Skip Rurrenabaque: Why Chuchini Lodge is The Bolivian Amazon's Best Kept Secret
- Apr 10
- 9 min read
Updated: Apr 18
Chuchini Lodge, hidden on the edge of Trinidad is a gateway into the Bolivian Amazon rainforest and the vast pampas land. We believe it’s one of the most underrated wildlife frontiers, that has somehow escaped the tourist route and makes a great alternative to Rurrenabaque.
Enter a world of pink river dolphins, lurking caiman, piranha and sloths - this adventure is going to be one you remember. A place where horseback rides through flooded forest and lazy afternoons at an infinity pool sit side by side with genuinely wild encounters.
Chuchini Reserve is privately owned, meaning your experience here will be personal, thoughtful and unique. Home to jaguars, tapirs, pumas, caiman, capybara and more birds than we can name, we even spotted some jaguar tracks, this is an amazing place to spot the Amazonian wildlife. With an emphasis on protection, sustainability and extraordinary activities, here’s
everything you need to know about visiting Chuchini in the Bolivian Amazon.
What To Expect On A Chuchini Amazon Tour
Leaving the dusty chaos of Trinidad and entering the pristine pampas with capybara running wild means you're immediately transported into the thick of it! Chuchini Lodge prides themselves on their activities and we have to agree after visiting other ‘eco lodges’ these were some of the best tours we experienced!
Top Tip: Make Sure You Have The Strongest Mosquito Spray! Learn From Our Mistake.
Boat Tour Through the Bolivian Amazon
Our first day started off with a boat tour through their lagoon, natural in the wet season and contained by a dam in the dry season, allowing for the protection of species that rely on this habitat that sadly is so frequently felled.
As we navigated the thick weed we spotted tiny frogs, oropendola nests hanging from a majestic tree larger than the others, tiny birds that dangle their legs as they fly and let their eggs incubate by the sunlight and in the distance we could hear the call of the howler monkeys. For Bolivia Amazon wildlife, it was an extraordinary start.
As we visited the Bolivian Amazon in the wet season (not the most popular time to visit, but we loved the alternative activities) we pulled on our wellies and dipped our feet in the water ready to look for caiman and capybara.
Our guide, Ibis, bravely barefoot, waded first with his expert eye and ear ready. It wasn’t long before a family of capybara walked right in front of us! We also spotted a caiman lurking in the bushes… but we were going to see many more of these silent predators during our stay.
Jungle Walk Through the Bolivian Amazon
In the afternoon we headed off for a Bolivian Amazon jungle walk, mosquito head nets firmly on! This was an unexpected highlight for us. Due to visiting in the wet season (March) the jungle paths had turned into running rivers, meaning we had to wade through the undergrowth and over tangled jungle vines.
Our guide continually stopped to give us a taste of the wild Amazonian fruit growing all around, one of those small moments that makes a Bolivia rainforest tour feel truly immersive. He also introduced us to the Huito or Jagua fruit. He rubbed the clear juice around our wrist that over time developed into a deep blue tattoo, that can last up to 2 weeks! The darker the stain the longer you’ll live… or so says the Bolivian Amazon legend.
Caiman Spotting at Night in The Bolivian Amazon
After enjoying our Bolivian feast for dinner we hopped back in the boat for what was going to be Mike’s favourite activity.
Guided only by torchlight, our boat scoured the river looking for the infamous glowing eyes. A glisten in the darkness and the driver turned the boat, full speed, just as we arrived the head silently ducked under the water. Until one hand plunging moment was successful.
Our guide was holding a baby caiman. Its scales shone in the moonlight and its beady eyes glared at the stunned boat passengers. Carefully, our guide taught us about these wonderful creatures explaining their special tongue and eyes that allows them to hunt underwater.
In turn we got to hold the caiman, a truly wild encounter and one of the most unforgettable things to do in the Bolivian Amazon.
Horseback Riding Through the Amazon Jungle
Sufficiently impressed by the first day of Chuchini’s tours, it was going to be hard to top, but the second day started off with Kate’s favourite activity.
We were introduced to our horses, Kate on the ‘muy tranquilo’ Punto and Mike on Raya. This is the first time either of us had been on a horse, and it was going to be memorable! We traced the path we walked yesterday, the horses expertly navigating the forest floor.
Horseback riding in the Bolivian Amazon is unlike anything we'd experienced. Wading through the deep waters on top of the horse, ducking under vines, spotting monkeys and our guide stopping suddenly sniffing the air... scent of an anaconda was nearby. This was the perfect way to enjoy the forest from a different view.
Piranha Fishing & Visiting Media Luna Lagoon
Again the afternoon surprised us, in the best way! We boarded the larger boat enjoying the roof deck where we spotted a sloth lazily hanging in the tree before disembarking and clambering into a canoe.
Ibis, leading the way, navigated us through the thick undergrowth, sometimes brandishing his knife to forge a path forward. We clambered over logs, trying to keep balance in the canoe. After 30 minutes we appeared out of the thicket and into the sunshine.
One last slog of paddling through the lush green weeds leaving a winding path behind us and we reached the Media Luna Lagoon, the second lagoon owned by Chuchini.
Here we grabbed the bamboo rods and tried our hands at Piranha fishing in the Bolivian Amazon, although Ibis is the only one of us to have any luck. Thankfully he caught three, enough for us to taste them later at dinner.
Swimming with Pink River Dolphins
A highlight for many venturing into this section of the Bolivian Amazon is spotting the pink river dolphins. A unique species with flexible necks and a bright pink skin, that intensifies with age.
We spent the day aboard the boat down the Mamoré river enjoying spotting howler monkeys, sloths and the famous pink river dolphins. After lunch we got the chance to get in the water and swim alongside them!
They floated past taking no notice of us, elegantly playing in the water. Swimming with pink river dolphins in the Bolivian Amazon is the kind of experience that doesn't feel real until you're back on the boat, relaxing in your hammock!
Chuchini Archaeological Museum - A 5,000 Year Old Secret
What makes Chuchini truly unique among Bolivian Amazon lodges is that it sits on top of an ancient civilisation. The reserve is built on an artificial hill ‘loma’ constructed by the pre-Columbian Moxos hydraulic culture, a civilisation so sophisticated it engineered over 30,000 man-made hills, thousands of kilometres of canals, aqueducts and lagoons across the Llanos de Moxos wetlands.
On site, Chuchini's archaeological museum houses around 1,500 artefacts recovered since excavations began in the 1970s. Including sacred ceramic urns used for ancestor burial rituals, rare stone axes traded all the way from the Andes, print makers and small statues.
As well as the human artifacts you can also see some ancient fossils and skeletons of the wildlife all around.
Accommodation at Chuchini
Chuchini offers private rooms with solar powered AC and en-suite bathrooms. The rooms are surrounded by nature including parrots, frogs and you fall asleep to the sound of the forest.
Overlooking the Chuchini Lagoon is the infinity pool, the perfect place to relax after a hot tour, plus you might spot a caiman floating past!
Recently Chuchini also installed high-speed Starlink Wi-Fi keeping you connected during your stay.
Meals at Chuchini
Expect hearty, filling local food during your stay at Chuchini. From local breakfast containing plantain to the delicious Pique a lo Macho for lunch.
We also really appreciated the freshly pressed juice after each tour to cool down!
For an example itinerary head to Chuchini Eco Lodge’s website
Where Is Chuchini Eco Lodge?
Chuchini Eco Lodge is located in the Bolivian Amazon, just outside the city of Trinidad, the capital of the Beni region.
More specifically, the lodge sits around 14-15 km north of Trinidad, making it one of the most accessible Amazon experiences in Bolivia, with an airport nearby.
Despite being so close to the city, it feels completely remote. The lodge is set within a private ecological reserve of tropical forest, wetlands, and lagoons, right on the edge of the Amazon basin, home to wildlife like pink river dolphins, monkeys, caimans, and hundreds of bird species.
How To Get To Chuchini?
Getting to Chuchini is easier than you might expect for somewhere this remote. First you need to reach Trinidad, the laid-back capital of the Beni department and from there Chuchini Lodge will arrange everything, picking you up by taxi and handling the rest.
If you're visiting in the wet season your taxi will drop you at a riverbank where a boat takes over, navigating you to Chuchini while it sits as an island in the floodplain. In the dry season a road runs directly to Chuchini (which is great if you’re an overlander as you can sleep in your vehicle!)
Getting To Chuchini Lodge From La Paz
The quickest option is a short domestic flight with airlines like Boliviana de Aviación or EcoJet taking around 1 hour 20 minutes.
For the adventurous or budget-conscious, there’s also a bus, though be warned, the road crosses the altiplano and descends into the Amazon basin, making it a long but spectacular journey. Expect 18-24 hours travel time. Road conditions can vary, especially in the rainy season, so delays are common.
Getting To Chuchini Lodge From Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz de la Sierra is actually the closer gateway of the two. Again, you can fly with Boliviana de Aviación or EcoJet, the journey takes just 45–60 minutes.
Alternatively, you can take the bus through the lowlands. We drove this route and can confirm it’s a beautiful road, gradually transitioning into lush Amazonian scenery, although road conditions can vary.
About Chuchini Eco Lodge
Chuchini has been a family-run sanctuary since 1973, founded by Efrem Hinojosa Hieber and Rosario Garnica Suarez with a single mission: to protect this stretch of the Bolivian Amazon for generations to come.
Sitting on 300 hectares of pristine rainforest just 14km from Trinidad, the reserve is entirely self-funded through visitors, volunteers and donations, meaning every trip here directly contributes to the preservation of a habitat home to 372 bird species, 100 mammals and an astonishing 700 caiman in the lagoon alone.
Today the lodge is also looked after by Swiss host Miriam, who brings a warmth and attention to detail that makes the whole experience feel genuinely personal.
Chuchini vs Rurrenabaque: Which Amazon Experience Is Better?
Most travellers associate the Bolivian Amazon with Rurrenabaque, the gateway to the famous Madidi National Park and Pampas tours.
However, Chuchini offers a completely different (and often overlooked) experience. One not on the tourist trail but offers an insight into the flora and fauna of not only the Amazon but also the Pampas region in one small area, meaning there’s less travelling around.
We feel Chuchini offers a more personal experience, plus the activities here are epic!
Common Questions About Chuchini Eco Lodge
What is the best time to visit Chuchini?
Chuchini is rewarding year round. The dry season (June–October) offers easier access by road and calmer conditions. The wet season (November–May) transforms the reserve into a flooded wonderland with alternative activities, fewer tourists and a completely different side of the Bolivian Amazon - which is exactly when we visited and loved it.
How many days do you need at Chuchini?
We'd recommend a minimum of 2 nights and 3 days to experience the core activities.
Is Chuchini good for families?
Yes! The lodge is suitable for all ages and the guides are excellent at adapting activities.
How do you book Chuchini Lodge?
Head directly to Chuchini's website to check availability and make a reservation.
Is Chuchini better than Rurrenabaque?
For travellers wanting a more personal, less crowded experience that combines both Amazon and pampas wildlife in one location… yes!
Amazon Jungle Packing List
 | Jungle Formula - High Deet Mosquito Spray The weak sprays will not work! Make sure to bring a high deet percentage spray made for the tropics. We also use Mosquito Wipes. |
 | Lifestraw - Filtered Water Bottle Allowing you to fill up water whenever and wherever with peace of mind, plus you’re helping the environment! |
 | Universal Travel Adaptor With Multiple USBs Life while travelling will never be the same again! Charge multiple devices all at once in any country... game changer. |
 | Binoculars To Spot The Wonderful Wildlife You're most likely heading to Borneo for the wildlife. Don't miss out on seeing these amazing animals up close and pack a good pair of binoculars! |
Final Thoughts on Chuchini Eco Lodge
If you're looking to get off the tourist trail but still experience the Bolivian Amazon and vast pampas wetlands, Chuchini is the lodge for you. The activities led by guides like Ibis were extraordinary, packed with detail, genuine knowledge and more than a few unforgettable moments.
Miriam has created something special here, a lodge full of warmth and hospitality that makes it very hard to leave the pink river dolphins behind.
If you're considering a Bolivian Amazon tour and want something personal, wild and completely off the beaten track, stop deliberating and book Chuchini Lodge.
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Thank you for reading and enjoy your Amazon adventure. Reach out to us over on Instagram @KateandMikesTravels. We always love to hear from people who read our blogs!
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