Bolivia, sometimes called the Tibet of the Americas, is the highest and most isolated country in Latin America. Landlocked between Peru on the west, Chilé to the south, and Brazil on the east, Bolivia has an incredible variety of cultures and ecosystems. Combining incredible landscapes, colonial architecture, vibrant indigenous cultures, and remnants of ancient and mysterious civilizations, the country is one of the most peaceful and inviting in South America. Bolivia is the most Indian country in South America, with more than 50% of the population being of pure Amerindian blood, and many of the people retain their traditional lifestyles, cultural mores, and belief systems.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1 – 2: La Paz/Rurrenabaqué
Arrive in La Paz and either fly directly to Rurrenabaque or overnight first in La Paz, depending on flight schedules. La Paz is the highest capital city in the world, lying cupped in a depression in the Bolivian Andes. It is surrounded on all sides by beautiful mountain views. Rurrenabaqué is a quaint little town on the edge of Madidi National Park. Includes: (B), (L), (D);
Day 3 – 5: Pampas Trip
From Rurrenabaqué, you will first experience the incredible diversity of wildlife in the pampas lands to the east of the town. By 4X4 vehicle and then by boat, you will travel deep into the pampas, lodging in primitive bush camps along the river. You can expect to incredible numbers of birds, capybara, jacaré (alligators), and very possibly the fresh-water pink dolphin and anaconda. Includes: (B), (L), (D);
Day 6: Rurrenabaque
A quiet day in town to rest, explore, and prepare for the next expedition. Includes: (B), (L), (D);
Day 7 – 10: Chalalan Ecolodge - Madidi National Park
Nestled in Madidi National Park, Chalalan Ecolodge lies deep in the Bolivian Amazon on the edge of Chalalan Lake, a six-hour dugout canoe ride up the Beni and Tuichi Rivers. Offering comfortable accommodations in traditional Tacana-style cabins built of local materials, using solar energy, and surrounded by primary rainforest, Chalalan is one of the best places in South America to experience the wonder of true virgin tropical rainforest. Created by a joint project of the local Tacana community of San José de Uchupiamonas and Conservation International, Chalalan is now completely administered by the local community and all of the personnel, from cooks and boatmen to guides and office personell are local community members. The guides are extremely knowledgeable and professional and, most importantly, are proud of their lodge, their rainforest, and themselves. Swimming, fishing, hiking, birdwatching, indigenous knowledge of craft and medecine, plant identification, and night walks are some of the activities you will no doubt want to try. Although it is more difficult to view birds and animals in the forest than in the pampas, you will almost certainly see monkeys, various birds including parrots and macaws, alligators or caiman, frogs, and lots of interesting insects. A magical place - and one of the best examples of true ecotourism we have found anywhere! Includes: (B), (L), (D);
Day 11 – 12: La Paz
Two days in La Paz to adjust to the altitude and explore. Some people experience discomfort for a few hours or a few days due to the altitude and it's impossible to know who might have this difficulty, so we allow a little time here to acclimate. If you're feeling fine, go ahead and visit the many craft and souvenir shops and explore the town. We'll help you get around and choose from among the many activities, including a full day bicycle trip down "the most dangerous road in the world" to Coroico, a beautiful little town deep in the Yungas region of the Bolivian Andes. Includes: (B), (L), (D);
Day 13 – 15: Lake Titicaca
Travel by land to Copacabana, on the shores of famous Lake Titicaca, one of the highest navigable lakes in the world. Incredible Andean mountain scenery en route and in Copacabana. Stay in Copacabana at the wonderful Hotel de Cupula. Next day travel by boat to the north end of the Isla del Sol, passing by ancient Inca walls and agricultural terracing. On the north end of the island, you'll have the option of just a two-hour hike to visit the Inca ruins of the sun temple, where virgins were sacrificed to the Inca sun god and then go back to the boat for a visit to the Isla de la Luna or hike down the length of the island to the little town of Yamani at the southern end. The hike would only be suitable for those in pretty fair physical condition, but is highly recommended for its sense of history and the beauty of it's views of the lake and mountains. Overnight in Yamani or go back to Copacabana for the night, depending on conditions & group preference. Includes: (B), (L);
Day 16: La Paz
Travel to La Paz and departure for home. Includes: (B), (L), (D).
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Price includes all meals, lodging, guide, transportation, entry fees to parks; does not include air travel, soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, or personal purchases. Approximate air travel cost - $700.
Also see tour packages in:
South America
Bolivia
Cultural Journey
Wildlife Viewing
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