Things To Do
in Quime
Quime is a compact Andean town in the Bolivian highlands, perched above winding cloud forests and terraced fields. Its adobe houses, small plazas, and welcoming locals give the village a traditional, artisanal charm. Life here moves at a peaceful pace, with dramatic mountain scenery around every bend.
Quime invites visitors to explore nature, taste simple local dishes, and connect with a warm, resilient community.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the local market where you can engage with vendors and experience the vibrant colors and sounds of Quime. Try some traditional Bolivian breakfast food like salteñas or aji de comida to fuel your day. After breakfast, take a walk around town to observe the unique architecture and learn about the town's history.
Post-lunch, visit the Museo de Quime, which showcases local artifacts and provides deep insights into the region's rich cultural heritage. Engage with local artisans and perhaps even take a pottery workshop to create your own souvenir. As the afternoon light softens, hike to the nearby hills for stunning panoramic views of the landscape.
In the evening, enjoy a meal at a cozy local restaurant where traditional Bolivian dishes are served. After dinner, join local residents for a cultural dance performance, experiencing the joy and vibrancy of Quime's traditional music. Wind down your day under the starry sky, reflecting on the day's adventures.
Kick off your day with an early breakfast before setting out to explore the beautiful landscapes surrounding Quime. Join a guided trekking tour that leads you through stunning valleys and past scenic viewpoints. Breathe in the fresh mountain air and listen to the sounds of nature as you trek.
After a hearty lunch in the great outdoors, embark on more adventurous activities such as rock climbing or mountain biking depending on your interest level. Explore the breathtaking natural formations that surround Quime, capturing incredible photographs along the way. As the sun begins to dip, take a moment to soak in the beauty around you.
Return to Quime to freshen up before heading out for dinner at a local eatery. Enjoy a fusion of local flavors while engaging with fellow travelers, sharing stories and experiences. Consider visiting a local bar for a nightcap, where you can mingle with locals and enjoy live music.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| 🥤Soft drink or bottled water | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🏨Guesthouse or basic hotel room (1 night) | $20-40 |
| 🚌Local one-way transportation | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🍰Pastry or coffee | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, authentic highland culture and hospitality
- Stunning mountain scenery and terraced landscapes
- Compact, walkable town with a genuine local atmosphere
- Access to eco-friendly hiking and cultural experiences
- Limited infrastructure and services compared with cities
- Remote location can mean longer travel times to major airports
- Few nightlife options and basic accommodation in some seasons
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el mercado?" - Where is the market?
- "Ayuda por favor" - Help, please
- "No entiendo" - I don’t understand
- "¿Puede recomendarme un restaurante?" - Can you recommend a restaurant?
Places to Visit in Quime
Visit one of these nice places.
A panoramic overlook offering sweeping views of terraced hillsides, the cloud forest beyond, and the winding valley below—best at sunrise or sunset.
A charming town square framed by adobe houses and a simple church; captures daily life, market bustle, and local color.
Fields and stair-step terraces catching the early light; great for landscape photography and farmers going about work.
Food in Quime
Quime Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A comforting quinoa soup with vegetables and herbs, often served with bread or cheese on the side.
Must-Try!
Rehydrated dried potatoes (chuño) served with seasoned dried beef (charque) or eggs, a staple hearty dish in the highlands.
Coarse cornmeal porridge with melted cheese, a common and satisfying street-side bite.
Steamed corn cakes filled with cheese, a sweet-savory treat found at markets and family eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Central market stalls offering fresh vegetables, tubers, quinoa, herbs, and ready-to-eat snacks; a great place to observe daily life and sample street foods.
Small, informal stalls near the plaza selling empanadas, humintas, and other quick Bolivian bites—perfect for a light lunch.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people with a friendly hello or buenos días; a handshake is common, and a polite tone goes a long way in conversations.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in households or private spaces; modest dress and respectful behavior are valued.
Show respect in public spaces, use courteous language, and participate in local customs when invited.
Safety
Tipping in Quime
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. If service is satisfactory and no service charge is included, consider 5–10% in restaurants; for market stalls and basic eateries, small tips are customary but discretionary.
Cash (Bolivianos or USD) is commonly used in town; some larger restaurants may accept cards, but many places are cash-only. ATMs are limited in smaller towns, so plan accordingly.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Clear skies, cooler mornings and nights, and excellent visibility for views and hiking. Pack layers for chilly early starts and cool evenings; roads are typically drier and easier to navigate.
Warmer days with frequent afternoon rain and higher humidity; trails can be muddy and slippery. Bring waterproof gear, quick-drying clothing, and sturdy footwear; cloud cover can reduce distant views but the landscape is lush and vibrant.
Quime at Night
Hiking in Quime
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderate ascent to a high ridge offering expansive views of the valley and surrounding mountains; popular for sunrise photography.
A scenic walk along ancient terraces with farming plots, seasonal crops, and opportunities to observe village life up close.
Airports
How to reach Quime by plane.
La Paz’s major international gateway; from here you’ll typically transfer by road to Quime, with varying drive times depending on weather and road conditions.
Relatively farther away but serves as an additional connection point; may require overland travel to reach Quime.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mix of Quechua- and Aymara-influenced communities with strong rural traditions, family-centered life, and market-based economies.
Residents engaged in agriculture, weaving, and small-scale crafts; hospitality and community ties are central.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and watched; local matches and informal games are common in communities around Quime.
Popular activities in the surrounding hills and cloud forests, taking advantage of varied terrain and viewpoints.
Escarped paths and rural roads offer opportunities for scenic rides with rewarding descents.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Quime.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many traditional dishes are plant-based or can be adapted with cheese or eggs. Communicate clearly with cooks; opt for soups, potatoes, corn, beans, and fresh vegetables when possible.