Things To Do
in Pailón
Pailón is a small town in Bolivia’s Santa Cruz Department, nestled along rivers and restored lowland forests. It serves as a gateway to the dramatic Pailón del Diablo waterfall and the surrounding Chiquitanía landscape. The area blends rural tranquility with the energy of nearby Santa Cruz, making it a popular stop for eco-tourists and hikers.
The town is easily accessible by road from Santa Cruz and offers a base for nature, photography, and Bolivian culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your adventure with a hearty breakfast at a local café, then head to the Pailón del Diablo waterfall. Hike through lush rainforests, where the sound of rushing water guides you to breathtaking views. Capture stunning photographs as you immerse yourself in the vibrant flora and fauna surrounding the waterfall.
Enjoy a picnic lunch by the water, soaking in the beauty of the natural surroundings. After lunch, embark on a guided tour of the nearby trails that lead you deeper into the Bolivian jungle. Witness the diverse wildlife and learn about the ecosystem from your knowledgeable guide.
Return to your accommodation and relax after a day of adventure. Enjoy a Bolivian dinner at a local restaurant, savoring traditional dishes like salteñas and picantería. End your evening by listening to folk music, soaking up the local culture.
Begin your day with breakfast at your lodging before venturing into the nearby town of Cañon del Asu. Stroll through the quaint streets, appreciating the vibrant architecture and warm hospitality of the locals. Visit artisanal shops to pick up unique souvenirs and handcrafted items.
After lunch, participate in a local cooking class where you can learn to prepare authentic Bolivian dishes. This hands-on experience not only fills your stomach but also deepens your understanding of local traditions and culinary techniques. Engage in conversation with local chefs to discover their culinary secrets.
Relax in the town's plaza, enjoying the tranquil atmosphere as the sun sets over the mountains. Join the locals for evening festivities that often include music, dancing, and storytelling. Reflect on the day's experiences while enjoying a traditional drink like api or chicha.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| 🚌One-way local transport | $0.5-2 |
| 🏨Budget hotel (per night) | $15-40 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🥗Three-course meal for two (mid-range) | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to a famous waterfall and accessible nature
- Low-key, authentic Bolivian experience
- Reasonable costs and friendly locals
- Limited nightlife and amenities in Pailón
- Rural roads can be bumpy
- Weather can be unpredictable and trails slippery
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hable más despacio" - Speak more slowly
- "Estoy perdido/a" - I am lost
Places to Visit in Pailón
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic waterfall with a dramatic cascade; best light is early morning or late afternoon from designated viewpoints.
Multiple vantage points offer sweeping panoramas of the lush canyon and forested slopes.
Colorful storefronts and locals going about daily life provide vibrant street photography opportunities.
Reflections on calm mornings and golden hour compositions with boats and local activity.
Food in Pailón
Pailón Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A creamy peanut soup enriched with beef or chicken and vegetables; comfort food widely available in local eateries.
Must-Try!
Thinly pounded beef fried and served over rice, potatoes, and a guest of salad; a Bolivian classic.
A hearty mix of rice, shredded beef, plantain, and eggs; a staple in Santa Cruz region homes and restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant markets where you can sample fresh fruit, aji peppers, empanadas, and local snacks; great for an authentic lunch on the go.
Try anticuchos, empanadas, and fried plantains from local street vendors; ideal for a casual dinner.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Start with a friendly hola or buenos días. A handshake or cheek kiss among friends is common. Use polite language and address elders with respect.
Ask permission before taking photos of people. Dress modestly in rural areas and observe local norms in religious or community spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Pailón
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not mandatory. In restaurants, tip about 5–10% if service is satisfactory and not included. Guides and drivers typically receive small tips based on effort and length of trip.
Cash in Bolivian bolivianos is widely used in markets and small eateries. Cards are increasingly accepted in larger restaurants and hotels; ATMs are more common in Santa Cruz de la Sierra and bigger towns. Carry some cash for rural areas and small vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cooler mornings, clear skies, and great visibility for hiking and photography. Days are comfortable; evenings can be chilly. Ideal for canyon walks and outdoor exploration.
Lush greenery and higher humidity with frequent short rains. Trails can be muddy and slippery; carry a lightweight rain shell and waterproof bags for gear.
Pailón at Night
Hiking in Pailón
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Main hike to the waterfall with multiple viewpoints and stair climbs.
Gentle trails that yield opportunities to spot toucans, macaws, and other forest birds.
Airports
How to reach Pailón by plane.
Santa Cruz’s main international airport; roughly a 40–60 minute drive to Pailón depending on traffic.
Domestic airport in Santa Cruz; serves regional Bolivian flights and provides connections to other towns.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Most residents identify as mestizo or criollo, with a mix of urban and rural livelihoods.
Smaller indigenous groups from surrounding regions contribute to markets and crafts, especially in rural areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The dominant sport across Bolivia; local leagues, informal games in plazas, and enthusiasm during matches.
Widely played in schools and community centers; common in urban areas and occasional tournaments in towns.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pailón.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes are meat-centric; look for vegetable stews, lentil soups, rice and beans, or ask for vegetable-focused options. Request sauces or broths be prepared without meat stock when possible.