Things To Do
in Cuevo

Cuevo sits in the Bolivian lowlands at the edge of expansive plains and gentle hills. It offers a glimpse into rural Bolivian life, where friendly locals and a relaxed pace define daily rhythms. The surrounding landscape blends savanna, small farms, and open skies perfect for photography and nature walks.

Visitors come for authentic cuisine, market scenes, and a chance to experience the region’s easygoing charm.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Cuevo
morning
:

Arrive in Cuevo and settle into your accommodation. Enjoy breakfast at a local café, sampling Bolivian dishes to fuel your adventure. Take a leisurely stroll through the quaint streets to soak in the serene atmosphere.

afternoon
:

Visit the main plaza and engage with friendly locals, who will warmly welcome you to their town. Explore artisan shops, purchasing hand-crafted souvenirs that reflect the vibrant culture. Take some time to relax in the park, enjoying the lush greenery and fresh air.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Bolivian restaurant, savoring local specialties like salteñas and picana. As the sun sets, experience the tranquil ambiance of Cuevo, with twinkling lights illuminating the streets. Wind down by chatting with locals about their customs and stories.

day 2
Exploring the Nature Trails
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast before setting out on a nature trail. Explore the stunning landscapes around Cuevo, witnessing the diverse flora and fauna that the area has to offer. The morning is perfect for birdwatching and capturing the beauty of the natural surroundings.

afternoon
:

Continue your hike, arriving at a picturesque viewpoint overlooking the valley below. Pause for a packed lunch amidst the breathtaking scenery, taking time to absorb the peaceful atmosphere. Afterward, head back on the trails, spotting any wildlife you missed earlier.

evening
:

Return to Cuevo just in time for a sunset dinner at your accommodation. Reflect on the day's adventures while enjoying a relaxed meal, sharing stories with fellow travelers. The starlit sky will provide a perfect backdrop for an intimate evening.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$3-6
Cup of coffee or tea$1-2
🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant$5-12
🚌Local bus fare (short distance)$0.25-0.75
🏨1-night budget hotel$25-50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Authentic rural Bolivian experience
  • Cost-effective travel
  • Friendly locals
  • Close proximity to nature and markets
  • Limited infrastructure in some areas
  • Fewer nightlife options
  • Medical facilities may require travel to larger cities
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Ayuda" - Help

Places to Visit in Cuevo

Visit one of these nice places.

Plaza Principal de Cuevo

The town square with the church and colorful market stalls; ideal for candid street photography and golden-hour portraits.

Río y Campos Lookout

Open landscapes with expansive skies and distant hills; perfect for wide-angle sunset shots.

Adobe Street Portraits

Narrow lanes lined with adobe houses and wooden balconies; early morning light adds character.

Hillside Vistas

Rural vantage points just outside town offering sweeping plains and a sense of scale.

Culinary Guide

Food in Cuevo

Bolivian eastern lowlands cuisine revolves around hearty grains, corn, beans, fresh produce, and grilled or stewed meats; you’ll often find simple, flavorful dishes that showcase local ingredients.

Cuevo Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Salteñas

Spiced meat and vegetable-filled empanadas; best enjoyed fresh from local bakeries in the morning.

Must-Try!

Sopa de Mani

Creamy peanut soup with vegetables; a comforting staple in Bolivian countryside eateries.

Silpancho

Breaded beef cutlet served with rice, potatoes, and a light sauce; a Santa Cruz–influenced classic available in town eateries.

Pique a lo Macho

Spicy stir-fry of beef, peppers, onions, and potatoes; widely found in local restaurants.

Humintas / Humita

Savory corn tamales baked with cheese and herbs; common in markets and small eateries.

Choclo con Queso

Sweet corn on the cob topped with cheese; a simple street-side favorite.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Central de Cuevo

A compact, bustling market where you can sample fresh produce, tortillas, and everyday Bolivian staples.

Street food stalls

Grilled meats, roasted corn, and pastries around the market square provide quick, tasty bites.

Climate Guide

Weather

Cuevo has a warm lowland climate with a distinct rainy season from roughly November to March and a cooler, drier period from May to August. Humidity is higher in the rainy months, contributing to warm-but- muggy days.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Greet with a friendly 'Hola' and a handshake; use 'por favor' and 'gracias' to show politeness.

Dress and Conduct

Dress modestly when visiting churches or rural communities; ask for permission before photography in some villages.

Safety Guide

Safety

In-town safety is generally good, but watch for petty theft in crowded markets and keep valuables secure. Use licensed taxis after dark and stay hydrated in hot weather. Have travel insurance and carry a basic first aid kit.

Tipping in Cuevo

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; 5-10% in nicer places; small tips are common in markets.

Payment Methods

Cash (Bolivianos) is widely accepted; some places may take US dollars or cards, especially in hotels and restaurants.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms; carry water, sunscreen, and a light rain jacket.

Dry/Winter

Milder days with cooler nights; mornings can be foggy—pack a light jacket and sunglasses.

Nightlife Guide

Cuevo at Night

The nightlife in Cuevo is low-key, centered around a few local bars and cafés. Weekends may bring live music or informal gatherings; expect a relaxed, community vibe rather than a club scene.

Hiking in Cuevo

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Trail to Cerro Panoramico (Cuevo area)

A moderate 2-3 hour hike offering panoramic plains and distant hills.

Cave and savanna loop

Nature walk focusing on local rock formations and birdlife; suitable for most hikers.

Airports

How to reach Cuevo by plane.

Viru Viru International Airport (VVI)

Santa Cruz de la Sierra's main international gateway; from there, road or bus connections reach Cuevo.

El Trompillo Airport (SRZ)

Domestic airport in Santa Cruz; smaller flights and connections; from SRZ, you would transfer to road transport to Cuevo.

Getting Around

Walkability

Cuevo is quite walkable within the town center; most places of interest are within a 15-20 minute walk, though some nearby sites require a short ride or a light hike on unpaved roads.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Mestizo

The largest demographic group, blending Indigenous and European ancestry.

Indigenous Communities

Chiquitano and Guaraní heritage groups live in the wider region; you may encounter Indigenous languages and customs in crafts and traditions.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Fútbol (Soccer)

The most popular sport; local leagues and informal games are common.

Basketball

Played in schools and community centers; often seen in local events.

Volleyball

Popular in parks and recreation spaces; social play is common.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is light in town. Public transport includes buses and minibuses; rural roads can be unpaved and slow in rainy weather; plan extra time for trips to larger towns.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Cuevo.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Options exist at markets and in restaurants; request beans, rice, yucca, plantains, and salads, and specify no meat broths or lard.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic clinics serve routine care; for major medical needs or emergencies, travel to Santa Cruz de la Sierra is common. Carry travel insurance and essential medications.

Discover Bolivia

Read more in our Bolivia 2025 Travel Guide.

Bolivia Travel Guide