Rurrenabaque - Discovering Bolivia

Travelling to Rurrenabaque

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Rurrenabaque, a pretty good destination in Bolivia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Rurrenabaque and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Rurrenabaque, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Bolivia, here's everything to know about Rurrenabaque for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Rurrenabaque

Rurrenabaque is a small town located in the north of Bolivia. It is situated in the Amazon Basin, surrounded by dense rainforest and bordered by the Beni River. Rurrenabaque is a popular destination for eco-tourists, offering opportunities to explore the region's diverse flora and fauna through hiking, river tours and wildlife watching. The town is home to a range of amenities, including hotels, restaurants and tourist information centers. To reach Rurrenabaque, travelers can take a short flight from La Paz or a long bus journey from other parts of Bolivia.

What to visit in Rurrenabaque

1. Parque Nacional Madidi - This national park is located in the Amazon Basin and is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, including jaguars, pink river dolphins, and macaws. It offers a range of activities such as hiking, wildlife watching, and river trips.
2. Rio Yacuma - The Rio Yacuma is a beautiful river that runs through the Bolivian Amazon. It is a popular destination for kayaking, fishing, and wildlife viewing, particularly for spotting river otters and capybaras.
3. Pampas del Río Yacuma - The Pampas is a vast savannah that is home to a variety of animals such as caimans, monkeys, and anacondas. Visitors can take a boat tour to explore the area and see these animals up close.
4. Laguna Súarez - Laguna Súarez is a stunning lagoon located near Rurrenabaque. It is surrounded by lush vegetation and is home to a variety of bird species, including herons, egrets, and kingfishers.
5. San Miguelito - San Miguelito is an indigenous community located in the surrounding area of Rurrenabaque. Visitors can learn about the culture and traditions of the Tacana people, who have lived in the area for generations.
6. Chalalan Ecolodge - This eco-lodge is located in the Madidi National Park and offers visitors a chance to experience the Amazon in a sustainable and responsible way. Guests can enjoy activities such as hiking, canoeing, and birdwatching while supporting local conservation efforts.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Bolivia, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Rurrenabaque

The best time to visit Rurrenabaque is from May to September, during the dry season. During this time, the weather is sunny, warm and dry with little to no rainfall. This makes it easier to get around and enjoy outdoor activities like trekking, wildlife spotting, and river cruises. However, it's also peak tourist season, so you may need to book accommodations and tours in advance. From December to January, there may be heavy rainfall, and some areas may become flooded, so it's best to avoid traveling to Rurrenabaque during this time.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Rurrenabaque

There are a few ways to get to Rurrenabaque, Bolivia: 1. By Plane: Rurrenabaque has a small airport with regular flights from La Paz and other major cities in Bolivia. Flights are operated by airlines such as Amaszonas and EcoJet.
2. By Bus: Buses from La Paz to Rurrenabaque take around 18-20 hours and are operated by a number of companies. It's also possible to take a bus from other cities in Bolivia, such as Cochabamba and Santa Cruz.
3. By Boat: It's possible to take a boat from Trinidad, which is located on the banks of the Mamore River, to Rurrenabaque. This journey takes around 10-12 hours and is a popular option for tourists who want to experience the natural beauty of the Amazon Basin.
It's worth noting that the journey to Rurrenabaque can be quite long and there are limited transport options, so travelers should plan accordingly and allow for extra time in case of delays.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Rurrenabaque, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Rurrenabaque

Here are some typical foods of Rurrenabaque, Bolivia with a brief description for each: 1. Pacumanca - a traditional Andean dish where meat (usually pork or lamb) is cooked slowly with hot stones underground in a pit. The meat comes out tender and juicy with a smoky flavor.
2. Sopa de Mani - a peanut soup made with chicken, potatoes, yucca, and corn. It has a thick, creamy texture and is often served with a slice of lime and a spoonful of spicy sauce.
3. Majao - a dish made from cooked plantains mashed with cheese and served with charque (dried meat), fried yucca, and salad. It's a popular breakfast dish.
4. Pescado a la Tarijeña - a dish made with fish (usually paiche or surubi) marinated in lime juice, garlic, and spices, and then fried until crisp. It's served with white rice, salad, and tomato sauce.
5. Chicharrón - fried pork belly or pork rinds served with mote (hominy) and llajwa (a spicy and tangy sauce made with tomatoes, chili peppers, and herbs).
6. Mocochinchi - a refreshing peach-based drink made with cinnamon, clove, and sugar. It's served chilled and sometimes with a shot of rum.
These are only a few of the many delicious dishes you can try in Rurrenabaque!
You can find general info about typical foods in Bolivia here.

Is Rurrenabaque an expensive destination for tourists?

Rurrenabaque can be considered as a mid-range to expensive destination for tourists. While some aspects of travel in Rurrenabaque are affordable, such as food and transportation, other factors such as tours and accommodations can be more expensive. This is because Rurrenabaque is a popular gateway to the Bolivian Amazon, and many visitors come to experience the jungle and wildlife. Therefore, it is important to do your research in advance to ensure that you are getting good value for your money, and to budget accordingly.

Where to find accomodation in Rurrenabaque

In order to visit Rurrenabaque, you have a few options for areas to find accommodation. 1. Rurrenabaque town: This is the most popular area to stay in, as it is located in the heart of the town and is easily accessible to restaurants, shops, and tour operators. 2. Rio Beni: Another option is to stay outside of town, along the Rio Beni. This area is slightly quieter and provides a more peaceful atmosphere. 3. Yucumo: If you are planning to visit the pampas (wetlands) of Rurrenabaque, staying in Yucumo may be a good option as it is located closer to this area. Overall, it is important to note that Rurrenabaque is a small town, so wherever you choose to stay, you will not be too far from the attractions and tour operators.
You can check hotel prices at Rurrenabaque here:
Booking.com

Is Rurrenabaque a safe destination for tourists?

Rurrenabaque is considered a relatively safe place for tourists, but like any other destination, it is important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Be cautious and aware of pickpockets in crowded areas, especially around the bus terminal and local markets. It is also recommended to avoid walking alone at night, stick to well-lit areas, and take registered taxis or transportation arranged by your hotel or tour operator.
In addition, it is important to be aware of the potential risks while engaging in outdoor activities, such as hiking or swimming, and follow the advice of local guides and experts to ensure your safety.
Overall, with reasonable precautions, Rurrenabaque can be a safe and enjoyable destination for travelers.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Bolivia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Rurrenabaque.

What type of travelers will enjoy Rurrenabaque the most?

Rurrenabaque, Bolivia offers something for everyone, making it an ideal destination for all kinds of travelers. However, the types of travelers who will enjoy Rurrenabaque the most are the adventure seekers and nature lovers. Solo travelers, couples and families with older children who are interested in adventurous activities such as jungle treks, wildlife watching, and river rafting in the heart of the Amazon rainforest will find Rurrenabaque an ideal destination. Young people looking for a fun and exciting experience will also find plenty of options, such as exploring the local nightlife scene, or embarking on a multi-day jungle adventure.
Families with younger children may find Rurrenabaque less suitable due to the challenging terrain, limited infrastructure, and the need for vaccinations and precautions against insect bites, especially during certain times of the year. Overall, Rurrenabaque, Bolivia is a unique and exciting destination that should not be missed by anyone looking for an adventure in the heart of the Amazonian wilderness.

How to get around Rurrenabaque

The most common way to move around Rurrenabaque is by walking within the town as it is a small town. If you need to go to the outskirts or more remote places, you can hire a motorcycle or a car. Taxis and buses are also available, but they are not very reliable. Additionally, it is common to take a boat ride to the nearby pampas and jungle areas.

What to see around Rurrenabaque

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Rurrenabaque in Bolivia: 1. Madidi National Park - A vast wilderness area with diverse flora and fauna, natural beauty, and incredible biodiversity.
2. San Miguel del Bala - An indigenous community with traditional huts, guided nature walks, and river tours showcasing the culture and natural beauty of the region.
3. Chuchini - A village famous for its pottery, offering opportunities to learn about the pre-Columbian cultures and their arts.
4. Beni River - A scenic river with clear water and white sand beaches, perfect for a day of swimming or sunbathing.
5. Caiman Reserve - A natural reserve with a high population of black caimans, freshwater dolphins and monkeys, ideal for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers.
6. Santa Rosa del Yacuma - A charming town with a beautiful church, lively local markets, and centers that offer experiences of the Amazonian culture.
Remember that while many of these sites can be visited in a day trip, some may require extended stays to fully appreciate their beauty and local culture.
For every travel information about Bolivia you can click here.

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