Friday, May 18th, 2012   Fieldnotes Blog feed

Chalalan Ecolodge


Website: www.chalalan.com
E-mail: info@chalalan.com or marketing@chalalan.com (La Paz)
chalalan_eco@yahoo.com (Rurrenabaque)
Phone: +591 2 231 1451 (La Paz)
+591 3 892 2419 (Rurrenabaque)
Mobile: +591 767 54 300



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Who they are

Chalalan is the story of a dream come true; a dream that was born in the Bolivian Amazon, in the community of San José de Uchupiamonas.
The villagers have lived surrounded by magic and beauty in the Madidi National Park jungle for over 300 years. And now the community invites you to share their heritage here at this Ecolodge built on the shores of the magnificent Chalalán Lagoon.

They have designed the Ecolodge to blend in with its environment using old building techniques and environmentally-friendly local materials. They have paid attention to every little detail so that your adventure with them is as comfortable as possible, making it a place for you to relax and enjoy the warm breeze, the sounds of nature and their delicious home cooking.

What they offer

Tapacare Programme: 4 days / 3 nights

Day 1: La Paz – Rurrenabaque
Flight to La Paz (El Alto International Airport) – Rurrenabaque (50 mins). The flight is a fabulous opportunity to see the Andes Mountain Range and have a panoramic view of the Amazon rivers and forests. Our staff will be waiting to transfer you from Rurrenabaque airport to the Chalalán office by bus where you will fill in the forms to enter Madidi National Park and receive information about your trip to the Ecolodge. Accommodation in a tourist class hotel (e.g. Hotel Oriental). Afternoon free in Rurrenabaque.

Day 2: Rurrenabaque – Chalalán Ecolodge
06:45:Continental breakfast at hotel

07:15: A guide will pick you up at the hotel to take you to the River Beni where you will get on the boat to Chalalán. Our boats are equipped with: roof, comfy seats, life jackets, raincoats and a first-aid kit. Maximum seating room on the boat is for 10 people.

07:30: Travel by motor boat to the Chalalán Ecolodge. The trip is a great way of seeing the Bala Canyon on the River Beni and getting to the Madidi by going up the River Tuichi. On your way you’ll see different animals and get a feel for the spectacular landscape of the Bolivian Amazon. We recommend you take binoculars. The trip takes around 5½ hours during the rainy season and 6 hours in the dry season, mainly in July, August and September.

10:30: Packed lunch mid-way.

13:00: Arrival at the port of Chalalán. 25 minute walk to the Ecolodge along a wide, easy jaguar path. Welcome snack on the shores of Lake Chalalán. Our logistics staff will help you with your luggage. Settle in at your cabin or room.

14:00: Welcome lunch in Ecolodge. After lunch relax in a hammock or swim in Lake Chalalán.

15:45: Short walk along the Paraba path to the viewing point where you can see the beautiful landscape across Lake Chalalán, mountains and Madidi rainforest. Your guide will explain about plants used for building, hardwoods, palms and the traditional and sustainable use of natural resources. Here your guide will talk about the park, our Ecolodge and community. Return to the lake to go on a canoe ride along the shores of Lake Chalalán where you will be able to enjoy the sunset and see monkeys, birds, insects, bats, etc. Return to the Ecolodge for a snack.

19:30: Dinner in the Ecolodge dining room.

20:30:Short night-time activity (1 to 2 hours). Night trip by canoe to see amphibians, nocturnal birds, fish-eating bats and caimans easily spotted because of their glowing eyes.

Day 3: Chalalán Ecolodge – Madidi National Park
7:00: Buffet breakfast in Ecolodge dining room. You may talk to your guide about changing the time depending on your interests. (e.g. Breakfast at 5:30 am for birdwatchers.)

7:30: Morning walk along the Tapacare path or another of similar length where you can see and learn about the forest and the wildlife surrounding you. Optional themes: natural interpretation of the forest, natural history, ecological processes, medicinal plants and hardwood trees, animal behavior and bird and mammal watching. Return to the lodge, have a snack.

12:30: Lunch in the Ecolodge dining room. After lunch relax in a hammock or swim in Lake Chalalán.

15:30: Short walk along one of the theme paths to learn about medicinal plants and more about personal interests. Return to the Ecolodge and choose from the following optional activities: Handicrafts, canoe trip, videos about the community and the Madidi National Park.

19:30: Traditional “dunucuabi” dinner of catfish wrapped in leaves or fish á la “tacuara” inside bamboo from the Bolivian Amazon. *This traditional dinner depends on the availability of the fish and may be offered any night during your stay.

20:30: Short night walk along the Paraba or Silbador path to see amphibians, reptiles, insects, tarantulas, rodents, birds and nocturnal monkeys. This is a great chance to hear the sounds of the jungle. Upon your return to the Ecolodge you can take part in a traditional Quechua – Tacana night with music and dances from the San José de Uchupiamonas community. Your guide will explain the traditions of the Uchupiamonas people. *This activity will depend on the number of guests staying at the Ecolodge and may be offered any night during your stay.

Day 4: Chalalán Ecolodge – Rurrenabaque – La Paz
7:00: Buffet breakfast in Ecolodge dining room and then a short walk to the river Tuíchi to take the boat back to Rurrenabaque. The return walk along the Jaguar or Wichi path can be adjusted to take into account your interests. Please coordinate with your guide.

8:00: Return by boat to Rurrenabaque (only 3 hours). The time is subject to the availability of the boats and flight times. We recommend you stay alert during the boat trip so that you can see the animals along the way.

11:30: Arrive at Rurrenabaque. Transfer to airport and return to the city of La Paz.

Check out these itineraries

Day 1: La Paz – Rurrenabaque
Day 2: Rurrenabaque – Chalalán Ecolodge
Day 3: Chalalán Ecolodge – Madidi National Park
Day 4: Chalalán Ecolodge – Madidi National Park
Day 5: Chalalán Ecolodge – Rurrenabaque – La Paz

Day 1: La Paz – Rurrenabaque
Flight from La Paz (El Alto International Airport) to Rurrenabaque (50 minutes). The flight is a fabulous opportunity to see the Andes Mountain Range and a panoramic view of the Amazon rivers and forests. Our staff will be waiting at Rurrenabaque airport to transfer you, by bus, to the Chalalán office, where you will fill in the forms to enter Madidi National Park and receive information about your trip to the Ecolodge. Accommodation in a tourist class hotel (e.g. Hotel Oriental). Afternoon free in Rurrenabaque.

Day 2: Rurrenabaque – Chalalán Ecolodge

07:00
Continental breakfast at the hotel. Please coordinate with your guide.

07:30
A guide will pick you up at the hotel to take you to the River Beni where you will get on the boat for Chalalán. Our boats are equipped with: a roof, comfy seats, life jackets, raincoats and a first-aid kit. The maximum seated capacity on the boats is 10 people.

07:45
Travel by motor boat to the Chalalán Ecolodge. The trip is a great way of seeing the Bala Canyon around the River Beni. The Madidi NP is accessed by going up the River Tuichi. On your way you’ll see different animals and get a feel for the spectacular landscape of the Bolivian Amazon. We recommend you take binoculars. The trip takes around 5½ hours during the rainy season and 6 hours in the dry season, mainly in July, August and September.

11:30
Packed lunch midway.

14:00
Arrival at the port of Chalalán. 25 minute walk to the Ecolodge along a wide, easy jaguar path. Welcome snack on the shores of Lake Chalalán. Our logistics staff will help you with your luggage. Time to settle in at your cabin or room.

14:30
Welcome lunch in the Ecolodge dining room. After lunch relax in a hammock or swim in Lake Chalalán.

16:00
Short walk along the Paraba path to the viewing point where you can see the beautiful landscape across Lake Chalalán, the mountains and the Madidi rainforest. Your guide will explain about the plants used for building – both hardwoods and palms – and the traditional and sustainable use of natural resources. Here your guide will talk about the park, our Ecolodge and the community. You return to the lake to go on a canoe trip along the shores of Lake Chalalán where you will be able to enjoy the sunset and see monkeys, birds, insects, bats, etc. Return to the Ecolodge for a snack.

19:30
Dinner in the Ecolodge dining room.

20:30
Short night walk along the Paraba or Silbador path to see amphibians, reptiles, insects, tarantulas, rodents, birds and nocturnal monkeys. This is a great chance to hear the sounds of the jungle.

Day 3: Chalalán Ecolodge – Madidi National Park

07:00
Buffet breakfast in Ecolodge dining room. You can talk to your guide about changing the time depending on your interests. (e.g. breakfast at 5:30 am for birdwatchers.)

07:30
Morning walk along the Tapacare path where you can see and learn about the forest and wildlife. Optional topics: natural forest interpretation, wildlife behavior and bird and mammal watching. Cultural and historical themes. Return to the Ecolodge and snack.

13:00
Lunch in the Ecolodge dining room. After lunch relax in a hammock or swim in Lake Chalalán. Please cordinate with your guide.

15:30
Short walk along one of the theme paths to learn about medicinal plants and learn more about personal interests. Return to the Ecolodge and choose from the following optional activities: handicrafts, canoe trip, swimming in the Lake, videos about the community and the Madidi National Park.

19:30
Traditional “dunucuabi” dinner of catfish wrapped in leaves or fish á la “tacuara” inside bamboo from the Bolivian Amazon. *This traditional dinner depends on the availability of the fish.

20:30
Short night walk along the Paraba or Silbador path. Upon your return to the Ecolodge you can take part in a traditional Quechua – Tacana night with music and dances from the San José de Uchupiamonas community. Your guide will explain the traditions of the Uchupiamonas people. *This activity will depend on the number of guests staying at the Ecolodge and may be offered any night during your stay.

Day 4: Chalalán Ecolodge – Madidi National Park

06:30
Buffet breakfast in Ecolodge dining room. You may talk to your guide about changing the time depending on your interests. (e.g. Breakfast at 5:30 am for birdwatchers, long walks, etc.)

07:00
Full-day walk (6 hours) along the Anta, Wabucuro and Marimono paths to the River Eslabón. This walk includes something for everyone: animal watching, ecological processes, different habitats in primary forest and finally the chance to fish and swim in the natural river pools, mainly in the dry season. The Eslabón region is an ideal place to learn about the history of the area. Pack lunch and snack at the Eslabón Camp. The walk is easy and is within the capability of all visitors. There is ample opportunity to see wildlife – spider monkeys, tapirs, deer, and wild boar and maybe catch a glimpse of a jaguar.

17:30
Snack in the Ecolodge dining room. Later relax or swim in Lake Chalalán.

19:30
Dinner in the Ecolodge dining room.

20:30
After dinner there is an optional canoe trip on the Chalalán Lagoon to see amphibians, nocturnal birds and alligators, which can be easily seen because of their glowing eyes. On a clear night this is ideal opportunity for stargazing.

Day 5: Chalalán Ecolodge – Rurrenabaque – La Paz

07:00
Buffet breakfast in Ecolodge dining room and then a short walk to the river Tuíchi to take the boat back to Rurrenabaque. The return walk along the Jaguar or Wichi path can be adjusted to take into account your interests. Please coordinate with your guide.

08:30
Return by boat to Rurrenabaque (only 3 hours). The time is subject to the availability of the boats and flight times. We recommend you are alert during the boat trip to make the most of your last chance to see the animals.

12:00
Arrive at Rurrenabaque. Transfer to airport and return to the city of La Paz. Please coordinate with your guide.

Note: All of the walks described above are rated as easy. The activities and times may change depending on the weather, the interests of our guests or other factors.

The package includes:
- Reception and transfer from/to airport in Rurrenabaque
- Air ticket reservation service
- One night accommodation in tourist class hotel in Rurrenabaque.
- Comfortable motor boats from Rurrenabaque to the Chalalán Ecolodge and back
- Accommodation in traditional cabins at the Ecolodge.
- Bottled mineral water during your stay at the lodge accord to the program
- All meals at Chalalán
- Bilingual local guide service (Spanish – English)
- Different guided activities in Chalalán area
- Local and national taxes

The package does not include:
- Airfare La Paz – Rurrenabaque – La Paz.
- Airport taxes
- Entrance fee to Madidi National Park.
- Meals at Rurrenabaque
- Bottled drinks and alcoholic drinks

Day 1: La Paz – Rurrenabaque
Day 2: Rurrenabaque – Chalalán Ecolodge
Day 3: Chalalán Ecolodge – Madidi National Park
Day 4: Chalalán Ecolodge – Madidi National Park
Day 5: Chalalán Ecolodge – Madidi National Park
Day 6: Chalalán – Rurrenabaque

Day 1: La Paz – Rurrenabaque
Flight from La Paz (El Alto International Airport) to Rurrenabaque (50 minutes). The flight is a fabulous opportunity to see the Andes Mountain Range and a panoramic view of the Amazon rivers and forests. Our staff will be waiting at Rurrenabaque airport to transfer you, by bus, to the Chalalán office, where you will fill in the forms to enter Madidi National Park and receive information about your trip to the Ecolodge. Accommodation in a tourist class hotel (e.g. Hotel Oriental). Afternoon free in Rurrenabaque.

Day 2: Rurrenabaque – Chalalán Ecolodge

07:00
Continental breakfast at the hotel

07:30
A guide will pick you up at the hotel to take you to the River Beni where you will get on the boat to Chalalán. Our boats are equipped with: a roof, comfy seats, life jackets, raincoats and a first-aid kit. The maximum seated capacity on the boats is 10 people.

07:45
Travel by motor boat to the Chalalán Ecolodge. The trip is a great way of seeing the Bala Canyon around the River Beni. The Madidi NP is accessed by going up the River Tuichi. On your way you’ll see different animals and get a feel for the spectacular landscape of the Bolivian Amazon. We recommend you take binoculars. The trip takes around 5½ hours during the rainy season and 6 hours in the dry season, mainly in July, August and September.

11:30
Packed lunch midway.

14:00
Arrival at the port of Chalalán. 25 minute walk to the Ecolodge along a wide, easy jaguar path. Welcome snack on the shores of Lake Chalalán. Our logistics staff will help you with your luggage. Time to settle in at your cabin or room.

14:30
Welcome lunch in the Ecolodge dining room. After lunch relax in a hammock or swim in Lake Chalalán.

16:00
Short walk along the Paraba path to the viewing point where you can see the beautiful landscape across Lake Chalalán, the mountains and the Madidi rainforest. Your guide will explain about the plants used for building – both hardwoods and palms – and the traditional and sustainable use of natural resources. Here your guide will talk about the park, our Ecolodge and the community. You return to the lake to go on a canoe trip along the shores of Lake Chalalán where you will be able to enjoy the sunset and see monkeys, birds, insects, bats, etc. Return to the Ecolodge for a snack.

19:30
Dinner in the Ecolodge dining room.

20:30
Short night walk along the Paraba or Silbador path to see amphibians, reptiles, insects, tarantulas, rodents, birds and nocturnal monkeys. This is a great chance to hear the sounds of the jungle at night.

Day 3: Chalalán Ecolodge – Madidi National Park

07:00
Buffet breakfast in Ecolodge dining room. You can talk to your guide about changing the time depending on your interests. (e.g. breakfast at 5:30 am for birdwatchers.)

07:30
Morning walk along the Tapacare path where you can see and learn about the forest and wildlife. Optional topics: natural forest interpretation, wildlife behavior and bird and mammal watching. Cultural and historical themes. Return to the Ecolodge and snack.

13:00
Lunch in the Ecolodge dining room. After lunch relax in a hammock or swim in Lake Chalalán. Optional activities please coordinate with your guide.

16:30
Short walk along one of the theme paths to learn about medicinal plants and learn more about personal interests. Return to the Ecolodge and choose from the following optional activities: handicrafts, canoe trip, swimming in the Lake, videos about the community and the Madidi National Park.

19:30
Traditional “dunucuabi” dinner of catfish wrapped in leaves or fish á la “tacuara” inside bamboo from the Bolivian Amazon. *This traditional dinner depends on the availability of the fish.

20:30
Short night walk along the Paraba or Silbador path or canoe trip. Upon your return to the Ecolodge you can take part in a traditional Quechua – Tacana night with music and dances from the San José de Uchupiamonas community. Your guide will explain the traditions of the Uchupiamonas people. *This activity will depend on the number of guests staying at the Ecolodge and may be offered any night during your stay.

Day 4: Chalalán Ecolodge – Madidi National Park

06:30
Buffet breakfast in Ecolodge dining room. You can talk to your guide about changing the time depending on your interests. (e.g. breakfast at 5:30 am for birdwatchers, long walks, etc.)

07:00
Short or long walk (at your decision) towards the river Raya Mayu or the river Eslabón. This can be changed depending on the interests of our guests towards our themed paths. This walk includes something for everyone: animal watching, ecological processes, different habitats in primary forest and finally the chance to fish for piranhas in the River Mayu. Box lunch along the way or lunch at the Ecolodge. The paths around Chalalán are easy and can be done by all visitors. There is ample opportunity to see wildlife – spider monkeys, tapirs, deer, and wild boar and maybe catch a glimpse of a jaguar.

17:30
Snack in the Ecolodge dining room. Relax or swim in Lake Chalalán.

19:30
Dinner in the Ecolodge dining room.

20:30
After dinner you can go on an optional canoe trip on the Chalalán Lagoon to see amphibians, nocturnal birds and alligators, which are easily seen because of their glowing eyes. On a clear night this is an ideal opportunity for stargazing.

Day 5: Chalalán Ecolodge – Madidi National Park

06:30
Buffet breakfast in Ecolodge dining room. You can talk to your guide about changing the time depending on your interests. (e.g. breakfast at 5:30 am for birdwatchers, long walks, etc.)

07:00
A 5 hour walk along the Silbador, Huaso and Penena path to the Penena Saltlick. This is a special area of the tropical forest where the animals come to feed on the mineral-rich mud. Penena is a fantastic place to see wildlife and talk about animal behavior and about the ecological processes in the different habitats of primary forest. Packed lunch and snack included. Return by boat along the River Tuichi and short walk to the Ecolodge along the Jaguar path. NB: You can also do the trip to the Saltlick by boat and return on foot.

17:30
Snack in the Ecolodge dining room. Relax or swim in Lake Chalalán.

19:30
Dinner in the Ecolodge dining room.

20:30
After dinner you can go on an optional canoe trip on the Chalalán Lagoon to see amphibians, nocturnal birds and alligators, which are easily seen because of their glowing eyes.

Day 6: Chalalán – Rurrenabaque

07:30
Buffet breakfast in the Ecolodge dining room and then a short walk to the river Tuíchi to take the boat back to Rurrenabaque. The return walk along the Jaguar or Wichi path can be adjusted to take into account your interests. Please coordinate this with your guide.

08:30
Return by boat to Rurrenabaque (only 3 hours). The time is subject to the availability of the boats and flight times. We recommend you are alert during the boat trip so that you can see the animals along the way.

12:30
Arrive at Rurrenabaque. Transfer to airport and return to the city of La Paz.

Note: All of the walks described above are rated as easy. The activities and times may change depending on the weather, the interests of our guests or other factors.

The package includes:
- Reception and transfer from/to airport in Rurrenabaque
- Air ticket reservation service
- One night accommodation in tourist class hotel in Rurrenabaque.
- Comfortable motor boats from Rurrenabaque to the Chalalán Ecolodge and back
- Accommodation in traditional cabins at the Ecolodge.
- Bottled mineral water during your stay at the lodge accord to the program
- All meals at Chalalán
- Bilingual local guide service (Spanish – English)
- Different guided activities in Chalalán area
- Local and national taxes

The package does not include:
- Airfare La Paz – Rurrenabaque – La Paz.
- Airport taxes
- Entrance fee to Madidi National Park.
- Meals at Rurrenabaque
- Bottled drinks and alcoholic drinks.

Day 1: La Paz – Rurrenabaque – Pampas
Day 2: Pampas
Day 3: Pampas – Rurrenabaque

Day 1: La Paz – Rurrenabaque – Pampas
Departure at 9 am. A three hour 4×4 drive along an unpaved road to the Pampas, passing Santa Rosa del Yacuma. Then a short boat ride through the Yacuma River Municipal Reserve to Caracoles Lodge. Lunch and then a short siesta. Mid-afternoon boat ride to see the Pampas wildlife which is easily seen and photographed. The best time for this trip is the dry season because at this time capybaras, turtles, and sometimes even anacondas can be seen on the banks, warming their bodies or hunting. You are guaranteed to see the pink dolphin, black caiman, monkeys and numerous birds. Return to the lodge.

Day 2: Pampas
Straight after breakfast, we will go on a 3 or 4 hour walk through the Pampas in search of the mighty anaconda. Guides may also be able to show you black and white caimans.
Back to the lodge for lunch. After a rest, the tour continues with a boat ride in the Yacuma River to see piranhas or swim with the playful pink dolphins. Back to the lodge. Night boat ride in search of alligators, caimans and other nocturnal fauna.

Day 3: Pampas – Rurrenabaque
Another morning boat ride this time to find groups of squirrel monkeys that travel over the vegetation and tree canopies in large numbers. The Pampas is also home of two other primates, the black and the red howler monkey. Back to the lodge for lunch before the transfer by boat back to the 4×4 which will take you on to Rurrenabaque. Arrival time around 5 pm.

Optional: This could be expanded or combined with other rainforest tours with the Chalalán Ecolodge, San Miguel del Bala Ecolodge, Madidi Jungle Lodge or Mapajo Ecolodge.

Note: Minimum two people. Single traveler must be joining to another group. Child discount 50% (12 years old)

The package includes:
- Transport by four wheel drive vehicle Rurrenabaque – Pampas and back.
- Accommodations in traditional cabins with shared bathrooms
- Three meals per day, national and international food
- Canoe ride during stay at the lodge
- Guided walks and outings
- Bilingual Guide (Englis/Spanish)
- Bottled water and natural juices

The package does not include:
- Airfare tickets La Paz – Rurrenabaque – La Paz
- Airport and municipal taxes
- Hotel and meal in Rurrenabaque
- Entrance fee to Pampas Reserve

Day 1: La Paz – Rurrenabaque – Pampas
Day 2: Pampas
Day 3: Pampas – Rurrenabaque.
Day 4: Rurrenabaque – Chalalán Ecolodge
Day 5: Chalalán Ecolodge (Madidi NP).
Day 6: Chalalán Ecolodge – Rurrenabaque – La Paz

Day 1: La Paz – Rurrenabaque – Pampas
Early flight from La Paz to Rurrenabaque (50 minutes). Our staff will be waiting at the Rurrenabaque airport to transfer you, by bus, to the Chalalán office, where you will fill in the forms to enter the Madidi National Park and receive information about your trip to the Ecolodge.

Departure around 9 a.m. after an approximately 3½ hours drive on a dirt road we arrive, via the village of Santa Rosa, at Caracoles Lodge, on the banks of the Yacuma river. In the afternoon, an excursion by motorboat to observe animal life on the riverbanks. We will be able to observe numerous animals among including many different species of birds, (toucans, parrots, king fisher, herons and other wading birds), freshwater turtles, caimans, monkeys. Return to the Lodge at the end of the afternoon, dinner and then an evening stroll to observe nocturnal wildlife patterns.

Day 2: Pampas
In the morning, we follow a local trail to search for the famous anaconda that can reach a length of up to 5 meters and live up to a hundred years. During this hike, we may also see some capibaras (the biggest rodent in the world), tapirs (if we are very lucky) and discover medicinal plants, still in use by the local inhabitants. In the afternoon, we can leave for another canoe or motorboat excursion. Upon return to Lodge, we can safely swim in the Yacuma river with the Bufeos (pink dolphins). They are found in almost all of the rivers in the great Amazonian basin.

Day 3: Pampas – Rurrenabaque
Return by 4WD to Rurrenabaque. Along the way, there is a stop by the riverbank where with light fishing rods we attempt to catch piranhas or bentons, small carnivorous fish that find themselves prisoners of the small lagoons left after the rainy season. Transfer to the hotel. You will stay in a hotel in the centre and have the rest of the day to relax in Rurrenabaque.

Day 4: Rurrenabaque – Chalalán Ecolodge
Continental breakfast at the hotel. Transfer from the hotel to the river Beni to take a boat to Chalalán. Boat trip to the Chalalán Ecolodge (5 ½ hours) up the rivers Beni and Tuíchi. Our boats are equipped with: a roof, comfy seats, life jackets, raincoats and a first-aid kit. Packed lunch midway. Arrival at the port of Chalalán. 25 minute walk to the Ecolodge. The staff will help you with your luggage. Settle in at your cabin or room. Welcome lunch in the Ecolodge. Time to rest or swim in the lagoon. Short walk along the Paraba path to the viewing point where you can see the beautiful landscape across the lagoon, mountains and Madidi rainforest. Return by canoe along the rivers leading to the Chalalán lagoon to watch birds and monkeys. Themes: hardwood trees and wildlife. Dinner in the Ecolodge dining room.

Night hike to see insects, tarantulas, amphibians, mice, and nocturnal birds and monkeys. Also available if you would prefer it is a canoe trip to see amphibians, nocturnal birds and alligators, which are easily seen because of their glowing eyes.

Day 5: Chalalán Ecolodge (Madidi National Park).
Breakfast in the Ecolodge dining room. Walk through the jungle along the themed paths to see and learn about the forest and the wildlife. Themes: natural interpretation of the forest, natural history, ecological processes, medicinal plants and hardwood trees, animal behavior and bird watching. Return to the Ecolodge. Lunch in the Ecolodge dining room. Time to rest or swim in the lagoon. Short walk along one of the paths. Themes: medicinal and tropical plants, hardwood trees, bird watching and insect watching. Optional Activities: An afternoon of handicrafts, trips on the lagoon by canoe or videos about the community and the Madidi National Park. Traditional “dunucuabi” dinner of catfish wrapped in leaves or fish á la “tacuara”.

Optional activity: Traditional Quechua – Tacana night with music and dances from the San José de Uchupiamonas community.

Day 6: Chalalán Ecolodge – Rurrenabaque – La Paz
Early breakfast in the Ecolodge dining room. Short walk to the river Tuíchi to take the boat back to Rurrenabaque. Trip to Rurrenabaque (3h). Arrive at Rurrenabaque. Transfer to the airport and return to the city of La Paz.

Note: The times can be changed as guests wish or because of the weather, or flight or boat delays, etc.

The Package Includes:
- Reception and transfer from/to airport in Rurrenabaque
- Transport by four wheel drive vehicle Rurrenabaque – Pampas and back.
- One night accommodation in tourist class hotel in Rurrenabaque.
- Comfortable motor boats from Rurrenabaque to the Chalalán Ecolodge and back
- Accommodations in traditional cabins (Caracoles Loge & Chalalán Ecolodge)
- Three meals per day, national and international food (Chalalán & Pampas).
- Different guided activities (Jungle & Pampas)
- Bilingual guide (English/Spanish)
- Bottled water and natural juices

The Package does not include:
- Airfare tickets La Paz – Rurrenabaque – La Paz
- Airport and municipal taxes
- Hotel and meal in Rurrenabaque
- Entrance fee to Madidi National Park
- Entrance fee to Pampas Reserve

“Visit the Totoral Ecolodge and help us protect the Pampas of Yacuma Municipal Reserve”

Day 1. Rurrenabaque – Reyes – Pampas (Totoral Ecolodge).
09:00am Departure from Rurrenabaque in four wheel drive vehicles to the town of Reyes, where the Communal museum and local Cathedral can be visited. After, the journey continues to the “Baychuje” community, where we can try a natural sugar cane juice made by the locals, available during certain times of the year. The trip then continues to the Pampas.

Arrival at the Ecolodge with welcome refreshments and natural fruit juices of the season. Settle in to the Cabins. Lunch. Rest.

Afternoon walk down the Matico path towards the Yacuma River. Activity: canoe ride, river dolphin, bird, and lizard watching. Visit the birds natural nesting Center. Return to the Ecolodge. Dinner.

Short night walk through the jungle to observe mammals and other species of lesser size. Las Pampas is an ideal place to discover high concentration sites of nocturnal species. No doubt this activity allows one to hear the mysterious sounds of the forrest.

Day 2. Totoral Ecolodge (Pampas of Yacuma)
After breakfast, the walk down Porcupine way will begin, path which will lead us to the lake where natural reproduction of lizards and alligators takes place. At the lake we can practice angling. After enjoying the different activities and taking in the scenery, we will return to the Lodge both by boat and walking. Lunch.

After lunch, during the afternoon we will return to Rurrenabaque, passing by Reyes and arriving in Rurrenabaque around 5:00 pm.

Outing on horseback is optional and has an additional cost of USD$25 per person.

The package Includes:
- Transport by four wheel drive vehicle Rurrenabaque – Pampas and back.
- Accommodations in traditional cabins with shared bathrooms
- Three meals per day, national and international food
- Canoe ride during stay at the lodge
- Guided walks and outings
- Bilingual Guide (English/Spanish)
- Bottled water and natural juices

The package does not include:
- Airfare tickets La Paz – Rurrenabaque – La Paz
- Airport and municipal taxes
- Hotel and meal in Rurrenabaque
- Entrance fee to Pampas Reserve

Day 1: Rurrenabaque – Reyes – Pampas (Totoral Ecolodge).
09:00am Departure from Rurrenabaque in four wheel drive vehicles to the town of Reyes, where the Communal museum and local Cathedral can be visited. The journey continues to the “Baychuje” community, where we can try a natural sugar cane juice made by the locals, available during certain times of the year. The trip then continues to the Pampas.

Arrival at the Ecolodge with welcome refreshments and natural fruit juices of the season. Settle in to the Cabins. Lunch. Rest.

Afternoon walk down the Matico path towards the Yacuma River. Activity: canoe ride, river dolphin, bird, and lizard watching. Visit the birds natural nesting Center. Return to the Ecolodge. Dinner.

Short night walk through the jungle to observe mammals and other species of lesser size. Las Pampas is an ideal place to discover high concentration sites of nocturnal species. No doubt this activity allows one to hear the mysterious sounds of the forrest.

Day 2. Pampas – Totoral Ecolodge
After breakfast, the walk down Porcupine way will begin, path which will lead us to the lake where natural reproduction of lizards and alligators takes place. At the lake we can practice angling. After enjoying the different activities and taking in the scenery, we will return to the Lodge both by boat and walking. Lunch.

After lunch, we will have the opportunity to walk down “Idle Bend” where we will be able to observe different birds, monkeys and other species of animals that inhabit the area. Return to the lodge. Dinner.

Day 3: Pampas (Totoral Ecolodge) – Reyes – Rurrenabaque.
Breakfast. After breakfast we will have the opportunity to walk down “Elf Way” that will lead us to the Chiman Port to ride the Yacuma River where fauna and animals that have not been seen may be observed. Return to the lodge. Lunch.

After lunch, during the afternoon we will return to Rurrenabaque, passing by Reyes and arriving in Rurrenabaque around 5:00 pm.

Note: Outing on horseback is optional and has an additional cost of USD 25 per person.

The package includes:
- Transport by four wheel drive vehicle Rurrenabaque – Pampas and back.
- Accommodations in traditional cabins with shared bathrooms
- Three meals per day, national and international food
- Canoe ride during stay at the lodge
- Guided walks and outings
- Bilingual Guide (English/Spanish)
- Bottled water and natural juices.

The package does not include:
- Airfare tickets La Paz – Rurrenabaque – La Paz
- Airport and municipal taxes
- Hotel and meal in Rurrenabaque
- Entrance fee to Pampas Reserve

Day 1: La Paz – Rurrenabaque
Day 2: Rurrenabaque – Chalalán Ecolodge
Day 3: Chalalán Ecolodge – Madidi National Park
Day 4: Chalalán Ecolodge – San José de Uchupiamonas – Chalalán Ecolodge
Day 5: Chalalán Ecolodge – Rurrenabaque – La Paz

Day 1: La Paz – Rurrenabaque.
Flight from La Paz to Rurrenabaque (50 minutes). Our staff will be waiting at the Rurrenabaque airport to transfer, by bus, to the Chalalán office, where you will fill in the forms to enter the Madidi National Park and receive information about your trip to the Ecolodge. You will stay in a hotel in the centre and have the rest of the day to relax in Rurrenabaque.

Day 2: Rurrenabaque – Chalalán Ecolodge

07:00
Continental breakfast at the hotel.

07:30
Transfer from the hotel to the river Beni to take a boat to Chalalán.

07:45
Boat trip to the Chalalán Ecolodge (6 hours) up the rivers Beni and Tuíchi. Our boats are equipped with: a roof, comfy seats, life jackets, raincoats and a first-aid kit.

11:30
Packed lunch midway.

14:00
Arrival at the port of Chalalán. 25 minute walk to the Ecolodge. The staff will help you with your luggage. Time to settle in at your cabin or room.

14:30
Welcome lunch in the Ecolodge. Time to rest or swim in the lagoon.

16:00
Short walk along the Paraba path to the viewing point where you can see the beautiful landscape across the lagoon, the mountains and the Madidi rainforest. Return by canoe along the rivers leading to the Chalalán lagoon to watch birds and monkeys. Theme: hardwood trees and wildlife.

19:30
Dinner in the Ecolodge dining room.

20:30
Night hike to see insects, tarantulas, amphibians, mice, and nocturnal birds and monkeys.

Day 3: Chalalán Ecolodge – Madidi National Park

06:30
Buffet breakfast in Ecolodge dining room.

07:30
A walk through the jungle on the themed paths to see and learn about the forest and the wildlife. Choose from: natural interpretation of the forest, natural history, ecological processes, medicinal plants and hardwood trees, animal behavior and bird watching.

12:30
Return to the Ecolodge.

13:00
Lunch in the Ecolodge dining room. Time to rest or swim in the lagoon. Please coordinate with your guide.

16:00
Short walk along one of the paths. Choose from: medicinal and tropical plants, hardwood trees, bird watching, and insect watching.

Optional Activities:
- An afternoon of handicrafts
- Trips on the lagoon by canoe.
- Videos about the community and the Madidi National Park.

19:30
Dinner in the Ecolodge dining room.

20:30
A canoe trip along the rivers of the Chalalán Lagoon to see amphibians, nocturnal birds and alligators, which can be easily seen because of their glowing eyes

Day 4: Chalalán Ecolodge – San José de Uchupiamonas – Chalalán Ecolodge

06:00
Buffet breakfast in the Ecolodge dining room.

06:30
Short walk to the River Tuíchi to take the boat.

07:00
Boat trip to the community of San José de Uchupiamonas (3 hours up the River Tuíchi).

10:30
Arrive at the port of San José de Uchupiamonas. A 30 minute walk to the community.

11:00
Arrive at San José de Uchupiamonas. Here you will be received by a local band, a traditional drink and a welcome to the community by a local authority.

13:00
Lunch in the community.

14:30
Walk through the community and visit the artisans to learn about how local handicrafts are made. (Word carvings, basketwork, recycled paper cards, textiles and cotton fabrics).

15:30
Short walk to the River Tuíchi to take the boat back to the Ecolodge.

18:00
Arrival at the port of Chalalán, a short walk back to the Ecolodge.

19:30
Traditional “dunucuabi” dinner of catfish wrapped in leaves or fish á la “tacuara”.

20:30
Traditional Quechua – Tacana night with music and dances from the San José de Uchupiamonas community.

Day 5: Chalalán Ecolodge – Rurrenabaque – La Paz

07:00
Buffet breakfast in the Ecolodge dining room.

08:00
Short walk to the river Tuíchi to take the boat back to Rurrenabaque.

08:30
Trip to Rurrenabaque (3 hours).

12:00
Arrive at Rurrenabaque. Transfer to airport and return to the city of La Paz.

Note:The times can be changed as guests wish or because of the weather, flight delays, etc.

The package includes:
- Reception and transfer from/to airport in Rurrenabaque
- Air ticket reservation service
- One night accommodation in tourist class hotel in Rurrenabaque.
- Comfortable motor boats from Rurrenabaque to the Chalalán Ecolodge and back
- Accommodation in traditional cabins at the Ecolodge.
- Bottled mineral water during your stay at the lodge accord to the program
- All meals at Chalalán
- Bilingual local guide service (Spanish – English)
- Different guided activities in Chalalán area including full day visit San José de U.
- Local and national taxes

The package does not include:
Airfare La Paz – Rurrenabaque – La Paz.
- Airport taxes
- Entrance fee to Madidi National Park.
- Meals at Rurrenabaque
- Bottled drinks and alcoholic drinks.

Location

Chalalán is located in the Bolivian Amazon in the heart of the Madidi National Park, in the Tuíchi valley on the shores of the magnificent “Chalalán” Lake. The main entry point to the Chalalán Ecolodge is the town of Rurrenabaque, which can be accessed by air or land from the city of La Paz. By air (International Airport El Alto) the trip takes approximately 50 minutes, by land around 18 hours. From Rurrenabaque to Chalalán, the Ecolodge is accessed by boat up the rivers Beni and Tuíchi by comfortable motorboat – 5½ hours.


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What you need

Luggage
- A small daypack
- A bag that can be locked to leave unnecessary belongings
Clothes
- 2 – 3 pairs of cotton pants
- 2 – 3 long-sleeve cotton shirts
- Sunhat or baseball cap
- T-shirt
- Pair of shorts
- Light jacket
- Swimwear
- Cotton socks
- Raincoat
Footwear
- Hiking boots
- Sandals
Other
- Sunglasses with neck cord
- Torch with battery
- Camera with waterproof cover
- Sun block (factor 30 or 45 recommended)
- Insect repellent
To take on boat trip
- Sun block
- Sun hat
- Camera
- Plastic bag to protect photographic equipment

Accommodation & Amenities

  • bed The Ecolodge offers you three types of accommodations; 3 luxuries cabins with double beds and private bathroom, 7 twin/triples rooms with private bathroom and 3 twins rooms with shared bath all equipped with mosquito nets, bedside tables, wardrobes, comfy armchairs, verandas, balconies and hammocks where you can relax and read.
  • At Chalalán the standards of hygiene in their bathrooms and shower areas are of utmost importance. All bathrooms are unisex and cleaned whenever necessary without bothering our guests. The bathrooms are either tiled or clad with stones for your comfort and as another elegant detail.
  • Solar energy is used to light the bedrooms and common areas of the Ecolodge.
  • Their restaurant service combines local, national and international dishes. Meals are accompanied by seasonal fruit juices. They have a professionally equipped kitchen where they can prepare meals for vegetarians and people with special dietary requirements, and a traditional clay oven that they use to prepare native dishes.
  • Cost Tapacare Programme 4 days / 3 nights
    (1n Rurre + 2n Chalalán Ecolodge)

    In Double Rooms with Shared Bath
    COST 2 – 30 PAX – USD $320.00 per person

    In Double or Triple Rooms with Private Bath
    COST 2 – 30 PAX – USD $350.00 per person

    In Exclusive Private Cabin Double Bed with Private Bathroom
    COST 2 – 30 PAX – USD $380.00 per person
    Single Supplement USD $90.00

  • See itineraries for more prices

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