How to get to Rurrenabaque

Rurrenabaque is a vibrant city in the north of Bolivia, located in the Beni Department, which is rightfully considered the main gateway to the Bolivian Amazon. When planning how to get to Rurrenabaque, tourists discover the starting point for breathtaking expeditions into Madidi National Park and the Pampas.

Despite its distance from the capital, this tropical haven can be reached in various ways: from a quick flight on a light aircraft to a long but picturesque journey by bus or car through the winding mountain roads of the Andes.

The fastest and most popular way to reach the tropics is by air. The city is served by Rurrenabaque (RBQ) airport, which, despite its small size, receives regular flights and ensures a stable connection with the outside world. Flying allows you to avoid the exhausting overland journey and enjoy views of the jungle from above.

Travellers most often fly here from the city of La Paz (LPB), located 236 km away, with a flight time of less than an hour. Connections via airports in other cities are also possible, for example, Trinidad (TDD) or the Peruvian Puerto Maldonado, if you are planning a complex itinerary across South America.

There is no railway station in the city of Rurrenabaque itself, and it is impossible to get here exclusively by train. The railway network in this part of Bolivia is not developed, so tourists should not rely on this mode of transport as a primary means of reaching the jungle.

The nearest major transport hubs, such as La Paz, also do not have direct rail connections to this region. Travellers are advised to combine transport methods or choose more reliable options, such as air travel or bus.

Bus services connect Rurrenabaque with the country's major cities, offering a budget-friendly option for resilient tourists. The most famous route runs from the city of La Paz: the road descends from the highlands into the tropics and is considered one of the most scenic, yet challenging due to the winding mountain roads.

Although exact schedules may change, buses usually depart in the late afternoon to cover most of the journey overnight. Travel time can vary depending on weather conditions, especially during the rainy season when unpaved roads become difficult to traverse.

Travelling by car to Rurrenabaque is a true adventure requiring confident driving skills, especially on mountainous sections. The most popular route leads from the city of La Paz: you will have to cover about 419 km, which will take approximately 9–10 hours of driving time, though it is wise to allow extra time for stops and difficult road sections.

Another convenient option is driving from the city of Trinidad, the distance from which is about 383 km (approximately 6 and a half hours of travel). For those driving from further afield, for example, from the Peruvian Puerto Maldonado, the journey will exceed 1000 km and require about 17 hours behind the wheel.

Preparing for a trip to Rurrenabaque requires special attention, as it is the gateway to the wildlife of the Amazon. To ensure your adventure is comfortable and safe, we have compiled several important recommendations.

1. Clothing and Equipment. The climate here is hot and humid. Bring light, breathable clothing with long sleeves and trousers (which is also respectful of local customs) to protect against insects, as well as a reliable raincoat and comfortable trekking shoes.
2. Transport in the City. The most popular way to get around the town is by moto-taxi. It is cheap and fast, but always negotiate the price in advance.
3. Finances. Be sure to carry a supply of cash in the local currency (Boliviano). There are ATMs in the city, but they are often out of service or run out of money, and cards are not accepted everywhere.
4. Health. It is highly recommended to have a yellow fever vaccination (the certificate may be checked at the airport). Use repellents with a high DEET content and drink only bottled water to maintain good health.
5. Connectivity and Internet. Wi-Fi in hotels and cafes can be slow and unstable. For communication, it is better to purchase a local SIM card, but be prepared for the fact that there will be no signal at all in the jungle.
6. Choice of Tours. Do not book tours to the Pampas or jungle from street touts. Contact certified agencies with offices to guarantee safety and an ethical attitude towards nature.

Following these simple rules will help you avoid logistical issues and allow you to focus entirely on the amazing nature and wildlife of the region.