When most people think of the Amazon they think of Brazil, but for those who want to get off the well-beaten path, Bolivia’s Amazon Basin is a great option. The jungle is better preserved in Bolivia than in the rest of South America with less deforestation, though this could change in a few years.
Jungle tours leave every day from Rurrenabaque, Bolivia. This is also the city to access pampas tours through. Both tours cater to the budget traveler. It is possible to show up and book a tour to leave the next day. There are several options of tours from one night two days upwards. There is one company that does actual camping in the jungle where clients carry their own supplies.
Cost of a Trip to Bolivia’s Jungle
The standard trip is a three day, two night trip. The prices are set at 200 Bolivianos (about $30 US) per day. There is an entry fee of 125 Bolivianos to get into the national park. The price of the tour includes transportation, guide, food, water and lodging. Most companies accept credit cards to pay for the tour, but they will take a 5% commission, there are no ATMs in Rurrenabaque but cash advances can be obtained from the bank but for a price.
What to Expect on a Jungle Tour
As mentioned before, these tours are catered to the budget traveler. Do not expect any sort of luxury in the camps. The camps are very basic. They do not have electricity. Beds are dorm-style with most companies. Cabins have anywhere from 2-16 beds in them. Beds should come with a sheet and a mosquito blanket. Food is basic. Some companies have cold showers while others only have toilets.
Guides are extremely knowledgeable but keep in mind that most of them will only speak Spanish.
To reach the camps, it is about a 3 hour canoe ride. From the bank of the river, travelers will usually help carry supplies to camp which could be around 15 minutes walk away.
Activities for a Tour to the Jungle
Most of the excursions will be hikes on various trails through the jungle. The guides are very informative and talk about life in the jungle, the types of animals and the medicinal purposes of plants.
Usually after dinner there will be an option to go on a night hike. Bring a flashlight. This is a unique experience to allow the senses to experience the jungle in a different way than in daylight and to listen to all the sounds in the night. There is usually an opportunity to make crafts and jewelry out of supplies from the jungle as well as a chance to taste the fruits of the jungle.
What to Bring on a Tour to the Jungle
- Sleeping bag or sleep sheet
- Long pants
- Long sleeve shirt
- Mosquito repellent
- Flashlight
- Rain gear
- Sturdy walking shoes
The jungle tour in the Bolivian Amazon Basin is a great opportunity for the adventurous traveler that doesn't mind getting dirty. A budget traveler really feels like they are off the tourist track, though they are on a tour, the untamed jungle seems to have that sort of an effect.
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