About Jesuit missions

George & Barbara Willock (USA) - Jesuit Missions

Dear Gijs, the tour to the Missions was great! The guide Iver and the driver Franc were great company and we had a good time together. Iver did a terrific job of explaining not only the missions and their history but also, the social history and culture of the indigenous people, the geology of the region, economics and much more. We would have missed so much without having him along to explain everything.

The restaurants we visited were great and the hotel in Conception was wonderful. Franc did a great job of safely navigating those treacherous roads. I would recommend the tour to anyone!

Thank you for treating us so kindly. When we get to Bolivia again, we hope to do another Ruta Verde tour.

Simon Johnson (UK) - Jesuit Missions

Dear Gijs, I just wanted to thank you for arranging an excellent tour of the Missions. Jose was delightful company and a very good driver. The visits to the Missions churches were fascinating. I particularly enjoyed looking around the museum and mission complex with Milton, who was a close colleague of Hans Roth. We had a very good guide for San Miguel, San Rafael and Santa Ana. The hotels were all comfortable and the food good. I just hope that these sites receive more visitors in the years to come - they definitely deserve to be at the top of any tourist´s agenda for Bolivia.

Many thanks and kind regards, Simon

Michel Villeneau (France) - Jesuit Missions

´Ruta Verde is a Tour Operator based in Santa Cruz , Bolivia , run by a charming Bolivian lady, Maria Eugenia and her very efficient Dutch husband, Gijs Dijkshoom.

Last august we (my wife and me), while visiting this beautiful country, called on Ruta Verde as to organize a tour to the Jesuits Missions region, east of Santa Cruz. I knew the Missions for having visited the place in 2002. During that trip I had met a man in Santa Anna who told me that there were some descendants of Alcide d'Orbigny in the area.

D'Orbigny (1802-1857) was a very important French scientist, father of the micropaleontology, and had been sent by the Paris Muséeum National d'Histoire Naturelle in Southern America as to make a complete inventory of the natural resources of this continent. He spent 8 years of his life (1826-1833) visiting Brazil , Argentina , Chile and Bolivia where he stayed 3 years, riding his mule from west to east and north to south. During the wet season, the country being impossible to travel, he used to settle his base in the Missions region. He was 28/30 years old, rather handsome and the natives being very pretty he obviously left behind one or more descendants.

It happened that A.d'Orbigny was my grand uncle and being short of time in 2002, as to deepen my quest of cousins, I decided to come back this year and proceed with my quest.

Ruta Verde, in the person of Gijs, took us in one of their very comfortable 4 WD Toyota to San Javier, San Ignacio, Santa Anna, San Miguel, all jewels of the Missions churches built by the locals under the control of Jesuits during the 18th century. I strongly recommend the visit, even if you have no cousins to meet there, but who knows?

Thanks to Gijs, we found a "nest" of d'Orbigny at San Ignacio. It was very exciting and touching to meet these people who were far from thinking meeting one day some cousin from overseas after 176 years. Thank you Gijs for your very efficient help and your smooth driving across the "Chiquitania". I will never recommend strongly enough the readers of these lines to use Ruta Verde's services. These people are great!´

Nancy Snowden (USA)- Jesuit Missions

´Trip was wonderful, mostly because of the guide Iver! He is so knowledgeable and quite gracious. I felt a special kindred spirit with him because of his love and commitment to the environment, his independent spirit, his knowledge of language, history, culture, and his personal experiences that he shared with discretion and respect. The car was very comfortable, the hotel beautiful and the ride over the train bridge was very fun!! Keep up the good work and may God be with you as you struggle in your country for calm and justice.´

Ronda Klevansky (South Africa) – Jesuit Missions and Noel Kempff

´In May 2007, Ruta Verde organized a wonderful trip for us to visit the missions and Flor de Oro, the lodge in the north of Noel Kempff Mercado national park.

The original plan was to visit the missions, Los Fierros and Flor de Oro, but after flooding knocked out a key bridge and various roads near Los Fierros, Gijs efficiently re-organized everything, arranging a week in the north after our mission visit instead, and to our good fortune, accompanied us.

A simpatico guide drove us from Santa Cruz up to the mission area, where we stayed in a beautiful hotel (Chiquitanos) in Concepcion. After walking around Concepcion, visiting the church and museum, we headed to San Ignacio, where we stayed two nights, so that we could tour the nearby mission "circuit". The mission churches are very beautiful, interesting and well worth visiting. The relative remoteness of the mission towns, which surprised us, really added to the experience of being there.

A small plane picked us up in San Ignacio and took us to Flor de Oro, a journey of about an hour and a half over miles of pristine jungle, ´la Meseta´ and 2 big waterfalls.

Flor de Oro is remarkable, and a week was almost not enough! The staff are wonderful and the food fabulous. We spent three days up one of the side rivers hiking to, and swimming in, two enormous, exquisite waterfalls. En route we saw myriads of birds, butterflies, turtles, caiman, monkeys, an anaconda and a tapir. The rest of the time we were based at the main lodge overlooking the Itenez River. Each day, when Roger, our guide, took us walking or by boat, we learned a little more about Amazonian fauna and flora. There were capybaras, various monkey species, extraordinary birds, big and small, huge termite nests, tarantulas, and of course, many pink river dolphins. Giant water lilies were in bloom and orchids poured off the trees.

There is always an animal sighting highlight on a trip like this, and ours was when we perched on a small viewing platform and watched 70 peccaries clacking their teeth and rolling about in a salt lick a few feet below´.

Marie Cogswell (USA)- Jesuit Missions

´Any mention of Ruta Verde brings a smile to my face. Let me say first that I am a university Spanish instructor (Indiana University Southeast) accustomed to roam the world, particularly, although not at all limited to, where Spanish is spoken. So we can say that at 60 yrs, of age, with some 50 countries under my belt, I've been around the block a few times. Gijs and his lovely wife Maria Eugenia are definitely keepers. From where I sit I can not overstate their value. Knowing something of the obstacles of functioning in South America, I can honestly say that the 2 of them have all the right stuff to deliver a wonderful experience. Maria Eugenia is a university educated crucena native to Santa Cruz who has lived in Europe and Gijs is a delightful, big, quality orientated Dutchman. You can't beat his prices. My own time to visit the missions was limited to only 1 day due to my work commitments in Paraguay so we made the longest trip to only one destination. I would definitely recommend at least 3 days and arrange them according to Gijs' suggestion. He knows the route and details very, very well´.

Fr. Mike Knipe (USA) – Jesuit Missions, Sucre and Potosí

´I had a wonderful experience. The Missions were amazing, especially as have seen the ruins in Paraguay and one Mission in Argentina (in the modern town of Alta Gracia). Your tour was as promised. The car was very comfortable and the guide attentive. The meals were ample. I was able to go to Mass every day.

Sucre was the jewel. Lourdes is among the best guides I have ever had and she tailored everything to my interest. Sucre as a city was a destination in itself. The Hotel Glorieta was very comfortable and there were lots of dining options.

Potosi was worth seeing and Lourdes saw that I saw every Church which was possible to see. I shortened the Mines part (I'm a little claustrophobic) but am very glad that I saw Cerro Rico.

I am glad I followed your advice and did not try to do Sucre/Potosi in one day. Two nights/two days was just perfect (in fact, Lourdes took me a short tour on Monday morning to the City colonial museum).

I came home amazed at the Bolivian people. They are much more diverse than I expected, very gentle and warm and easy to speak with. The setting seems much more secure than other places I have been (like Guatemala and parts of Mexico) in that there was little overt police, private guards and bars on all windows, etc. I am very happy to have sampled Bolivia and feel much richer for it.

Again, Gijs, I would give Ruta Verde all "As" (or stars or meets and exceeds expectations). May more Americans sample your marvellous (adopted) country. Thanks.´.

Maria Kathalina Thomas (USA) – Jesuit Missions

´Hi....we absolutely loved the tour, every bit of it...well done..wonderful guides and driver...wonderful all in all...the guide was SENSATIONAL...gracias por todo..mkt´

Estefania Roig y Jordi Garcia (Spain) – Jesuit Missions and Uyuni

´Nos han gustado mucho los dos tours. Los chóferes y guías muy bien en ambos casos. Los hoteles nos gustaron mucho y todo ha salido muy bien. El Salar y Lagunas espectacular. En general muy bien todo.
Muchas gracias!'

Nina Lara and Jerry Clark (USA) – Jesuit Missions and Noel Kempff

'Independent travel on our own schedule has always been our preference. Earlier this year we made the wise decision of allowing Gijs and Maria Eugenia of Ruta Verde to make all our travel arrangements for us to Noel Kempff Mercado. Even though we had four weeks in May to explore Eastern Bolivia it was immediately apparent that a trip to the park would require much planning and coordination of services. We were not disappointed. Words cannot describe this national treasure and it is our sincere hope that this unique area will remain protected. Although the animal and plant life are incredible we were also impressed by the dedication of the stewards of the park, the park rangers. The services arranged by Ruta Verde far exceeded our expectations. Our pilot for the two and a half hour flight was superb. Count yourself among the lucky few should you have the good fortune to visit this remote and pristine corner of the earth. Very few places compare.

On the spur of the moment we also asked Ruta Verde to make arrangements for a short trip to the Jesuit Missions. Our only regret is that we did not have more time to explore La Gran Chiquitania in more depth. The landscape is breathtaking and the architecture of the missions astounding. Next time we would like to visit all the missions.'

Katy Calderon (USA) – Jesuit Missions

'Hello Gijs! I have wanted to write for well over a week now and let you know that I had a wonderful experience on my tour. Paulo was an excellent driver and guide. The hotel in Concepcion was amazing! (Much better than what I am used to. Loved it!) The restaurants were all great. And the missions, of course, were amazing. Thank you for organizing things so that we could experience the celebration in San Javier.

I´ve told numerous other travelers about my experience. There is a Canadian couple that I think will be coming your way soon- Didier and Giselle. I do not remember the name of our guide at the mission in Concepcion, but he was amazing and very knowledgable. He had worked from the start with Hans Roth. If you do organize a tour for Didier and Giselle, please try to set them up with him.

Again, thank you. BEDANKT! Go Holanda!'

About International Baroque Music Festival

Silvia Bustos (Argentina) – Jesuit Missions during the VIII International Baroque Music Festival 2010

´Estimada María Eugenia: Una vez aclimatada en mi ambiente, va mi parecer de este conmovedor viaje. En lo atinente a la actividad de la agencia, destaco la excelente disposición del chofer Sr. Iver, atento a complacer nuestra curiosidad en todo el recorrido. Los guías que nos recibieron todos, con sus diferencias, nos han pintado un paisaje muy enriquecedor; ni qué hablar de Milton .... uno de los increibles artífices de la historia. En los alojamientos nos hemos sentido muy cómodas y agradas. La gente y su música y su espiritualidad, nos ha calado muy hondo y estamos más que satisfechas.
La saludo con todo cariño, Silvia Bustos'

Silvia, Adriana y Alcira Jau (Argentina) – Jesuit Missions during the VIII International Baroque Music Festival 2010

´Yo soy Adriana Jou y viaje a través de su empresa a Bolivia, para el Festival Internacional de Mùsica Barroca en las misiones de Chiquitanìa. Quiero contarles que fue un viaje realmente hermoso, que me permitiò conocer un mundo del que no tenìa conocimiento: las misiones jesuìticas en Bolivia, su historia, su restauraciòn a partir de 1975, y su importancia actual. Los conciertos de los que participé fueron excelentes, cada uno con su particularidad, dada por los grupos musicales y los lugares increíbles donde se realizaron. Hoteles y lugares de almuerzos y cenas resultaron de primera calidad en lo relativo a servicios y a atenciòn de la gente a cargo. Nuestro chofer Iver, estuvo siempre presente con una actitud colaboradora y con propuestas muy apropiadas en cuanto a horarios y recorridos. Los guías locales en Concepción y en Santa Ana fueron muy competentes y entusiastas en su trabajo y sus relatos nos permitieron entender y maravillarnos con lo que veíamos.
Por todo esto, quiero felicitarlos por sus servicios que recomendaré a otros conocidos míos. Sin más, los saludo afectuosamente. Adriana Inés Jou'

´Estimada María Eugenia, me tomé algo de tiempo en escribir este Mail, porque es el tiempo que le llevó a mi mente y mi corazón en aterrizar de este sueño. Que puedo decir ? todo perfecto, organización ,hotelería, chofer, los guías de Santa Ana y Concepción, que me hicieron amar esos lugares . ESOS CONCIERTOS !!!!! que me hicieron volar. Todo, absolutamente todo impecable..
Gracias y nos mantenemos en contacto. Silvia Jau´

'Mi nombre es Alcira Jou y soy una de las diez personas que integraba el grupo. No tengo mas que palabras de agradecimiento por la hermosa experiencia vivida. Todo estuvo espectacular. El lugar y el trato de la gente supero mas que ampliamente mis expectativas. Los servicios prestados por ustedes ya sea transporte, hoteles, comidas, conciertos, ha sido maravilloso. Y hasta hoy no he dejado de recomendar a cuanta persona pueda, que viva esta hermosa experiencia.
Quisiera hacer una especial mencion para el chofer de la camioneta, quien en todo momento estuvo a nuestro lado, acompañandonos, orientandonos, contandonos cosas sobre este maravilloso país y solucionando los distintos inconvenientes surgidos.
Nuevamente agradezco infinitamente hayan organizado de manera tan óptima una experiencia que para mi ya es inolvidable. Quedo a sus servicios y a la espera de información cuando se produzca nuevamente este evento. MUCHAS GRACIAS POR TODO, Alcira I. Jou'

Helen Williams (UK) - Tailor made tours in Bolivia and VIII International Baroque Music Festival 2010

´Hi Maria, Now that we're back in the UK we just wanted to say a huge thank you for organising such a wonderful trip, it really was seamless and everything from the tranfers to the accomodation was to such a high standard. Particularly high praise should go to Pablo and Julian who were simply wonderful and so generous with their time and energy, they really made the trip extra special.
We would definitely recommend you to our friends when they travel to Bolivia, thank you for such a fantastic holiday!
Best Wishes, Helen and Peter'

About Park Amboro

Kat Hamer (Australia)- Amboro National Park North Side

´The tour that we went on was wonderful. My sister and I were on a very tight time schedule and arrived in Santa Cruz with NO idea who to go on a tour with. But needing to organize one for the next day. We met the owners of Ruta Verde and were sold! It was so simple to organize; everything was just so easy and uncomplicated. I was originally worried that the trekking would be difficult and that ... well basically I wouldn't make it! But I loved the peaceful walking mixed with the interesting notes on the flora and fauna that we could see. Our guide was so gorgeous; he was honest, genuine and knew everything that we could ever hope to know - the medicinal properties of the plants as well as the behavior of the animals that we could see. The waterfalls were amazing and the views stunning. The spider monkeys and the (ok I'm forgetting the name now.... ManoMono? I know that's wrong, but there was a brown monkey that we chased along a path and watched while he swung throu gh the trees and I can't remember which species he was...If you can figure out who I mean, please fill in the blanks!!!) were brilliant. I was so excited to see the animals in their natural habitat. The spider monkeys were shaking branches in the trees; our guide explained that it was to prove who was stronger to the other males in another tree.
At night we sat quietly and waited until the nocturnal animals appeared. Our guide also explained the origins of the park and the inhabitants who live on the outskirts. The food was great. The insight into life in the jungle was simply amazing and a wonderful experience that I would recommend to anyone.´

Étienne Gauthier (Canada)- Amboro National Park North Side

´I've done a Bolivia trip (with my lonely planet) for two months. I've been, in 2 months, with A LOT of different tour agencies. Ruta Verde Tour Agency was definitely my favorite. Everything was perfectly organized (which is not that common in Bolivia !) and very sympatic. I took the Amboro park tour for couple of days and I can assure you that it was the best days of my travel. One of the things that I did like the most with this agency is that they hire local guides for most of their trips (which helps a lot of people). So, from my personal experience, you should expect an well organized tour agency with the best prices and enjoy a wonderful trip in the Amboro park with a local guide, from who you will learn unforgettable things...The agency also speak Spanish, English and Dutch. I'm not working for anyone, I'm just leaving this comment because I think that this agency should be known by every traveler in Bolivia.
Have a nice trip!´

James Gradwell (South Africa) - Amboro National Park North Side

´What to say about Amboro National Park, the words amazing, beautiful, spectacular, awesome all to come to mind but these superlatives aren't enough, you need to touch it, feel it, hear it, taste it to get the true Amboró experience with Ruta Verde and after you do you never forget it, its fantastic!!! Thanks a million for the experience.´

David Eggleton (UK)- Amboro National Park North Side

'I spent 4 days in Amboro in April with Ruta Verde's excellent, knowledgeable local guide. The trip was well organised and the lowland rainforest considerably different from the cloud forest seen in the higher areas of the park. A four day trip allowed me to explore some of the more remote areas off the beaten track that would be virtually impossible to find without a guide.

Mac Mestayer (USA)- Amboro National Park North Side

'Buenos Dias Gijs; The Amboro trek definitely met my expectations. It was incredible, in large part due to the epertise of the guide. He really is a great guide. I don't know from first-hand experience, but I strongly suspect that he is one of the best guides in the business. He is very patient, calm and observant. I'm a fair bird-watcher, etc. but I don't think I once spotted a bird or monkey before the guide did! --- and his sure-footed waltz up the stream boulders is a joy to watch.

We stayed four nights at the Rio Macuñucu cave and did day-hikes. We saw green-cheeked parakeets (like my Tikka!), lots of Mitred parakeets (red head) and we often saw the Military Macaws who nest in the cliffs. We saw two types of monkey, lots of other kinds of birds, lots of trees and vines; went swimming, great hiking, and the food was great.

Overall, I loved the trip and would (might?) do it again.

About Park Noel Kempff

Chapman Greer and Glen Cain (USA) - Noel Kempff Mercado National Park

´In July of 2008, my husband and I travelled to Bolivia with the express purpose of visiting Noel Kempff Mercado, a Bolivian national park listed as both fascinating and virtually inaccessible. After much research, we decided upon traveling with the tour company, Ruta Verde, as they came highly recommended by various books and other sources, particularly as pertained to meeting the needs of European and American travelers. Our research paid off in a spectacular trip. We were flown to Flor d'Oro by a pilot with over thirty years of experience (and as we are both pilots, we were reassured by the quality of both the aircraft and the pilot). We saw two jaguars, two families of river otters, capybara, caiman, and birds too numerous to list. We had comfortable lodging (though the camp is in a bit of a state of disrepair) and the food was excellent. Our guides were knowledgeable and passionate about the park and about their work. I only wish that we could have stayed for a month and then flown to the southern part of the park (Los Fierros), which is currently inaccessible.
As to Ruta Verde, they are everything the guidebooks say and more - and unlike many of the guidebook writers, we have direct experience of their services. They are a full-service travel agency: smart, enthusiastic, knowledgeable and helpful. They have extensive understanding of multiple cultures (and languages) and they understand their market and their product. We were accommodated at every turn, from simple requests for air travel arrangements (which turned out not to be so simple, but were made so by Ruta Verde's thoughtful management), to more complicated and highly individualized requests for local tours.
Bolivia is a challenging country for first-world travelers. Without the thoughtful help and guidance of Ruta Verde, visiting Noel Kempff could be disastrous. We love the country - loved the trip - and love Ruta Verde, who is now our first choice for travel in eastern Bolivia. We will definitely return.´

Jenny, Michael and Jessica Smith (UK) - Noel Kempff Mercado National Park

´Gijs, we had a fantastic time in both Flor de Oro and Refugio Los Volcanes. The organisation of the trip was first rate and totally efficient. The pilot you chose for us was amazing. We were particulary glad that you were able to be so flexible and tailor the trip to our requirements. We had no idea that the flight would be such fun. Thanks again.´

Ronda Klevansky (South Africa) – Jesuit Missions and Noel Kempff

´In May 2007, Ruta Verde organized a wonderful trip for us to visit the missions and Flor de Oro, the lodge in the north of Noel Kempff Mercado national park.

The original plan was to visit the missions, Los Fierros and Flor de Oro, but after flooding knocked out a key bridge and various roads near Los Fierros, Gijs efficiently re-organized everything, arranging a week in the north after our mission visit instead, and to our good fortune, accompanied us.

A simpatico guide drove us from Santa Cruz up to the mission area, where we stayed in a beautiful hotel (Chiquitanos) in Concepcion. After walking around Concepcion, visiting the church and museum, we headed to San Ignacio, where we stayed two nights, so that we could tour the nearby mission "circuit". The mission churches are very beautiful, interesting and well worth visiting. The relative remoteness of the mission towns, which surprised us, really added to the experience of being there.

A small plane picked us up in San Ignacio and took us to Flor de Oro, a journey of about an hour and a half over miles of pristine jungle, ´la Meseta´ and 2 big waterfalls.

Flor de Oro is remarkable, and a week was almost not enough! The staff are wonderful and the food fabulous. We spent three days up one of the side rivers hiking to, and swimming in, two enormous, exquisite waterfalls. En route we saw myriads of birds, butterflies, turtles, caiman, monkeys, an anaconda and a tapir. The rest of the time we were based at the main lodge overlooking the Itenez River. Each day, when Roger, our guide, took us walking or by boat, we learned a little more about Amazonian fauna and flora. There were capybaras, various monkey species, extraordinary birds, big and small, huge termite nests, tarantulas, and of course, many pink river dolphins. Giant water lilies were in bloom and orchids poured off the trees.

There is always an animal sighting highlight on a trip like this, and ours was when we perched on a small viewing platform and watched 70 peccaries clacking their teeth and rolling about in a salt lick a few feet below´.

John Byers (USA) - Noel Kempff

´Gijs, we had an awesome time up in Flor de Oro! We already want to go back in the wet season! The staff did a great job showing us around, and, as you said, the food was excellent.´

Laurent, Christine, Aixala et Océan Gaillard (Suisse) - Noel Kempff

´Cette année, nous avons décidé d'effectuer un grand voyage en famille pour faire découvrir à nos enfants la Bolivie, pays où nous avions vécu plusieurs années auparavant. Vu son caractère unique et fascinant, nous avons décidé d'inscrire au programme le Parc Noel Kempff Mercado malgré son éloignement, avec les coûts et les complications qui en découlent.

Six mois à l'avance, nous nous sommes adressés à la Direction du Parc, à l'ONG qui fut chargée de sa gestion et à toutes les agences de voyages qui proposent de visiter Noel Kempff.

Vu notre connaissance préalable du pays et le fait que nous voyagions avec des enfants, nous avons été très exigeants à tous points de vue et spécialement quant au programme de visites. Outre la zone nord (Flor de Oro), nous tenions en effet à visiter la zone sud (Los Fierros), ce qui n’était pas simple vu le manque d’entretien des infrastructures et la rareté des visiteurs.

Ruta Verde Tours s’est révélée l’agence la plus à l’écoute de nos souhaits, la plus compétente et la plus flexible, tout en étant la plus économique. Tous les préparatifs se sont déroulés par son intermédiaire à notre plus grande satisfaction.

Le voyage lui-même a été une expérience exceptionnelle de toute beauté que nous recommandons vivement à tous les amoureux de la nature sauvage. Ceux qui ont un esprit pionnier et aventurier ne manqueront pas la partie sud, ceux qui rêvent de jours plus calmes au milieu d’une faune aquatique paradisiaque privilégieront la partie nord et ceux qui comme nous veulent tout connaître combineront les deux et ils ne le regretteront pas.

Ruta Verde Tours et son directeur Gijs Dijkshoorn nous ont très bien conseillés pour mettre sur pied ce voyage hors du commun et ils ont tout organisé, de l’hôtel à Santa Cruz à la poursuite du périple vers le Parc Amboró, en passant par l’incorporation successive de deux parents qui nous ont rejoints en cours de route.

Nous les remercions chaleureusement et recommandons leurs services à tous les voyageurs qui cherchent un opérateur attentif à leurs souhaits qui maîtrise parfaitement le programme et les coûts.
´

Noelia Iglesias y familia (España) - Noel Kempff

´Hola Gijs; El Parque nos ha parecido una maravilla, todo es precioso, hemos visto varios muchos animales, y nunca habíamos visto tanta variedad de vegetación. Las cascadas son excepcionales, tal y como habíamos previsto.

Me queda por resaltar la dureza de la caminata por la selva hacia la cascada Arco Iris. No todas las personas pueden hacerla. Tiene partes de subida muy difíciles, y mi padre casi no la pudo acabar. Fueron casi 5 horas por trayecto! Pero pese a la aventura creo que mereció la pena. La selva es muy bonita, y las cascadas, espectaculares. En resumen, el viaje nos ha parecido duro, pero precioso al mismo tiempo.

Ahora nos vamos a pasar un par de días a Samaipata, a descansar, antes de volver a España. Gracias por todo.´

José Manuel Lahuerta y familia (España) - Noel Kempff

´Hola Gijs, te escribo para felicitarte por la organizaciòn del viaje que hicimos en agosto a Noel Kempf.Todo fuè perfecto y el lugar es maravilloso. Si me lo permites te irè enviando algunas fotos. La comida, la atención, las excursiones...todo bièn. Tendremos que repetir para ir a las cascadas.

Un abrazo´

Nina Lara and Jerry Clark (USA) – Jesuit Missions and Noel Kempff

'Independent travel on our own schedule has always been our preference. Earlier this year we made the wise decision of allowing Gijs and Maria Eugenia of Ruta Verde to make all our travel arrangements for us to Noel Kempff Mercado. Even though we had four weeks in May to explore Eastern Bolivia it was immediately apparent that a trip to the park would require much planning and coordination of services. We were not disappointed. Words cannot describe this national treasure and it is our sincere hope that this unique area will remain protected. Although the animal and plant life are incredible we were also impressed by the dedication of the stewards of the park, the park rangers. The services arranged by Ruta Verde far exceeded our expectations. Our pilot for the two and a half hour flight was superb. Count yourself among the lucky few should you have the good fortune to visit this remote and pristine corner of the earth. Very few places compare.

On the spur of the moment we also asked Ruta Verde to make arrangements for a short trip to the Jesuit Missions. Our only regret is that we did not have more time to explore La Gran Chiquitania in more depth. The landscape is breathtaking and the architecture of the missions astounding. Next time we would like to visit all the missions.'

Matt Harding (UK) - Noel Kempff Mercado National Park

´Having umed and ahed about whether or not to attempt a visit to Noel Kempff on a budget that couldn't afford a plane we made the decision that we would go with our friends to Santa Cruz and see what was on offer. What we found was that out of the 4 companies we asked about tours only 2 came anywhere near what we could afford and only one of those was straight up about the costs. That company was Ruta Verde. We were quoted one price for a standard 7 day trip to the Noel Kempff Park , the costs for extra days were equally transparent. unlike some other companies there were no hidden costs (except of course the very reasonable fees for renting equipment, such as tents and binoculars), we were provided with as much water as we wanted and plenty of top notch grub. Our guide was great, despite what he described as poor English it was miles better than any of our Spanish and was always happy to talk. His background as a biologist really shone through as he was constantly pointing our plants animals and insects with a boyish enthusiasm that was really infectious. Both he and the local guide we met up with in la Florida were more than happy to allow us flexibility in the schedule and this gave a much more relaxed atmosphere. We never felt like we were pressured into doing anything, nor we were ever rushed, except to escape the bees...which none of us minded at all.

The time spent in the park was fabulous. From arriving in la Florida we really started to get a sense of how remote we were, especially on the night time walk to see huge frogs, glowing bugs, fishing bats and to hear the snap of an alligators jaws somewhere in the river. Upon arriving in at Los Fierros, we attempted to make it the waterfall, but we foiled by some very large trees on the road. Slightly disheartened at this set back we were much relieved to hear we would go when we got back from the Meseta and to make sure this happened the guide and the boys spent all afternoon clearing what turned out to be up three trees. That evening we went on a night walk and despite only seeing a fox, the sounds of the jungle were more than enough entertainment. the morning before we left for the Meseta was one that started with us being awoken by the loud squawks of parrots in the trees outside our hut. that excitement over we headed for the Meseta. The walk up was hot but not too hard and the views more than made up for what little discomfort we felt. The view from the top was amazing, miles and miles of jungle beyond our sight. It's no surprise that this place inspired the The Lost World (Sir Arthur Conan Doyle). The red rock faces and the rich green of the jungle really did give the impression of being in another time and place. After all that jungle it was something of a shock to find ourselves on open savannah with the odd oasis of palms and parrots dotting along the various water sources. Camp was in a small jungle clearing and dinner was enjoyed by all. The following day saw us swim in a divine water hole that was so refreshing it seemed a shame to have to walk back down. however on the way back we came face to face with a monkey, who checked us out, decided we weren't his mates and promptly swung off into the jungle, king of the swingers, jungle vip, indeed.

On the way home we encountered both the incredibly cool armadillo and the rather huge anteater. Serious highlights indeed. As a final trip we made it too the waterfall and it was more than worth the wait, my personal highlight of the trip, though the armadillo runs it close. the water was freezing and the swim didn't last long but the waterfall itself was so grand that it didn't really matter, add to that the 6 foot plus boa that was just chilling by the lake and you have yourself a very good trip indeed.

All in all I have to say money well spent indeed. Go and do it because well not many people do and it won't be there forever. Can't recommend Ruta Verde enough, they did all they said they would and all with a smile.´

Jan en Arjan Udding (The Netherlands) – Noel Kempff

´In October 2006, we visited Bolivia, Santa Cruz, and met Gijs, a friendly, cheerful Dutchman, and his wife Maria Eugenia. They enthusiastically told us about Noel Kempff and the tour they could arrange for us. We were quickly convinced as we saw pictures of previous tours and we understood the program and the conveniences with which we would be fitted.

The first day of our tour we met our guide. He lives in Santa Cruz and visits Park Noel Kempff a few times a year as tourist guide and as a biologist studying the maned wolf in the park. He picked us up in the morning at our hostel in Santa Cruz with a 4x4. This convenient pick-up was full of necessary equipment for the trip: gasoline, water, spare tires, cd-player and a cool box. That day we drove to Concepcion for our first overnight stay. Along the way we stopped at a Jesuit Mission church in San Javier.

After a very short night we continued our journey along the dusty roads to La Florida, a picturesque village at the border of the park. We enjoyed a nutritious meal at one of the local families before getting drunk on Singani (very recommendable spirit) at the waterside of the Rio Paragua.

The next day we pitched our camp and headed for El Encanto, an amazing waterfall, surrounded by steep high cliffs. Heated by the long walk, we fancied a swim, but after discovering a 2 meter Python, we decided dipping our toes would cool us enough. On our way to El Encanto we were shadowed by a group of Spider Monkeys, curiously throwing branches down at us.

During our time in the park we also visited La Meseta, a table mountain in the middle of the park. This climb is challenging 800 meters, but with the help of coca leafs and peanuts, offers extraordinary and magnificent views from the top. During the trip you will encounter jungle at base level and tundra and dry land on the top. On top of La Meseta there is a second base camp. Be sure to bring a really cold beer to celebrate accomplishing the mission to the base camp.

The next day, we were able to really discover the Meseta and found a motorcycle and a crashed airplane, the heritage of a former secret coca laboratory, which Noel Kempff discovered and caused his death. We walked a couple of hours to a beautiful waterhole for a swim and a drink. We needed a rest before struggling back to the base camp.

The next day were went back to La Florida to get the necessary sleeping hours in hammocks and at night we went for fishing and alligator spotting in a canoe. We caught our breakfast for the next morning.

This tour was a great experience, but after 6 days without shower, we very much looked forward to the two day trip back to Santa Cruz. We have had 8 unforgettable days!´.

Carlie Bronk (Australia) – Noel Kempff

´Hi Gijs, got back from Noel Kempff today and wanted to let you know we had a great time. The accomodation and meals were great but most importantly our daily tours were fantastic. Fernando was a briallant guide and great bushman. Pepe the pilot was very friendly and always had a smile on his face. We saw many interesting birds, mammals, snakes, frogs and insects and took many great pictures. Thank you for all your assistance and I will recommend the trip to anyone heading to Bolivia in the future.´.

Jeannette (The Netherlands) - Noel Kempff Mercado National Park

´It is a lot of hassle and trouble to go to Noel Kempff National park independently. I went with Ruta Verde. It is a great tour operator in Santa Cruz . The guide is a biologist who works in the park and knows a lot about the nature. During the trip we drove up to 2 Jesuit missions before we went on to the park. The night before we went in we slept at Campemento Florida and our guide took us alligator spotting and night fishing. The first day in the park we hiked up the Meseta and camped there, the next morning we hiked up to a waterfall and had a swim before we headed down. We slept again in a campemento and the next day we made it to a huge waterfall and swam there. On the last day we drove back to Santa Cruz . I have had 7 great days without hassle and worries. The food was good, the guide was great, the accommodation was good and we saw a lot. (monkeys, puma, foxes, butterflies, bugs, trees, flowers and plants). I think it was great value for what you get and would recommend it to everybody.´

Maarten Sinnecker (The Netherlands) - Noel Kempff Mercado National Park

´We did some Ruta Verde tours around Sta. Cruz. Highlight was a seven day expedition to remote Amazon Parque Noel Kempf. Hiking, camping, fishing Piranha's, spotting birds and crocs, chain sawing to get the road free, canoeing and last but not least Karaoke, what a perfect mixture of adventure, survival and fun it was! The friendly Dutch/ Bolivian couple of Ruta Verde was dedicated to give us a great experience. Even after coming back in Sta. Cruz we were welcome for information and coffee at their office.´

Bram van den Berg (The Netherlands) - Noel Kempff Mercado National Park

´I had a very nice and adventurous trip with Ruta Verde in the remote national park noel Kempff. On the way there we visited the impressive Jesuit missions. So it became a very mixed trip with nature, adventure and culture. The friendly guide (a biologist) could tell a lot about the nature, area and the people. He also happened to be a good cook, a perfect driver and an awful singer. The help in the office in Santa Cruz was great. The office has a nice atmosphere and Maug and Gijs (the owners) were very helpful with finding the right tour for an affordable price. It also helped that they know there way around in Santa Cruz and that they are willing to share all the information you need. If I would have stayed longer I would have definitely booked another trip with Ruta Verde.´

Renske van der Heide (The Netherlands) - Noel Kempff Mercado National Park

Ha Gijs, de tour naar Noel Kempff was echt geweldig! De locatie was goed, het eten en drinken perfect en het park zelf vonden we echt prachtig! Ook de vlucht er naartoe is heel spectaculair!

Fernando sprak geen woord Engels, en wij geen woord Spaans, maar toch heeft hij ons goed kunnen begeleiden tijdens de tochten. We hebben veel gezien: kaaimannen, pink river dolphins, otters, vier verschillende soorten apen, capibara, een zwijn, slangen, tarantula's, prachtige vogels en de meest enge insekten. Veel beter dan de dierentuin! Bedankt voor alle tips en hulp en bovenal bedankt dat je ons aanbevolen hebt om naar Noel Kempff te gaan en niet naar bijvoorbeeld Madidi. We zullen Ruta Verde zeker aanbevelen! Deze tour was duidelijk het hoogtepunt van onze reis door Peru en Bolivia.

Gérard Roos and Nathalie (Switzerland) - Noel Kempff Mercado National Park

Hi gijs, before heading on to sucre while Nathalie is on her flight back home I just wanted to mention that we had a magnificent time in the park, been lucky with the weather and also with wildlife, seen so many animals that this trip will possibly be my most interesting time in the jungle for my entire life. Fernando was a good guide (though sometimes hard to understand his mumbling ;) ), had seen so many things we would have missed otherwise, and Pepe the pilot was a very nice person, too. And not to forget the food simply delicious (not only for Bolivian standards)!

thanks for your honesty about the (monetary and journey) risks, you have been a good 'consultant' to us.

take care, Gérard

About Uyuni Salt Flats

Simon Rodd (UK) - Uyuni

´Gijs, the trip to Uyuni was very good thanks. We were impressed with the overall package and would not hesitate to use your services again. Many Thanks.´

Shevanthi & Beth (UK) – Salt Flats Uyuni

´The tour was great...amazing scenery, great hotels and Cecilio and Beatrix were really good guides! Thanks again for organising it at such short notice.´

Diana Proost (The Netherlands) - Salt Flats Uyuni and Flotel Reina de Enin

´Bolivia vonden we super! Het was heel afwisselend, van het koude zuidwesten naar de warme Rio Mamore. Uyuni was erg mooi. Ik hou er van om een beetje actief bezig te zijn, dus het was veel zitten en kijken. Maar dit wist ik natuurlijk van te voren en het prachtige uitzicht maakte alles goed.´

David Ensor (Ireland) - Salt Flats Uyuni

´Hi Gijs, The trip was really great, first class. Thanks for all.´

Estefania Roig y Jordi Garcia (Spain) – Jesuit Missions and Uyuni

´Nos han gustado mucho los dos tours. Los chóferes y guías muy bien en ambos casos. Los hoteles nos gustaron mucho y todo ha salido muy bien. El Salar y Lagunas espectacular. En general muy bien todo.
Muchas gracias!´

Marianne Sundin Hestnes (Norway) – Uyuni

´It was absolutely fabolous! Excellent driver and guide! And transport to Chile! Loved all we saw! Thanks for organising the trip and for answering all my questions!´

Dr. David Lewis (Canada) – Uyuni

´We had a wonderful trip for 3 days and the weather was nice apart from some snow and hail on the last day which made it kind of special. ´

Mike Adamson (UK) – Uyuni

´Hi Gijs, I just wanted to say that we had a wonderful trip. The organisation was perfect - thank you for sorting it all for us. Best regards, Mike´

Christian Kell (Germany) – Uyuni

´Dear Gijs, I just wanted to thank you for an incredible experience in the Salar of Uyuni earlier this year. The nature and the people were unforgettable. Ottavio was a great enthusiastic guide. It could not have been better. All the best from Germany, Chris´

Paul and John (Australia) – Uyuni

´Dear Gijs, we would like to thank you for organising such a fantastic tour for us. We had an amazing time. Wilson was a great driver, very professional yet a lot of fun too. We had heard many stories of people having bad experiences so were a little wary about booking a tour. The food was great and the vehicle was very comfortable. If any of our friends head this way, we'll be passing on your details. Thanks again. Regards John and Paul´

Carmen Well & family (Australia) – Uyuni

´Dear Gijs, Thank you very much for following through with everything and making this part of our trip to South America go so smooothly. We have had several hassles with other bookings - people not turning up, or no name cards or wrong information etc. It is so refreshing to have everything go right. I shall have no hesitation in recommending you to any of our acquaintances. Regards, Carmen Wells´

About Selva Blue Lodge (Los Lagos)

Oliver Lucanus (Canada) – Selva Blue Lodge

´Thank you for the trip. We really had a great time, organization and all things were excellent. The Selva Blue Lodge was fantastic, and we will likely come back one day.´

About Sucre and Potosí

Fr. Mike Knipe (USA) – Jesuit Missions, Sucre and Potosí

´I had a wonderful experience. The Missions were amazing, especially as have seen the ruins in Paraguay and one Mission in Argentina (in the modern town of Alta Gracia). Your tour was as promised. The car was very comfortable and the guide attentive. The meals were ample. I was able to go to Mass every day.

Sucre was the jewel. Lourdes is among the best guides I have ever had and she tailored everything to my interest. Sucre as a city was a destination in itself. The Hotel Glorieta was very comfortable and there were lots of dining options.

Potosi was worth seeing and Lourdes saw that I saw every Church which was possible to see. I shortened the Mines part (I'm a little claustrophobic) but am very glad that I saw Cerro Rico.

I am glad I followed your advice and did not try to do Sucre/Potosi in one day. Two nights/two days was just perfect (in fact, Lourdes took me a short tour on Monday morning to the City colonial museum).

I came home amazed at the Bolivian people. They are much more diverse than I expected, very gentle and warm and easy to speak with. The setting seems much more secure than other places I have been (like Guatemala and parts of Mexico) in that there was little overt police, private guards and bars on all windows, etc. I am very happy to have sampled Bolivia and feel much richer for it.

Again, Gijs, I would give Ruta Verde all "As" (or stars or meets and exceeds expectations). May more Americans sample your marvellous (adopted) country. Thanks.´

About Reina de Enin

Diana Proost (The Netherlands) - Salt Flats Uyuni and Flotel Reina de Enin

´Bolivia vonden we super! Het was heel afwisselend, van het koude zuidwesten naar de warme Rio Mamore. Uyuni was erg mooi. Ik hou er van om een beetje actief bezig te zijn, dus het was veel zitten en kijken. Maar dit wist ik natuurlijk van te voren en het prachtige uitzicht maakte alles goed.

Het flotel Reina de Enin op de rivier was nog veel leuker dan we dachten. We twijfelden of het niet iets te lang zou zijn, 4 dagen op een boot. Maar alle activiteiten die we konden doen, het vriendelijke personeel, geweldige eten en het relaxte dakterras zorgden voor superdagen! We hebben ons enorm vermaakt. En de warmte was na al die kou ook wel erg welkom!

Het piranjavissen vond ik echt geweldig (de 1e keer dat we hebben gevist, en doordat ze zo vaak hapten was het heel erg leuk, en lekker!) Tijdens het 'wandelen' in de jungle moest de gids echt een pad weghakken wat het ook avontuurlijker maakte dan verwacht. Tijdens de laatste zonsondergang gingen we met een klein bootje roze dolfijnen zoeken. We hadden geluk dat er wel 50 om ons heen zwommen, daarnaast waren er vele vogels zoals rode Ibis. Het was echt een waanzinnig mooi plaatje, een perfect "afscheid" van Bolivia.

De jongen die ons naar het vliegveld in Trinidad bracht heeft ons ook met alles geholen, inchecken etc. Alles was dus prima geregeld!

Bedankt voor alle snelle reacties! Dat was echt super. Een paar maanden geleden had ik een paar reisbureaus in Bolivia gemaild om te informeren over de zouttour. Maar de meeste hebben zelfs helemaal nooit gereageerd...´

We hebben nog heel veel te zien in Bolivia. Als we terugkomen ga ik zeker bij RutaVerde kijken welke avonturen je nog meer biedt!

Roel and Sanne (The Netherlands) – Flotel Reina de Enin

´Het was echt fantastisch. De crew was zo lief en hebben ons echt in de watten gelgd. Dit betekende: heerlijk eten en ik ben dikke maatjes geworden met manolo (de kapitein) waarmee ik samen op visjacht ben gegaan te grote piranha's en catfish´s gevangen. Hugo is een perfecte gids met veel geduld en is zeer vriendelijk. Hebben nog heerlijk gezwomen tussen de dolfijnen (zeker 30 gezien) en nog veel meer. Is echt een aanrader voor iedereen. Zal je wat foto´s mailen als ik thuis ben. Voor de rest complimenten voor de organisatie. Was echt top geregeld.´

Laurence (Australia) – Flotel Reina de Enin

´Hi Gijs, Just a thank you for organising our trip. Everything was just dandy. Have a great new year. Warm regards, Laurence´

Sidsel Andersen y familia (Denmark) – Flotel Reina de Enin

´Estuvimos muy contentos con el viaje. Muchísimas gracias a usted. Ha ayudado mucho, tenido mucha paciencia con migo y las preguntas de mi familia. Ellos estaban muy contentos con el tour. Era un viaje increíble que nunca vamos a olvidar. Gracias.´

Gina & Mariana (Bolivia) – Flotel Reina de Enin

´Reina de Enin muestra al aventurero que decide navegar a lo largo de los maravillosos rios del Beni: Mamoré, Ibare y Matiquipiro....encontrarás a cada paso hermosos animales tales como grandes aves, capibaras, monos y caimanes....es maravilloso. Y los animales más maravillosos para Mariana (mi hija) y para mí fueron los delfines de río llamados "bufeos", ellos son tan amigales y parecen estar siempre siguiendo tus trazos en el agua....este fue un viaje maravilloso que fue coordinado por un nuevo amigo: Gijs de "Ruta Verde". Reina de Enin muestra lugares mágicos tanto en epoca baja como en epoca alta.....afortunadamente nosotros pudimos ver los rios durante lluvias.....fue mágico. Yo recomiendo este viaje a todos quienes deseen estar en contacto con la naturaleza.´

About Ruta del Che

Brigitte Mahnert (Germany) – Ruta del Che

´Dear Gijs, now that we are back for one week, I want to write to you and thank you for the wonderful trip we have done with your company. The Che route was always a dream of mine and you provided the perfect trip. Iver was a very experienced and courteously guide whom we can recommend 100% and Henry was a safe driver who brought us sound back to Santa Cruz. The tour was something special and I will not forget the places that we have seen. Many thanks and best wishes, Brigitte´

Felipe Portero (Brazil) – Ruta del Che

´Dear Gijs, La Ruta del Che was wonderful, thank you for your support.´

About our Tailor made Tours in Bolivia

Andries and Irma Hollinga (The Netherlands) - Tailor made tours in Bolivia

´Onze reis naar Bolivia was in één woord “onvergetelijk”. Het land biedt een ongelooflijke variatie aan natuur, cultuur en interessante mensen en wij wilden daar in iets meer dan 3 weken heel veel van zien. Als je dat allemaal zelf moet regelen is dat onmogelijk, zeker als je rekening moet houden met de Boliviaanse “informalidad”.

Ruta Verde heeft voor ons een geweldige reis samengesteld, waarbij we heel veel van Bolivia hebben kunnen zien en beleven. Alles was perfect georganiseerd met goed materiaal, kundige locale gidsen en comfortabele en/of verrassende accommodaties. De hele reis verliep voor ons boven verwachting en we zijn nog steeds onder de indruk van alles was we gezien en meegemaakt hebben in o.a. het nationale park Amboró, Samaipata, de Jesuitenmissies, de zoutmerentocht bij Uyuni en de tocht door de Yungas. De service van Ruta Verde was eenvoudig top en ging zelfs zover, dat Gijs bij kiespijn een tandartsbezoek voor ons regelde in een privé kliniek in Santa Cruz vlak voor onze rondreis, zodat 1 goede behandeling kon voorkomen dat onze vakantie in het water viel.

Wij kunnen Bolivia en Ruta Verde in het bijzonder aan een ieder aanbevelen die van bijzondere, avontuurlijke en toch goed georganiseerde vakanties houdt.´

Wim and Mirjam Ausma and Family (The Netherlands) - Tailor made tours in Bolivia

´We hebben ontzettend genoten van de vakantie in Bolivia. Jullie bureau had alles perfect geregeld en het is gewoon lekker als het allemaal goed geregeld is en als dat niet zo zou zijn dan kun je altijd Gijs bellen. Wij hebben de eerste dagen een geweldige vakantie gehad, ook al was het best wel een beetje druk in 10 dagen, maar dat wilden wij ook graag. Daarna nog een tour naar Amburo was ook heel erg leuk en goed.

Namens de hele familie, hartelijk dank voor de service en wij wensen jullie heel veel mooie jaren nog in Bolivia en dat het maar een beetje rustig mag blijven in dit mooie land met zijn mooie mensen!!

Gegroet Gijs en als we ooit weer naar Bolivia komen weten we je te vinden in de positieve manier natuurlijk!!! Verder zal ik iedereen die naar Bolivia gaat jullie bureau zeker anbevelen.´

Gea and Luc Boussauw (The Netherlands and Belgium) - Tailor made tours in Bolivia

´Hoi Gijs, we hebben een uitstekende vakantie gehad, heerlijk weer, behalve een dagje in Madidi, veel, heel veel gezien en genoten van alle prachtige dingen die Bolivia te bieden heeft.

Ik wil jou en jouw staf van harte bedanken voor alle goede zorgen. Het reisschema was prima, de hotels de beste die er te vinden waren, alles klopte altijd perfect. Geen enkele transfer of reservering gaf problemen en zoals je misschien weet, we komen uit de congres-organisatie wereld, en weten hoe vaak iets niet werkt zoals je zou willen. Onze komplimenten dus. Ook hartelijk dank voor de kwaliteit van gidsen, chauffeurs en materieel.

Alles samen hadden we een heel prima reis. Uyuni en omstreken krijgt de hoofdprijs, en Noel Kempf is nummer twee, maar ook de missions en de historische steden zijn erg mooi. We kregen een heel goede indruk van een zeer gevarieerd land.

Nogmaals heel erg bedankt voor de uitstekende service van Ruta Verde en misschien tot ziens, ofwel in Bolivia ofwel in Costa Rica.´

Bernadette Smetsers and family (The Netherlands) - Tailor made tours in Bolivia

´Beste Gijs, We hebben een geweldige reis gehad en de combinatie van la Paz en El Oriente was prima. De reis naar de missies en het park waren geweldig! Goed georganiseerd, in de missies genoten van wat luxe zoalst heerlijke zwembaden en mooie tuinen en natuurlijk de interessante cultuur van de kerkjes en musea. Amboro park was geweldig. Prima slaap en eetgelegenheid in een overweldige natuur. De "Padre" kon helaas maar een keer mee, want zijn knieen zijn versleten.Maar hij heeft genoten van de rust en natuur. De mensen in het park zijn alleraardigst, we heben de wandelgidsen en de kokkin bedankt, zowel materieel als met complimenten.

Dit zelfde geldt ook voor Iver en de chauffeurs. Iver was een heel goede gids, hij weet veel te vertellen en hij heeft zich goed aangepast aan het clubje bejaarde hollanders. Niks dan lof en ook jij heel erg bedankt voor de prima organisatie.´

Dedde de Jong and family (The Netherlands) - Tailor made tours in Bolivia

´Beste Gijs, wij zijn inmiddels goed in La Paz aangekomen na een geweldige tocht met Wilson van jullie operator in Uyuni. Sucre was heerlijk, de tocht naar Potosi ook prima. Verblijf in Potosi kort maar goed, gelukkig had niemand last van de hoogte. De busreis naar Uyuni verliep ook naar wens, leuk om dat overdag te doen en veel te zien.

In Uyuni zijn we op zoek gegaan naar Doris en zij vertelde over de problemen met de toegang tot het park. Gelukkig werden die (voorlopig) opgelost zodat we het oorspronkelijke programma konden lopen. Met Wilson gingen we de volgende dag op pad. Een geweldige chauffeur die alle zaakjes prima in orde heeft. In alles kwam naar voren dat hij het zijn passagiers volledig naar de zin wilde maken. Ondanks het volle programma zorgde hij voor voldoende tijd voor de verschillende onderdelen en wist hij leuke en speciale plekjes voor lunch. De accommodaties waren prima in orde. Met veel zorg maakte hij het eten, smaakvol en van goede kwaliteit. Het kwam erg goed uit dat we met zijn vieren, dus prive, deze trip konden maken. Dat was erg chique, maar ook erg leuk en handig. Een engelse gids hebben we zeker niet gemist. Echt een aanrader deze chauffeur en deze reisorganisatie. De busreis naar La Paz was afzien (teveel mensen en in een veel te warme bus), maar ja dat hoort er ook bij.

In La Paz zitten we prima in Hotel Rosario in een familiekamer.

Heel veel dank voor het meedenken en de goede service! ´

Martien en Liesbeth Würdemann (The Netherlands) - Tailor made tours in Bolivia

´Gijs, inmiddels zijn wij alweer een klein weekje terug in Nederland, na een zeer geslaagde reis. Wat ons betreft alleen maar complimenten. Van de hoogte hebben wij weinig last gehad, ik denk ook door het verstandige reisschema. Wel soms wat van de buik. Bolivië is een prachtig land, met, dat is ons opgevallen een heel innemende en hartelijke bevolking. Kortom, hartelijk dank voor je goede en attente zorgen. Wij zullen je in voorkomende gevallen gaarne aanbevelen. Groet, Martien en Liesbeth´

Xavier Grande & Ferran Llore (España) - Tailor made tours in Bolivia

´Maria Eugenia, buenas tardes. Muchas gracias por todo el viaje. Nos ha gustado mucho y muy contentos de vuestra organización. Todo fue perfecto y en cada momento teníamos el guía esperando.

Gracias y nos quedamos vuestro contacto para poder recomendarlo a otras personas. Un saludo.´

Helen Williams (UK) - Tailor made tours in Bolivia and VIII International Baroque Music Festival 2010

´Hi Maria, Now that we're back in the UK we just wanted to say a huge thank you for organising such a wonderful trip, it really was seamless and everything from the tranfers to the accomodation was to such a high standard. Particularly high praise should go to Pablo and Julian who were simply wonderful and so generous with their time and energy, they really made the trip extra special.
We would definitely recommend you to our friends when they travel to Bolivia, thank you for such a fantastic holiday!
Best Wishes, Helen and Peter' ´