Things To Do
in San Carlos
San Carlos is a small town located in the tropical lowlands of Bolivia. It is known for its lush vegetation, abundant wildlife, and tranquil atmosphere. The town is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including rivers, forests, and mountains.
Despite its small size, San Carlos offers a variety of outdoor activities such as bird watching, hiking, and fishing.
- "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 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hike in the nearby Sierra de San Carlos. Enjoy stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Visit the local botanical garden to discover native Bolivian flora. Spend some time in the tranquil surroundings, perfect for unwinding.
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant serving traditional Bolivian cuisine. Take a peaceful evening stroll through the town square.
Visit the local market to experience the vibrant culture of San Carlos. Interact with locals and sample fresh produce and street food.
Explore the town’s historical landmarks, including the main church and colonial buildings. Capture moments and learn about the city's history.
Attend a local cultural performance showcasing traditional music and dance. Dive into the rich heritage of the region while enjoying dinner.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and traditions.
- Friendly and welcoming local population.
- Access to beautiful natural landscapes and biodiversity.
- Affordable cost of living compared to many urban areas.
- Growing economy with opportunities in agriculture and tourism.
- Limited access to healthcare facilities.
- Underdeveloped infrastructure in some areas.
- Environmental concerns related to deforestation and pollution.
- Potential for political instability in the region.
- Limited educational resources and opportunities.
Best Activities in San Carlos
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic trails around San Carlos, suitable for various skill levels, featuring breathtaking landscapes and challenging terrains.
Trek through the surrounding forests and hills, offering beautiful views and opportunities to see local wildlife.
Engage in fishing activities at nearby rivers and lakes, suitable for families and sport fishing enthusiasts.
Discover a variety of bird species native to the region, with guided tours available for an educational experience.
Spend a night under the stars in designated camping areas, ideal for families and groups looking for an adventure.
Tours
Uncover the best of San Carlos with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in San Carlos
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic viewpoint located at the junction of rivers, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding nature and the vibrant landscape of San Carlos.
A beautiful lagoon perfect for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset when the colors reflect beautifully on the water.
This hill provides a challenging hike rewarded with breathtaking views of the town and the rich green valleys that encircle it.
The main square of San Carlos is a great spot to capture local life and culture, with vibrant markets and traditional architecture.
The banks of the Guapay River provide lovely vantage points for photography, especially with the lush flora in the background.
Food in San Carlos
San Carlos Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A beloved Bolivian dish featuring a thin, breaded, and fried beef cutlet served with rice, potatoes, and a fried egg. Don't miss trying it at El Camino Restaurant.
Must-Try!
A hearty peanut-based soup with tender pieces of meat, potatoes, and vegetables. Enjoy a delectable version at La Chicharra.
A nourishing soup made with a variety of Andean potatoes, meat, and vegetables. Visit El Fogon del Gringo for an authentic taste.
Unique Experiences
Get to know San Carlos better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore this bustling market for an array of fresh produce, regional ingredients, and street food stalls offering delectable empanadas, salteñas, and grilled anticuchos.
This vibrant square comes alive with street food vendors showcasing traditional treats like api, a comforting corn-based beverage, and freshly fried pastelillos filled with cheese or meat.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When meeting someone, a firm handshake is common. In more familiar settings, it is customary to greet with a kiss on the cheek, especially among friends and family. Always address people using formal titles until invited to use their first names.
Dress modestly and neatly, as appearance is important in San Carlos. In professional and formal settings, wear business casual attire. In rural areas, traditional clothing may be worn; showing respect for local customs is crucial.
If invited to someone's home, it is polite to bring a small gift, such as food or drink. Wait for the host to begin eating before starting your meal, and try to finish everything on your plate to show appreciation for the food provided.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of San Carlos with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in San Carlos
Ensure a smooth experience
In San Carlos, Bolivia, tipping is generally appreciated but not obligatory. It is common to leave a small amount (around 10% of the bill) in restaurants for good service. Tipping in bars and for taxi drivers is also customary, although the amount can vary based on satisfaction with the service.
Payments in San Carlos can be made in cash, primarily using the local currency, the Boliviano. While some establishments may accept credit or debit cards, cash is preferred, especially in smaller shops and markets. Travelers should ensure they have enough small denominations as larger bills might not be accepted in all places.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into San Carlos.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The dry season is the best time to visit San Carlos, as the weather is cooler and rainfall is minimal. Expect sunny days and comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as exploring the surrounding nature, trekking, and visiting local attractions.
During the wet season, San Carlos experiences heavy rainfall, which can lead to flooding in some areas. While the surrounding landscapes are lush and vibrant, traveling during this time can be challenging. However, this season also offers opportunities to see wildlife and enjoy the rainforest's biodiversity.
San Carlos hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, which can provide a unique experience. Events such as Carnival in February or traditional harvest festivals showcase the local culture, music, and dance, making it a great time to visit for those interested in cultural experiences.
San Carlos at Night
Hiking in San Carlos
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful mountain range offering various hiking trails with stunning views and diverse flora and fauna.
This national park features a variety of ecosystems, providing numerous hiking opportunities among its forests and mountains.
A popular hiking spot with trails leading to the summit, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Known for its unique rock formations and ancient petroglyphs, this area provides excellent hiking adventures.
A scenic trail alongside the Río Grande, perfect for those looking for a blend of hiking and river views.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into San Carlos through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach San Carlos by plane.
Located in Santa Cruz de la Sierra, approximately 600 km from San Carlos, it is the largest airport in Bolivia and serves as a major hub for domestic and international flights.
Situated near La Paz, about 700 km from San Carlos, it is one of the highest international airports in the world and serves as a key gateway to Bolivia.
Located in Cochabamba, around 300 km from San Carlos, it offers both domestic and international flights and is an important airport for the central region of Bolivia.
Found in Sucre, approximately 500 km from San Carlos, this airport offers limited international services along with domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in San Carlos, representing a mix of Indigenous and European ancestry.
Including groups such as the Guaraní and Chiquitano, they contribute to the rich cultural heritage of the region.
This group includes descendants of Spanish colonizers and other Europeans who have settled in the area.
A smaller demographic group with historical roots in the region, contributing to the cultural diversity.
The Soul of San Carlos
Discover the essence of San Carlos through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in San Carlos, with numerous local teams and a strong community following.
Widely played among youth and adults, with local leagues and tournaments.
A favorite recreational activity in schools and local communities.
Popular among residents for both transportation and leisure, with scenic routes available.
Includes running and track events, often organized in schools and by local sports clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Carlos.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries in San Carlos offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, such as vegetable-stuffed empanadas, hearty quinoa salads, and fresh fruit smoothies.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can indulge in corn-based delicacies like humintas, a savory corn cake wrapped in a corn husk.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of San Carlos with these cultural adventures.
