Things to do in Bolivian Amazon Basin
Discover the best attractions and experiences Bolivian Amazon Basin has to offer
Historic Monuments
Discover the Bolivian Amazon's enduring legacies, from colonial-era missions to ancient fortifications.
Jesuit Missions of the Chiquitos
UNESCO World Heritage Site with several 18th-century missions featuring ornate churches and a fusion of cultures.
Fort Samaipata (El Fuerte de Samaipata)
Pre-Inca fortress in a scenic valley with petroglyphs and terraces.
Museums
Learn about the region's biodiversity, history and Indigenous cultures through purposeful museums.
Museo de Historia Natural Noel Kempff Mercado
Natural history museum highlighting biodiversity of the Bolivian Amazon.
Museo de la Chiquitania
Exhibits on the history, people and crafts of the eastern Chiquitania region.
Museo de Arte Contemporáneo (MAC) Santa Cruz
Showcases contemporary Bolivian and regional art.
Religious Monuments
Religious architecture and mission churches dot the forested landscape.
Iglesia de San Javier (Chiquitos Mission Church)
A standout church from the Jesuit missions with colorful interior and traditional Chiquitos design.
Iglesia de San Miguel (San Miguel de Velasco Mission)
Part of the Chiquitos mission network known for its vibrant exterior and history.
National & Theme Parks
Iconic protected areas for wildlife, trekking and river adventures.
Madidi National Park
One of the most biodiverse habitats on the planet with lush rainforest and river ecosystems.
Noel Kempff Mercado National Park
Vast Amazonian park famed for dramatic landscapes and wildlife.
Amboró National Park
A lush crossroad of Andean and Amazonian flora with deep canyons and waterfalls.
Neighborhoods
Quintessential spots in Bolivia’s Amazon gateway cities to stroll, eat and observe daily life.
Equipetrol (Santa Cruz)
A lively district known for shops, cafes and nightlife.
Centro Histórico (Santa Cruz)
Old town streets with colonial architecture and markets.
La Rinconada (Santa Cruz)
Residential and commercial area offering a local feel and bakeries.
Free Things to Do
Budget-friendly ways to experience the Amazon vibe without spending much.
Walk through Santa Cruz’s Historic Center
Explore plazas, colonial facades and street life on foot.
Browse local markets
Experience daily life and sample fresh tropical fruits.
Sunset stroll along the riverfront in Santa Cruz
Relaxed evenings by the water with city views.
Gastronomy
Taste the Amazonian flavors crafted from river fish, cassava and tropical fruits.
Pescado a la parrilla
Grilled river fish served with local sides and sauces.
Pacú a la parrilla
Popular river fish dish, often paired with rice and yuca.
Silpancho and other Bolivian staples
Classic Bolivian dishes widely enjoyed across the Amazon region.
Nightlife
Evenings come alive in Santa Cruz’s riverfront districts and lively neighborhoods.
Equipetrol bars and live music
Casual venues with local bands and tropical vibes.
Night markets and street eateries
Open-air spots where you can sample local flavors after dark.
Entertainment
Cultural performances and theatre showcase regional arts.
Cultural shows in Jesuit mission towns
Traditional music and dance events reflecting regional heritage.
Theatre and cinema in Santa Cruz
Local productions and film nights highlighting Bolivian culture.
Sports
Active adventures in rainforest trails and river systems.
Hiking in Amboró National Park
Forest treks through diverse habitats and scenic viewpoints.
Riverboat excursions on the Madidi basin
Relaxed boat trips to spot wildlife along the waterways.
Off the Track
Go beyond the beaten path for immersive Amazon experiences.
Chalalan EcoLodge (Madidi ecosystem)
Iconic jungle lodge offering guided rainforest adventures.
Pampas safari near Rurrenabaque
Seasonal flatlands safari to see capybaras and pink river dolphins.
Madidi River jungle trek
Guided treks into one of the world’s most biodiverse rivers systems.