Mission architecture, restored murals and nearby natural attractions give San José De Chiquitos several distinct travel themes. In town, architectural history and culture take center stage; the surrounding area is home to archaeological remains, a hill and a valley with striking rock formations. Culinary experiences and handicrafts round out these themes.

Mission Architecture and Culture in Town

The Conjunto Misional in San José De Chiquitos is considered the only stone mission church in the Chiquitos region. Its facade brings together the Capilla Mortuoria, the church, the Campanario and the Bóveda. The structures were built in three stages, with the participation of approximately 5,000 Indigenous people. This architectural history can therefore be explored through several specifically named parts of the complex.

The Espacio Cultural Chiquitos, also known as El Museo, is located in the Conjunto Misional. It occupies the former Casa de los Misioneros, or Colegio. The walls of the Espacio Cultural Chiquitos feature more than 2,500 m² of recovered and restored murals. A paid guided visit is available as part of Ruta SaboreArte Chiquitos tours. Confirm current arrangements and costs with the provider.

Casa del Bastón is also part of cultural life on special days: it then serves as a place for gathering, exchanging ideas and celebrating. These occasions include Día de la Virgen de la Candelaria, Semana Santa and Día de la Tradición Josesana.

Archaeology and Landscapes in the Surrounding Area

The nearby Parque Nacional Histórico y Arqueológico Santa Cruz la Vieja preserves archaeological remains of the first settlement of Santa Cruz de la Sierra. Captain Ñuflo de Cháves founded it on February 26, 1561. The site combines a visit to archaeological heritage with a specific episode in regional history.

Nearby Cerro Turubó is 2 km east of the main square. Conditions there are considered suitable for hiking, low-difficulty climbing and observing native birds. Since conditions can change, check them before setting out.

Valle de la Luna lies 10 km from town and is an area of the Serranía featuring striking Precambrian rock formations, rolling terrain and native vegetation. The valley also has hiking trails and a small sanctuary associated with the pilgrimage of Virgen del Carmen and Divino Niño.

Sendero La Montañeta is a short, easy trail through dry Chiquitano forest. Along the way, visitors can see native flora and fauna as well as unusually shaped rock formations. Trail conditions can change, so it is a good idea to check them before setting out. From its platform, Mirador La Montañeta offers views of the Chiquitano forest, the town of San José and Cerro Turubó. The walk along Sendero Montañeta to the viewpoint is stated to take ten minutes; walking time may vary depending on the person and conditions.

Parque Ecológico La Pauroca is a natural wetland and a 500 m² green space designed as a recreational park for residents and visitors. In San José De Chiquitos, there is a group of women artisans called La Pauroca, which offers clothing with baroque details. Products may change.

Guided Experiences, Handicrafts and Cuisine

A guided tour with a tourist guide is available for the nearby Parque Nacional Histórico y Arqueológico Santa Cruz la Vieja as part of Ruta SaboreArte Chiquitos tours. Check current availability with the provider. Visits to the cultural Pascanas of Ruta SaboreArte Chiquitos are also subject to availability; confirm this with the operator before planning.

At the Pascana La Tranquera workshop, visitors can learn about the making of the “Máscara del Abuelo” and find out more about the mask’s significance and the craft of mask carving. The described offering also includes painting a mask with colors that represent part of Chiquitania’s history. Confirm current availability with the operator.

Ruta SaboreArte offers a gourmet menu of Chiquitano cuisine, including an appetizer, soup, main course, dessert and drink; the selected dishes are served in gourmet style. Menus and food availability vary. Ruta SaboreArte’s cooks also invite visitors to try traditional dishes they learned from their grandparents. This makes cuisine a distinct focus to plan alongside architecture, landscapes and handicrafts.

Those who would also like to explore cuisine or handicrafts can coordinate the guided offerings and their respective availability directly with the provider.

Discover more destinations: Chochis.

For the broader travel overview: Chiquitos Province.