Santiago de Chiquitos Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, and local customs in Santiago de Chiquitos, Bolivia. Plan your trip with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Santiago de Chiquitos

Nestled in the heart of the Santa Cruz region of Bolivia, Santiago de Chiquitos is a small town with a rich history and a vibrant culture. Originally settled by the Chiquitano people, the town is home to numerous museums, churches, and historical sites that tell the story of its past and present. From its unique blend of Native American and Spanish influences to its stunning natural beauty, Santiago de Chiquitos has something to offer every traveler.

List of Places to Visit in Santiago de Chiquitos

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Mision de San Jose de Chiquitos: This UNESCO-listed church dates back to the 17th century and features stunning baroque architecture and intricate carvings that showcase the skills of the Chiquitano artisans.
  • Casa de la Cultura: Housed in a restored colonial building, this museum features exhibits on the history and culture of Santiago de Chiquitos and the surrounding region.
  • Museo de la Música: This museum showcases the traditional music of the Chiquitano people and features a collection of over 300 instruments.

Natural Attractions of Santiago de Chiquitos: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Cueva de los Incas: This limestone cave system offers guided tours that take visitors through its narrow passages and underground rivers.
  • Loma de la Cruz: Located just outside of town, this hill offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Parque Nacional Kaa-Iya del Gran Chaco: This national park covers over 3 million acres of the Gran Chaco region and is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including jaguars, pumas, and armadillos.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Santiago de Chiquitos

  • Ruta del Che: This 500km bike trail follows the route that Che Guevara took during his time in Bolivia and offers stunning views of the country’s mountainous terrain.
  • Ruta del Spondylus: This 40km hiking trail takes visitors through the heart of the Parque Nacional Kaa-Iya del Gran Chaco and offers the chance to see some of the region’s most impressive wildlife and natural wonders.

Best Things to Do in Santiago de Chiquitos: Activities and Tours

  • Traditional Chiquitano Cooking Class: Learn to cook traditional Chiquitano dishes using local ingredients and techniques.
  • Horseback Riding Tours: Explore the surrounding countryside on horseback and experience the beauty of Santiago de Chiquitos from a new perspective.
  • Kayaking on the Rio Grande: Navigate the rapids of the Rio Grande on a thrilling kayaking tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Santiago de Chiquitos

Day Activity
1 Visit Mision de San Jose de Chiquitos and Casa de la Cultura
2 Hike the Ruta del Spondylus
3 Take a traditional Chiquitano cooking class
4 Explore the Parque Nacional Kaa-Iya del Gran Chaco
5 Bike the Ruta del Che
6 Kayak on the Rio Grande
7 Visit the Loma de la Cruz for stunning sunset views

Food and Drink Scene of Santiago de Chiquitos

Must-Try Dishes

  • Humintas: These savory corn cakes are a staple of the Chiquitano diet and can be found at most local markets and restaurants.
  • Locro: This hearty soup features potatoes, cheese, and corn and is commonly eaten as a breakfast dish.
  • Empanadas: These fried pastries come in a variety of flavors, including beef, chicken, and cheese, and are a popular street food in Santiago de Chiquitos.

Local Beverages

  • Chicha: This fermented corn drink is a traditional beverage in the Andean region of South America and is often consumed during festivals and other celebrations.
  • Singani: This grape-based liquor is a popular spirit in Bolivia and can be enjoyed straight or mixed into a cocktail.

Where to Stay in Santiago de Chiquitos: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hostal del Sol: This cozy hostel is located in the heart of Santiago de Chiquitos and offers comfortable rooms and a communal kitchen.
  • Cabanas los Tucanes: These picturesque cabins are located just outside of town and offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Casa Thiell: This historic guesthouse features beautiful colonial architecture and is located just a short walk from Mision de San Jose de Chiquitos.

What to Buy in Santiago de Chiquitos: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Textiles: Handmade textiles and weavings are a hallmark of Chiquitano culture and make for unique and beautiful souvenirs.
  • Carvings: Intricately carved wooden figurines and sculptures can be found in markets and shops throughout Santiago de Chiquitos.
  • Singani: Bring home a bottle of Bolivia’s favorite liquor to share with friends and family.

Local Culture and Customs of Santiago de Chiquitos

The Chiquitano people have a rich cultural heritage that is still evident in daily life in Santiago de Chiquitos. Visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions, including dress codes when visiting churches and other religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Santiago de Chiquitos

The best time to visit Santiago de Chiquitos is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During this time, temperatures are mild and rainfall is minimal, making it the perfect time to enjoy outdoor activities and take in the stunning scenery of the region.

Do’s and Don’ts of Santiago de Chiquitos

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Try traditional Chiquitano dishes and beverages
  • Take the time to explore the natural beauty of the region

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing when visiting religious sites
  • Take photos without asking permission, especially of people

Safety and Health

Safety in Santiago de Chiquitos

Santiago de Chiquitos is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, visitors should still take common-sense precautions, such as keeping valuables out of sight and avoiding unlit areas at night.

Health in Santiago de Chiquitos

Travelers to Santiago de Chiquitos should take typical health precautions, such as drinking bottled water and using insect repellent to avoid mosquito-borne illnesses.

Getting to Santiago de Chiquitos: Transportation Options and Logistics

While Santiago de Chiquitos is a small town, it is still accessible by a variety of transportation options.

Airports Near Santiago de Chiquitos

The closest airport to Santiago de Chiquitos is Viru Viru International Airport in Santa Cruz, which offers daily flights from major cities throughout South America.

Bus Stations Near Santiago de Chiquitos

There are several long-distance bus stations in Santa Cruz that offer services to Santiago de Chiquitos. Visitors can also take a local bus from Santa Cruz to Santiago de Chiquitos, although the journey can take several hours.

Other Options

Taxis are readily available throughout Santa Cruz, and many tour operators offer guided tours to Santiago de Chiquitos and other nearby destinations.

How to Get Around in Santiago de Chiquitos

While Santiago de Chiquitos is a small town that is easily walkable, visitors can also rent bicycles or hire a taxi to explore the surrounding countryside.

Where to Go Next from Santiago de Chiquitos: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Villa Tunari: Located in the Cochabamba region of Bolivia, this small town offers trekking, river rafting, and other outdoor activities.
  • Samaipata: This small town is home to the stunning El Fuerte archaeological site and is a popular jumping-off point for hikes in the surrounding mountains.

Conclusion

Santiago de Chiquitos may be a small town, but it is full of surprises and delights for travelers seeking a taste of Bolivia’s history, culture, and natural beauty. With its vibrant mix of traditional and modern influences, Santiago de Chiquitos is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to this part of South America.

Santiago de Chiquitos church convent garden. Santiago de Chiquitos church convent garden. Mountains out of Santiago de Chiquitos. Mountains out of Santiago de Chiquitos. Pozos at Santiago de Chiquitos. Pozos at Santiago de Chiquitos.