Things To Do
in Entre Ríos

Entre Ríos is a riverside region in eastern Bolivia characterized by lush lowland landscapes and small farming towns. The area blends expansive waterways with markets, wildlife-friendly wetlands, and a relaxed rural pace. Visitors often encounter friendly hosts, vibrant local culture, and easy road access to explore riverside communities.

It is a great base for river excursions, birdwatching, and experiencing regional Bolivian hospitality away from the bigger cities.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Entre Ríos
morning
:

Upon arrival in Entre Ríos, settle into your accommodation and take a moment to enjoy the serene environment of this picturesque town nestled along the banks of the river. Explore the local market to get a glimpse of regional products and flavors. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a café, savoring traditional Bolivian dishes.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, embark on a guided tour of the town, visiting the historic church and archaeological sites that tell the story of Entre Ríos' rich cultural heritage. Engage with local artisans and discover the craftsmanship behind traditional textiles and crafts. Don’t forget to try some local delicacies at a quaint restaurant for lunch.

evening
:

As the sun sets, take a stroll along the riverbanks to witness the breathtaking views of the sunset reflecting on the water. Dine at a lively eatery, savoring regional specialties while listening to live music from local performers. End the night with a relaxing walk, soaking in the ambiance of the town.

day 2
Exploration of the Natural Reserves
morning
:

Set out early to explore the nearby natural reserves, where you can immerse yourself in the lush landscapes and diverse wildlife native to the region. Participate in a guided nature hike, spotting various bird species and capturing the beauty of the flora. Enjoy a picnic breakfast in the heart of nature, breathing in the fresh air.

afternoon
:

After a morning of exploration, unwind by the river or partake in canoeing or fishing activities, soaking up the tranquility of the water. The afternoon promises a rich dialogue with locals as you visit a nearby village, learning about their way of life and traditions. Relish a homemade lunch prepared by a local family, experiencing true Bolivian hospitality.

evening
:

As evening falls, gather around a bonfire at your lodge or campsite for a night of storytelling and traditional music. Enjoy a hearty dinner featuring local cuisine, prepared with fresh ingredients from the surrounding area. Allow the sights and sounds of the wilderness to lull you into a peaceful night’s rest.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$6-8
Cup of coffee$2-3
🧃Bottled water (1.5L)$0.50-1
🚖Taxi 1 km$0.50-1.50
🏨1 night in a mid-range hotel$40-70

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Relaxed pace and friendly locals
  • Rich river landscapes and wildlife viewing
  • Limited nightlife and fewer large-scale tourist amenities
  • Smaller towns may have fewer English-speaking services
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Buenos días" - Good morning
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Ayúdeme" - Help me
  • "Estoy perdido" - I am lost

Places to Visit in Entre Ríos

Visit one of these nice places.

Riverside Sunset Point

Wide river views with golden hour light over the water and silhouettes of palm trees; a classic shot for beginners and enthusiasts.

Mercado Central

Colorful stalls, textiles, and daily life provide vibrant street photography opportunities with subjects ranging from vendors to playful textures.

Rural Hacienda Road

Dusty roads, traditional houses, and cattle with open skies create evocative rural scenes of Bolivian life.

Culinary Guide

Food in Entre Ríos

Entre Ríos’ cuisine emphasizes river fish, yucca, plantains, and fresh produce. Expect hearty, rustic meals that highlight local ingredients and simple seasoning, with fruit-forward beverages and traditional snacks available at markets and small eateries.

Entre Ríos Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pescado de río a la parrilla con yuca

Grilled river fish served with boiled yucca and fried plantains, often accompanied by lime wedges and fresh herbs.

Must-Try!

Majadito de res

A regional rice and beef dish with beans and peppers, reflecting Llanos-inspired flavors in a comforting bowl.

Sopa de maní

Peanut soup common in Bolivian plains cuisine, enriched with vegetables and sometimes small shreds of meat.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Central de Entre Ríos

Vibrant market filled with fresh fruit, vegetables, herbs, and ready-to-eat street snacks; a great place to try local specialties and observe daily life.

Street stalls around the riverfront

Casual stalls offering arepas-like sandwiches, tamales, grilled plantains, and fresh juices made to order.

Climate Guide

Weather

Year-round warm to hot temperatures with a tropical lowland climate. The wet season (roughly November to March) brings heavy afternoon rain and higher humidity, while the dry season (roughly May to October) is drier and sunnier with cooler nights.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Greet others with a friendly 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes'; a handshake or light nod is common in casual settings.

Respect and modesty

Dress modestly in rural areas and when visiting religious or community spaces; show politeness and avoid raising voices in public.

Photography

Ask for permission before photographing people, especially in market or community settings; a friendly smile goes a long way.

Safety Guide

Safety

Take standard travel precautions: guard valuables in crowds, avoid displaying cash, and use reputable guides for river excursions. Be mindful of river currents and weather changes, and stay in well-lit areas after dark in towns.

Tipping in Entre Ríos

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In restaurants, check if a service charge is included; if not, a 5-10% tip is appreciated. Taxis rarely expect tips, but small coins for good service are common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used in smaller towns; many shops in towns accept local currency and some cards in larger establishments. Mobile payments are less common but increasingly available in popular spots.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers. Pack lightweight clothing, rain gear, insect repellent, and sun protection; mosquitoes are common near water.

Dry Season

Warmer days with cooler nights; easier for long outdoor activities and travel. Bring a light jacket for evenings and ensure sunscreen for daytime exploration.

Nightlife Guide

Entre Ríos at Night

The nightlife is modest and community-focused, centered around town squares, riverfront bars, and small music venues. Expect live folk and regional dance evenings in some towns, with casual atmospheres and late dinners.

Hiking in Entre Ríos

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Riverside and forest edge trails

Short, scenic hikes along riverbanks and forest edges with opportunities for birdwatching and photography.

Cerro de Vista

Moderate ridge trail offering panoramic views of fields, waterways, and distant settlements.

Reserva Natural cercana

Protected area with well-marked loops through lowland forest and wetlands, suitable for day trips.

Airports

How to reach Entre Ríos by plane.

Viru Viru International Airport (VVI) – Santa Cruz de la Sierra

Main international gateway to the region; regular domestic connections and access to major Bolivian cities.

El Trompillo Airport (SRZ) – Santa Cruz

Smaller domestic airport serving regional flights; useful for quicker connections within Bolivia.

Getting Around

Walkability

Walkable within town centers and market districts; rural areas require a vehicle or bicycle rental to reach trails or river sites.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Urban residents

Residents of the main towns, often engaged in commerce, services, and agriculture-based livelihoods.

Indigenous and rural communities

Smaller communities with traditional practices and local crafts; hospitality is a hallmark of visits.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Fútbol (soccer)

The most popular sport; expect local leagues and casual games in communities.

Voleibol y béisbol

Common recreational sports in schools and parks; often played in urban and coastal-adjacent towns.

Transportation

Traffic

Roads between towns are generally manageable, but some routes may be unpaved or affected by seasonal rains. Public transport exists in larger towns, with private vans and taxis as primary options for inter-town travel.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Entre Ríos.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

In towns, look for beans, lentils, yucca, plantains, rice, fresh vegetables, and fruit bowls. Ask for dishes like 'arroz con verduras' or 'yuca con ensalada' and request no meat stock in soups.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare facilities are available in larger towns; for serious care, international travelers typically use facilities in Santa Cruz de la Sierra. Carry travel insurance and know where the nearest hospital is located in your base town.

Discover Bolivia

Read more in our Bolivia 2025 Travel Guide.

Bolivia Travel Guide