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Natural area · Samaipata, Santa Cruz
Parque Nacional Amboró
A national park of 4,425 km² between the Andes and the plains, from 300 to over 3,300 m, with cloud forests, giant tree ferns, waterfalls and a great variety of birds, visited with a guide from Samaipata.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Parque Nacional Amboró
Parque Nacional Amboró was created in 1984 and protects about 4,425 km² between the Andes and the eastern plains, west of Santa Cruz. Altitude ranges from roughly 300 to over 3,300 meters, and that variation brings together several environments: Amazonian forest in the lowlands, cloud forests on the slopes and high-altitude grasslands above. It is one of Bolivia's richest areas for bird diversity.
From Samaipata you reach the park's southern sector, which is higher and cooler. The most sought-after trail is the giant tree fern trail, in cloud forests where tree ferns reach several meters in height, amid mosses, bromeliads and orchids. Fog often covers the forest for part of the day, and humidity is high.
The park is home to the spectacled bear, the jaguar, the tapir, the giant anteater and hundreds of bird species, such as the mutum-de-capacete, the cock-of-the-rock and macaws. Animals are discreet, and seeing them depends on luck and keeping quiet on the trail.
Trails are done with a guide hired at Samaipata agencies, which drive you to the trailhead. Bring a raincoat, hiking shoes, insect repellent and water. The area is managed by SERNAP; check visiting rules before you go.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
A full day, including transport from Samaipata and 3 to 5 hours of walking.
Best time
From April to October, in the drier season, when trails are less muddy. Early in the morning when birds are most active. From December to March frequent rains can close sections.
How to get there
The park's southern sector is about a 1-hour drive from Samaipata on dirt roads. Village agencies sell guided tours with transport. The northern sector is accessed from Buena Vista, about 100 km from Santa Cruz.
Tip
Choose the giant tree fern trail, the best-known one from Samaipata. Wear layered clothing: it's cold in the cloud forest even when the village is warm.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Parque Nacional Amboró
Do I need a guide in Amboró?
Yes. Park trails are done with a guide hired through agencies in Samaipata or Buena Vista.
What are the giant tree ferns?
They are tree ferns, several meters tall, that grow in the cloud forests of the park's southern sector.
Can you see animals in Amboró?
Birds are common, especially early in the morning. Mammals such as the spectacled bear and the jaguar live in the park, but they are rarely seen.