Things To Do
in Santa Ana de Yacuma
Santa Ana de Yacuma sits along the Mamoré River in Bolivia's Amazon basin, a small, laid-back town that serves as a gateway to floodplain ecosystems. The town pulsates with river life, colorful markets, and friendly locals who welcome visitors. River trips and community visits reveal abundant wildlife and a glimpse into lowland livelihoods.
The surrounding wetlands make it a rewarding base for birdwatching and nature lovers exploring the Bolivian Amazon.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Santa Ana de Yacuma and settle into your accommodation, embracing the surrounding natural beauty. Take a leisurely stroll around the town to absorb the local culture and charm. Enjoy breakfast at a local café, sampling Bolivian delicacies such as salteñas and api.
Visit the nearby Yacuma River for a refreshing dip and enjoy the vibrant flora and fauna. Consider booking a guided boat tour to see the diverse wildlife, including caimans and pink river dolphins. Stop for a picnic lunch along the riverbanks, surrounded by breathtaking scenery.
As the sun sets, return to town and indulge in a traditional Bolivian dinner at a local restaurant. Engage with locals and other travelers to share stories of your day’s adventures. End the evening stargazing under the clear Bolivian sky.
Begin your day with a visit to the local market, where you can shop for handmade crafts and taste exotic fruits. Participate in a cooking class to learn how to prepare authentic Bolivian dishes. This interactive experience allows you to dive deeper into the local culture.
Spend the afternoon visiting the town’s small but insightful museum, showcasing the history and traditions of the indigenous peoples in the region. Afterward, take a guided tour of the surrounding jungle, where you may spot unique wildlife and plant species. This is a great opportunity for photography enthusiasts to capture the rich biodiversity.
Return to town and enjoy a dinner that features some dishes you learned to prepare earlier. Wander through the streets to listen to traditional folk music performed by local musicians. Cap off the night with a warm cup of mate de coca, a local herb tea.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $1-3 |
| 🚖Short taxi ride | $2-6 |
| 💧Bottle of water (1.5L) | $0.5-1.5 |
| 📱Local SIM card (prepaid) | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich biodiversity and wildlife viewing opportunities
- Friendly locals and affordable travel
- Limited infrastructure in some areas
- Healthcare facilities are basic in town; longer trips needed for major care
- "Hola, ¿cómo estás?" - Hello, how are you?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el mercado?" - Where is the market?
- "¿Puede ayudarme?" - Can you help me?
- "Estoy perdido" - I'm lost
- "Hablo un poco de español" - I speak a little Spanish
Places to Visit in Santa Ana de Yacuma
Visit one of these nice places.
The river’s calm surface and golden light create ideal conditions for wide landscapes and silhouettes of boats.
Colorful stalls, expressive locals, and vibrant everyday scenes offer candids and portraits with authentic context.
A relaxed boardwalk along the Mamoré with reflections, boats, and morning activity for street photography.
Food in Santa Ana de Yacuma
Santa Ana de Yacuma Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled river fish served whole or filleted with yuca or plantains, a staple along the Mamoré riverfront.
Must-Try!
A comforting fish soup featuring fresh river fish, vegetables, and herbs common to the floodplain.
A hearty soup or stew made with tripe and vegetables, reflecting local Bolivian comfort food traditions.
Crispy fried yucca or plantains often served as a side or street snack with spicy sauces.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market where you can taste fresh fruit, regional snacks, and watch vendors prepare meals on site.
Casual riverside stalls offering quick bites like fried yucca, empanadas, and grilled fish skewers.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm greeting and polite tone go a long way; a handshake is common in urban settings, with eye contact and a smile.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in communities or religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Santa Ana de Yacuma
Ensure a smooth experience
Tip around 5-10% at restaurants for good service; small tips for guides and drivers are appreciated but not obligatory.
Cash in Bolivianos is widely used; USD can be accepted at some spots. Card payments are less common in town; carry small bills for tips and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Rainy season brings high humidity and afternoon downpours; mornings are often clearer and ideal for outdoor activities, but water levels on the river rise—plan flexible times for boat trips.
Dry season offers more predictable weather and easier access to wetlands; wildlife concentrates around water sources, making it good for birdwatching and hiking.
Santa Ana de Yacuma at Night
Hiking in Santa Ana de Yacuma
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Seasonal walking routes through wetlands with opportunities for birding, wildlife viewing, and grassland scenery.
Airports
How to reach Santa Ana de Yacuma by plane.
Major gateway for the region with domestic connections; access to larger Bolivian cities.
Smaller regional airport offering access to the southern Beni area; useful for more remote trips.
Gateway to the Amazon Basin; farther away but useful if combining with Madidi or pampas excursions.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A blend of indigenous Mojeño communities in the surrounding areas and people of mixed heritage form the town's social fabric; crafts and cultural practices reflect this mix.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local pickup games and community leagues are common.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santa Ana de Yacuma.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Focus on plantains, yucca, beans, rice, fruits, and vegetables; ask for dishes without fish or meat and confirm no fish stock or broth is used.