Noel Kempff Mercado National Park
Location: Santa Cruz, Bolivia
Year of Inscription: 2000
Criteria:(ix)to be outstanding examples representing significant on-going ecological and biological processes in the evolution and development of terrestrial, fresh water, coastal and marine ecosystems and communities of plants and animals;
(x)to contain the most important and significant natural habitats for in-situ conservation of biological diversity, including those containing threatened species of outstanding universal value from the point of view of science or conservation.
Overview: Noel Kempff Mercado National Park is a vast and remote protected area located in northeastern Bolivia. It is renowned for its exceptional biodiversity, stunning landscapes, and unique ecosystems. The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including jaguars, giant river otters, tapirs, and over 600 bird species. It also encompasses diverse habitats such as tropical rainforests, savannas, and unique sandstone formations.
Prominent Features:
History: The area of the park holds significant historical and cultural value. It was once inhabited by indigenous communities, including the Chiquitano and Ayoreo peoples, who left traces of their presence through rock art and archaeological sites. European explorers and missionaries also ventured into this region during the colonial period, leaving their marks on the landscape.
The park was established in 1979 and covers an area of over 1.5 million hectares, making it one of the largest national parks in Bolivia.
Family-Friendly Activities:
Fun Fact: Noel Kempff Mercado National Park is named after the late Bolivian biologist and conservationist, Noel Kempff Mercado, who played a vital role in advocating for the protection of the park and its unique ecosystems.
Entry Fees: Entry is free however all visitors must register at the park rangers office prior to entering the park.
The average cost for a good quality 4 day / 3 night tour is around $700 US per person and typically includes the following:
How to Reach It:
By Air: Access to Noel Kempff Mercado National Park is primarily by air and then boat or land transportation. The park's main gateway is the city of Santa Cruz de la Sierra, which has an international airport. From Santa Cruz, visitors can arrange domestic flights to the town of Puerto Suarez, located near the park's entrance. From there, transportation options include boat rides on the Iténez River or overland journeys to reach the park's ranger stations.
The park itself also has landing strips in the areas of Los Fierros, Flor de Oro, Mangabalito, Las Gamas, and Huanchaca.
By Land: Please note that roads are only accessible during the dry season, and a 4WD vehicle is required, which can be rented at an approximate cost of $100 US per day.
Where to Stay: Accommodation options within Noel Kempff Mercado National Park are limited, and visitors are required to stay in designated ranger stations or campsites. These facilities provide basic amenities and camping areas surrounded by the park's natural beauty. It's essential to make reservations in advance and check the availability and specific requirements for staying within the park. Additionally, there are accommodations available in nearby towns such as Puerto Suarez or San Ignacio de Velasco, which can serve as base points for visiting the park.
Next Stop: Jesuit Missions of the Chiquitos
Year of Inscription: 2000
Criteria:(ix)to be outstanding examples representing significant on-going ecological and biological processes in the evolution and development of terrestrial, fresh water, coastal and marine ecosystems and communities of plants and animals;
(x)to contain the most important and significant natural habitats for in-situ conservation of biological diversity, including those containing threatened species of outstanding universal value from the point of view of science or conservation.
Overview: Noel Kempff Mercado National Park is a vast and remote protected area located in northeastern Bolivia. It is renowned for its exceptional biodiversity, stunning landscapes, and unique ecosystems. The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including jaguars, giant river otters, tapirs, and over 600 bird species. It also encompasses diverse habitats such as tropical rainforests, savannas, and unique sandstone formations.
Prominent Features:
- The "Lost World" Plateau: This plateau is a remarkable geological formation with stunning flat-topped mountains and unique sandstone formations.
- Angel Falls: The park is home to Angel Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in the world, with a breathtaking drop of over 979 meters (3,212 feet).
- Rivers and Waterways: Numerous rivers, including the Iténez, Paragua, and Baures rivers, flow through the park, offering opportunities for boating, kayaking, and wildlife spotting.
- Biodiversity: The park boasts a rich and diverse array of plant and animal species, making it an important area for scientific research and conservation efforts.
History: The area of the park holds significant historical and cultural value. It was once inhabited by indigenous communities, including the Chiquitano and Ayoreo peoples, who left traces of their presence through rock art and archaeological sites. European explorers and missionaries also ventured into this region during the colonial period, leaving their marks on the landscape.
The park was established in 1979 and covers an area of over 1.5 million hectares, making it one of the largest national parks in Bolivia.
Family-Friendly Activities:
- Nature Walks and Hiking: Noel Kempff Mercado National Park offers a variety of trails and paths that are suitable for families to explore. Take a leisurely walk through the park's lush forests, keeping an eye out for wildlife such as monkeys, colorful birds, and even jaguars. The park's diverse ecosystems provide ample opportunities for nature enthusiasts of all ages to appreciate its beauty.
- Boat Tours: Embark on a boat tour along the park's rivers and lakes, such as the Río Iténez or the Laguna Suarez. These tours allow you to admire the stunning landscapes, spot aquatic wildlife, and learn about the park's unique ecosystems from knowledgeable guides. It's an excellent way for the whole family to experience the park's waterways.
- Birdwatching: Noel Kempff Mercado National Park is a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 600 species of birds recorded in the area. Grab your binoculars and explore the park's diverse habitats, including wetlands, forests, and savannahs, to spot colorful toucans, macaws, and many other fascinating bird species.
- Cultural Experiences: Engage with the local indigenous communities and learn about their traditions and way of life. Some communities offer cultural activities, such as traditional dances, handicraft demonstrations, and storytelling sessions. These interactions provide an opportunity for families to gain a deeper appreciation for the region's rich cultural heritage.
- Camping: Spend a night under the stars by camping in designated areas within the park. Enjoy the tranquility of the natural surroundings, share stories around a campfire, and experience the sounds of the forest at night. Camping in Noel Kempff Mercado National Park is a memorable adventure for families seeking a closer connection to nature.
Fun Fact: Noel Kempff Mercado National Park is named after the late Bolivian biologist and conservationist, Noel Kempff Mercado, who played a vital role in advocating for the protection of the park and its unique ecosystems.
Entry Fees: Entry is free however all visitors must register at the park rangers office prior to entering the park.
The average cost for a good quality 4 day / 3 night tour is around $700 US per person and typically includes the following:
- Local guide
- Accommodation
- Meals and drinks
- Guided tours and activities
- Night Safaris
- Return Private Transportation by air from Santa Cruz
How to Reach It:
By Air: Access to Noel Kempff Mercado National Park is primarily by air and then boat or land transportation. The park's main gateway is the city of Santa Cruz de la Sierra, which has an international airport. From Santa Cruz, visitors can arrange domestic flights to the town of Puerto Suarez, located near the park's entrance. From there, transportation options include boat rides on the Iténez River or overland journeys to reach the park's ranger stations.
The park itself also has landing strips in the areas of Los Fierros, Flor de Oro, Mangabalito, Las Gamas, and Huanchaca.
By Land: Please note that roads are only accessible during the dry season, and a 4WD vehicle is required, which can be rented at an approximate cost of $100 US per day.
- North Side: The Trans Bolivia bus company operates a weekly bus from Santa Cruz to the village of Remanso, located at the northwest corner of the park. From Remanso, it takes five to nine hours by boat along the Rio Iténez to Flor de Oro. In Flor de Oro, there is a tourist camp that serves as a base for excursions to the Feérico Ahlfeld and Arco Iris waterfalls. Alternatively, you can take a night bus from Santa Cruz to San Ignacio and arrange transport to and from the park. It's recommended to visit the Noel Kempff Mercado National Park office in San Ignacio for advice on the best access routes. Trips to the north side typically take a minimum of four days.
- South Side: Noel Kempff Mercado National Park is a 700-kilometer drive from Santa Cruz. Along the way, you'll pass through the Jesuit Mission towns of San Javier and Concepción, where you can spend the night. From there, it's an off-road drive of about 200 kilometers to the small village of La Florida, which borders the park. If traveling by public transport, you can take a bus from Santa Cruz bound for Piso Firme or Remanso and get off at Las Lajas. From Las Lajas, you'll need to hitch a lift with logging trucks passing by or take a bicycle with you on the bus from Santa Cruz and ride the remaining distance to La Florida. From La Florida, there is a 35-kilometer track into the park where you'll find the camping grounds of Los Fierros. Alternatively, you can take a night bus from Santa Cruz to San Ignacio and arrange transport to and from the park. It's advisable to visit the Noel Kempff Mercado National Park office in San Ignacio to inquire about available 4WD vehicles for hire in nearby La Florida. To return to Santa Cruz, you'll need to take the once-a-week bus from La Lajas, which operates on Sundays. Trips to the south side typically take a minimum of seven days.
Where to Stay: Accommodation options within Noel Kempff Mercado National Park are limited, and visitors are required to stay in designated ranger stations or campsites. These facilities provide basic amenities and camping areas surrounded by the park's natural beauty. It's essential to make reservations in advance and check the availability and specific requirements for staying within the park. Additionally, there are accommodations available in nearby towns such as Puerto Suarez or San Ignacio de Velasco, which can serve as base points for visiting the park.
Next Stop: Jesuit Missions of the Chiquitos