Things To Do
in San Rafael
San Rafael is a quiet Bolivian town along a tropical river, where lush lowland forests meet colorful markets and friendly faces. It serves as a gateway to the Chiquitano and Amboró ecosystems, offering a relaxed pace and warm hospitality. The town blends Indigenous and mestizo influences, visible in its crafts, music, and cuisine.
Expect humid days, vibrant sunsets, and opportunities to explore nature just beyond the city limits.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a walk around the bustling city center of San Rafael, where you can soak in the local architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Visit the main square, Plaza 10 de Noviembre, and enjoy a local breakfast at one of the nearby cafés. Don't forget to take snapshots of the stunning colonial buildings that surround the area.
After lunch, continue exploring the local shops and markets, where you can find unique handicrafts and traditional Bolivian textiles. Take a guided tour of the historic churches, like Iglesia de San Rafael, and discover their fascinating stories. Settle down at a local eatery to enjoy the authentic flavors of Bolivian cuisine.
As night falls, experience the lively atmosphere of the city by attending a local cultural event or festival if available. Treat yourself to a traditional dinner at a popular restaurant and relish the tastes of the region. Wind down your day by enjoying a relaxing stroll under the stars, perhaps stopping for a sweet treat at a local ice cream shop.
Rise early to embark on a thrilling hiking adventure in the nearby Andes Mountains, where breathtaking views await. Equip yourself with a hearty breakfast to fuel your journey and meet with a local guide to deepen your exploration. Experience the beauty of the lush landscape and native wildlife as you trek along various trails.
After a morning of exploration, relax at a scenic spot for a picnic lunch surrounded by nature and the majestic mountains. Continue your hike to visit stunning viewpoints or hidden waterfalls, immersing yourself in the tranquil environment. Capture memories with plenty of photos before making your way back to San Rafael.
Return to the city and unwind at your accommodation, or visit a local pub to enjoy a refreshing drink and share stories from your day. If you’re up for it, delve into the nightlife of San Rafael by dancing to traditional music at a local venue. End your evening early with a good night’s rest to prepare for the next adventure.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🥤Coffee or soft drink | $1-3 |
| 🚕One-way taxi ride | $2-5 |
| 🛍️Local market groceries | $3-10 |
| 🛏️Budget hostel night | $12-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm, welcoming people and a relaxed pace
- Close access to diverse nature reserves and rivers
- Affordable prices and rich markets with fresh produce
- Authentic local culture and food experiences
- Limited nightlife and fewer large-scale entertainment options
- Rural infrastructure may be basic outside town centers
- Humidity and mosquitoes in the wet season
- Healthcare facilities are more limited than in major cities; plan for remote locations
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Ayuda" - Help
- "¿Me puede recomendar un lugar para comer?" - Can you recommend a place to eat?
Places to Visit in San Rafael
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful riverside scenes, sunset reflections on the water, and lively market activity—excellent for candid and landscape shots.
Vibrant stalls, textures, and people in motion; a great place to capture daily life and spices, fruits, and textiles.
Colonial-style church and surrounding square; ideal for architectural photos and atmospheric evening light.
Elevated vantage point over the river and town; excellent for panoramas at dusk.
Lush rainforest trails and lookout points offering wildlife and plant photography opportunities.
Food in San Rafael
San Rafael Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A comforting peanut soup with vegetables and meat, commonly found in regional eateries and mercados.
Must-Try!
Grilled river fish served with yucca, plantains, or salads—popular along the riverfronts.
Hearty, baked empanadas filled with meat, vegetables, and spices; a common street-food option in markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market offering fresh produce, river fish, cassava, tropical fruits, and small snack stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly handshake or kiss on the cheek in familiar circles; greet elders respectfully and use polite titles.
Ask before photographing people; dress modestly when visiting religious sites; show appreciation for local customs and community norms.
While social interactions are warm, plan for relaxed scheduling and generous timelines in some local contexts.
Safety
Tipping in San Rafael
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% is appreciated if service is not included. For guides and drivers, small tips are common and well received.
Cash in Bolivianos is widely used; some places accept cards in larger towns and tourist-oriented establishments. ATMs are available in town centers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
May through October brings sunny days and clearer trails; mosquito activity is typically lower, though temperatures can be warm during the day.
November through April brings frequent rains and lush scenery; trails can be slippery and rivers may rise; pack a light rain layer and waterproof gear.
San Rafael at Night
Hiking in San Rafael
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A network of rainforest trails with rich biodiversity, waterfalls, and scenic viewpoints accessible from the Santa Cruz region.
Gentle to moderate trails along river landscapes offering wildlife viewing and tranquil scenery.
Airports
How to reach San Rafael by plane.
Located in Santa Cruz de la Sierra, it’s the region’s main international gateway with connections to many South American cities and international destinations.
La Paz’s major airport offering national and some international routes; useful for connections if traveling overland from that direction.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of mestizo residents along with Indigenous Guaraní and Chiquitano influences, reflected in crafts, food, and daily life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Bolivia, with passionate local support and informal matches in plazas and fields.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Rafael.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer veggie plates with yucca, plantains, beans, and fresh salads. When in doubt, ask for chuta (vegetarian) options or base dishes on vegetables and grains.