Things to Do in Rurrenabaque

Rurrenabaque sits at the edge of Bolivia's Amazon basin, where the Andes foothills meet endless green jungle. This small riverside town has become the country's premier gateway to both the rainforest and the pampas wetlands, drawing travelers who want to see jaguars, pink dolphins, and more wildlife than they thought possible. The town itself is pleasantly laid-back, with dusty streets lined with tour agencies, simple restaurants, and guesthouses that cater to the steady stream of nature enthusiasts passing through. Most people don't linger long in Rurrenabaque proper - they're here for what lies beyond the town limits in the protected areas of Madidi National Park and the surrounding wilderness.

Rurrenabaque's dining scene caters to hungry travelers returning from jungle expeditions, with hearty portions and international comfort food alongside Bolivian staples. You'll find pizza places, burger joints, and pasta restaurants mixed in with local spots serving fresh river fish, rice and beans, and tropical fruits you might not recognize. Most restaurants are simple affairs with plastic chairs and basic decor, but the food is generally good and very affordable. Don't miss trying surubí, a delicious local river fish, or sampling exotic fruits like cacao pods and Brazil nuts fresh from the forest.

The dry season from May through October offers the best weather for jungle and pampas tours, with less rain, fewer mosquitoes, and better road conditions for getting around. Wildlife viewing is actually easier during these months as animals concentrate around remaining water sources. The wet season from November to April brings daily downpours that can flood trails and cancel flights, though the forest is lusher and bird activity peaks during this time. Temperatures remain warm year-round, but humidity can be oppressive regardless of season.