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Chiquitano Dry Forest
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Forest
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The Chiquitano dry forest in eastern Bolivia is the world's largest intact block of tropical dry forest. Located primarily within the Santa Cruz Department, it serves as a critical ecological transition zone between the humid Amazon rainforest to the north and the arid Gran Chaco savannas to the south. The region is highly biodiverse, hosting numerous endemic species uniquely adapted to prolonged dry seasons. Geologically, the forest sits upon the Precambrian Brazilian Shield, resulting in nutrient-poor but mineral-rich soils. The area's history is deeply intertwined with the Jesuit Missions of Chiquitos, established in the 17th and 18th centuries, which are now recognized as UNESCO World Heritage sites. The forest plays a vital role in regional water cycle regulation and carbon sequestration, though it faces severe threats from large-scale agribusiness and devastating wildfires. In recent years, land clearing for soybean cultivation and cattle ranching has significantly fragmented the forest's original expanse, making conservation efforts urgent.
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 | 25 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 25 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 152 | 145 | 99 | 58 | 48 | 25 | 12 | 21 | 33 | 72 | 93 | 134 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Accessing this vast woodland is usually done via road from the major eastern hub of Santa Cruz, venturing outwards into regional road networks that can become challenging during seasonal rains.
Best season
The cooler, dry season from May to October is strongly recommended to ensure roads remain passable and to generally avoid the intensely hot and humid conditions that characterize the long summer months.
Terrain & paths
The terrain is characterized by slightly undulating plains covered in a resilient mix of deciduous trees, thorny scrub, and open savannah patches, connected by unpaved dirt tracks and local trails.
What to bring
Essential packing includes robust hiking boots, tough long trousers to guard against pervasive thorns, effective insect repellent, strong sun protection, and a very generous supply of drinking water.
Parking
Parking is generally informal but completely feasible within the scattered gateway towns or near recognized rural community staging areas, always prioritizing spots that do not block local agricultural movement.
Safety
Travelers must be entirely self-sufficient in remote stretches, carry emergency communication devices if possible, be cautious of local wildlife such as venomous snakes, and meticulously guard against dehydration.
Time needed
A superficial visit might last a single day from a nearby town, but fully appreciating the scale and ecological uniqueness of this massive dry forest biome demands a dedicated multi-day excursion.
Geography
Facts
- World's largest continuous block of tropical dry forest
- Original area exceeded 20 million hectares
- Home to more than 1,200 species of vertebrates
- Dry season typically lasts from May to September
- Acts as an ecological corridor between the Amazon and the Chaco
- The region contains UNESCO-listed Jesuit mission sites
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Chiquitano Dry Forest (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is this forest type?
The world's largest intact tropical dry forest, known for its biodiversity.
When should you visit?
From May to September, when the trails are dry and the heat is bearable.
Are there sights to see?
Yes, the famous Jesuit Missions of Chiquitos are located in this region.
What is the terrain like?
Hilly with rocky outcrops; sturdy footwear is advised for exploration.
Is there drinking water?
Bring your own water, as springs can dry up during the dry season.
Chiquitano Dry Forest: where is it located?
Chiquitano Dry Forest is located in Bolivia.
Chiquitano Dry Forest: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jul.
Chiquitano Dry Forest: why is it worth visiting?
The Chiquitano dry forest in eastern Bolivia is the world's largest intact block of tropical dry forest.
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History & landmarks
Misión Jesuítica de Concepción
One of the best-restored Jesuit missions in Bolivia, showcasing the masterful craftsmanship of the native Chiquitano people.
Misión Jesuítica de San Javier
The first of the famous Jesuit missions in the Chiquitania, known for its beautiful wood carving and musical tradition.
Catedral de San Lorenzo
The main church of Santa Cruz de la Sierra impresses with its striking brick facade and wooden interiors.
Plaza 24 de Septiembre
The lively main square of Santa Cruz de la Sierra, a tropical hub full of palm trees, relaxed locals, and historical buildings.
Nature
Salar de Uyuni
Salar de Uyuni is the world's largest salt flat and harbors a large portion of the world's lithium reserves.
Laguna Colorada
Laguna Colorada is a shallow, red salt lake in southwestern Bolivia and a vital habitat for James's flamingos.
Laguna Verde
Laguna Verde is a strikingly turquoise salt lake at the foot of the Licancabur volcano in southwestern Bolivia.
Laguna Blanca
Laguna Blanca is a whitish salt lake separated from the neighboring Laguna Verde by only a narrow corridor.
More places
San Miguel de Velasco Jesuit Mission
A historic mission with an impressive gilded altar, providing a deep insight into the craftsmanship of the Jesuits and the Chiquitano peo…
San Rafael de Velasco Jesuit Mission
This mission stands out for its massive mica window and was the second settlement founded by the Jesuits in the Chiquitania.
Santa Ana de Velasco Jesuit Mission
One of the most charming Jesuit missions in Bolivia, its construction was finished by the indigenous population after the expulsion of th…
Serranía de Chiquitos
An extensive, low mountain range in eastern Bolivia that houses historic Jesuit settlements and unique rock formations.
Caparú Plateau
The Meseta de Caparú is an isolated table mountain (Tepui) area in the Noel Kempff Mercado National Park.
San Miguelito Jaguar Ranch
A working cattle ranch pioneering conservation by protecting big cats and offering ecotourism safaris.
Kaa-Iya National Park
The largest national park in Bolivia, protecting a vast area of the Gran Chaco dry forest.
San Javier Jesuit Mission
The oldest of the Jesuit Missions of the Chiquitos, known for its beautiful wooden church and rich musical tradition.