Things To Do
in Montero
Montero, Bolivia sits on the eastern lowlands just north of Santa Cruz de la Sierra. It is a bustling agricultural city known for its warm climate and friendly locals. The town serves as a practical base for exploring nearby wetlands, forests, and rural farms.
Its easy access to Santa Cruz makes it a convenient stop for travelers seeking culture and nature in the savannah plains.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a refreshing breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Bolivian dishes like salteñas and api. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the historic center, admiring the colonial architecture and vibrant street art that tell the story of Montero's rich heritage. Don't forget to visit the central plaza, where locals gather, and enjoy the morning atmosphere filled with the sounds of commerce and community.
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the culture by visiting the local artisans' market, where you can find handmade crafts and textiles. Engage with the vendors, who are eager to share the stories behind their creations and perhaps pick up a few souvenirs. Later, enjoy a traditional lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling local favorites like pique a lo macho.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot in one of the plazas to relax and soak in the vibrant energy of Montero's nightlife. Join locals for a game of chess or simply watch as families gather to enjoy the cool evening breeze. Conclude your day with dinner at a popular eatery, where you can savor a delicious dish of grilled meat paired with a refreshing Bolivian beer.
Start your morning with an early breakfast at your hotel before heading out to the nearby nature reserve. Spend the morning exploring the lush landscapes, where you might encounter exotic birds and other wildlife native to the region. Guided tours are available, providing insight into the diverse ecosystems and conservation efforts in the area.
After lunch at a local restaurant, continue your wildlife adventure by visiting the nearby riverbanks, where you can enjoy birdwatching or even spot caimans basking in the sun. The afternoon heat is perfect for a refreshing dip in the river, where you can relax and cool off. Bring a picnic to enjoy by the water, surrounded by the sounds of nature.
As evening approaches, head back to Montero to experience a traditional Bolivian folk music performance. Enjoy the lively rhythms and colorful costumes that capture the essence of local culture. After the show, have dinner at a nearby restaurant, where you can share your experiences with fellow travelers over a hearty meal.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $25-60 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short trip) | $2-6 |
| ☕Coffee/tea in cafe | $1-3 |
| 🛒Groceries at market | $10-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic Bolivian city experience with easy access to nature
- Affordable, friendly locals, convenient base near Santa Cruz
- Good mix of markets, food, and cultural experiences
- Limited English in some areas, especially outside hotels
- Nightlife is modest compared to Santa Cruz city
- Some infrastructure and signage can be basic
- "Hola" - Hello
- "¿Cómo está?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Soy vegetariano" - I am vegetarian
- "Ayuda" - Help
Places to Visit in Montero
Visit one of these nice places.
A leafy central park with daily life scenes, colorful markets, and a fountain area ideal for candid photography.
Wide riverbank with golden hour light, birds, and reflections on the water; great for sunset shots.
Rural fields just outside town offer warm tones and silhouettes during golden hour.
Food in Montero
Montero Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A thin breaded beef cutlet served with rice, potatoes, and a fried egg; a staple in Santa Cruz–area eateries.
Must-Try!
A hearty mix of beef, peppers, onions, and potatoes tossed together; often shared as a robust lunch or dinner.
Peanut soup rich with stock, vegetables, and herbs; a comforting Bolivian classic.
Rice cooked with shredded meat and onions, a regional comfort dish commonly found in markets and family-run eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering fresh produce, dairy, cheeses, and street snacks like empanadas and tamales.
Market focusing on meat, dairy, and prepared street foods; try empanadas and fresh fruit juice.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes.' A handshake is common; friends may greet with a hug in informal settings.
Dressing modestly and avoiding loud public displays of agitation is appreciated in more traditional areas.
Safety
Tipping in Montero
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a 5–10% tip is appreciated if service isn’t included. Small tips for taxi drivers or guides are optional.
Cash (Boliviano) is widely used; larger establishments accept cards, but many small vendors are cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dec–Feb are hot and very humid with heavy afternoon showers. Pack light clothing, sunscreen, and a compact umbrella.
Mar–May brings milder temperatures and steady breezes; pleasant for city walking and day trips.
Jun–Aug are dry and cooler; nights can be chilly. Layer clothing is recommended.
Sep–Nov warms up with increasing humidity and greener landscapes; ideal for outdoor activities.
Montero at Night
Hiking in Montero
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A lush rainforest area near Santa Cruz with diverse flora and fauna and multiple hiking routes.
Short, easy hikes along the Montero area rivers with wildlife viewing.
Combines farmland edges with forested hills offering overlook points.
Airports
How to reach Montero by plane.
Serves Santa Cruz de la Sierra, about 15–25 miles (25–40 km) from Montero; international and domestic flights.
Smaller domestic airport in Santa Cruz for regional flights; convenient for short hops.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Largest demographic group with mixed indigenous and European ancestry.
A smaller but established community in the city and markets.
Residents connected to farming and regional trade.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; expect games and local leagues in parks and community fields.
Common in schools and community centers; public courts available.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Montero.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Montero, vegetarians can enjoy bean dishes, rice, potatoes, corn, and fresh salads. When ordering, say 'sin carne' or 'vegetariano' and ask to avoid stock or meat-based sauces.