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

day 1
Arrival in San Julián
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

day 2
Exploring the Surroundings
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔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.

Riverside Promenade

Golden hour along the river with silhouettes of boats, reeds, and wildlife; ideal for wide landscape shots and reflections.

Mercado Central

A riot of color, texture, and faces—great for candid street photography and market scenes.

Parque Central and Church

Colonial-influenced architecture framed by trees; good for architectural details and plaza life.

Río San Julián Lookout

Viewpoint over the river and wetlands; captures expansive sky and lowland landscapes.

Culinary Guide

Food in San Julián

Bolivian Chaco cuisine in San Julián centers on hearty meat dishes, river fish, cassava-based foods, and simple, comforting soups. Expect strong flavors, generous portions, and seasonal produce from the surrounding plains. Fresh fruit juices and traditional beverages are widely available, reflecting the region’s agricultural bounty. Eating out is affordable and social, with many family-run eateries that welcome visitors.

San Julián Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Majadito

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!

Pescado a la Parrilla

Grilled river fish seasoned with herbs, usually served with rice, cassava, and fresh salsa.

Sopa de Mani

Peanut soup enriched with vegetables and sometimes meat, a comforting Bolivian favorite.

Chicha

Traditional fermented corn drink (non-alcoholic or lightly alcoholic), commonly available in markets and cafes.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Central

Bustling market stalls offering produce, herbs, spices, fresh bread, and ready-to-eat snacks.

Parque de la Plaza stalls

Seasonal street vendors around the main square selling pupusas, empanadas, fruit cups, and light bites—great for tasting quick local favorites.

Climate Guide

Weather

The climate is hot and tropical with distinct wet and dry seasons. Summers are humid with heavy rains, while winters are warm and drier with cooler nights. Expect high humidity most of the year and a strong sun exposure; sunscreen and hydration are essential. Overall, it’s a warm lowland climate typical of the Gran Chaco area.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A polite hello with a handshake is common; address people with courtesy titles and a friendly tone.

Respect with Elders and Religious Sites

Show respect when visiting churches or cultural sites; dress modestly and speak softly in sacred spaces.

Punctuality

Be relaxed about time; locals value warmth and conversation in addition to timeliness.

Markets and Bargaining

Bargaining is common in markets; do so with a smile and a light touch on price, staying polite.

Safety Guide

Safety

Exercise common-sense safety: keep valuables secure in markets, travel with a companion for night trips, use reputable transport, and stay aware of surroundings in crowded areas. Bottled water is recommended, and be mindful of insects in the evenings. Emergency numbers and local contacts can be obtained at your accommodation.

Tipping in San Julián

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is appreciated for good service in restaurants and with tour guides; typical amounts range from 5% to 10% where service is not included.

Payment Methods

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...

Summer

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 season

Dry and sunny days with cooler nights; pleasant for walking and outdoor exploration, but evenings can be chilly—bring a light layer.

Wet season

Increased humidity and heavy rains; some outdoor trails may be muddy or intermittently closed. Mosquito protection is recommended.

Transition periods

Shoulder months can bring variable weather; plan flexible plans and carry a lightweight rain jacket.

Nightlife Guide

San Julián at Night

The nightlife in San Julián is low-key and local-focused, centered on small cafés, casual bars, and occasional live music or folkloric performances. Evenings often revolve around socializing with family and friends, with a relaxed atmosphere and straightforward, friendly service. Bars tend to close earlier than in larger cities, but there are opportunities to hear regional music and enjoy local drinks in a safe, friendly setting.

Hiking in San Julián

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cerro San Julián Lookout Trail

A scenic, relatively accessible hike to a lookout point with views over the town and surrounding plains.

Chaco Wetlands Riverside Trail

A nature walk along riverbanks and marsh edges, ideal for birdwatching and landscape photography.

Llanos Forest Path

Gentle woodland trails near the outskirts of town that reveal local flora and occasional wildlife.

Airports

How to reach San Julián by plane.

Viru Viru International Airport (VVI)

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.

El Trompillo Airport (SRZ)

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.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is compact and walkable, with markets, plazas, and riverside paths within easy reach on foot. Some outskirts and rural routes may require a short drive or taxi. Paved sidewalks are common in the core, while peripheral streets can be uneven or dusty depending on the season.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Mestizo and Indigenous communities

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.

Football (Soccer)

The most popular sport; local teams and informal games are common in the town’s plazas and fields.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is generally light within the town, with occasional congestion around markets and plaza areas during peak hours. Public transportation is modest, with buses and shared taxis serving the wider area. Roads to surrounding rural areas can be unpaved and slower, depending on weather conditions.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting San Julián.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

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.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare services are available in town, with clinics and a small hospital in or near the center. For more complex needs, travelers typically go to Santa Cruz de la Sierra (Viru Viru International Airport area) for better-equipped facilities and specialists. Carry travel insurance that covers medical evacuation if possible.

Discover Bolivia

Read more in our Bolivia 2025 Travel Guide.

Bolivia Travel Guide