A 2025 Guide to the World's Most Untouched Rainforest

Deep in the Bolivian Amazon, Madidi National Park remains one of the most untouched and biodiverse regions on Earth. Stretching across nearly 19,000 square kilometres, the park is home to an astonishing array of wildlife, from jaguars and giant river otters to pink river dolphins and over 1,000 species of birds. In recent years, conservation efforts have expanded, with over ten million hectares, including the newly protected El Gran Manupare, now safeguarded to preserve the delicate rainforest ecosystem. Despite its remoteness, eco-tourism in Madidi is thriving, with sustainable tours providing access to this wild paradise.

Travellers can explore the park through guided jungle treks, where expert naturalists lead visitors along hidden trails in search of howler monkeys, macaws, and the elusive harpy eagle. River safaris along the Tuichi River offer a different perspective, with silent canoe rides revealing caimans basking on the banks and anacondas resting in the shallows. Night walks add an extra thrill, unveiling the jungle’s nocturnal world, from glowing insects to prowling ocelots. For those seeking a deeper connection, visits to indigenous Quechua-Tacana villages provide insight into ancient traditions, including the use of medicinal plants and sustainable forest practices.

Accommodation options in Madidi blend seamlessly with nature, with Chalalán Ecolodge and San Miguel del Bala among the top choices for an immersive stay. These eco-lodges, run by local communities, offer a sustainable alternative to mainstream tourism, ensuring that visits contribute directly to rainforest conservation.

Getting to Madidi involves a 40-minute flight from La Paz to Rurrenabaque, followed by a boat journey deep into the jungle. The adventure is demanding, requiring sturdy footwear, insect repellent, and a spirit of exploration. Yet for those seeking an off-the-grid experience in one of the world’s last truly wild places, Madidi offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of nature. In 2025, as travellers increasingly seek meaningful, low-impact adventures, this hidden Amazonian treasure is more compelling than ever.