Parque Nacional Madidi, Santa Cruz Lowlands Travel Guide

Getting There

• Car

  From Santa Cruz de la Sierra, head northwest on the RN4 highway towards the town of La Paz. This drive will take approximately 18 hours, so prepare for a long journey. You will pass through the towns of Cotoca, Montero, and other small towns along the way. After reaching La Paz, follow the signs to El Alto and then take the road towards the town of Riberalta. You will need to navigate through the city, so make sure to have a map or GPS. Once in Riberalta, continue northwest towards Ucumari where Parque Nacional Madidi is located. The final stretch requires driving on unpaved roads, so a sturdy vehicle is recommended.

• Public Transportation

  Start at the main bus terminal in Santa Cruz de la Sierra. Look for buses heading to La Paz; several companies operate this route. The bus ride usually takes around 20 hours, so be prepared for a long trip. Once you arrive in La Paz, you will need to take another bus to Riberalta, which can take an additional 10 to 12 hours. After reaching Riberalta, you can take a local taxi or shared transport to Ucumari. It is advisable to confirm the drop-off point as some services may not go directly to the park entrance.

• Taxi or Ride-Sharing

  If you prefer a more direct route after reaching the town of Ucumari, you can hire a local taxi or use a ride-sharing app if available. Make sure to negotiate the fare before starting the journey, as there may not be a standard rate. The distance from Ucumari to Parque Nacional Madidi is relatively short, but the roads can be bumpy and unpaved, so ensure the vehicle is suitable for such conditions.