ES
EN Important Info
- Duration:
- 4 Days / 3 Nights
- Difficulty:
- Moderate to Challenging. Expect long hikes, variable weather, rustic lodging, and remote conditions.
Detailed Itinerary – Noel Kempff Park Expedition (4 Days)
Hotel Pick-up
The tour begins with pick-up from your hotel in Santa Cruz.
Transfer to Airfield
Head to the airport to board a single-engine light aircraft.
Flight to PNNK
A flight of approximately 3 hours to the north side of Noel Kempff National Park begins. It is recommended to use the restroom before boarding.
Aerial Views & Concepción
Appreciate the city from above and the agricultural devastation, followed by a flyover of Concepción, part of the Jesuit Missions.
Caparú Plateau & Waterfalls
Observe the impressive Caparú plateau and the "Arcoíris" and "Ahlfeld" waterfalls from the air.
Landing in Flor de Oro
Landed at the Flor de Oro airfield in PNNK and, after a short walk, you will head to the Ahlfeld camp.
Boat Navigation
Journey on the Iténez River (approx. 2h) and the Pauserna River, with the chance to see varied flora and fauna.
Arrival at Ahlfeld Camp
Settle into cabins or camping. This will be the base sub-camp.
Dinner & Optional Night Walk
Enjoy dinner at the camp, with the possibility of a short night walk.
Accommodation
Overnight at Ahlfeld camp (in beds or tents).
Breakfast
Have breakfast at the camp to start the day of trekking.
Trek to Ahlfeld & Arcoíris Waterfalls (Upper Part)
You will take a path parallel to the Pauserna River, ascending to the upper part of the Ahlfeld waterfall and then towards the Arcoíris Waterfall, crossing different types of forests.
Magnificent Views & Lunch
You will walk approximately 30 more minutes on the plateau until you reach a point with a magnificent view of the Arcoíris Falls. Here you will stop for a drink and some snacks for lunch.
Return to Camp
Once you have finished appreciating the waterfall and its surroundings, you will return to the Ahlfeld campsite.
Dinner and Accommodation
A night of rest at the Ahlfeld camp.
Breakfast at the camp
Energy for a day of exploration from a new perspective.
Exploration of the Bottom of Ahlfeld Waterfall
Cross the Pauserna River for a short 30-minute walk to a natural pool formed by the falls. You will have a special and spectacular view from the bottom of these famous waterfalls.
Return to Flor de Oro Camp
The return trip is somewhat shorter than the original journey. You will return to Flor de Oro Camp.
Dinner and Accommodation
Dinner and accommodation in Flor de Oro.
Morning Activities
Before breakfast, you will take a walk on one of the nearby trails. If conditions permit, you can take an early boat ride to visit the first bay near Flor de Oro.
Return to Santa Cruz
Start of the return trip to Santa Cruz.
Arrival and Transfer to Hotel
Someone from the company will meet you to take you to your hotel or home in Santa Cruz.
End of Tour
Conclusion of an unforgettable expedition.
Important Traveler's Note
This itinerary is a guide and can be modified according to your interests, time availability, and weather conditions. This is an adventure expedition where mishaps can occur, so a great exploratory and adventurous spirit is required. Be prepared to protect yourself from the sun and rain.
Remember the golden rule of the park: Nothing can be taken from it (plants, seeds, etc.). "Take only your photographs and leave only your footprints."
Included
- Private small plane transport (round trip Santa Cruz – Flor de Oro)
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in Santa Cruz
- Guide service (Spanish-speaking, based on quoted price)
- Meals
- Guided hikes along the trails
- River boat transport to get closer to Ahlfeld waterfall
- Bottled water
- Accommodation
Not Included
- Snacks (bring your own)
- Guide (if not specified in the selected package)
- Other expenses not mentioned in the program
Recommendations
- Personal documentation. Bring your ID or passport, especially if visiting national parks or remote areas.
- Sun protection. Include sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to avoid UV damage during outdoor activities.
- Trekking shoes. Comfortable, sturdy shoes with good grip are essential for hiking uneven or rocky trails.
- Insect repellent. Essential for nature trips to protect against mosquitoes and other bugs.
- Large backpack. Recommended if the tour includes long hikes or overnight stays—carry all essentials with comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What kind of transportation is used to reach the park?
The main transport is a private small aircraft (light plane) for both arrival and return. Inside the park, motorized canoes are used to approach the waterfalls, and some sections involve hiking. - Is the accommodation in hotels or camping?
The note saying "visitors must bring their own camping gear" strongly suggests that accommodation is in tents or basic shelters. Bringing personal camping equipment is advised. Please confirm this detail with us. - How demanding is the trekking on this tour?
This is a moderately to highly challenging tour. Some hikes can be long, including one lasting about 6 hours. Good physical condition is required. - Is there a chance to see large animals like jaguars?
The park is home to many large mammals. The tour includes birdwatching, mammal observation, and a night safari. Jaguar sightings are rare and not guaranteed, but biodiversity in general is a highlight of the experience. - Is it safe to fly in small aircraft?
Small single-engine planes are a common way to reach remote areas in Bolivia. Tourism agencies typically work with aviation operators that comply with safety regulations and national standards.