Serranía de Chiquitos

The Serranía de Chiquitos is a geologically ancient mountain range in eastern Bolivia, rising in the Santa Cruz Department and notable for its striking table mountains and cliffs. This region is part of the Precambrian shield and hosts the Chiquitano dry forest, one of the best-preserved tropical dry forest ecosystems in the world. The landscape is defined by bizarre rock formations, hidden caves, and crystal-clear streams that form small oases at lower elevations. Historically, the area is closely linked to the Jesuit Missions of the Chiquitos, which are part of the UNESCO World Heritage list and continue to shape the region's cultural identity today. Scientifically, the Serranía is of great interest for researching the geological evolution of South America and the adaptation strategies of flora to seasonal dryness. Ecologically, the area provides habitat for specialized animal species such as the puma, various armadillos, and a multitude of endemic birds. Despite tourism development around towns like Santiago de Chiquitos, the Serranía preserves its wild and untouched character. Preserving this landscape is crucial for protecting biodiversity in the Chaco-Amazon transition zone.

History & landmarks

Misión Jesuítica de Concepción

One of the best-restored Jesuit missions in Bolivia, showcasing the masterful craftsmanship of the native Chiquitano people.

Misión Jesuítica de San Javier

The first of the famous Jesuit missions in the Chiquitania, known for its beautiful wood carving and musical tradition.

Catedral de San Lorenzo

The main church of Santa Cruz de la Sierra impresses with its striking brick facade and wooden interiors.

Plaza 24 de Septiembre

The lively main square of Santa Cruz de la Sierra, a tropical hub full of palm trees, relaxed locals, and historical buildings.

Nature

Salar de Uyuni

Salar de Uyuni is the world's largest salt flat and harbors a large portion of the world's lithium reserves.

Laguna Colorada

Laguna Colorada is a shallow, red salt lake in southwestern Bolivia and a vital habitat for James's flamingos.

Laguna Verde

Laguna Verde is a strikingly turquoise salt lake at the foot of the Licancabur volcano in southwestern Bolivia.

Laguna Blanca

Laguna Blanca is a whitish salt lake separated from the neighboring Laguna Verde by only a narrow corridor.

More places

San Rafael de Velasco Jesuit Mission

This mission stands out for its massive mica window and was the second settlement founded by the Jesuits in the Chiquitania.

Santa Ana de Velasco Jesuit Mission

One of the most charming Jesuit missions in Bolivia, its construction was finished by the indigenous population after the expulsion of th…

San Miguel de Velasco Jesuit Mission

A historic mission with an impressive gilded altar, providing a deep insight into the craftsmanship of the Jesuits and the Chiquitano peo…

Chiquitano Dry Forest

The largest intact block of tropical dry forest in the world, located in eastern Bolivia.

Serranía de Santiago

A distinctive range of hills in the Tucabaca Valley Reserve, famous for its spectacular viewpoints and red rock formations.

Kaa-Iya National Park

The largest national park in Bolivia, protecting a vast area of the Gran Chaco dry forest.

Tucabaca Valley Reserve

Protects one of the best-preserved dry Chiquitano forests in the world, renowned for its endemic wildlife.

San Miguelito Jaguar Ranch

A working cattle ranch pioneering conservation by protecting big cats and offering ecotourism safaris.