Plizio Visual Lab

Llanos de Moxos

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Relief

Weather…

The Llanos de Moxos, also known as the Beni Savanna, covers an area of approximately 120,000 square kilometers in northern Bolivia's Amazon basin. This tropical savanna and wetland region is defined by severe seasonal flooding occurring between December and May, driven by the Mamoré and Iténez river systems. Historically, the area is of immense importance due to the archaeological remains of a pre-Columbian hydraulic civilization that flourished from 500 BC to 1400 AD. These ancient inhabitants engineered a complex landscape of raised fields, canals, and causeways to manage water levels for intensive agriculture. These structures, often called 'camellones', allowed for high population densities in what is now the Beni Department. Today, the region serves as the heart of Bolivia's cattle ranching industry while maintaining high biodiversity, including the critically endangered blue-throated macaw. The landscape alternates between vast open grasslands and isolated forest islands that developed on man-made earthen mounds.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May–Jul.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	26	26	26	26	25	25	26	28	29	29	28	27
Rain mm	285	269	209	139	81	40	35	32	72	141	179	254

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

The main gateway to the Llanos de Moxos is the city of Trinidad. From there, access into the deeper wetlands is often achieved via small riverboats, canoes, or specially adapted all-terrain vehicles.

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Best season

The dry season between May and October is the most practical time for visiting. During the rainy season, the savannah floods extensively, making overland travel completely impossible in many sectors.

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Terrain & paths

This is a predominantly flat, grassy wetland ecosystem intersected by slow-moving tropical rivers and forested islands. The ground is often soggy or submerged, demanding waterproof footwear.

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What to bring

Rubber boots, high-quality insect repellent, and long, lightweight clothing are essential to cope with the humidity and bugs. Binoculars are highly recommended for spotting abundant riverine birdlife.

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Parking

Vehicles are normally parked safely in Trinidad or at established river ports. From these points, visitors transition to boats or specialized guides' vehicles, as personal cars cannot handle the wetlands.

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Safety

Malaria and yellow fever risks mean proper vaccinations and mosquito bite prevention are vital. Additionally, sudden river level changes and strong tropical sun require vigilance from all travelers.

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Time needed

A typical eco-tour focusing on river dolphins, birds, and wetland flora takes roughly 2 to 4 days, balancing time spent navigating the rivers with short hikes on the raised forest islands.