Things To Do
in Chimoré
Chimoré is a riverside town in Bolivia’s tropical lowlands, nestled among lush forests and farmland. The area serves as a gateway to rainforest excursions and agro-cultural experiences. Visitors can expect warm hospitality, abundant wildlife, and a pace of life that blends countryside charm with small-town practicality.
The town is a practical base for exploring the Chapare region while engaging with local communities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Chimoré Airport and gather your belongings. Take some time to settle into your accommodations and absorb the charming atmosphere of this small Bolivian town. Meet with your local guide for an introductory briefing about the itinerary and insights on the region.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant, sampling traditional Bolivian dishes such as salteñas or pique a lo macho. Afterward, take a guided walking tour to explore the local markets, learning about the customs and products unique to the region. Engage with friendly locals and perhaps purchase hand-crafted souvenirs to commemorate your visit.
Gather for a group dinner at a nearby eatery, sharing stories and excitement about the days ahead. Under the starry skies, enjoy a traditional Bolivian music performance that encapsulates the spirit of the Andes. Retire early to rest and prepare for the adventures starting tomorrow.
Visit a nearby indigenous community to learn about their traditions and daily life. Participate in a cooking class where you will prepare local dishes using traditional methods and ingredients. This hands-on experience allows for meaningful interactions with community members and insights into their culture.
After lunch, join in on a handicraft workshop, learning to make woven textiles or pottery. Appreciate the artistry and skill involved while also supporting local artisans through your participation. Spend the late afternoon interacting with families and engaging in their rituals and customs.
Return to Chimoré for another delightful dinner filled with local cuisine. Reflect on the day's experiences, fostering a sense of connection with the community you visited. End the evening with a leisurely stroll through the town, enjoying the vibrant street life and warm Bolivian hospitality.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-8 |
| 💧Bottle of water (0.5L) | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🚶One-way local transport | $0.50-2 |
| 🛏️Guesthouse per night | $15-40 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Access to lush rainforest and wildlife in a less-touristed setting
- Warm, welcoming communities and affordable travel
- Limited nightlife and fewer upscale dining options
- Rural infrastructure means variable road conditions and fewer services in remote areas
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Puede ayudarme?" - Can you help me?
- "Estoy perdido/a" - I am lost
- "Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Chimoré
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light over the wide river with jungle silhouettes; reflections and calm water create serene compositions.
Elevated boardwalks and platforms offering views into the rainforest canopy and opportunities to photograph wildlife.
Vibrant stalls, textiles, and daily life provide colorful, candid photo opportunities.
Emerald pools and cascading streams set amid dense greenery; longer hikes reveal dramatic landscapes.
Food in Chimoré
Chimoré Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A peanut-based soup with meat, vegetables, and noodles or potatoes; a comforting staple in local eateries.
Must-Try!
A hearty bowl of fried rice with beans, plantains, and often eggs or meat; a popular one-dish meal in the Chapare.
A spicy mixed dish of beef, potatoes, peppers, onions, and sometimes eggs; shared among friends or family.
Corn-based snacks wrapped in husks; common from street stalls and market sellers.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market with produce, dairy, meats, and ready-to-eat snacks; best explored in the morning.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A cordial handshake or light nod is common. Address elders with señor/señora and use polite phrases. Speak calmly and avoid raising your voice in public.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in rural communities or at sacred sites.
Dress modestly when visiting villages or religious sites; avoid loud behavior and keep valuables secure in crowded areas.
Safety
Tipping in Chimoré
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated for good service. In restaurants, add 5-10% if a service charge isn’t included. Give modest tips to guides and drivers based on the level of service.
Cash (Bolivianos, and sometimes USD) is widely used in smaller towns. Some larger eateries and hotels may accept cards; ATMs are more common in bigger towns and cities. Carry small denominations for market purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers; stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and start activities early to avoid storms.
Transition back to drier days; landscapes remain lush; occasional mud after rains—mobile coverage and trails may vary.
Cooler and drier; comfortable for hiking during the day; nights can be chilly; pack layers and a light jacket.
Warm days with the possibility of afternoon storms; excellent for wildlife viewing if you’re prepared for rain.
Chimoré at Night
Hiking in Chimoré
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Multiple day and half-day hikes through rainforest with guide-led interpretation of flora and fauna; suitable for varied fitness levels.
Airports
How to reach Chimoré by plane.
Major regional gateway; connections to major Bolivian cities and limited international flights. Access Chimoré by road from Cochabamba.
Large international hub; longer drive to Chimoré, but frequent flights and services.
Small regional airstrip serving the Chapare region; flights are limited and generally operate with local carriers or charter options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of indigenous heritage with Mestizo/Montenegro influences; strong ties to agriculture, forestry, and community life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, with local pickup games and community leagues.
Common in schools and community centers; informal games often organized in evenings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Chimoré.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Options include beans, corn, rice-based dishes, fresh vegetables, and soups; communicate dietary needs in Spanish (e.g., 'sin carne' or 'vegetariano').