Bolivia has often been an overlooked travel destination in South America, but this country offers a very unique and eco-friendly experience for visitors. Here you can find high altitude deserts, thick jungles, beautiful lakes, and historic ruins from Incan and Tiahuanaco cultures. This is also a destination to explore colorful markets, learn about the revolutionary Che Guevara, see Spanish colonial architecture, and marvel at the salt flats of Salar de Uyuni. Bolivia is also a wonderful place to beat the crowds of Argentina and Brazil and see what life is like in other diverse Latin American communities.
Like many Central and South American travel destinations, Bolivia has embraced eco-resort and nature retreat movement and put a priority on sustainable building and operation. Jungle lodges and boutique hotels are also very popular here. So if you’re interested in immersing yourself in pure wilderness and embracing the local culture and environment, consider these top eco-resorts and nature retreats in Bolivia!
Chalalán Ecolodge, Chalalan Lake
Situated in the San Jose de Uchupiamonas on the shore of the Chalalán Lagoon, the Chalalán Ecolodge offers traditional Tacana-style cabins. When you arrive in La Paz or Rurrenabaque, the staff will meet you and handle all the logistics. This is a great place for nature lovers because it’s surrounded by a pristine forest and native howler monkeys that come out at dusk and dawn. Madidi National Park is home to 4,739 species of plants, 1,370 species of vertebrates and 867 tropical birds and endemic plants. You can book cabins with double beds and a private bathroom, twin/triple rooms with a private bathroom, and twin rooms with shared bathrooms. Hop aboard one of the lodge’s boats to explore the River Beni and River Tuíchi, which includes life jackets and a packed lunch. There’s also a restaurant on site that serves local and national dishes, including seasonal fruit juices and a well-stocked bar.
Sol y Luna Ecolodge, Coroico
Sol y Luna Ecolodge is located just outside Coroico and offers rustic lodge and apartment accommodations surrounded by the silence of nature. Guests can take advantage of the on-site restaurant, which serves tasty vegetarian options, as well as the swimming pools, panoramic views, and a peaceful garden. There are cozy cabins, spacious apartments, and rooms with a private bath, in addition to rooms with a shared bathroom. This is a family-friendly option, and nature lovers will delight at the chance to take a walk on the Path of Trolls/Elves to learn about local plants, like eucalyptus, bamboos, and citrus.
Allkamari Boutique Eco-Resort & Spa, La Paz
If you’re looking for adventure and spiritual renewal in your Bolivian journey, then consider staying at Allkamari Boutique Eco-Resort & Spa. Nestled among the peaks of the Andes Mountains, this resort is part of Bolivia Mistica, a tour operator for eco-resorts, retreat centers, and spas. This is a great place to explore Inca trails that date back to ancient times, the Inca’s sacred lake, and the mineral springs of Sajama. This is a favorite pick for outdoor enthusiasts because of the high-altitude hiking trails, cycling trails, mountain climbing, and canyon rappelling. After a day of adventure, soothe your mind and body with a massage or yoga class. The resort is just 40 minutes from La Paz and offers several shamanism and native rituals for spiritual healing.
El Pueblito Hotel Boutique, Samaipata
Located in Samaipata, the El Pueblito Hotel Boutique was designed to look and feel like a small colonial town in the eastern region of Bolivia. Architecture and design enthusiasts will appreciate the stone ruins, the main square, and the artistic touches all around the resort buildings and grounds. The Valley of Samaipata is known for its healing energy, making it an ideal place to stay for travelers in need of a little rest and rejuvenation. You can also rent out a little house that accommodates up to five guests and includes a small living room and kitchenette. Some of the most popular things to do in the area include hiking, photographing waterfalls, cycling, bird watching, viewing caves with prehistoric paintings, and spending time in Amboró National Park.
La Estancia Ecolodge, Isla del Sol
Traditional Andean architecture is in focus at La Estancia Ecolodge, which features quaint cottages with private bathrooms. All rooms have a view of the lake, providing a peaceful retreat at the Island of the Sun and Lake Titicaca. They were all built with sustainable practices and local materials. Hot water is produced using solar panels, water is recycled, and pre-Incan temples have been restored to maintain the local landscape. All of these facts make La Estancia Ecolodge a perfect place for green travelers who are passionate about environmental conservation. Some of the most popular activities in the area are trekking, mystic ceremonies, and spending time on the lake. Other nearby attractions include Copacabana, Isla de la Luna, and connections to La Paz and Puno.