Things To Do
in San Matías
San Matías is a small town located in the northeastern region of Bolivia, near the border with Brazil. It is known for its rich biodiversity and lush landscapes, making it a popular destination for eco-tourism. The town is home to a diverse population, with indigenous communities contributing to its cultural vibrancy.
San Matías serves as a gateway for travelers exploring the surrounding national parks and wildlife reserves.
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Hasta luego" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the local market to experience the vibrant culture of San Matías. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a nearby café and mingle with friendly locals.
Take a guided tour of the town's historical landmarks, including the beautiful church and colonial architecture. Capture stunning photos and learn about the rich history of the area.
Relax at a local restaurant and savor traditional Bolivian dishes. Enjoy live music or a cultural performance to end your day on a high note.
Embark on a hike in the surrounding hills to experience breathtaking views of the Bolivian landscape. Bring your camera to capture the stunning scenery.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in a scenic spot during your hike. Continue exploring nature, observing local wildlife along the trails.
Return to town and unwind with a warm drink at a cozy café. Share stories of your adventure with newfound friends.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and traditions.
- Incredible natural beauty, including nearby mountains and landscapes.
- Less touristy destination, allowing for a more authentic experience.
- Friendly local community and welcoming atmosphere.
- Opportunity to explore unique local cuisine.
- Limited access to modern amenities and services.
- Potential language barrier for non-Spanish speakers.
- Lack of infrastructure, which may lead to transportation challenges.
- Health and safety concerns, particularly in remote areas.
- Variable weather conditions that may impact travel plans.
Best Activities in San Matías
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning landscapes of the Andes mountains with various trails suitable for all skill levels, offering breathtaking views and a chance to connect with nature.
Experience one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world by going birdwatching in Madidi National Park, where you can spot a wide variety of exotic birds.
Engage with local indigenous communities and learn about their traditions, crafts, and ways of life through guided cultural tours.
Enjoy a peaceful day of fishing in one of the many rivers surrounding San Matías, with opportunities to catch local fish species.
Set up camp in the picturesque landscapes and enjoy a night under the stars, surrounded by the sounds of nature.
Take advantage of the rugged terrain and enjoy thrilling mountain biking routes that provide an adrenaline rush and stunning scenery.
Tours
Uncover the best of San Matías with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in San Matías
Visit one of these nice places.
This hill offers panoramic views of the town and the surrounding landscape, making it a perfect spot for sunrise or sunset photography.
The main square of San Matías is ideal for capturing the vibrant life of the town, with its colonial architecture and local activities.
The historic church is a great backdrop for photos, showcasing its unique architecture and the cultural heritage of the region.
The river provides beautiful natural scenery, with opportunities for capturing reflections of the surrounding hills and the sky.
A lookout point that offers stunning views of the town and the valleys, especially at dawn and dusk.
Food in San Matías
San Matías Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional peanut soup that is popular in San Matías. It is hearty and flavorful, made with a base of ground peanuts, vegetables, and sometimes meat, offering a savory and rich taste.
Must-Try!
A delicious chicken and vegetable stew with potatoes and a variety of seasonings, providing a satisfying and comforting meal.
A savory quinoa pie filled with cheese, vegetables, and sometimes meat, showcasing the local staple grain quinoa in a delightful dish.
Unique Experiences
Get to know San Matías better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where locals and visitors can explore a variety of fresh produce, spices, and regional ingredients. Additionally, various street food vendors offer flavorful snacks like salteñas, empanadas, and grilled meats.
This vibrant food plaza is a hub for street food enthusiasts, featuring an array of stalls serving local and international dishes. Visitors can savor dishes like anticuchos (grilled skewered meats), tamales, and freshly squeezed fruit juices.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When greeting someone in San Matías, it is common to offer a handshake or a kiss on the cheek, particularly among friends and family. Always make sure to maintain eye contact to show respect.
When invited to someone's home for a meal, it is customary to bring a small gift, such as fruit or a dessert. During the meal, keep your hands on the table but avoid resting your elbows on it.
In Bolivian culture, elders are highly respected. Always address older individuals using formal titles and show deference by allowing them to speak first in conversations.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of San Matías with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in San Matías
Ensure a smooth experience
In San Matías, Bolivia, tipping is a common practice but not obligatory. It is generally expected to tip service workers such as waitstaff in restaurants, taxi drivers, and hotel staff. A tip of around 10% of the total bill is customary in restaurants. However, the amount can vary based on the quality of the service received.
Payment methods in San Matías typically include cash, as it is the most widely accepted form of payment. The local currency is the Bolivian Boliviano (BOB). Credit and debit cards are also accepted in larger establishments, but it is advisable to carry cash for small purchases or in local markets. Digital payment methods are becoming more popular but are not yet universal.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into San Matías.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit San Matías is during the dry season, where temperatures are moderate, and rainfall is minimal. You can expect sunny days, clear skies, and ideal conditions for outdoor activities and exploration of the surrounding nature.
The wet season features more rainfall and higher humidity. While temperatures can be warm, heavy showers may affect travel plans. It's a less popular time for tourists, but the landscape is lush and vibrant, making it a good option for those seeking a quieter experience.
This is the peak of the wet season with warm temperatures and frequent rain. Visitors can expect tropical weather, which can lead to muddy conditions. Ideal for those who appreciate wildlife and want to see the region’s flora and fauna in full bloom.
Winter coincides with the dry season, providing cooler weather. Days are sunny and clear, perfect for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the area. Evenings can be cooler, requiring warmer clothing.
San Matías at Night
Hiking in San Matías
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located near Cochabamba, this national park offers a variety of hiking trails with stunning views of the Andean landscape, diverse flora and fauna, and opportunities for birdwatching.
This mountain range provides numerous hiking options through its rugged terrain, where hikers can explore unique rock formations and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area.
A popular hiking destination for both locals and visitors, Cerro Tunari features well-marked trails, varying levels of difficulty, and a summit that boasts breathtaking vistas of the surrounding valleys.
This area features striking canyon landscapes ideal for adventurous hikes, with opportunities to explore diverse ecosystems and observe local wildlife.
A bit further out, this national park offers well-maintained trails that take you through cloud forests and high-altitude ecosystems, ideal for multi-day treks.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into San Matías through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach San Matías by plane.
Located in El Alto, near La Paz, this is the main international airport serving Bolivia.
Located in Santa Cruz de la Sierra, it is the busiest airport in Bolivia and a major international gateway.
Situated in Sucre, it serves both domestic and limited international flights.
Located in Cochabamba, this airport handles a number of international flights.
An airport located in Oruro, that handles regional flights and some international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in San Matías, consisting of individuals of mixed European and Indigenous ancestry.
Includes various indigenous groups, primarily the Guaraní and Chiquitano, who have preserved their cultural heritage and languages.
A smaller demographic group primarily comprising descendants of Spanish colonizers and immigrants.
A minority group within the community, primarily descended from Africans brought to Bolivia during the colonial era.
The Soul of San Matías
Discover the essence of San Matías through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in San Matías, soccer is played by people of all ages and is a major part of the local culture, with organized leagues and community matches.
Basketball enjoys a following in San Matías, with various local teams and youth programs promoting the sport among young players.
Volleyball is commonly played in schools and communities, attracting both male and female players, and is featured in local tournaments.
Cycling is popular in San Matías for both recreation and sports events, with local races and community bike rides encouraging participation.
Several traditional Bolivian sports, such as 'culiacán' (a local variant of handball), are also played and celebrated in San Matías, reflecting the area's cultural heritage.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Matías.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Bolivian cuisine leans towards meat-based dishes, many restaurants and cafes in San Matías now offer vegetarian and vegan options, such as quinoa salads, vegetable stews, and plant-based variations of local dishes.
Individuals with gluten restrictions can find options like maize-based dishes, rice-based meals, and fresh seafood preparations at several eateries in San Matías that cater to gluten-free diets.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of San Matías with these cultural adventures.
