanish is widely spoken alongside indigenous languages.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular local sport; matches can be social events in and around town on weekends.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Chulumani.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Bolivian menus emphasize grains, beans, corn, potatoes, and vegetables. Look for beans and vegetable stews, salads, and corn dishes; ask for 'sin carne' or 'vegetariano' and request dishes without pollo or carne.