Ecotourism in the north of the country

Santa Cruz. We advise you to arrive in Santa Cruz which is located at an altitude of less than 500 meters to avoid altitude sickness. You will take the time to acclimatize to the altitude a little later before heading towards La Paz.To the northeast of Santa Cruz is Noel Kempff Mercado National Park, and to the east is Kaa-Iya del Gran Chaco National Park. The most passionate observers of wild fauna and flora will be able to go there, these two parks are famous for being very spectacular (possible observation of the jaguar in Kaa-Iya!). However, they are also quite difficult to access: a small plane is required to reach Noel Kempff Mercado and it will be necessary to use the services of an agency to organize the stay in Kaa-Iya del Gran Chaco (rather for groups). In this idea of itinerary we propose a more accessible option: the Amboró National Park.

On the road to Amboró National Park, head first to Samaipata, 120 km from Santa Cruz. It is a buffer region between the Amazon and the Andes. In this peaceful village, located at an altitude of 1,650 metres, visit the pre-Columbian site of El Fuerte (a fortress of unknown origin). Spend the night there.

In the early morning, go for a hike in Amboró Park. You will discover some of the world's unique giant tree species and several varieties of wild orchids. Some giant ferns can reach heights of up to 13 metres. Return to Samaipata for the night.

Direction the city of Cochabamba where you pass through to take a mini-bus to Torotoro National Park (allow 3 hours of travel on a nearly unpaved road). It seems that many dinosaurs have one day transited through the region. In Tororo Park you can see many fossilized footprints of their footsteps. You continue to climb gently upwards, Torotoro is located at 2,676 metres. Stroll through the alleys of this village where time seems to have stopped

In the morning, opt for a nice hike in the canyon, accompanied by a local guide: you will have a good chance of seeing condors. On the way you will also see many fossilized dinosaur footprints. Arrival at the bottom of the canyon, by the river, a real tropical oasis with the magnificent Vergel waterfall: the place is ideal for a refreshing picnic break. Back in the village, visit the Pachamama Wasi Museum, the collection of rocks and fossils of an old man from the village.

Ciudad de ItasCueva Humajalanta, several caves can be explored in the surroundings. They are to be combined with beautiful hikes and are accessible even for the most amateur caving enthusiasts. The most adventurous will love it! Spend one last evening in the village of Torotoro.

Return to Cochabamba. The most adventurous can go on expedition in the national park and territory of Isiboro-Safe in the north of the city. But here again, access is not obvious: Several rivers are needed to join the protected area, or rent a small private plane. You will need an agency to help you organize the trip. Here we propose you to lead you for La Paz.

Several eco-tourism excursions are possible around La Paz. It all depends on your interest and the time you have available. For example, you can spend an adrenaline rush day on your bike on the Ruta de la Muerte (Death Road), take in the moonlit scenery of the Valle de la luna, go for walks or volunteer work in an animal shelter in the tropical forests around Coroico...

Opt for a second day trip from La Paz. Or maybe you will have chosen to sleep near Coroico from where you can just as easily organize many activities?If you have time, explore the Amazon by joining Madidi National Park. Access is from the village of Rurrenabaque. To get there from La Paz: take a small plane, or drive between 10am and 24am by land (depending on whether you rent a particular 4x4 or go by bus). But the trip is really worth it: the Amazon and all its rich biodiversity will be waiting for you! In Madidi National Park, you can stay with the indigenous community of San Jose de Uchupiamonas, a unique human experience.

If you have time, from La Paz you can go for a few days on Lake Titicaca. Take a bus to Copacabana, then a boat to the big island of the sun (Isla del Sol) or the small island of the moon (Isla de la Luna). Book at least 3 days for this last part of the stay.

Leave from La Paz, or take an indoor flight for Santa Cruz to leave. For small budget, it is also possible to take a night bus for Santa Cruz. For large travellers, perhaps you decide to continue the trip to Peru?