Bolivia: Tuichi River and Chalalan Lodge in Madidi National Park – 7 days

Our Upper Amazon tour invites you to explore the unparalleled biodiversity of Madidi National Park, a protected area renowned as the most bio-diverse on Earth. While Madidi encompasses a staggering 13 ecological life zones, ranging from the snow-capped peaks of the Apolobamba Andes to the tropical lowlands of the Amazon basin, our adventure focuses on the lower Amazon basin. Spanning an area larger than the combined states of Vermont and New Hampshire, this park is a true ecological treasure, boasting diverse landscapes, from high-altitude puna grasslands and cloud forests to tropical jungles bordering eastern Peru.

Our journey commences in La Paz, Bolivia, where we embark on a flight from the world’s highest commercial airport, El Alto International Airport, to the heart of the Amazon. Our one-hour flight transports us to Rurrenabaque, a jungle town nestled on the banks of the Beni River in northern Bolivia’s Beni Department. Upon arrival, we head to the river port and board a spacious motorized canoe equipped with a canopy to shield us from the elements. As we venture up the mighty Beni River, we transition onto the Tuichi River, a smaller but more turbulent whitewater river originating within the heart of Madidi National Park. Along the way, we are treated to a rich tapestry of wildlife sightings, including birds, reptiles, monkeys, and aquatic mammals inhabiting the riverbanks. During the 3 ½ hour journey, we enjoy a picnic lunch and keep a vigilant eye out for the elusive jaguar, which occasionally graces the riverbanks with its presence.

Upon reaching the river port of Chalalan Lodge, we embark on a scenic 40-minute walk through the jungle along a well-trodden riverstone trail, while our luggage is carried by porters to the lodge. Upon arrival at Chalalan Lodge, we receive a warm welcome and refreshing beverages. After a brief respite and, perhaps, a cool shower, we have the opportunity to explore the surroundings. We can take a dugout canoe ride to observe wildlife along the lagoon’s edges or venture on a hike through the lush forest, all under the guidance of native bi-lingual guides from the village of San Jose de Uchupiamonas, who are the stewards of Chalalan Lodge.

Our daily routine follows the rhythms of the jungle, starting with early morning serenades by howler monkeys (if they are in the vicinity). This is followed by a hearty breakfast, excursions by canoe or on foot, lunch, leisure time, and the option for afternoon hikes or swims in the lake. Evenings offer the chance for dinner followed by nocturnal jungle hikes, the ideal time to observe active wildlife. Immerse yourself in the jungle’s symphony of sounds, from the calls of birds and monkeys to the rustling of animals foraging for sustenance. By calmly and attentively traversing this natural realm, you’ll have the opportunity to observe and capture in photographs the incredible biodiversity and tranquil moments that define this remarkable rainforest.

Highlights:

Madidi National Park, nestled within the upper Amazon river basin in Bolivia, was established in 1995 and encompasses a vast expanse of 18,958 square kilometers. When combined with neighboring protected regions like Apolobamba (Bolivia), Manuripi-Heath, and Manu Biosphere Reserve (Peru), Madidi forms one of the world’s largest protected areas. This ecological sanctuary is home to an astounding array of flora and fauna, including over 8,000 documented vascular plants, approximately 1,200 bird species, around 1,500 mammal and reptile species, and more than 120,000 insect species. Encompassing a spectrum of landscapes from the Andes Mountains to the rainforests of the Tuichi River, Madidi and its neighboring regions are recognized as one of the planet’s most biologically diverse areas. Madidi specifically safeguards portions of the Bolivian Yungas and dry Bolivian mountain forests eco-regions.

Researched and meticulously designed by renowned landscape photographer and Bolivian author, Sergio Ballivian, this tour offers a captivating exploration of a lush, species-rich wilderness traversed by winding jungle rivers and blanketed by multi-layered forest canopies. Sergio’s expertise has led him to capture the most ethereal lights, from the soft glow of dawn to the sun-drenched riverbanks, in his photography book, “Madidi: An Uncertain Future.” Prior to your journey to Bolivia, our team will provide guidance on clothing and equipment suitable for the jungle environment, as well as recommendations for camera gear that will enable you to document your adventure effectively.