Things To Do
in Cobija

Fresh river fish (often grilled or stewed) served with rice and yuca; available at riverside restaurants and market stalls.

Must-Try!

Fish or mixed seafood stews cooked with local herbs and vegetables — a comforting Amazonian-style meal commonly found in family eateries.

Cheesy cassava bread that’s a common breakfast pastry or snack available from bakeries and market vendors.

Fresh blended juices made from regional fruits (camu camu, açaí variants, mango, guava) served at markets and snack stands.

The go-to spot for fresh produce, river fish, grilled snacks and juices; a great place to try local specialties and watch everyday food commerce.

Evenings often bring street vendors selling grilled fish, manioc snacks and sweets near the promenade; a good place to sample inexpensive local flavors.

A friendly handshake and direct eye contact are common; greet shopkeepers and neighbors when entering small businesses. Use formal titles (Señor/Señora) until invited to use first names.

Always ask permission before photographing people, especially in indigenous communities, and be respectful of cultural norms and restrictions.

Dress modestly in town and especially when visiting communities or churches; loud or flashy behavior is generally frowned upon.

Haggling at markets is normal for souvenirs but be polite and reasonable; support fair prices for artisan goods.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory: round up small bills in cafés, give 5–10% in sit-down restaurants if service is good, and tip guides, boat crews or drivers a modest amount for personalized service. In informal street food stalls and markets tips are not expected.

Cash in Bolivianos is king for most purchases; some hotels and larger restaurants accept credit cards but card acceptance is limited. ATMs exist but can run low on cash — bring enough local currency and a backup of USD or card for emergencies.

Temperatures are hot and humidity is high; this is the rainy season with frequent heavy showers and occasional river swelling, which can affect boat schedules and unpaved roads. Mornings may be good for wildlife photography before midday rains; bring waterproof gear and mosquito protection.

Rainfall begins to lessen and humidity improves; river levels start to drop, making some trails more accessible and reducing insect pressure slightly. This transition can be a comfortable time to visit for outdoor activities.

Drier months bring lower humidity, clearer skies and easier travel on unpaved roads; daytime heat persists but evenings are milder. This is the most comfortable season for hiking, river trips and wildlife spotting along exposed riverbanks.

Temperatures rise and the rains begin to return toward the end of the month; expect increasing humidity and sporadic storms. Early rains revive the forest and fruiting cycles, which can be rewarding for nature-focused visitors.

Vegetarian options are available but limited — rely on rice, beans, salads, yuca, plantains and fruit; communicate clearly (in Spanish) and be prepared to request dishes without fish or meat.

Vegan choices can be scarce in traditional eateries; markets are a reliable source of fruits and cooked manioc, and some restaurants can prepare simple vegan plates if asked.

Cassava-based foods (yuca, pan de yuca) are naturally gluten-free, but verify preparation methods and cross-contamination in busy markets and kitchens.

Bring translation cards for specific allergies (nuts, shellfish) and consider carrying essentials; remote clinics may not stock specialized treatments.