Pando Travel Guide

Plan your visit to Pando with our comprehensive travel guide, including top attractions, hiking routes, accommodation options, local culture, safety tips, and more.


Introduction to Pando

Tucked away in the northernmost part of Bolivia, lies the hidden gem of Pando. Known for its vast stretches of Amazonian rainforest, pristine rivers, and abundant wildlife, this region offers an off-the-beaten-path experience that’s hard to come by in South America. Whether you’re an adventurous traveler looking for outdoor activities or a cultural enthusiast seeking to learn about the indigenous traditions, Pando has something to offer for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Pando

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Ethnographic Museum in Cobija
  • Archaeological Museum in Filadelfia
  • Santa Rosa de Yacuma Jesuit Mission
  • La Casa de la Cultura in Cobija

Natural Attractions of Pando: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Madidi National Park
  • Amazon River Basin
  • Communidad San Jose Reserve
  • Natural Hot Springs in San Buena Ventura

Hiking/Biking Routes of Pando

  • Cerro Rico
  • Beni River
  • Huayna Potosi
  • Amboro National Park

Best Things to Do in Pando: Activities and Tours

  • Wildlife Safari
  • River Rafting
  • Jungle Trekking
  • Birdwatching tour

Week-Long Itinerary for Pando

Day Itinerary
1 Arrival in Cobija, visit the Ethnographic Museum and settle in the hotel
2 Visit Santa Rosa de Yacuma Jesuit Mission and head to the Jungle Trekking
3 Hiking to Cerro Rico and exploring its surrounding area
4 Visiting the natural hot springs in San Buena Ventura
5 Going river-rafting along the Beni River
6 Sightseeing at La Casa de la Cultura and Archaeological Museum in Filadelfia
7 Spend the day exploring Madidi National Park

Food and Drink Scene of Pando

Must-Try Dishes

  • Majao: mixture of rice and banana, cooked in coconut milk
  • Patarashca: grilled fish cooked in plantain leaves
  • Locro de Gallina: chicken soup served with potatoes and corn

Local Beverages

  • Cacao Tea: tea made from the bark of cacao plant
  • Guarapo: sugarcane juice
  • Chuflay: cocktail made from ginger ale and Singani

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

  • Hotel Amazonas
  • Hostel Kapibara
  • Hotel El Capitan
  • Hostal El Gato

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

  • Handmade ceramics
  • Alpaca wool products
  • Handwoven blankets and scarves
  • Coffee from local farms

Local Culture and Customs of Pando

Pando has a rich cultural heritage, influenced by the native tribes living in the region. The majority of the population speaks Spanish and Aymara. However, there are still tribes that practice their rituals and speak their languages. Respect for their traditions is important as Pando is a region rich in diversity and their cultural heritage is unique.

Best Time to Visit Pando

The dry season from May to September is the best time to visit Pando. The weather is milder, and the chances of rain are significantly lower compared to the rainy season.

Do’s and Don’ts of Pando

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and traditions
  • Take precautions against mosquito bites and carry mosquito repellents
  • Expect limited internet connectivity

Don’t:

  • Purchase any wildlife products
  • Litter or damage any natural or cultural heritage sites
  • Ignore the safety guidelines for outdoor activities

Safety and Health

Safety in Pando

While Pando is generally a safe place to visit, it’s essential to take necessary precautions to stay safe during outdoor activities. Always adhere to safety guidelines and use a reputable tour operator when going on adventures. Additionally, take care of your belongings in crowded places and avoid flashing expensive items.

Health in Pando

It’s advisable to take necessary precautions against mosquito bites as the region is endemic to mosquito-borne diseases such as malaria and dengue fever. Consult your doctor in advance and pack essential medications and first aid kits.

Getting to Pando: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Pando

  • Cobija Airport in Cobija

Bus Stations Near Pando

  • Terminal de Buses in Cobija

Other Options

  • River Boats from the neighboring region
  • Private Car Rentals

How to Get Around in Pando

A combination of public transport and private cars are the best ways to get around Pando. Local buses and taxis are available in towns and cities, but private cars are the best option for exploring the region’s attractions.

Where to Go Next from Pando: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Rurrenabaque, a town renowned for its rainforest tours
  • La Paz, Bolivia’s capital city
  • Cuzco, Peru’s historic city
  • Titicaca Lake, the highest navigable lake in the world

Conclusion

Pando is a hidden gem, offering a unique blend of adventure and culture. The region’s stunning natural landscapes, rich history, and vibrant indigenous culture provide travelers with an unforgettable experience. With this comprehensive travel guide, planning your visit to Pando is now easy, and you’re sure to have a remarkable experience in this territory.