Chalalan is a natural sanctuary in Bolivia that is worth visiting. This ecological lodge, one of the oldest in the country managed by local communities, is located in the La Paz department, in the heart of the Madidi National Park, one of the most biodiverse on the planet.
It is a perfect place to venture out, relax and learn about the community and the Amazon jungle, on a trip that can last three or more days, depending on the visitor’s schedule.
The six-hour trip from Rurrenabaque allows you to enjoy a paradisiacal landscape across the Beni and Tuichi rivers, surrounded by a vast variety of wildlife.
Upon arrival, you will find yourself on the Chalalan lagoon shore, with queen size, double and triple-bed cabins for your comfort. In addition, there is a dining room equipped with a bar and a rest place for you to enjoy your stay to the fullest.
Chalalan is owned by the San Jose de Uchupiamonas indigenous people, La Paz department, who contribute to the biodiversity conservation. The income in this Community land of origin (TCO) is entirely used for the legal property defense, in order to provide support in health, education, sports and counterpart to community projects.
There are many activities to do at this place, for example:
- Hike a 50-kilometer trail system that explores many rainforest habitats.
- Boat rides on Chalalan Lake, while learning about the wildlife that inhabits and still maintains primary forests.
- Hikes to the viewpoints.
As for gastronomy, the menu includes a combination of local and international food prepared by women from the San Jose de Uchupiamonas community. It is a unique experience to taste the authentic Bolivian flavors.
Location:
- It is located approximately 100 km west of Rurrenabaque (Beni department), in the heart of the Madidi National Park, one of the most biodiverse on the planet.
- See the map: https://bit.ly/41YPJs4
Essential clothing and accessories:
• Luggage:
o Suitcase, bag, or backpack
o Backpack for short walks.
• Clothing
o Long-sleeved shirts, if possible, made of cotton (for protection against mosquitoes and sun).
o Long cotton pants (for protection against mosquitoes and sun).
o Shorts.
o Warm clothes or a polartec sweater to be prepared for an eventual cold front (“surazo”).
o Windbreak
o Trekking boots
o A pair of sandals.
o Bathing suit
o Waterproof poncho.
o Pairs of socks.
Other:
- Binoculars preferably 8x or, even better, 10x
- Camera and / or video camera
- Sun protection cream
- Repellent
- Flashlight
- Cap, hat
- Razor
- Passport or ID photocopy
Costs:
Visit: www.chalalan.com
Contact
- [email protected]
- 591 79501972 Neil Palomeque
- 591 76552653 Teresa Flores
This content is taken from the “Soy Bolivia” verified guide, prepared in April 2023 with information
provided by organizations and communities involved. This guide is updated annually to ensure its
validity. In order to suggest a community tourism venture, free of charge, you are welcome to send a
WhatsApp message to the number (591) 70079347.
• Note: Prices are updated to May 2023.
Warning. The images in this guide were provided by representatives of the involved communities, who assured that they use these photographs for the respective promotions of their ventures.