Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Riberalta's cathedral is a wonderful structure in classic Missionary style, wide and eleg-
ant, built using red brick and cedar. It sits on the main square in the same spot as the old,
less grandiose church and it cost more than half a million US dollars to build.
Tumichucuá
Tumichucuá is a small resort about 5km outside town toward 'El Triángulo' (the road
junction to Cobija). There is a lake for swimming and a forested island with walking
trails, plus basic cabins. Nobody is sure how far from Riberalta it is, as according to local
legend the lake moves at night, sometimes coming to rest closer to the town, sometimes
further away.
PARK
Parque Mirador La Costañera
This park, on Riberalta's river bluff, overlooks a broad, sweeping curve of the Río Beni
and affords the standard Amazonian view over water and rainforest.
PARK
Puerto Beni-Mamoré
At Puerto Beni-Mamoré, within walking distance of the center, you can watch the hand-
carving and construction of small boats and dugouts by skilled artisans. About 2km east of
the plaza along Ejército Nacional, you can visit an
old rubber plantation
, watch coffee
beans being roasted and visit a
carpentry workshop
.
ARTS CENTER
Club Náutico
(2 blocks north of the plaza; admission B$10)
In the paralyzing heat of the day, strenuous
activity is suspended and you'll find yourself clambering into the nearest hammock. Cool
down in the Club Náutico's sparkling riverside pool, a favorite local activity.
SWIMMING
Sleeping
Riberalta doesn't see that many visitors so hotel prices are high and you should not expect
value for money.
Hotel Colonial $$
(
852-3018;
www.hotelcolonial.web.bo
;
Plácido Méndez 745; s/d B$180/250;
) Rib-
eralta's most-expensive hotel is a renovated colonial home dotted with antique furniture
and backed by a delightfully fresh garden where you can relax in a hammock. Unfortu-
HOTEL
