Riberalta, the kingdom of the “moto”
The best way to get around in the jungle is on a moto (and also the funnest). I am happy I bought a motorbike in La Paz as it has been more than useful over here. Maybe less happy about deciding to go from La Paz to Riberalta by motorbike (more than 900 km with unpaved roads and a lot, a lot, of dust). But this is part of the adventure! I love riding motorcycles. I have been riding for about 17 years now.
Public transport is non existent in the city of Riberalta itself and probably more than 2/3 of the population have their own motorbike or they use the “moto taxi”. Anyways, there is no other choice than getting around by moto!
Working with Sustainable Bolivia
Right now thanks to and through Sustainable Bolivia I am able to work and live in the vibrant city of Riberalta at a location with good wifi and office capabilities, but also only 20km from the Aquicuana Reserve, in the jungle, where I have been working most of the time.
Bolivia can be a difficult place to work in. Transport can be difficult but communication too! And obviously, Bolivians generally (not always!) tend to have another vision of time and organization. However, the operational support which Sustainable Bolivia provides me with is exceptional and allowed me to work on specific projects such as developing the project and looking for funding for bringing water to the rural community of San Jose.
I have worked mainly with the community of San Jose within the Aquicuana Reserve. San Jose is a small community of about 30 families, living along the lake also called San Jose. My trip from Riberalta to the community consists of a 30 to 45 minute motorcycle ride.
My experience of riding out to the “Pauro”
“Pauro” is the local term for a hand dug well which catches spring water coming straight out of the ground. The springs have good positive pressure and the water is cold and crystal clear before it descends into an arroyo and then out towards the lake.
My ride out to the pauros is a blast. The road goes from paved, to dirt, to jeep trail, then to single track trail. The view of lake San Jose from the trail is always worth stopping for. I am always struggling to identify the flowers and plants I take pictures of. I am still not sure what this flower is called.
