Do I need a visa to visit El Beni?

Most tourists can enter Bolivia visa-free for up to 90 days, but check requirements based on your nationality. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required.

Is El Beni safe for solo travelers?

Generally yes in main towns and on organized tours, but solo travel in remote jungle areas requires careful planning and local guides.

What is the main airport for El Beni?

Jorge Henrich Arauz Airport (TDD) in Trinidad, with regular flights from La Paz.

Can I see pink river dolphins in El Beni?

Yes, they are commonly spotted on river tours, especially in the Mamoré and Ibare river areas near Trinidad.

What currency is used and are ATMs available?

Bolivian Boliviano (BOB). ATMs are available in Trinidad but scarce in rural areas—carry sufficient cash.

Most nationalities get a free tourist stamp on arrival for up to 30 days; check with Bolivian consulate.

Is it safe to drink tap water?

No, drink bottled or purified water only.

What currency is used?

Bolivian boliviano (BOB). US dollars are accepted in some hotels but not widely.

Can I use credit cards?

Only in larger hotels and restaurants in Trinidad; carry cash for rural areas.

What language is spoken?

Spanish is official; many indigenous languages like Moxo are spoken. English is rare.

Do I need vaccinations?

Yellow fever, typhoid, hepatitis A, and tetanus are recommended. Malaria prophylaxis advised.

What is the best way to see wildlife?

Boat tours on the Mamoré River or pampas safaris from Trinidad.

Limited to Trinidad and larger towns; bring enough cash for remote areas.

Is it safe to travel alone?

Yes, but join group tours for remote excursions. Solo women should be cautious at night.

Insect repellent, sunscreen, rain gear, lightweight long clothing, and a flashlight.

Can I visit the Jesuit missions?

Yes, missions like San Ignacio de Moxos are accessible; check local guides.

How do I get to El Beni?

Fly from La Paz to Trinidad (1 hour) or take a long bus ride (12+ hours).

El Beni

ProvinceBolivia, South America

El Beni is a STATE in Bolivia, South America.

El Beni is Bolivia's Amazonian heartland, a vast tropical province where rivers weave through endless savannas and dense rainforests. This is the land of the Llanos de Moxos, one of the world's largest wetlands and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, offering unparalleled wildlife watching. Travelers come for the incredible biodiversity—spot pink river dolphins, capybaras, caimans, and hundreds of bird species on boat trips along the Mamoré and Beni rivers. The provincial capital, Trinidad, serves as a gateway to remote eco-lodges and indigenous communities. El Beni is also the cradle of Bolivia's cattle-ranching culture, with traditional haciendas offering a glimpse into the cowboy-like 'vaquero' lifestyle. Don't miss the mysterious pre-Columbian earth mounds known as 'lomas,' archaeological remnants of ancient Amazonian civilizations. For adventurous souls, this is the real Amazon—less touristy than neighboring countries, rich in indigenous cultures like the Moxeño, and home to vibrant festivals like the Fiesta del Santo Patrono de Trinidad. It's a destination for those seeking authentic wilderness, cultural immersion, and river-based exploration.

Best time to visit El Beni

May to October (dry season) is ideal. Rivers are navigable, wildlife congregates around water sources, roads are passable, and mosquitoes are less prevalent. June-August sees cooler temperatures. Avoid November to April (rainy season) when severe flooding can isolate communities and make overland travel difficult. Festivals like Trinidad's Carnival (Feb/Mar) and the Fiesta de la Virgen del Carmen (July 16) offer vibrant cultural experiences but expect crowds.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather: Hot and dry 25-33°C

Travel notes

Crowds: Medium
Prices: Medium

End of dry season; rivers low.

Know before you go

Getting there

TDD

Teniente Jorge Henrich Arauz Airport (Trinidad)

Domestic

5 km away

RIB

Riberalta Airport

Domestic

2 km away

GYA

Guayaramerín Airport

Domestic

3 km away

Getting around

"River travel is key—use public 'lanchas' (passenger boats) or charter boats for remote areas. In Trinidad, taxis and moto-taxis are common; negotiate fares in advance. Intercity buses connect major towns but schedules are irregular. Domestic flights from La Paz to Trinidad (Jorge Henrich Arauz Airport) are the quickest entry. Car rentals are available but 4x4 is essential for rural roads. No major ride-sharing apps operate; use local taxi services. For jungle tours, hire guides through reputable agencies in Trinidad. Bicycles can be rented for local exploration."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

10 Mbps

Mobile data

Fair

WiFi

Available in Trinidad and larger towns, slow in rural areas

Local SIM

Local SIM from Entel or Tigo available in Trinidad for $3-5

Calling code

+591

Stay safe

Overall

7/10

Petty crime exists; wildlife and road conditions are the main hazards.

Night safety

6/10

Petty crime exists; wildlife and road conditions are the main hazards.

Transport

7/10

Scam risk

5/10

"Exercise normal precautions in Trinidad and tourist areas. Avoid remote areas near borders due to low-level illicit activity. Petty theft can occur in markets and bus stations—keep valuables secure. Use registered taxis, especially at night. Road travel can be hazardous during rainy season (Nov-Apr) due to flooding. Be cautious on river trips; use reputable operators with safety equipment. Political protests can occasionally disrupt travel—monitor local news. Wildlife encounters require respect; maintain distance from animals like caimans and snakes. In rural communities, seek permission before taking photos."

Police

110

Ambulance

118

Fire

119

Tourist Police

800-140-074

Entry and health

Health information

"Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory and often checked upon entry; malaria prophylaxis is highly recommended for rural and jungle areas. Dengue and other mosquito-borne illnesses are present—use DEET repellent and mosquito nets. Medical facilities are limited outside Trinidad; Hospital 'San Francisco de Asís' in Trinidad is the main public hospital. Travel health insurance with evacuation coverage is essential. Drink only bottled or purified water. Be cautious with food hygiene, especially with street food. Carry a comprehensive travel medical kit including antidiarrheals, rehydration salts, and any personal medications."

Culture

Local customs

"Greet people with a handshake or a verbal greeting. Dress modestly, especially in rural and indigenous communities. The pace of life is slow—patience is valued. Tipping is not widespread but appreciated in restaurants (5-10%) and for guides. Respect indigenous traditions; always ask before entering communities or taking photographs. Cattle ranching culture is prominent—showing interest in local 'vaquero' traditions is welcomed. Social interactions often involve sharing mate (herbal tea) or local food. Avoid discussing sensitive political topics unless initiated by locals."

SpanishIndigenous languages (Moxo, others)

Costs and practicals

Currency

Bolivian Boliviano (BOB) · Bs

Cost level

Budget

Meals

$3-5 | a cheap local meal costs around $3-5

Hotels

$20-50 | budget hotels range $20-50/night

Local transport

$1-2 | local bus ride ~$1-2

Cost notes

El Beni is one of Bolivia's most affordable regions; tours are the main expense.

Timezone

America/La_Paz -04:00 (GMT)

More facts

Population

480,000

Area

213,564 km²

Government

Departmental government (Departamento), subdivided into provinces and municipalities

ISO code

BO-B

Type

Province

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Universidad de Aquino Bolivia, UDABOL, Ciudad Trinidad, Kimsantin llaqta, La Santisima Trinidad, TDD, Trinidad, Trinidadas, te li ni da, teulinidadeu, tirinidadi, torinida, trinidada, trynydad, trynydd, Тринидад, Тринідад, טרינידד, ترينيداد, ترینیداد, ٹرینیڈاڈ، بولیویا, ټrynyډaډ, ټرينيډاډ, ट्रिनिडाड, ট্রিনিডাড, ਟ੍ਰਿਨਿਡਾਡ, ტრინიდადი, ትሪኒዳድ, トリニダ, 特立尼达, 트리니다드

Capital CityMajor HubNatureWildlifeAdventureOff the Beaten PathRiver CruisesIndigenous Culture