The best birdwatching experiences in Bolivia

BIRDING IN BOLIVIA

(PART 1 )

Bolivia is one of the worlds most underrated Birding destinations on the planet. In fact it boosts the highest amount of bird species for any landlocked country on the planet. In additon its also home to some incredible endemic species such as the critically endangered Blue throated and Red Fronted Macaws. 

See the gallery below for some of the bird species recorded during our Bolivian Birdwatching tour 

1: Harpy Eagle 

This incredible Harpy Eagle was recorded during an expedition in the Amazon Region of Bolivia.

2: Red Fronted Macaw 

This endemic and sadly now critically endangered Macaw can be seeen during our Bolivian Macaw or Eastern Bolivia birding tour.

Blue throated Macaw

 

This endemic and sadly critically endangered Macaw is only found in a few select areas on earth. Our expert guides know the best location to see the Blue throated Macaw in their natural habitats.

These are just a few of the incredible bird species which can be observed while birding in Bolivia. For more information about birdwatching trips around Bolivia contact Nicks Adventures Bolivia at www.nicksadventuresbolivia.com. 

Nicks Adventures Bolivia specializes in birding trips to Amboro National Park , Madidi National Park , Red Fronted Macaw Reserve, Blue Throated Macaw Reserve, Sadiri Lodge and many other birding hotspots in Bolivia 

RARE HARPY EAGLE SIGHTING IN BOLIVIA

RARE HARPY EAGLE SIGHTING IN BOLIVIA

From my first memories of seeing the majestic Harpy Eagle on National Geographic , it was always a bird i have dreamt of seeing. On the 25th of January 2019 that dream became a reality.

The Harpy Eagle or flying Wolf as many call them is the holy grail for birdwatchers, this rare and elusive Raptor is the king of the skys and its rein of terror among Sloths and Monkeys is the stuff of legends.

After recieving  call about a possible Harpy Eagle in a private Reserve, i was on the next plane and on route to hopefully have a sighting, considering the areas last sighting was over 5 years ago and its easily confused with the Crested Eagle i didnt have my hopes set too high. 

On route to where the Harpy Eagle was spotted 

The first scouting trip was unsucessful , we did see an Osprey, Pink River Dolphins, Red Howler Monkeys and even a King Vulture, however luck was not on our side. Still optimistic we left and decided to come back the next day. 

The next day we set out again and almost immedietly we were in luck, sitting just a few hundreds metres was this impressive beast of a bird, one which had eluded me in literally hundreds of Amazon trips. 

BELOW ARE SOME FINAL IMAGES OF THIS INCREDIBLE RAPTOR

If you are interested in a birding trip to see the majestic Harpy Eagle in Bolivia then contact us, we can also combine a Harpy Eagle tour to see the critically endangered Blue throated Macaw as well. WWW.NICKSADVENTURESBOLIVIA.COM

JAGUAR CONSERVATION EXPEDITION TRIP 

Last week we explored the incredible San Carlos Wildlife Reserve in the Beni Department of Bolivia. The aim to find as many species as possible while helping Jaguar conservation. Our two travellers from Italy and Romania were lovely and on route to the reserve were greeted with perhaps the best Pink Dolphin show i have ever wittnessed. 

While the weather was not favorable we did have many excellent sightings of wildlife, huge groups of Pink Dolphins, Large black Caiman, Armadillos, Monkeys , Macaws and more. Sadly no Jaguar sighting but we did call and have a respond at night.

Very large Jaguar track , from the day before.

Overall it was a successful trip and these kind of projects help to show locals that their wildlife is worth more alive than dead

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT OUR WILDLIFE WATCHING TRIPS OR TOUR PACKAGES IN BOLIVIA CONTACT US TODAY 

WWW.NICKSADVENTURESBOLIVIA.COM

WILDLIFE WATCHING IN SAN CARLOS RESERVE BENI BOLIVIA

Our newest Bolivian Jaguar Conservation Eco Tourism project

Jaguar with cubs recorded during our wildlife watching tours to San Carlos Reserve.

Located deep in the Beni Department is the spectacular San Carlos Wildlife Reserve. This property is ideally located between pristine savannahs, motacu palm islands and tropical forests, all of which are teeming with wildlife. The different ecosystems, no hunting policy and the remoteness of this property has provided a refuge for a huge variety of animals and as such could be the very best location in all of Bolivia to observe wildlife.

San Carlos Wildlife Reserve offers world class birdwatching.

In the wet season access to the Reserve is via a combination of 4WD and boat trips, this journey is incredible, Capybaras are seen from the road and the birdlife is astounding, occasionally the Green Anaconda can be seen as well.  The boat trip is equally exciting, here black caimans , Macaws and Pink Dolphins are frequently seen and keep your eyes open as Jaguars are often seen hunting or sleeping on the river banks. 

Looking for Pink Dolphins, Black Caimans and even Jaguars 

Activities during the tour include horseriding, boat trips, hiking, fishing, setting up and checking camera traps, birding and 4WD safaris of the reserve.

A Lesser Anteater, seen during a night excursion. PHOTO CREDIT JEREMIE GOULEVITCH

The aim of the conservation project

The aim of this project is to help compensate the landowners who are losing up to 30 cows per year, from Jagaur predation. This has a significant affect on the income of many and in turn Jaguars and other predators like Puma are shot on sight. This conservation project through eco tourism aims to cover these losses and in turn no Jaguars or other animals will be killed. 

 The San Carlos Wildife Reserve Conservation project will also provided employment and additional income, from local guides, cooks, drivers and more, we aim to show locals that native wildlife can really boost the economy and that its more benifical to preserve for the future.

Giant Anteater seen during a horseriding expedition in San Carlos Wildlife Reserve

Night spotlighting for Armadillos  , just another part of the adventure.

If you wish to learn more about this amazing new wildife eco tourism project then visit our webpage of www.nicksadventuresbolivia.com  

Though responsible Eco Tourism we will make a difference and help teach locals that wildlife especially the Jaguar is worth much more alive than dead.

*** ALL PHOTOS HAVE BEEN TAKEN DURING TOURS TO THE SAN CARLOS WILDLIFE RESERVE

AMAZING NEW WILDLIFE WATCHING EXPERIENCE IN BOLIVIA

SAN MIGUELITO/PANTANAL ULTIMATE WILDLIFE WATCHING PACKAGE

Our latest Bolivian Wildlife watching package takes you to explore some of Bolivia`s most wild and pristine areas, including combing visits to the spectacular San Miguelito Jaguar Conservation Reserve, Valley de Tucacava  and the incredible yet rarely visited  Bolivian Pantanal. The aim is to explore these pristine ecosystems and photograph a huge variety of species, with luck even catch a glimpse of the king of the Jungle the majestic and elusive Jaguar.

 During this incredible 6 day/5 night journey we will be exploring these different ecosytems by a range of different methods, from hiking, night 4WD spotlighting Safari and canoe trips. 

The beautiful Yellow Anaconda is frequently seen during these tours

Wildlife watching potential during this package is extremley high ,we will be searching for a huge variety of species which include the Jaguar, Ocelot, Anaconda, Giant Otters, Marsh Deer, Macaws, Capybara, Caimans, many monkey and marmoset species and a huge assortment of birds as well.

Spectacular Jaguar sighting during a river trip of San Miguelito Jaguar Reserve

Just an example of some of the wildlife watching on offer here.

For birdwatchers this trip is a paradise, we combining visiting dry Chaco forests, Chiquitania and Pantanal Wetlands which presents a huge assortment of birds, some iconic species include the Toca Toucan , Red and Green Macaws, Trogons, Red legged Seriemas and the emblem of the Pantanal the impressive Jabribu

World class bird watching

Activities during the trip include setting up and checking camera traps, 4WD spotlighting, hiking, piranah fishing and boat trips in pristine rivers

Explore pristine river systems with not another tourist in sight

Try your luck at Piranah fishing

Lastly but not least is the scenery, this trip provides landscape lovers incredible photographic opportunities with some of the most memorable scenery in all of Bolivia.

The incredible Lookout of the Valley of Tucavaca

Some of the viewpoints in San Migelito Jaguar Conservation Reserve

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THIS INCREDIBLE BOLIVIAN  WILDLIFE WATCHING PACKAGE  THEN VISIT US AT WWW.NICKSADVENTURESBOLIVIA.COM

Exploring the best attractions in Samaipata Bolivia

VISITING SAMAIPATA BOLIVIA  

Elbow of the Andes Trek

 

Located just 120 kilometres or a scenic 3 hour drive from Santa Cruz de la Sierra is the delightful bohemian town of Samaipata. Situated between the Andes Mountains and forests of Amboro National Park, this town has become the perfect escape for locals Santa Cruz and tourists who come to relax and enjoy its many attractions.

Samaipata has a little something for everyone, if you like relaxing there are beautiful waterfalls, if you like adventure then trekking into the Amboro National Park or Elbow of the Andes is must and if you are a cultural lover then look no further than the world heritage listed Pre Incan Ruins of El Fuerte.

 There are many local and international restaurants, hotels ranging from backpacker to boutique like El Pueblito Hotel as well as a lively nightlight scene, La Boeme Bar is perfectly location in the main plaza and offers locals and travellers alike the chance to meet and party the night way.

THE MAIN TOURIST ATTRACTIONS OF SAMAIPATA AND SURROUNDINGS INCLUDE

Situated just 7 km from the town of Samaipata, the Pre Incan Fort of El Fuerte is a must visit destination, so impressive in fact that it’s been declared world heritage listed. El Fuerte Ruins have incredible history and only a small portion of the area has been excavated. These ruins are also a hotspot for seeing the Andean Condor, if you are lucky some can pass in very close proximity.

ELBOW OF THE ANDES TREK

One of the best trekking areas in Bolivia

One of the best kept secrets in Samaipata, the Elbow of the Andes trek is a must for any keen hiker. Situated between the Amazon and the Chaco forests this trek passes beautiful waterfalls, valleys, canyons with the opportunity of seeing some of the areas unique wildlife and stunning landscapes.

The views on some of these treks are world class, here one can do day tours up to 3 day treks to visit the regions many incredible attractions.

LAS CUEVAS WATERFALLS 

Located 20 km outside of Samaipata is the charming series of waterfalls called Las Cuevas. Here there are 3 beautiful waterfalls where you can spend the day swimming and also hiking around the area.

AMBORO NATIONAL PARK ( GIANT FERN TREK)

An absolute must when visiting Samaipata, this spectacular part of Amboro National Park is a forest area which is only found in very few parts of the world, the scenery is akin to being in the movie Avatar which Giant Ferns and forested valleys being the highlights. Keep an eye out for Armadillos, Toucans or even the odd Puma or Spectacled Bear which reside in this amazing National Park. Deeper treks into the park for multiple days can also be arranged.

THE CONDOR TREK

The Condor trek of Samaipata remains one of the worlds best Condor viewing destinations.

Bird lovers and hikers rejoice, this remote valley is perhaps the world’s best location for seeing these majestic South American icons soaring in the thermals of the Andes Mountains. The scenery is spectacular and while the hike is not easy, the rewards of seeing these 3 metre Condors soaring peacefully in the sky is something extremely special. The record for the number of Andean Condors in one day is 107 different Birds.

LA PAJCHA WATERFALLS 

One of the most beautiful waterfalls in Bolivia, La Pajcha waterfalls are set 2 hours away from Samaipata, they make the perfect day tour or overnight camping destination. These waterfalls are located close to the Condor Trek so it’s a good idea to combine them both.

1750 WINE VINEYARD 

Wine tasting the new 1750 Wine from Samaipata

REFUGIO LOS VOLCANES LODGE ( AMBORO NATIONAL PARK )

Aireal view of Refugio Los Volcanes - which is situated on the border of Amboro National Park.

Perhaps one of the world’s most beautifully locations. Refugio Los Volcanes is situated an hour’s drive from Samaipata and is a basic yet comfortable colonial style lodge which is surrounded by giant sandstone cliffs, waterfalls and pristine forests of Amboro National Park.

This location is a private property which merges with Amboro National Park, there are hiking trails suiting people of all ages to a wide variety of attractions. Refugio Los Volcanes is famous for bird watching and remains one of the best places in Bolivia to observe a wide huge variety including Andean Condors and Military Macaws.  Refugio Los Volcanes Lodge is also home to Jaguars, Monkeys, Pumas and much more.

Puma recorded with NICKS ADVENTURES BOLIVIA camera trap survey of Amboro National Park

For more information about visiting Samaipata and its incredible attractions  

CONTACT US TODAY 

WILDLIFE PHOTOSAFARI TRIPS IN BOLIVIA

The most underestimated wildlife watching destination in South America

 

Close up Jaguar sighting in Kaa Iya National Park Bolivia.

 

Often the forgotten country in terms of wildife watching , Bolivia offers photographers and wildife watchers alike some of the best wildife viewing opportunities in South America.

Bolivia has some of the most pristine and diverse eco systems in the world, from lush Amazon Rainforest, Dry harsh forests of the Bolivian Chaco, Wetlands of Beni and the Bolivian Pantanal , Yunga Cloud forests and Andean altiplano.

These ecosystems are unique and offer photographers a chance to photograph and film many species which cannot be found anywhere else on earth. 

Here is a list of our favourite destinations for Wildlife Photography Safaris in Bolivia.

 

 KAA IYA NATIONAL PARK

 

Kaa iya National Park is an incredible destination for photographing big mammals especially Jaguars, Tapirs and Pumas in the wild. This is one of the best wildlife tours in Bolivia you can visit. Kaa Iya National Park is an incredible destination in the heart of the Bolivia Chaco and the frequency you can see big cats and other large mammals rivals anywhere on earth. Our Kaa Iya National Park Tour remains an excellent and more affordable Jaguar watching tour than the ultra expensive North Pantanal.

 

MADIDI NATIONAL PARK 

No photographers trip to Bolivia is complete without visiting Madidi National Park , this park is one of the most bio diverse locations on earth and is a MUST VISIT destination for any nature lover or photographer alike. Madidi National Park offers excellent birdwatching as well as excellent chances to see anything from Giant Otters, Macaws, Jaguars and much more. If you are looking for quality Jungle tours in Bolivia then Madidi National Park has to be at the top of the list of places to visit. Our tours to Madidi National Park include luxury lodges or more wild indepth Amazon Tours.

OTUQUIS NATIONAL PARK , BOLIVIA

Consiting of the most pristine Pantanal wetlands on earth , this rarely visiting National Park offers some of the countries best wildlife watching opportunities. Here Anacondas, Marsh Deer, Caimans, Capybara and Giant Otters can be seen and filmed with some frequency as well as a huge variety of birds. Our photography Safaris to this Bolivian National Park take you to explore the best parts of the Bolivian Pantanal where you have the best chances to see and photograph these beautiful animals in their natural environment. This National Park is perfect to combine with our Kaa Iya National Park Tour.

BLUE THROATED MACAW BIRDWATCHING TOUR( GRAN MOJOS PROTECTED AREA )

Unknown to most, there is an extremely rare and beautiful Macaw species in Bolivia which is found nowhere else on earth, sadly its critically endangered and there are rumoured to be less than 300 of these magnificent Birds alive. The Blue throated Macaw can be seen in the famous yet very remote Blue Throated Macaw Reserve or for those who are looking for a more accessable and affordable location can visit the BLUE THROATED MACAW GRAN MOJOS PROTECTED AREA which is located just 40 km outside Trinidad Bolivia. Money raised from these tours go directly to ensuring the land owners do not clear the last Palm forests where the birds nest and also funds campaigns to stop the trade of these birds. Making Eco Tourism to this protected area is critical to their survial as a species. Another excellent option for this protected area is that photographers have the opportunity to take close up pictures of the nesting Blue Throated Macaws. In addition to the Blue throated Macaws over 120 species of Amazonian and Savannah bird species have been recorded here , making it a paradise for Birdwatchers and photographers alike.

 If you are a avid birdwatcher , this in is a must do birdwatching tour in Bolivia.

These are just a few of many amazing wildlife viewing destination in Bolivia, for more details about our wildlife tours in Bolivia or wildlife photographic Safaris contact us at nicksadventuresbolivia.com or visit our webpage of www.nicksadventuresbolivia.com

WILDLIFE WATCHING IN BOLIVIA 

SAN MIGUELITO JAGUAR CONSERVATION RESERVE 

Just 3 hours drive from the City of Santa Cruz is the newest Wildlife Watching destination in Bolivia called the San Miguelito Jaguar Conservation Reserve. This property is the only one in the area which has kept its forests intact and as a result has seen a huge variety of wildlife move into the area.

One of 9 different Jaguars recorded on the property.

The aim of Eco Tourism here is firstly to support Ranchers whom aid conservation and also to reduce and eventually stop Jaguars from being killed in the region, sadly many Jagaurs and other predators are killed by Ranchers who are protecting there cattle. The aim of the project is to compensate the owners through tourism, this in turn teaches locals that wildlife is worth more alive than dead.

Remote canoe trips which offer excellent wildlife watching opportunities

San Miguelito Jagaur Reserve is currently home to 9 different Jaguars which have been recorded by direct sightings from tourists and workers and from Camera traps. San Miguelito Jaguar Reserve has also been studied by bioligists from WCS whos data on the reserve places San Miguelito as having the highest density of Jaguars in Bolivia.
 In addition to Jaguars there are healthy populations of Pumas, Ocelots, Tapirs, Giant Anteaters,Capybara, Anaconda and more. Birdwatching in San Miguelito is excellent and most trips you can easilly record over 70-100 different species of birds.

A Giant Anteater , recorded during a recent visit to San Miguelito Jaguar Reserve

Although Wildlife Watching is amazing here its not the only thing to do , here you can go Piranah fishing in the river, go star gazing, canoe down pristine rivers, visit local communities , horse ride and also learn and experience the life of a cattle rancher as well.

Amazing Jaguar sighting in San Miguelito during a recent canoe trip through the property.

Please see the link to a 2 year Camera trap study on the San Miguelito Jaguar Reserve, we recorded a huge variety of Wildlife including the Jaguar, Puma, Giant Anteater, Tapir and more !!

San Miguelito Jaguar Conservation Reserve Camera Trap Video

Explore the pristine forests of the San Miguelito Jaguar Reserve 

If you are interested in visiting this spectacular new Eco Tourism/Wildife watching Destination in Bolivia CONTACT US FOR MORE INFORMATION