Things To Do
in San Borja
San Borja is a small town located in the Beni Department of Bolivia. It is known for its tranquil atmosphere and lush surroundings, surrounded by rivers and forests. The town has a strong indigenous influence, with many residents belonging to the Tacana ethnic group.
San Borja is a popular destination for ecotourism, offering opportunities for birdwatching, hiking, and exploring the nearby Pampas del Yacuma.
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Hasta luego" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $60
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Plaza 10 de Noviembre, where you can enjoy local vendors and the beautiful park. Take a leisurely stroll to appreciate the surrounding architecture and fresh air.
Visit the San Borja Archaeological Museum to learn about the area's rich history and discover ancient artifacts. Spend some time enjoying a lunch featuring traditional Bolivian cuisine at a nearby local restaurant.
Relax at a local café while trying some delicious Bolivian coffee. In the evening, enjoy a peaceful walk around town as the sun sets, taking in the vibrant colors of the sky.
Begin your day early with an organized tour to the nearby Madidi National Park, where you can experience breathtaking biodiversity. Remember to bring your camera for stunning natural photography.
Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park while surrounded by lush greenery and wildlife. Spend your afternoon hiking and exploring various trails within the park.
Return to San Borja and indulge in a local dinner featuring fresh river fish. Wind down by reflecting on your day's adventures, perhaps sharing stories with newfound friends.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with a blend of indigenous and colonial history.
- Beautiful natural surroundings and landscapes, including mountains and rivers.
- Strong sense of community and tradition among residents.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities in Bolivia.
- Access to fresh local produce and traditional markets.
- Limited access to healthcare and educational facilities compared to bigger cities.
- Infrastructure challenges, including roads and transportation.
- Potential for political instability affecting daily life.
- Limited job opportunities for specialized professions.
- Altitude sickness may affect newcomers due to high elevation.
Best Activities in San Borja
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
A sustainable urban park with nature trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas
A natural park with sand dunes, ideal for hiking, sandboarding, and enjoying the unique desert landscape
Explore the city and its surroundings on two wheels, with numerous biking routes available
San Borja is home to a variety of bird species, making it an excellent destination for birdwatching enthusiasts
Tours
Uncover the best of San Borja with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in San Borja
Visit one of these nice places.
A picturesque urban park with scenic views and photo opportunities of the surrounding lakes and greenery.
A beautiful park offering excellent views and photo spots, particularly around the Tacuaral lagoon.
This park features stunning landscapes, ecological diversity, and photo-worthy sites, including the viewpoint overlooking the park.
Food in San Borja
San Borja Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Majao is a hearty and flavorful dish made with rice, yucca, and a variety of meats such as beef, chicken, or wild game. It's seasoned with local spices and often accompanied by fried plantains. Try it at Restaurante El Pescador.
Must-Try!
Majadito is a savory dish consisting of rice cooked with charque (dried and salted meat), tomatoes, and onions. It's a popular comfort food with a satisfying blend of textures and tastes. Indulge in a delicious serving at El Rincón del Sabor.
Sopa de Maní is a rich and creamy peanut soup, typically prepared with beef or chicken, potatoes, and vegetables. The nutty flavor combined with the savory broth creates a delightful culinary experience. Sample this dish at Comedor Donde Luisa.
Unique Experiences
Get to know San Borja better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a haven for fresh produce, local meats, and a vibrant selection of Bolivian street food. Standout items include salteñas, empanadas, and freshly squeezed fruit juices.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In San Borja, Bolivia, it is important to show respect for elders by greeting them first and addressing them with proper honorifics.
When interacting with people in San Borja, the use of formal language and polite expressions is valued, especially when addressing those who are older or in positions of authority.
Punctuality is regarded as a sign of respect in San Borja, so it is important to arrive on time for appointments and gatherings.
Safety
Tipping in San Borja
Ensure a smooth experience
In San Borja, Bolivia, tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated in restaurants, cafes, and for exceptional service. A 10% gratuity is usually sufficient for good service.
Cash is the preferred method of payment in San Borja, especially in smaller establishments. Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, larger restaurants, and shops, but it is advisable to carry cash for most transactions. ATMs are available for cash withdrawals.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit with clear skies and pleasant temperatures. You can expect lower humidity and easier access to outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring the town.
Expect higher temperatures and occasional heavy rainfall. The landscape becomes lush and green during this time, but outdoor activities may be limited due to the wet conditions.
San Borja at Night
Hiking in San Borja
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A national park located near the Sajama volcano, it features beautiful landscapes, high-altitude trails, and unique flora and fauna.
An island in Lake Titicaca, known for its scenic trails and breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Located near Cochabamba, this national park offers various hiking trails with panoramic views and diverse ecosystems.
Once home to the world's highest ski resort, Chacaltaya features hiking trails with stunning mountain scenery, located just a short drive from La Paz.
A moderately challenging hike near La Paz that provides spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Aiports
How to reach San Borja by plane.
Located in Santa Cruz de la Sierra, approximately 600 km from San Borja, it is the largest international airport in Bolivia.
Situated near La Paz, around 800 km from San Borja, it serves as a major hub for international flights.
Located in Cochabamba, approximately 550 km from San Borja, it is the third-largest airport in Bolivia.
Positioned in Buenos Aires, Argentina, roughly 1,500 km from San Borja, it is one of the biggest airports near the northern region of Argentina.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in San Borja are mestizos, individuals of mixed European and Indigenous descent.
Various Indigenous groups, including the Mosetén and Tsimane, reside in the region, preserving their cultural heritage.
A smaller percentage of the population consists of people of European descent, primarily from Spanish ancestry.
There is a small community of Afro-Bolivians, who have a unique cultural identity and heritage.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in San Borja, attracting a large number of local fans and players.
Basketball has gained popularity, especially among younger demographics, with many local teams and events.
Volleyball is a popular sport in schools and communities, often played in open areas and during local festivals.
Cycling is a favored recreational activity, with the scenic landscapes of San Borja offering great routes for enthusiasts.
Track and field events are commonly organized in schools, fostering interest in running and competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Borja.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While San Borja's culinary scene predominantly features meat-based dishes, some restaurants like El Huerto and La Casona del Taiaman offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives, such as fresh salads, grilled vegetables, and plant-based stews.
Visitors with gluten intolerances can find gluten-free versions of traditional dishes like Majadito and Sopa de Maní at Café del Sabor, as well as gluten-free baked goods and desserts.