Beni Travel Guide (Bolivia/South America)

Introduction to Beni

Nestled in the heart of Bolivia, Beni is a hidden gem that offers an incredible off-the-beaten-path adventure for travelers. The region is famous for its stunning natural beauty, and diverse wildlife, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. With a rich cultural legacy and plenty of things to see and do, Beni has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Beni

Here is a curated list of the most popular places to visit in Beni:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Casa de Cultura
San Ignacio de Moxos
Jesuit Mission of San Jose de Chiquitos
Ethnographic Museum

Natural Attractions of Beni: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Madidi National Park
Noel Kempff Mercado National Park
The Bolivian Amazon
The Yata River

Hiking/Biking Routes of Beni

For outdoor enthusiasts, Beni offers endless opportunities to explore its natural landscape. Here are a few great hiking/biking routes to explore:

The Chacobo Trail
The Masicurí Trail
The Loop Trail

Best Things to Do in Beni: Activities and Tours

From bird watching to river tours, there is no shortage of things to do in Beni. Here are some of the top activities and tours:

Birdwatching in Beni’s Biosphere Reserve
Kayaking on the Yacuma River
Spotting Anacondas in the wetlands of Beni
Sunrise and Sunset tours of Madidi National Park

Week-Long Itinerary for Beni

If you are planning a week-long trip to Beni, here is our suggested itinerary:

Day	Activity
1	Arrive in La Paz and fly to Trinidad
2	Visit the Ethnographic Museum in Trinidad and take the Chacobo Trail
3	Kayak on the Yacuma River followed by a visit to the Bolivian Amazon
4	Visit San Ignacio de Moxos, a UNESCO World Heritage site
5	Take an early morning bird watching tour followed by a Sunset tour of Madidi National Park
6	Visit Jesuit Mission of San Jose de Chiquitos
7	Depart Trinidad for La Paz

Food and Drink Scene of Beni

Beni has a rich culinary culture that features a mix of indigenous and Spanish influences. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Majao – a hearty rice dish that features beef and vegetables
Pira Caldo – a fish stew served with yucca or plantains
Farina – roasted cassava flour, often used as a side dish

Local Beverages

Api – a warm purple maize drink
Kala – a fermented drink made from sugarcane juice

Where to Stay in Beni: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

From luxury lodges to budget-friendly hostels, Beni has a range of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s needs. Here are some of the top choices:

Casa Grande Hotel
Hotel Amazonas
Hostel Casitas
Hotel Beni

What to Buy in Beni: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you are looking for unique souvenirs, here are some local products to bring home:

Handmade textiles
Artisanal soaps and creams made with natural ingredients
Traditional instruments made from local hardwoods

Local Culture and Customs of Beni

Beni is a region that is deeply connected to its indigenous roots. The locals are friendly and welcoming, but it is essential to be respectful of their customs and traditions. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Always ask for permission before taking photographs of people or their property
Women should dress modestly and avoid wearing revealing clothing
Learning a few phrases in Spanish or the local indigenous language can go a long way towards building a positive relationship with the locals

Best Time to Visit Beni

The best time to visit Beni is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During this time, the weather is sunny and warm, making it perfect for outdoor activities and adventures.

Do’s and Don’ts of Beni

Here are a few do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Beni:

Do:

Try the local cuisine
Respect local customs and traditions
Explore the natural beauty of the region

Don’t:

Provoke or mistreat wildlife
Ignore safety precautions
Dispose of trash improperly

Safety and Health

When traveling to Beni, it’s essential to take some safety and health precautions. Here are some tips to help ensure a safe and healthy trip:

Safety in Beni

Be aware of your surroundings and avoid carrying too much cash or valuables
Drink bottled or purified water
Avoid walking alone at night

Health in Beni

Get vaccinated against yellow fever and other tropical diseases
Use mosquito repellent to avoid mosquito-borne diseases such as Dengue, Chikungunya, and Zika
Pack a first aid kit that includes sunscreen, insect repellent, and anti-diarrheal medication

Getting to Beni: Transportation Options and Logistics

Beni is accessible by air and land. Here are the various transportation options:

Airports Near Beni

Jorge Wilstermann International Airport in Cochabamba is the closest major airport, roughly 228 miles away
Teniente Jorge Henrich Arauz in Trinidad - the nearest domestic airport

Bus Stations Near Beni

The bus station in La Paz is the most common starting point for buses to Trinidad
Buses run from Santa Cruz and Cochabamba to Trinidad

Other Options

Private taxis or car rentals are also an option

How to Get Around in Beni

The best way to get around Beni is by car or by public bus. Taxis and motorcycle taxis (moto-taxis) are also available, but you should only use licensed and trustworthy operators.

Where to Go Next from Beni: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you want to extend your adventure in Bolivia, here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

The Bolivian Salt Flats
La Paz and Tiwanaku
Santa Cruz and the Amboro National Park

Conclusion

From breathtaking natural beauty to a rich cultural heritage, Beni is an unmissable destination for travelers looking to explore Bolivia off the beaten path. With this comprehensive guide, you now have all the information you need to plan a memorable trip to this hidden gem in South America.

Beni Image Gallery

Cathedral of Trinidad

One of many river crossings

Iglesia de San Ignacio de Moxos

Indigenious people of Moxos

Capybara