Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Buena Vista's Jesuit mission was founded in 1694 as the fifth mission in the Viceroyalty
of Peru, but in its current form dates from 1767. When the Jesuits were expelled from
Bolivia later that year, the administration of the church passed to the bishop of Santa
Cruz. Although the building is deteriorating, it has a lovely classic form, but you'd have
to be a brave soul to scale the precarious ladder to the bell tower for views of the plaza.
Río Surutú & El Cairo
Río Surutú is a popular excursion for locals, and there's a pleasant sandy beach ideal for
picnics, swimming and camping during the dry season. From Buena Vista it's an easy
3km walk to the river bend nearest town. The opposite bank is the boundary of Parque
Nacional Amboró.
An even better swimming hole is near
El Cairo
, which is an hour's walk from town. To
get there, head downhill from the plaza past the
alcaldía
(town hall) and follow the un-
paved road as it curves to the right. About 2km from town, take the left fork and cross
over a bridge. After passing El Cairo, on your right, keep going until you reach the river.
OUTDOORS
Festivals & Events
The local fiesta,
Día de los Santos Desposorios
(26 November), features bullfights, food
stalls and general merrymaking. Culinary festivals include the
Chocolate Festival
(last
Sunday in January), the
Coffee Festival
(third Sunday in April) and the
Rice Festival
(early May) after the harvest.
Sleeping
Hotel Flora & Fauna $$$
(
7104-3706;
amboroadventures@hotmail.com
;
s/d all-inclusive B$490/980)
British
ornithologist/entomologist Robin Clarke runs this modern, utilitarian collection of cabins.
Pluses include wildlife-viewing platforms, an extensive book exchange and guided walks
(for guests only) from B$70. Access is by car/moto-taxi (B$20/15) from Buena Vista.
Book in advance.
CABIN
Buena Vista Hotel $$
(
339-1080;
www.buenavistahotel.com.bo
; s/d/ste B$300/350/450;
) A glorious
range of suites, cabins and rooms set in gorgeous gardens around a refreshing pool. There
RESORT
