NOEL KEMPFF MARKET NATIONAL PARK 3 DAYS 2 NIGHTS Book
Detailed Itinerary: Noel Kempff National Park Expedition (4 Days)
Day 1: Scenic Flight to Noel Kempff & Ahlfeld Camp
Hotel Pick-up & Airfield Transfer
At 7:30 AM, we'll transfer you from your hotel in Santa Cruz to the airfield.
Scenic Flight to Noel Kempff Park
Board a single-engine light aircraft for an approximately 3-hour flight. (Restroom use is recommended before boarding).
Aerial Tour: City & Waterfalls
Enjoy aerial views of Santa Cruz city, followed by the park's stunning waterfalls.
Views of the Chiquitania Region
Observe agricultural fields and Concepción, part of the Jesuit Missions of Chiquitania.
The Caparu Plateau
You'll begin to see this impressive geological formation.
Aerial Views: Landscapes & Waterfalls
Appreciate the rolling landscape and diverse vegetation as we approach the "Arcoiris" (Rainbow) and "Ahlfeld" waterfalls.
Flyover of the Waterfalls
We'll fly over Arcoiris Falls for a better view, then head towards Ahlfeld Falls.
Landing at Flor De Oro Airstrip
Arrival at the park's airstrip.
Transfer to Ahlfeld Camp
After a short walk, we'll head to the campsite.
Boat Trip on the Iténez River
Chance to see the Victoria Regia floating water lily (seasonal).
Exploring the Pauserna River
A smaller river offering opportunities to spot a wide variety of birds and mammals.
Arrival & Setup at Ahlfeld Camp
We'll settle into cabins or tents at our base sub-camp.
Optional Night Walk
Opportunity for a short walk to try and spot more wildlife.
Dinner & Lodging
At Ahlfeld Camp, in beds or tents.
Day 2: Trek to Ahlfeld & Arcoiris Waterfalls
Hike to the Waterfalls
After breakfast, we'll set off on a trail parallel to the Pauserna River towards the top of Ahlfeld Falls and Arcoiris Falls.
Breathtaking Views from Above
The total hike is about 6 hours. The view from the top of the waterfalls is stunning.
Towards Arcoiris Waterfall
We'll continue uphill to get a closer look at this natural wonder.
Trail Through Diverse Forests
Follow a trail that winds through different types of forests, ascending gently.
Arcoiris Waterfalls Viewpoint
We'll walk about 30 more minutes across the plateau to reach a point with a magnificent view.
Picnic Lunch
We'll stop for refreshments and lunch snacks.
Return, Rest & Dinner
After admiring the waterfall, we'll return to Ahlfeld Camp for rest and dinner.
Day 3: Ahlfeld Falls from Below & River Trip
Hike to the Base of Ahlfeld Falls
After breakfast, we'll cross the Pauserna River to start a short walk on a trail parallel to the river.
Ahlfeld's Natural Pool
This approximately 30-minute walk will take you to a natural pool formed by the falls.
Spectacular View from Below
Here you'll have a special and spectacular view of these famous waterfalls, with opportunities to take photos from different angles.
Return to Camp, Lunch & Rest
Return to Ahlfeld Camp for lunch and some rest.
Boat Trip on the Pauserna River
In the afternoon, an optional boat trip to spot caimans and giant river otters.
Dinner & Overnight Stay
At Ahlfeld Camp.
Day 4: Farewell to Noel Kempff & Return to Santa Cruz
Return Flight to Santa Cruz
After breakfast, we'll head to the Flor de Oro airstrip for our return flight.
Arrival in Santa Cruz & Transfer
Arrival in Santa Cruz and transfer to your hotel.
Important Note
The program's schedules and activities are flexible and may be modified according to the visitor's interests and time availability.
Includes
- Private plane transportation
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
- Guide (Spanish-speaking)
- Meals
- Hikes
- Motorboat transportation to get closer to Ahlfeld waterfall
- Bottled water
Does Not Include
- Snacks
- Others not mentioned
Recommendations
- Camping gear.
Make sure to bring everything you need to camp comfortably. - Clothing.
Appropriate clothing for the weather and planned activities; consider layers. - Sun protection.
Essential to protect your skin from UV radiation (cream, hat, glasses). - Insect repellent.
Especially important in natural areas to avoid bites. - Hydration.
Bring enough water or means to purify it and stay hydrated. - Personal items.
Don't forget your toiletries, medications, and other essential personal items. - Observation equipment.
Binoculars, field guides, or a notebook to record your observations. - Lighting.
Headlamp or handheld flashlight with spare batteries for the night. - Backpack.
A comfortable and appropriately sized backpack to carry your gear. - Extra money.
For unforeseen events, additional purchases, or souvenirs.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why is Noel Kempff Park important?
It has tremendous biological value due to its size, the number of unique animals and plants it harbors, and its role as a transition zone and corridor between the Chiquitano dry forest and the Amazonian part. - How do you get to the park from Santa Cruz?
You arrive by a small single-engine plane from an airfield in Santa Cruz, with a flight of approximately 3 hours to Flor de Oro. This flight also offers panoramic views of the region and the waterfalls. - Can waterfalls be seen from the plane?
Yes, during the scenic flight, the impressive 'Arcoiris' and 'Ahlfeld' waterfalls can be seen from the air. The plane will fly along one side for a better view and to facilitate taking photographs. - How long do the hikes last?
The main hike to explore the Ahlfeld and Arcoiris waterfalls lasts approximately 6 hours. There are also short night walks to observe wildlife and a 30-minute walk to the Ahlfeld natural pool. - What happens if weather conditions are adverse?
Adverse weather conditions can modify the original program, as visitor safety and enjoyment are a priority. - Is there flexibility in the itinerary?
Yes, the program's schedules and activities are flexible and can be modified according to the visitor's interest and time availability. - What animals can be observed in Noel Kempff Park?
The park is known for harboring a large number of large animals. During boat trips on the Pauserna River, it is possible to observe caimans and river otters. Day and night walks also offer the opportunity to spot a wide variety of birds and different mammals.