Bolivia
Noel Kempff Mercado National Park is arguably the best animal reserve in Bolivia, a country known for its wildlife. The area around the park was not explored until the early 20th century, and largely ignored thereafter, making it one of the most pristine natural areas in South America. It is home to some of the largest animal populations on the continent, including the incredibly rare Black Jaguar.
Bolivia, despite its large size, is one of the most isolated countries in the world. As far as is known, no humans had ever explored the densely forested northeastern region until 1908. A survey and scientific team reviewed the area in the 1970s. A renowned biologist, Noel Kempff Mercado, was killed by drug traffickers while trying to establish a wildlife reserve in the area. The national park was established and named in his honor in 1979. In 2000 it was designated as a world heritage site.
Northwest Bolivia, which lies deep in the Amazon Rainforest, is one of the most undisturbed ecosystems on the planet. Not even many visitors get there, but those who do are in for an unequaled experience. The area abounds with species of birds, reptiles and monkeys, and the rivers are home to dolphins and otters. It is also one of the best places in the world to see jaguars, including the incredibly rare Black Jaguar.
Noel Kempff National Park is located on the northwest frontier of Bolivia along the border of Brazil, over 500 miles east of La Paz. Road access is extremely limited, and visiting is difficult. The park is open year round. As of this writing no other visitor information was available. Web: www.noelkempff.com (official website).
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