Things To Do
in Rurrenabaque
Rurrenabaque is a small town located in the Bolivian Amazon basin, known as a gateway to Madidi National Park, one of the most biodiverse areas in the world. The town is surrounded by lush rainforest, offering opportunities for wildlife spotting, bird watching, and eco-tourism activities. Visitors can explore the nearby pampas, home to a variety of wildlife such as pink river dolphins, caimans, and capybaras.
Rurrenabaque is a popular destination for nature lovers seeking an authentic jungle experience in Bolivia.
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Hasta luego" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a guided tour of the surrounding rainforest. Enjoy the sounds of nature and spot unique wildlife.
Have lunch in town and then embark on a boat trip along the Beni River. Watch for river dolphins and enjoy the scenery.
Relax at your accommodation before heading out for dinner. Try traditional Bolivian cuisine at a local restaurant.
Visit a local market to taste local fruits and pastries. Engage with friendly vendors and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
Take a scenic hike in Madidi National Park. Discover beautiful landscapes and diverse flora and fauna.
Return to Rurrenabaque and enjoy dinner at a riverside café. Listen to live music while you dine.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural landscapes, including the Amazon rainforest and the Andes mountains.
- Rich biodiversity, offering unique wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Access to various ecotourism activities like trekking, river tours, and wildlife spotting.
- A friendly and welcoming local community with a blend of indigenous cultures.
- Relatively low cost of living and affordable accommodations.
- Limited infrastructure and services, which can affect comfort and convenience.
- The rainy season can lead to flooding and disrupt travel plans.
- Health risks such as mosquito-borne diseases, requiring appropriate vaccinations and precautions.
- Language barrier, as English is not widely spoken, making communication challenging.
- Tourist infrastructure may be underdeveloped compared to more popular destinations.
Best Activities in Rurrenabaque
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the dense Amazon rainforest with guided tours that offer opportunities for wildlife spotting, hiking, and learning about the unique ecosystem.
Take a boat ride on the Beni River to experience the breathtaking landscape, engage in fishing, and observe local wildlife such as caimans and pink river dolphins.
Experience the Pampas region with guided tours that include activities like canoeing, fishing, and spotting diverse flora and fauna, including monkeys and various bird species.
Embark on trekking adventures in nearby national parks such as Madidi National Park, where you can hike through stunning scenery and encounter an array of wildlife.
Engage with local indigenous communities to learn about their cultures, traditions, and way of life through workshops and community visits.
Explore the outskirts of Rurrenabaque on horseback, taking in the beautiful landscapes and enjoying the tranquility of the rural environment.
Places to Visit in Rurrenabaque
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of Rurrenabaque and the surrounding landscape. A great spot for photo opportunities, especially during sunset.
Boat trips along the Yacuma River provide opportunities for capturing the diverse wildlife and lush vegetation along the riverbanks.
Vast open plains with opportunities to photograph iconic Bolivian landscapes and wildlife, such as caimans and capybaras.
Food in Rurrenabaque
Rurrenabaque Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty dish featuring rice, plantains, and various meats, often served with a side of llajwa (a spicy sauce). Try it at local eateries like El Hornito or El Encanto.
Must-Try!
These savory pastries are filled with meat, potatoes, and flavorsome broth. Look for them at street stalls around the central plaza for an authentic experience.
This spiced chicken stew, often accompanied by potatoes and rice, is a popular choice at eateries such as El Tambo.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The central market is a vibrant hub of local food stalls, offering everything from fresh fruits to grilled meats and traditional snacks like empanadas and tamales.
This lively street is lined with food vendors selling grilled meats, kebabs, and Bolivian street food classics such as anticuchos (marinated skewered meats).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be aware of and honor the traditions of the various indigenous communities in and around Rurrenabaque. Take time to learn about their customs and beliefs, and always ask for permission before taking photographs or participating in local ceremonies.
While Rurrenabaque has a laid-back atmosphere, it is important to dress modestly, especially in rural areas and when visiting indigenous villages. This shows respect for local customs and helps to avoid drawing unnecessary attention.
Use polite language and greetings when interacting with locals. A simple 'hola' (hello) or 'buenos días' (good morning) can go a long way in establishing a positive rapport. Also, be patient and listen actively, as conversations may flow at a slower pace than you might be accustomed to.
Safety
Tipping in Rurrenabaque
Ensure a smooth experience
In Rurrenabaque, tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory. It is customary to leave a small tip of around 10% in restaurants if service is satisfactory. For tour guides and taxi drivers, rounding up the fare or giving a small additional amount is common practice, especially if the service exceeds expectations.
Most businesses in Rurrenabaque accept cash, with the local currency being the Bolivian Boliviano. Credit cards are accepted at some hotels and larger restaurants, but it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available, but travelers should be cautious about withdrawal fees and limits.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit due to clear skies, lower chance of rain, and ideal wildlife-watching opportunities
Expect heavy rainfall, muddy trails, and lush greenery, with some roads becoming inaccessible
Rurrenabaque at Night
Hiking in Rurrenabaque
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A vast protected area known for its biodiversity, Madidi National Park offers numerous trails for hiking through the Amazon rainforest, with opportunities to see unique wildlife and beautiful landscapes.
Located near Rurrenabaque, the Chalalan Eco-Lodge has a variety of hiking trails that take you through the rainforest and allow for exploration of the area's flora and fauna.
This trail runs alongside the Tuichi River, offering stunning views of the river and surrounding jungle. It's a moderate hike that showcases the rich wildlife of the region.
The Yacuma River trail provides an immersive experience in the Amazonian ecosystem and is ideal for those interested in bird watching and observing aquatic wildlife.
Although a bit further from Rurrenabaque, it features stunning landscapes, snow-capped mountains, and unique wildlife, providing hiking options for various skill levels.
Aiports
How to reach Rurrenabaque by plane.
Located in La Paz, approximately 250 kilometers from Rurrenabaque, this is the primary international airport serving the capital city of Bolivia.
Situated in Santa Cruz, about 600 kilometers from Rurrenabaque, this is the largest airport in Bolivia and serves numerous international flights.
Located in Cochabamba, approximately 400 kilometers from Rurrenabaque, this airport also has a mix of domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Includes various tribes such as the Tacana and the Mosetén, who have their traditional lands in the region and maintain distinct cultural practices.
People of mixed Indigenous and European descent, representing a significant portion of the population in Rurrenabaque.
Individuals with European ancestry, often involved in business and tourism sectors.
Visitors attracted by the natural beauty and biodiversity of the Bolivian Amazon, contributing to the local economy.
Includes smaller populations of people from various backgrounds, including Afro-Bolivians and other international communities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Bolivia, played widely in Rurrenabaque, often in local neighborhoods and schools.
A popular team sport, often played in local courts, especially among younger generations.
Commonly practiced for both recreation and transport, taking advantage of the area's scenic routes.
Frequently played on beaches and in parks, popular among local communities.
Includes various traditional games, reflecting the cultural heritage of indigenous communities in the region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Rurrenabaque.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat-centric dishes are prevalent, many eateries now provide vegetarian and vegan alternatives. Look for options like quinoa salads, vegetable stews, and empanadas filled with cheese and vegetables.
Some restaurants offer gluten-free variations of local dishes, and international cuisine like salads and rice-based meals may also suit those with gluten restrictions. It's advisable to communicate dietary needs clearly when ordering.