Things To Do
in Villa Tunari

Villa Tunari sits along the Ichilo River in Bolivia's Cochabamba Department, as a gateway to the tropical Chapare lowlands. The town blends market bustle, riverfront charm, and easy access to jungle adventures. Lush rainforest surrounds the area, offering wildlife watching, waterfalls, and scenic drives.

The vibe is laid-back and welcoming, with locally flavored cuisine and colorful markets at every turn.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival and Relaxation
morning
:

Arrive in Villa Tunari and settle into your accommodation surrounded by lush greenery. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast with local fruits and coffee as you take in the stunning mountain views. Spend some time unwinding from your travels by strolling through the tranquil surroundings.

afternoon
:

Explore the town of Villa Tunari, visiting local shops and markets to immerse yourself in the culture. Taste traditional Bolivian dishes at a nearby restaurant, sampling exotic flavors unique to the region. Take a guided tour to learn about the local wildlife and the importance of conservation in the area.

evening
:

As night falls, relax at your accommodation, perhaps enjoying a bonfire outside. Engage with fellow travelers and share stories, while savoring traditional Bolivian snacks and drinks. Allow the sounds of the jungle to lull you into a calm state, preparing for the adventures ahead.

day 2
Cascada El Macho Adventure
morning
:

Start your day early with a guided hike to Cascada El Macho, a breathtaking waterfall just outside of town. The trek will take you through beautiful landscapes, offering opportunities to see exotic flora and fauna. Bring your camera to capture the stunning scenery along the way.

afternoon
:

Upon reaching the waterfall, enjoy a refreshing swim in the natural pool formed at its base. Have a picnic lunch surrounded by nature while listening to the sounds of cascading water. Spend some time relaxing and soaking in the beauty before beginning your trek back.

evening
:

After returning to Villa Tunari, unwind at a local café with a warm cup of mate or hot chocolate. Reflect on the day’s adventure and share your highlights with fellow travelers. Consider trying a traditional evening meal, experiencing the rich culinary heritage of Bolivia.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$5-12
🛏️Basic hotel room per night$15-40
🚌Local bus ticket$0.5-3
Coffee at a cafe$1-3
🥤Fresh fruit smoothie$2-4

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Access to rainforest and river adventures
  • Relaxed, small-town vibe and friendly locals
  • Limited high-end dining options
  • Can be very hot and humid; seasonal rain can affect plans
  • "Hola, ¿cómo estás?" - Hi, how are you?
  • "Buenos días" - Good morning
  • "¿Puede recomendar un lugar para comer?" - Can you recommend a place to eat?
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Estoy perdido" - I am lost
  • "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Villa Tunari

Visit one of these nice places.

Ichilo River Riverside at Sunset

Golden-hour reflections over calm waters and green jungle banks, with boats and birds in constant motion.

Villa Tunari Central Plaza

Colorful market scenes, colonial-style facades, and candid street life perfect for street photography.

Bridge over the Ichilo River

Wide river views with forested banks and local life passing beneath the span.

Culinary Guide

Food in Villa Tunari

The Chapare region around Villa Tunari showcases tropical flavors: fresh river fish, yuca, plantains, fruits, and hearty stews. Expect vibrant markets, simple rustic cooking, and plenty of fresh juice options made from local produce.

Villa Tunari Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pescado a la plancha

Grilled river fish served with lime, herbs, yuca or plantains; a staple around the Ichilo River.

Must-Try!

Sopa de maní

Bolivian peanut soup with vegetables, a comforting bowl popular in the region.

Pique macho

A hearty mix of meat, potatoes, peppers, and onions; best enjoyed in moderation and shared as a sizable meal.

Humintas

Corn-based tamales steamed in husks; commonly found at markets and street stalls.

Plátano frito con chicharrón

Fried plantains paired with crispy pork—a satisfying street-side snack.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Central de Villa Tunari

Bustling market with fresh produce, regional fruits, ready-to-eat snacks, and local specialties ready to sample.

Climate Guide

Weather

Villa Tunari experiences a tropical rainforest climate with high humidity year-round. The wet season (roughly November to March) brings heavy rainfall and lush greenery, while the dry season (April to October) offers more comfortable daytime temperatures and clearer skies, though mornings can be cool.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Greet with a handshake; in more informal settings, a warm smile and eye contact are common. Use polite titles when addressing elders.

Language

Spanish is the dominant language; some Indigenous communities use Mosetén or Quechua. Learning a few basic phrases in Spanish is helpful.

Respect for nature and modest dress

Respect sacred sites and local customs; dress modestly in religious places and in conservative neighborhoods.

Safety Guide

Safety

Stay aware of petty theft in crowded markets and tourist areas. Hire reputable guides for jungle excursions, avoid traveling alone at night on unfamiliar roads, carry copies of important documents, and use bottled or treated water. Have travel insurance that covers adventure activities and jungle safety needs.

Tipping in Villa Tunari

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tips of 5-10% in restaurants are appreciated; guides and drivers often expect a small tip. Cash is commonly preferred, and small denominations help in rural areas.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (Nov–Mar)

Hot and very humid with frequent afternoon rainstorms. River levels rise, lush vegetation; mosquitoes can be more prevalent, so bring repellent and rain protection.

Dry season (Apr–Oct)

Pleasant daytime temperatures with cooler nights. Trails are drier and easier to navigate, though early mornings can be misty and dusty conditions may affect some walks.

Shoulder/transition (Nov–Dec)

Increasing humidity and occasional rain as the wet season begins; expect vibrant greenery and blooming plants, with variable weather.

Nightlife Guide

Villa Tunari at Night

The nightlife in Villa Tunari is modest but lively in the right spots, with riverside bars, small live music venues, and plazas where locals and travelers mingle. Expect relaxed vibes, affordable drinks, and a chance to hear local musicians late into the evening.

Hiking in Villa Tunari

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cerro Tunari foothill trails

Accessible day hikes in the nearby highlands with scenic views of the valley and distant ranges.

Jungle trails near the Chapare region

Guided rainforest hikes offering wildlife sightings, canopy experiences, and plant life education.

Airports

How to reach Villa Tunari by plane.

Jorge Wilstermann International Airport (CBB)

Cochabamba's main international/bus terminal hub; connections to major Bolivian cities and some international routes.

Viru Viru International Airport (VVI)

Santa Cruz's major international airport; serves international and domestic flights; many travelers connect here to Cochabamba and Villa Tunari.

Getting Around

Walkability

Villa Tunari is walkable in the town center with markets, plazas, and riverfront paths. Side streets can be steep, and distances to nature sites require a vehicle or guided tour. Taxis are affordable for longer hops; roads can be dusty and uneven in the rainy season.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Mestizo and Indigenous communities

A mix of mestizo residents and Indigenous groups with communities connected to jungle livelihoods and agriculture.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

The most popular sport in Bolivia; local teams and pickup games in town squares and fields.

Transportation

Traffic

Road transport is the main way to reach Villa Tunari; the Pan-American highway and local roads may be rough during the rainy season. Buses and private shuttles are common; taxis and moto-taxis are available in town.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Villa Tunari.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

In Villa Tunari, you can find beans, rice, yuca, plantains, and salads. Communicate dietary needs in Spanish; many kitchens can adapt with advance notice or by visiting dedicated vegetarian-friendly eateries.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is available in Villa Tunari with small clinics; for major care or specialized services, travel to Cochabamba's hospitals. Carry basic medications and travel insurance; ensure immunizations are up-to-date.

Discover Bolivia

Read more in our Bolivia 2025 Travel Guide.

Bolivia Travel Guide