The park serves as habitat for over 800 bird species (representing half of all Bolivia's bird species), 127 mammal species, and numerous reptiles and amphibians. Notable wildlife includes the spectacled bear, jaguar, puma, ocelot, and various monkey species including the howler monkey. Bird species include the iconic Andean condor, military macaw, and cock-of-the-rock. The park is also home to several endangered species such as the giant anteater and the rare helmeted curassow. The diversity of microclimates creates unique habitats supporting specialized species adapted to specific ecological niches.
Amboro National Park boasts exceptional botanical diversity with over 3,000 identified plant species, representing approximately 25% of Bolivia's total plant species. The park's vegetation varies dramatically across its ecological zones, featuring giant ferns, some reaching heights of 13 meters, that date back to the Jurassic period. The park contains extensive orchid populations, with over 170 species documented. Notable species include the rare Podocarpus tree, various bromeliads, and numerous medicinal plants traditionally used by indigenous communities. The park's cloud forests are particularly rich in epiphytes and moss species.
The park's geological formation is extraordinarily diverse, featuring dramatic sandstone cliffs, deep canyons, and unique rock formations dating back to the Cretaceous period. The area represents a transition zone where the eastern Andes Mountains meet the Amazon basin, creating a complex topography ranging from 300 to 3,300 meters above sea level. Notable geological features include the distinctive red sandstone formations, prehistoric marine fossils, and extensive cave systems. The park sits at the intersection of three tectonic plates, contributing to its varied landscape and the presence of numerous waterfalls and natural springs.
Established in 1984, Amboro National Park was created to protect the unique biodiversity where the Andes, Amazon, and Chaco ecosystems converge. The park was expanded in 1991 to include the Natural Area of Integrated Management, creating a total protected area of 637,600 hectares. The region has historical significance for indigenous peoples, including the Guaraní, who have lived in these lands for centuries. Archaeological findings suggest human habitation dating back several thousand years. The park's name comes from 'Amboró,' a legendary indigenous warrior who defended these lands during colonial times.
Among the park's most remarkable features is the 'Lost World' plateau, reminiscent of Arthur Conan Doyle's famous novel, with its isolated ecosystem and unique biodiversity. The park contains numerous waterfalls, including the spectacular Jardin de las Delicias falls, and extensive cave systems perfect for exploration. The Volcanes area, characterized by its dramatic red rock formations, offers some of the most spectacular views in the park. The confluence of three major ecosystems (Andes, Amazon, and Chaco) creates unique transition zones where visitors can observe distinct flora and fauna within relatively short distances. The park also features several pre-Columbian archaeological sites and traditional indigenous communities.
Amboro National Park experiences a diverse climate due to its varying elevations and geographical position where the Andes meet the Amazon. The park has three distinct ecological zones with different weather patterns: humid Amazonian forests, mountainous cloud forests, and dry valleys. Temperatures range from 15-35°C (59-95°F), with the warmest months being October through March. The rainy season occurs from November to March, bringing heavy precipitation especially to the northern regions. The southern areas are generally drier with a more temperate climate. Visitors should be prepared for sudden weather changes, particularly in higher elevations where morning mists are common.
Bolivia
-17.7500°, -63.6670°
1984
4425
Amboro National Park is known for its unique position at the intersection of three distinct ecosystems: the Amazon Basin, the Northern Chaco, and the Andes Mountains. The park contains over 800 bird species and features dramatic cliff formations. Its varied elevation ranges create multiple distinct microclimates.