Coroico

Coroico, Bolivia - Complete Travel Guide

Coroico is a charming colonial town located in the lush Yungas region of Bolivia, approximately 100 kilometers northeast of La Paz. Known as the gateway to Bolivia's subtropical lowlands, this picturesque destination sits at 1,760 meters above sea level, offering a dramatic contrast to the high-altitude capital. The town is famous for being the endpoint of the legendary Death Road (Camino de la Muerte), one of the world's most dangerous yet thrilling mountain biking routes. Surrounded by verdant hills covered in coca plantations, coffee farms, and tropical vegetation, Coroico provides visitors with impressive panoramic views of snow-capped Andean peaks in the distance. The town's colonial architecture, pleasant subtropical climate, and laid-back atmosphere make it a perfect retreat for travelers seeking respite from La Paz's altitude and urban intensity. Coroico serves as an excellent base for exploring the Yungas region's natural beauty, indigenous culture, and adventure activities.

Top Coroico

Death Road Mountain Biking

Experience the world-famous Camino de la Muerte, a thrilling 64-kilometer downhill mountain bike ride from La Cumbre pass to Coroico. This adrenaline-pumping adventure takes you through dramatic landscape changes, from high-altitude páramo to subtropical cloud forest. The route offers spectacular views of the Andes while navigating narrow cliff-side paths that once served as Bolivia's most dangerous road.

Booking Tip: Book with reputable operators like Gravity Bolivia or Barracuda Biking (prices range from $60-90 USD). Tours typically include transport from La Paz, quality bikes, safety gear, and lunch. Book 1-2 days in advance during peak season and ensure the operator provides full-face helmets and protective gear.

Coca Plantation Tours

Learn about Bolivia's controversial yet culturally significant coca leaf cultivation through guided visits to local plantations. These educational tours provide insight into the traditional uses of coca in Andean culture, the cultivation process, and the socio-economic impact on local communities. Visitors can participate in coca leaf picking and learn about the plant's role in indigenous traditions and modern Bolivian society.

Booking Tip: Arrange tours through local guides in Coroico for $20-30 USD per person. Best visited in the morning when it's cooler, and tours typically last 3-4 hours. Look for guides who can provide cultural context and speak your language. Some hotels can arrange these tours directly.

Cerro Uchumachi Hiking

Trek to the summit of Cerro Uchumachi, the highest peak near Coroico, for impressive 360-degree views of the Yungas valleys and distant Cordillera Real. This challenging day hike takes you through diverse ecosystems, from subtropical forests to alpine vegetation. The trail offers opportunities to spot local wildlife and enjoy the region's incredible biodiversity while experiencing impressive sunrise or sunset vistas from the top.

Booking Tip: Hire local guides for $25-40 USD per day through your hotel or tourist information center. Start early morning (6 AM) to avoid afternoon clouds and rain. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and rain gear. The hike takes 6-8 hours roundtrip and requires good physical fitness.

Coffee Farm Visits

Explore the Yungas region's thriving coffee culture with visits to local organic coffee farms that produce some of Bolivia's finest beans. These tours showcase the entire coffee production process, from bean cultivation and harvesting to roasting and brewing. Visitors can participate in coffee picking during harvest season, learn about sustainable farming practices, and enjoy fresh coffee tastings while surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery.

Booking Tip: Tours cost $15-25 USD per person and can be arranged through local hotels or directly with farms like Villa Bonita or Finca Soledad. Best visited during harvest season (May-August). Tours include transportation, guided farm walk, and coffee tasting. Book 1 day in advance.

Afro-Bolivian Village Tours

Discover the unique Afro-Bolivian culture in nearby villages like Tocaña, where descendants of enslaved Africans have preserved their distinct traditions, music, and dance. These cultural immersion tours include traditional saya music and dance performances, visits to local homes, and insights into this often-overlooked aspect of Bolivian heritage. The experience provides a fascinating glimpse into how African culture has blended with Andean and colonial influences over centuries.

Booking Tip: Arrange through local tour operators in Coroico for $30-50 USD per person, including transportation and cultural performances. Tours typically last half a day and are best on weekends when communities are more active. Some tours include traditional meals. Book 2-3 days in advance to ensure community availability.

Getting There

The most common way to reach Coroico is by bus or minibus from La Paz, with regular departures from Villa Fátima terminal taking approximately 3-4 hours via the new safer road. The journey costs around 15-20 bolivianos ($2-3 USD) and offers spectacular mountain scenery. Alternatively, many visitors arrive via the Death Road mountain biking tour, which provides transportation back to La Paz. Private taxis or rental cars are also options, though the winding mountain roads require experienced drivers. Some tour operators offer direct shuttle services from La Paz hotels.

Getting Around

Coroico is a small town easily explored on foot, with most attractions, restaurants, and accommodations within walking distance of the central plaza. Local minibuses and shared taxis connect Coroico to nearby villages and attractions for 5-10 bolivianos per trip. Motorcycle taxis are available for shorter distances within town for 3-5 bolivianos. For visiting coffee farms, coca plantations, or hiking trails, most travelers arrange transportation through their hotels or local tour operators. Walking remains the best way to explore the town's colonial streets and enjoy the mountain views.

Where to Stay

Town Center near Plaza

Hilltop Hotels with Valley Views

Budget Hostels near Bus Terminal

Eco-lodges in Surrounding Hills

Family-run Guesthouses

Hotels along Main Road

Food & Dining

Coroico's dining scene reflects its position between Andean and tropical regions, offering a mix of traditional Bolivian dishes and international cuisine. Local specialties include fresh trout from mountain streams, tropical fruits like bananas and papayas grown in the region, and hearty soups perfect for the mountain climate. The town center features several family-run restaurants serving authentic Bolivian fare, while hotels often offer international menus for tourists. Don't miss trying locally grown coffee, fresh fruit juices, and traditional snacks like salteñas. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating with spectacular valley views, and prices are generally very affordable, with full meals costing $5-10 USD.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Coroico is during the dry season from May to October, when rainfall is minimal and mountain views are clearest. This period offers the most reliable weather for outdoor activities like hiking and mountain biking, with sunny days and cool nights. The wet season (November to April) brings frequent afternoon rains and cloudy conditions, though the landscape is lushest during this time. Coffee harvest season (May-August) is particularly interesting for farm visits. Temperatures remain relatively stable year-round due to the subtropical climate, ranging from 15-25°C (59-77°F), making it a pleasant escape from La Paz's cold and altitude any time of year.

Insider Tips

Acclimatize in Coroico for a day before attempting strenuous activities if coming directly from La Paz's high altitude

Bring cash as ATMs are limited and many businesses don't accept cards

Pack layers and rain gear as mountain weather can change quickly even during dry season