Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Getting There & Away
If you wish to travel the mission circuit on public transport, the bus schedules synchronize
better going counterclockwise: that is starting the circuit at San José de Chiquitos. Travel-
ing the opposite way, unsynchronized and irregular bus schedules make for a frustrating
journey. A much less time-consuming way of doing it is by taking a guided tour from
Santa Cruz, which costs around US$450 for a four-day package taking in all the major
towns. Misional Tours is a recommended operator.
SAN JAVIER
3 / POP 11,300
The first (or last, depending on which way you travel) settlement on the circuit, San Javi-
er, founded in 1691, is the oldest mission town in the region. It's also a favorite holiday
destination for wealthy
cruceño
families. Swiss priest Martin Schmidt arrived in 1730 and
founded the region's first music school and a workshop to produce violins, harps and
harpsichords. He also designed the present church, which was constructed between 1749
and 1752. It sits on a lovely forested ridge with a great view over the surrounding low
hills and countryside. Restoration work was completed in 1992 to beautiful effect, and the
newly restored building manages to appear pleasantly old and authentic.
San Javier has some inviting
hot springs
13km northwest of town along a rough road
(B$150 return in a taxi). A further 5km along is a natural pool and waterfall,
Los Tumbos
de Suruquizo
, where you can enjoy a refreshing swim. There is also a small free
Museo
Misional
(
9am-noon & 2-6pm Mon-Fri)
with the emphasis on musical instruments,
and on the northeast corner of the plaza the
Museo Casa Natal German Busch
(
9am-
noon & 2-6pm Mon-Fri)
is in the former home of the ex-Bolivian president and Chaco
War hero who died in mysterious circumstances aged just 35.
Sleeping & Eating
The following are all on the main plaza or, like everything in town, just a stone's throw
away.
Hotel Momoqui $$
(
7603-1326; s/d/tr B$200/400/500;
) The choice of wealthy
cruceños
who enjoy
the private pool and buffet restaurant, all a cut above the other options in town.
HOTEL
Residencial Amé-Tauná $
PENSION
