Plants and Habitats in the Elbow of the Andes

Vallegrande , Bolivia

Plants and Habitats in the Elbow of the Andes

Active

11d

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Bolivia's "Elbow of the Andes" is an area of great biological significance, a hotspot with high levels of diversity and endemism. We are the only operator offering comprehensive visits to this remote and unexplored area. Our guides, local naturalists, will help you understand both nature and culture.

We will use paved and unpaved roads through stunning scenery, doing short walks to creeks, ravines, and rock outcrops. We will explore the wet Bolivian-Tucuman forest, Chaco-Serrano dry forests, and the unique inter-Andean valleys, each one drier than the previous one. We will visit the only known wild populations of the endemic palm Parajubaea, the rare Cardenasiodendron endemic tree, and one of the few locations with Puya raimondii, the largest bromeliad on Earth. With luck, we will also spot endemic bird species, like the red-fronter paraba and other fauna.

Dates may require coordination. Suggested: November (cacti floration) and April/May (end of wet season). Duration: 11 days.

Available options

Plants and Habitats in the Elbow of the Andes

Pickup included

What's included

Lunch

Dinner

Breakfast

Lodging is included.

What's not included

Airfares to/from Santa Cruz (Bolivia)

Alcoholic beverages and other personal expenses

Individual travel or health insurance

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

About Vallegrande

Vallegrande is a charming colonial town in Bolivia known for its rich history and beautiful landscapes. It served as a significant hub during the Spanish colonial period and is famous as the final resting place of Che Guevara.

Top Attractions

Casa de Che Guevara

This is the house where Che Guevara's body was displayed after his capture and execution. It's now a museum dedicated to his life and legacy.

Historical 1-2 hours Moderate (entry fee around 30 Bs)

Parque Nacional El Palmar

A beautiful national park featuring diverse flora and fauna, waterfalls, and hiking trails.

Nature Half day to full day Free

Iglesia de San Francisco

A historic church dating back to the colonial period, known for its beautiful architecture and religious significance.

Religious 30 minutes to 1 hour Free (donations appreciated)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Salteñas

A type of Bolivian empanada filled with meat, vegetables, and sometimes fruit, wrapped in a flaky pastry.

Snack Contains meat and sometimes seafood

Silpancho

A traditional Bolivian dish consisting of a breaded and fried beef cutlet, served with rice, boiled potatoes, and a fried egg on top.

Lunch/Dinner Contains beef and eggs

Chuño

A freeze-dried potato that is a staple in Bolivian cuisine, often used in soups and stews.

Side Dish Vegan

Popular Activities

Hiking in Parque Nacional El Palmar Exploring local caves Visiting local cafes Strolling through the town center Visiting historical sites Attending local festivals Exploring the Casa de Che Guevara Experiencing local Chiquitano culture

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the dry season, with sunny days and cool nights. It's ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the town's historical sites.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: Chiquitano
English: Limited

Currency

Bolivian Boliviano (BOB)

Time Zone

GMT-4

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Vallegrande is generally safe for travelers, but common sense precautions should be taken to avoid petty crime.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Be cautious of your surroundings
• Avoid walking alone at night

Getting there

By air

Virgilio Paz Romero Airport • 5 km from city center

By bus

Vallegrande Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the primary mode of public transport. They are affordable but can be crowded.

Taxis

Available • Apps:

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Town Center Barrio San Roque

Day trips

Parque Nacional El Palmar

10 km • Half day to full day

A beautiful national park featuring diverse flora and fauna, waterfalls, and hiking trails.

Comarca de los Indios Chiquitanos

30 km • Full day

A region known for its indigenous Chiquitano culture, featuring traditional villages and crafts.

Festivals

Fiesta de San Roque • August Carnaval de Vallegrande • February or March

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals
Visit the Casa de Che Guevara early in the morning to avoid crowds
Try local dishes like salteñas and silpancho for an authentic culinary experience
Bring a reusable water bottle and refill it with filtered water to reduce plastic waste
Respect local customs and traditions, and always ask before taking photographs of people