Why the Quiquibey River Stands Out
The Quiquibey River cuts through the humid forests of northern La Paz Department, forming part of the Beni River basin inside the Pilón Lajas Biosphere Reserve. Clear waters, sandy beaches, and dense canopy make it ideal for multi-day canoe or raft trips that combine wildlife viewing with visits to Tacana villages. Unlike busier Amazon routes farther east, the Quiquibey remains lightly traveled, offering quiet encounters with howler monkeys, macaws, and river otters.
Reaching the River
Most travelers fly into Rurrenabaque, then drive or boat two to four hours north to the community of Asunción del Quiquibey. From there, local guides launch dugout canoes or small motorized launches. Four-wheel-drive vehicles are required during the rainy season when tracks turn to mud. Independent travel is difficult; almost all visits are arranged through community-based tourism operators in Rurrenabaque or Apolo.
Best Time to Go
The dry season from May through October brings lower water levels, exposed beaches for camping, and easier navigation. December to March sees high water that can flood trails and complicate landings, though it offers excellent birding as fish move into flooded forest. Temperatures stay warm year-round, but afternoon thunderstorms are common even in the dry months.
Activities on the Water
Two- to five-day floats let visitors paddle quiet stretches, fish for piranha or surubí catfish, and hike short trails to waterfalls or clay licks frequented by parrots. Community homestays provide meals of rice, plantains, and grilled fish while offering insight into Tacana forest management and crafts. Night walks reveal caimans and nocturnal birds along the banks.
Wildlife Highlights
- Spider and capuchin monkeys in the canopy
- Blue-and-yellow and scarlet macaws at river bends
- Giant river otters in deeper pools
- Occasional jaguar tracks on sandy beaches
Nearby Places Worth Adding
Combine a Quiquibey trip with a visit to Madidi National Park to the west or the Tuichi River confluence to the east. From Rurrenabaque, travelers can also reach the serpentine Beni River or the highland town of Apolo, gateway to the Apolobamba range. Those with extra time can continue north toward the town of Ixiamas for additional community tourism projects.
