REFUGIO LOS VOLCANES & EL FUERTE DE SAMAIPATA (SOUTHERN AMBORÓ NATIONAL PARK) - 3 DAYS

DAY 1

This morning, a couple of hours’ drive will take us from Santa Cruz de la Sierra to the southern rim of Amboro National Park, where the imposing ‘volcanoes’ (sandstone rock cliffs) rise majestically from the tropical rainforest. Upon arrival at the mirador (the high gateway overlooking the lodge) you will discover why it is called ‘Refugio Los Volcanes’. A small 4WD vehicle will drive us deep into the clearing where the lodge is located. You will be shown to your room and allowed a short rest. Fresh lunch will be served in the restaurant and the afternoon will be left for you to choose among several hiking trails. You will have the opportunity to learn about the flora, including orchids, bromeliads and plenty more of plant species. Enjoy the breathtaking vistas before returning to the lodge for a pleasant evening with dinner included.

Included: Lunch, dinner

DAY 2

Today, we will have a guided tour of the cloud forest, walking the paths that wind their way through gigantic ferns, ducking underneath the lichen and moss that hangs from the giant trees of Parque Nacional Amboro. The jungle floor is often littered with blossoms that fall from the high canopy providing a myriad of colors amidst the endless green. Wildlife is elusive, but if you’re lucky, you may get to see several species of unique birds (over 200 species have been registered) and mammals. The rest of the day is left free to enjoy one or more of the optional activities available in the area. One of the most popular activities is to take refreshing baths in natural pools by the river or relax on a hammock before embarking on the drive back to the city of Santa Cruz. Arrive back in town in the evening being dropped off right at your accommodation. 

Included: Breakfast, lunch

• Wildlife watching is not guaranteed. Being located in an accessible part of the park, viewing large mammals is rare
• About 80% of the drive is on a paved road/highway. The rest is on a winding and bumpy dirt track for which an appropriate vehicle will be provided
• You may choose to not request a specialized, bilingual guide, in which case a local, non-bilingual guide will show you through the trails and provide limited information. We recommend opting for a specialized guide that will accompany you from the city of Santa Cruz (price is higher) though it is not mandatory