Things To Do
in San Julián
San Julián is a small, warm town in eastern Bolivia set near the Gran Chaco plains. It serves as a quiet hub for local culture, rivers, and wildlife-rich landscapes. The town’s pace is relaxed, with colorful markets, friendly residents, and a backdrop of wide blue skies.
Visitors come to experience authentic Chaco life, traditional food, and outdoor escapades just outside the town limits.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in San Julián and settle into your accommodation, taking in the vibrant atmosphere of the town. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Bolivian dishes. Take a stroll around the central plaza to absorb the local culture and meet friendly residents.
Visit the local market, where you can find colorful crafts and fresh produce to appreciate the town's handicrafts. Engage with local vendors and try some street food delicacies, such as salteñas or empanadas. Explore the nearby parks or green spaces for a taste of the natural beauty that surrounds San Julián.
Dine at a cozy restaurant, savoring authentic Bolivian cuisine and discussing your plans for the week ahead. As you enjoy your meal, take in the sounds and sights of the lively streets. End your first evening with a walk under the stars, soaking up the friendly ambiance of San Julián.
After breakfast, set out for a guided hike in the hills surrounding San Julián. Listen to your guide as they share insights about the unique ecology and history of the region. Marvel at stunning views of the landscape and the diverse flora and fauna.
Return from your hike and have a light lunch at a local eatery, trying out more regional specialties. Afterward, visit some nearby historical sites, including old churches and monuments that showcase the town's rich heritage. Capture photos and enjoy interactions with locals who may share stories of the area.
For dinner, choose a place renowned for its local fish dishes, a specialty of the region. Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere as you share your day's experiences with fellow travelers. Wrap up the evening with a visit to a local cultural event or music performance if available.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🧃Coffee/tea | $1-3 |
| 🚕Local transport (short ride) | $1-4 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel or hostel per night | $12-25 |
| 🎟️Museum or park entry | $2-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic, relaxed Bolivian experience with friendly locals
- Access to wetlands, wildlife, and river landscapes within easy reach
- Smaller town facilities may mean limited English help and fewer big-city amenities
- Occasional infrastructure and road access can be basic outside the town center
- "Hola, ¿cómo estás?" - Hello, how are you?
- "Buenos días / buenas tardes" - Good morning / good afternoon
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The bill, please
- "¡Salud!" - Cheers!
- "¿Puedes recomendarme un buen restaurante?" - Can you recommend a good restaurant?
Places to Visit in San Julián
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden hour along the river with silhouettes of boats, reeds, and wildlife; ideal for wide landscape shots and reflections.
A riot of color, texture, and faces—great for candid street photography and market scenes.
Colonial-influenced architecture framed by trees; good for architectural details and plaza life.
Viewpoint over the river and wetlands; captures expansive sky and lowland landscapes.
Food in San Julián
San Julián Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty mix of shredded beef or pork with rice, cassava, plantains, and sometimes eggs; a staple in eastern Bolivia often found in local eateries.
Must-Try!
Grilled river fish seasoned with herbs, usually served with rice, cassava, and fresh salsa.
Peanut soup enriched with vegetables and sometimes meat, a comforting Bolivian favorite.
Traditional fermented corn drink (non-alcoholic or lightly alcoholic), commonly available in markets and cafes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market stalls offering produce, herbs, spices, fresh bread, and ready-to-eat snacks.
Seasonal street vendors around the main square selling pupusas, empanadas, fruit cups, and light bites—great for tasting quick local favorites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite hello with a handshake is common; address people with courtesy titles and a friendly tone.
Show respect when visiting churches or cultural sites; dress modestly and speak softly in sacred spaces.
Be relaxed about time; locals value warmth and conversation in addition to timeliness.
Bargaining is common in markets; do so with a smile and a light touch on price, staying polite.
Safety
Tipping in San Julián
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated for good service in restaurants and with tour guides; typical amounts range from 5% to 10% where service is not included.
Cash in Bolivian bolivianos is widely accepted; some larger shops and hotels may take cards, but many smaller venues prefer cash. ATMs are available in larger towns, and mobile payment options are growing but not universal.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers; carry water, light clothing, and sun protection. Great for river activities and wildlife viewing that thrives in wet conditions.
Dry and sunny days with cooler nights; pleasant for walking and outdoor exploration, but evenings can be chilly—bring a light layer.
Increased humidity and heavy rains; some outdoor trails may be muddy or intermittently closed. Mosquito protection is recommended.
Shoulder months can bring variable weather; plan flexible plans and carry a lightweight rain jacket.
San Julián at Night
Hiking in San Julián
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic, relatively accessible hike to a lookout point with views over the town and surrounding plains.
A nature walk along riverbanks and marsh edges, ideal for birdwatching and landscape photography.
Gentle woodland trails near the outskirts of town that reveal local flora and occasional wildlife.
Airports
How to reach San Julián by plane.
Located in Santa Cruz de la Sierra, this is the major gateway for international and domestic flights to and from the region; from the airport, you can take a bus, private transfer, or a domestic flight to nearby towns and then connect by road to San Julián.
A local airport in Santa Cruz used mainly for domestic flights and charter services; can serve as an alternative access point depending on routes and operators.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of Mestizo residents and indigenous groups from the Gran Chaco region; cultures are reflected in markets, crafts, and daily life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local teams and informal games are common in the town’s plazas and fields.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Julián.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants can offer vegetarian versions of local dishes; ask for vegetable stews, salads, and sides like cassava or rice, and check for stock-based sauces.