What kind of accommodations can I expect?

El Prado's amenities provide its guests a rustic, yet comfortable rain forest experience. Our two-bedroom guest house accommodates up to six visitors. Separate bedrooms and a bathroom with sink and flushing toilet provide guests a measure of privacy and the common area serves as a good place to do one's research during evening hours. Although we are miles off the electrical grid, our solar system provides sufficient lighting for several hours each night. Our kitchen includes a propane-operated range and refrigerator. For those wanting to sleep under the stars designated camp sites are available in our cleared area. (The absence of light pollution allows for some of the best star gazing anywhere on earth!)

How's the food?

When in season, sweet grapefruit, oranges, and mangos among other tropical fruits can be had from our many fruit trees. Basic provisions can be obtained from several small stores in two nearby villages to supplement the foods we have available on the property. A typical El Prado meal may include a variety of seasoned fish, beans and rice, plantains, and citrus fruit.

When should one visit El Prado?

Vast expanses of the Beni Savannas are inundated from November through May severly limiting overland travel. However, air travel between villages and river travel are options during the high water season. Sport fishing is best during the drought season which begins in earnest in July and generally lasts until November. Water levels are at their lowest during this time providing better access to peacock bass and other sport fish species. Birding is great any time of year. Migratory birds inhabit the savannas in greater numbers before floodwaters have completely receded. Reptiles, amphibians, and a greater variety of invertebrates including an amazingly diverse collection of butterflies are best observed before the drought season arrives. Freshwater dolphins are frequently sighted throughout the year.
Biting insects pose little problem during drought months, but can become a nuisance during the Beni's high water season. Weather is coolest during July, August, and September with frequent weather fronts that can drop daytime temps to the 70's F. and nighttime temps to the 50's F. It seldom rains from June through October.

Could I get lost?

El Prado has miles of walking trails that offer access to primary growth, secondary growth, and riparian forests. Our private lake and forested cerro (hill) can also be accessed via a network of well-maintained trails. Excursions into the forest on horseback may be available depending on what livestock are present at El Prado at any point in time. Our motorized canoe provides transportation for up to six adults with gear to El Prado from the nearest village. It is very easy to become disoriented under the rain forest canopy and cross-country travel through forested areas is not recommended without an experienced guide.

What else can I do while at El Prado?

Guided river excursions from El Prado to experience the nature of the region's vast savannas and many lakes can be arranged with your accompanying LLC member. Daily trips to sport fish, swim with freshwater dolphins and photograph the region's astounding diversity of bird species and other wildlife are just some of the activities we offer in addition to being a base of operations for scientific and conservation research. The local Itonama culture can be experienced down river in the village of Bella Vista.

What should I bring?

The following list of items is intended to make your stay more comfortable, but also includes some necessities that are indispensable for remote travel. Use your judgement in determining how much you like to "rough it". For advice on any specialized gear you may need that is more specific to your interests consult one of our LLC members.

• Spanish phrase book
• Travel guide- the latest edition of Lonely Planet Bolivia is recommended.
• Multi-tool such as a Leatherman
• Insect repellant-Many of the citronella-based products are effective, but one containing DEET may be necessary during the rainy season.
• LED headlamp
• Compass
• Sun block
• Sun Glasses
• Small day pack for excursions
• In-filter water purifying system such as the Katadyn Exstream system
• Whistle
• Basic first aid kit
• Any prescribed medicines
• Antihistamine for allergies to insect stings
• Prescribed Anti-malarial prophylaxis (Note: Malaria is present but not prevalent in the region.)
• Antidiarrheal-such as Immodium
• Digital camera with extra memory and batteries
• Water resistant sandals (Rubber boots in common sizes can be purchased in nearby villages)
• Binoculars
• Secure pouch or other means of guarding your passport, visa, airline ticket and money
• Light weight rain jacket
• Warm fleece pull-over for cool evenings
• Wide-brimmed hat with ear and neck sun protection
• Energy bars and other nutritious snacks
• List of contacts
• A good novel

Consult your travel guide for information on Bolivia's entry and exit requirements, recommended and required
vaccinations, and current political and social climate.

Is the Bolivian Amazon a dangerous place?

Emphatically no! Man-eating anacondas and rivers boiling with deadly piranhas are only the stuff of legend. By taking a few basic precautions you will minimize your exposure to any hazards or dangers. This being said, the following are a few of the things one should consider to help ensure a safe enjoyable experience:

• When wading, especially over sand bars, wear protective sandals and shuffle your feet to avoid stepping on a stingray.
• Some insects, especially ants, wasps, and hornets can be aggressive. Most pretty caterpillars have stinging hairs. Don't mess with them!
• When catching a piranha, don't stick your finger in its mouth to check its bite strength. You're likely get it bitten off!
• If you see a large anaconda or caiman enjoy it from a respectful distance. Don't play Tarzan and try to catch it!
• Bring and sleep under a mosquito net.
• Village dogs can carry rabies. Don't feed or pet them. Same goes for bats!
• A cross-country or moonlit hike is a great way to get lost.
• Swim with care, especially during high water and beware of strong currents and submerged trees.
• Heat stroke can happen. Stay hydrated.
• Snakes, venomous or otherwise, are seldom encountered. However, if you happen upon one and you are not an expert don't touch it.
• Don't eat unfamiliar wild plants or fruits no matter how yummy they look.
• If the mud looks really deep, it probably is...
• Any cornered critter will bite! Always show respect.

Is there a fee to visit El Prado?

Yes, there is a minor fee to cover basic expenses.  Please contact your travel group leader for more information.