Coroico, Bolivia: A Must-Visit Destination?

Coroico, Bolivia, is a small town nestled in the clouds of the Nor Yungas Province. It is a popular getaway for locals from La Paz, but often overlooked by foreign tourists. However, it is worth visiting for its lush green jungle scenery, laid-back vibe, and array of activities. The town offers unmatched relaxation, with pools and resorts providing the perfect retreat for travellers seeking a break from the high altitudes of Bolivia. The nearby Death Road, or The World's Most Dangerous Road, is a major attraction for adventure seekers, with cycling and trekking tours available. Coroico also boasts a vibrant main square, a variety of culinary delights, and easy access to hiking trails and waterfalls.

The town's laid-back vibe

Coroico is a small town nestled in the clouds, high on the mountain ridges of the Nor Yungas Province in Bolivia. With its laid-back vibe, it offers a respite from the bustling city of La Paz and the bitter cold of the highland nights. The town exudes a relaxed atmosphere, inviting visitors to slow down and embrace the local culture.

The main plaza is the heart of Coroico, where locals and travellers alike gather to socialise, sell juices and crafts, and enjoy the surrounding nature. The plaza is a hub of activity, with people chatting, children playing, and musicians filling the air with melodies. It is a place where one can truly immerse themselves in the authentic Bolivian way of life. The surrounding brick-laid streets are lined with cosy taverns, small restaurants, and internet shops, inviting visitors to explore and interact with the locals.

For those seeking relaxation, Coroico offers a peaceful retreat. The town's hostels and small jungle resorts provide the perfect setting to lounge by the pool, sip on a cold beer, and take in the stunning views of the lush green jungle and nearby pools. The atmosphere is calm and leisurely, allowing visitors to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

The town also boasts a variety of culinary delights, with restaurants serving European dishes, mouth-watering pizzas, and delicious local cuisine. Visitors can indulge in the famous banana muffins and pudding at a local woman's home, where she proudly shares stories of her family and Coroico. The town's laid-back vibe extends to its culinary scene, with visitors encouraged to take their time, savour the flavours, and connect with the locals over a meal.

In addition to its relaxing atmosphere and culinary delights, Coroico offers a range of outdoor activities for those seeking adventure. The nearby Death Road, or "The North Yungas Road," provides an adrenaline-pumping cycling experience, attracting thrill-seekers from around the world. For nature lovers, La Senda Verde, an animal sanctuary located just 15 minutes from the town, offers a glimpse into the region's diverse wildlife. Ziplining and hiking trails, such as Cerro Uchumachi, are also popular attractions, allowing visitors to explore the lush jungles and experience the region's natural beauty up close.

Coroico, with its laid-back vibe, friendly locals, and stunning natural surroundings, offers a unique and memorable experience for travellers seeking relaxation, cultural immersion, and outdoor adventures. It is a place where one can escape the ordinary and embrace the beauty and serenity of Bolivia.

The Death Road

Coroico, Bolivia, is a popular getaway spot for those living in La Paz. The town is located in the Nor Yungas Province and is only 50 kilometres from La Paz. It is the perfect location for travellers who want to escape the high altitudes of Bolivia and enjoy some relaxation and rejuvenation.

One of the main attractions in Coroico is the Death Road, or "The North Yungas Road". This infamous route is about 60 kilometres long and was constructed by Paraguayan prisoners of war during the deadly Chaco conflict in the 1930s. The road connects La Paz with Las Yungas and the Amazon rainforest.

In 2006, a new road was constructed by the government, bypassing the Death Road and providing a safer alternative for travellers. However, the Death Road remains a popular tourist destination for thrill-seekers. Tour operators offer downhill mountain biking experiences, providing equipment, guides, and transport. It is important to note that the Death Road is still dangerous, and cyclists have lost their lives on this route.

If you are considering visiting Coroico and experiencing the Death Road, here are some important things to keep in mind:

• The easiest way to get to Coroico is by bus or combi from La Paz. Buses leave daily, but there is no set schedule, and they usually depart when they are full.
• If you want to experience the Death Road, you can book a tour in Coroico or La Paz.
• The weather in Coroico can be humid and rainy, so it is recommended to bring a light jacket and a rain jacket.
• There are limited hotel options in Coroico, so it is suggested to check Airbnb or other accommodation sites.
• Most eateries are located around the main plaza, offering a variety of cuisines, including European, Italian, and vegetarian options.
• There are small mercados in Coroico where you can buy snacks, water, and other goods, but it is recommended to bring essential items like bug spray and sunscreen with you.
• While the Death Road is no longer the main route between Coroico and La Paz, it is still dangerous. If you plan to cycle the Death Road, consider going with a reputable tour company and follow all safety instructions.

The local cuisine

Coroico, Bolivia, is a great place to visit for its local cuisine alone. The town has a variety of eateries, from restaurants serving European dishes to local joints offering traditional Bolivian fare.

For those craving a taste of home, there are several great options in Coroico. Carla's Garden Pub, located just down the stairs from the main plaza, offers a selection of European and Bolivian dishes in a relaxed atmosphere. It's a popular spot for travellers to unwind over a few drinks in the evening. Another European option is Pizzeria Toto, which serves excellent handmade pasta and pizzas. While the space is small, it's well worth it for the delicious Italian food.

If you're looking for more typical Bolivian cuisine, there are plenty of local spots serving affordable and tasty meals. Keep an eye out for menu del día, where you can get a soup or appetiser, a main dish, and a drink or dessert for a great price. For other cheap and cheerful options, head north of the main plaza to find stalls serving chicharrón. Alternatively, Big Burger near Hostal Atalias is a good choice for salchipapas and burgers.

During the day, you can find multiple stalls around the main plaza serving fresh juices, smoothies, breads, iced coffee, and empanadas. These are perfect for a quick breakfast or snack. Café Almendra is also recommended for breakfast, and Villa Bonita is a great vegetarian option.

Coroico is a town in the Nor Yungas Province of western Bolivia. It has a mostly Aymara and Mestizo population and is known for its colourful markets and stores, which sell staple products from La Paz and the surrounding areas. The region is also a traditional coca-growing area and is one of the three main areas of coca production in Bolivia.

The natural surroundings

Coroico, Bolivia is a small town nestled in the clouds of the Nor Yungas Province. It is a town enveloped by nature, with deep and misty gorges and sheer valleys clad in lush jungle greenery. The natural surroundings of Coroico are undeniably wild and untamed, making it a popular destination for those seeking outdoor adventures.

The town is surrounded by rocky canyons, water pools, and primeval forests that offer a mix of experiences, from river swimming to trekking. The best hiking excursions typically start or finish at La Cumbre, which sits nearly 5,000 meters above sea level along the infamous "Death Road" to La Paz. From La Cumbre, hikes can take a minimum of two days and traverse the mountain ridges between the two settlements. The panoramas along these hikes are breathtaking, with rolling jungles climbing up the faces of cliffs and the distant silhouettes of the high Cordillera hills.

For those seeking a more relaxed experience, there are also ziplining options and rafting trips that depart from nearby Caranavi. The rafting trip takes several days and can be combined with hiking and cycling activities.

Coroico is also known for its nearby waterfalls, with three waterfalls located just east of the town. These waterfalls make for a pleasant daytime excursion, either by minibus or on foot. Another waterfall region, Vagantes, is more challenging to reach but offers even more stunning scenery.

In addition to its natural attractions, Coroico also boasts a vibrant main square or plaza, where locals and tourists gather to socialize, sell juices and crafts, and play music. The town also has a variety of eateries, ranging from European cuisine to pizza and vegetarian dishes.

The nearby attractions

Coroico, Bolivia, is a popular getaway spot for those living in La Paz. While it is often overlooked by foreigners, it is worth visiting for a couple of days to experience its unique culture and nearby attractions. Here are some nearby attractions that you can explore during your time in Coroico:

Death Road

Also known as "The North Yungas Road", Death Road is a 60-kilometre route constructed by Paraguayan prisoners of war in the 1930s. It was once declared the "World's Most Dangerous Road", claiming the lives of an estimated 300 people annually before a newer road was built in 2006. Today, it attracts thrill-seekers and cyclists from around the world, offering a challenging and adrenaline-pumping journey.

La Senda Verde

La Senda Verde is an animal sanctuary established in 2003 to educate locals about the harmful effects of illegal animal trafficking, deforestation, and environmental threats. It is home to various vulnerable wildlife species, including caimans, speckled bears, snakes, birds, and monkeys. Visitors can take a guided tour of the sanctuary, and those seeking a longer stay can book accommodations at their onsite eco-lodge or even volunteer to work with the animals.

Ziplining in Yolosa

For those seeking even more adrenaline-pumping activities, Yolosa, located at the end of Death Road, offers Bolivia's biggest and best ziplining experience. Adventurers can soar through the lush Yungas valleys at breathhtaking speeds, enjoying the stunning scenery from a bird's-eye view.

Hiking Trails

Coroico is surrounded by hiking trails that meander through the region's natural beauty. One popular trail leads up Cerro Uchumachi, offering stunning views of the Yungas valleys. Another trail, starting from La Cumbre, involves a two-day hike along the "Death Road" to La Paz, providing unparalleled panoramas of the rolling jungle and the distant Cordillera hills.

Waterfalls

To the east of Coroico, three waterfalls make for a refreshing daytime excursion. Visitors can either hike through the valleys and coca plantations or take a minibus to reach these waterfalls. For a more secluded experience, the waterfall region known as Vagantes offers a more challenging hike or taxi ride, but beware of rough waters.

Frequently asked questions