Coroico
,Coroico is a small town located in the Yungas region of Bolivia. It is known for its stunning mountainous landscapes, lush greenery, and breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys. The town is a popular destination for tourists seeking outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and bird watching.
Coroico also has a laid-back atmosphere, with charming cafes and markets where visitors can experience the local culture and cuisine.
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Hasta luego" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $60
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Adventure in Coroico
morning
:Start your day with a hike to Waterfall Esmeralda, enjoying the lush landscapes along the way. Breathe in the fresh air and take photographs of the captivating scenery.
afternoon
:Visit the local markets to sample traditional Bolivian snacks and buy unique handmade crafts. Connecting with local artisans could lead to interesting conversations and cultural insights.
evening
:Enjoy a dinner at a restaurant with panoramic views of the valley. Spend the night relaxing as you take in the stunning sunset.
Nature Escape
morning
:Explore the lush trails of La Senda Verde, a wildlife refuge home to many exotic animals. Capture the beauty of nature as you observe diverse flora and fauna.
afternoon
:Take a guided tour to learn about the conservation efforts in the area. This is a perfect opportunity to understand the significance of protecting local wildlife.
evening
:Unwind at a local café while you sip on hot chocolate made from Bolivian cacao. Reflect on your day amidst the tranquil surroundings.
Highlights
Good
- Stunning natural scenery, including mountains and lush valleys.
- A rich cultural experience with local traditions and festivals.
- Access to outdoor activities such as hiking and biking.
- A relatively mild climate, making it pleasant to visit year-round.
- Less crowded than more popular tourist destinations in Bolivia.
Bad
- Limited infrastructure and amenities compared to larger cities.
- Transportation can be challenging due to mountainous terrain.
- Potential for altitude sickness due to elevation.
- Basic healthcare facilities may not meet the needs of all travelers.
- Some areas may have safety concerns, particularly for solo travelers.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking to Ecolodge La Senda
Embark on a scenic hike through lush forests to reach the tranquil Ecolodge La Senda, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Mountain Biking on the Death Road
Experience the thrill of biking down the famous Death Road, known for its stunning landscapes and adrenaline-pumping descents, suitable for adventurous cyclists.
Visiting the Chapare Waterfalls
Take a day trip to explore the beautiful waterfalls in the Chapare region, where you can swim in natural pools and enjoy the stunning environment.
Birdwatching in the Cloud Forest
Discover the diverse bird species in the cloud forest around Coroico, perfect for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Paragliding
Experience the breathtaking landscapes from above by paragliding over Coroico, offering a unique perspective of the lush greenery and mountain vistas.
Visiting the local markets
Explore local markets to get a taste of Bolivian culture, shop for handicrafts, and try traditional foods.
Cultural tours in Coroico
Join a guided tour to learn about the history, culture, and traditions of the indigenous people in the region.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Coroico with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Mirador La Cruz
A popular viewpoint located just outside of Coroico, offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains, particularly stunning at sunset.
Cascada de Coroico (Coroico Waterfall)
A beautiful waterfall that can be reached via a short hike. The lush greenery and the sound of falling water create a picturesque setting for photography.
Parque Nacional Cotapata
This national park has various trails that lead to lookout points with breathtaking views of the Yungas region, providing excellent opportunities for nature photography.
La Senda Verde
An eco-tourism project with scenic trails and viewpoints where visitors can capture the diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes of the area.
Mirador del Valle de Coroico
A viewpoint that provides a sweeping vista of the Coroico Valley, ideal for capturing the dramatic changes in landscape and vegetation.
The Coffee Plantations
Visit the local coffee farms for a unique blend of agriculture and landscape photography, showcasing the lush greenery and hilly terrains.
Kallawaya Cultural Center
Engage with the local culture while enjoying stunning views; this center offers workshops and has viewpoints that highlight the blend of Bolivian culture and natural beauty.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sajta de Pollo
A traditional Bolivian dish made with chicken, potatoes, peanuts, and a spicy sauce. Best enjoyed at local eateries like Mirador Restaurant.
Must-Try!
Tucumanas
Empanada-like pastries filled with meat, eggs, and vegetables, perfect for a quick street food snack. Look for them at street vendors around Plaza Principal.
Silpancho
A popular Bolivian dish consisting of a thin breaded beef cutlet served with rice, potatoes, and a fried egg on top. Check out Restaurant Las Velas for an authentic taste.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Coroico better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Mercado Central de Coroico
This bustling market offers a wide range of fresh produce, local ingredients, and street food stalls serving up traditional snacks like salteñas and anticuchos.
Calles Comerciales
The commercial streets of Coroico come alive with food vendors offering grilled meats, fresh fruit juices, and a variety of local snacks. Explore Calle Comercio for an authentic street food experience.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greetings
In Coroico, a friendly greeting can go a long way. It's customary to greet people with a handshake or a light kiss on the cheek, especially if you know them. Always greet the elders first as a sign of respect.
Dress Modestly
When visiting local communities or religious sites, it is important to dress modestly. Wearing clothes that cover your shoulders and knees is appreciated and respects the cultural values of the locals.
Be Respectful During Festivals
Coroico hosts several local festivals throughout the year. When attending, be respectful of local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before taking photos and participate respectfully, as some events may hold spiritual significance for the community.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Coroico with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Coroico, Bolivia, tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory. It is common to leave a small gratuity in restaurants, cafes, and for guides, especially if the service is exceptional. A tip of around 10% of the bill is considered generous.
Payment
Payments in Coroico can be made in cash, with the Bolivian Boliviano being the official currency. Credit and debit cards are accepted in some larger establishments, but it is advisable to carry cash for smaller vendors and rural areas. Local markets and street vendors typically only accept cash payments.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Coroico.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry Season (May to October)
This season is characterized by mild temperatures and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the natural beauty of Coroico. Expect sunny days and cooler nights.
Rainy Season (November to April)
During the rainy season, Coroico experiences heavy rainfall and increased humidity. While the landscape becomes lush and vibrant, travel may be more challenging due to muddy roads and possible landslides. Expect warmer temperatures and occasional thunderstorms.
Festive Season (December)
December is a festive time in Coroico, as locals celebrate various cultural events and festivals. Visitors can expect lively celebrations, traditional music, and delicious local food, along with comfortable weather from warm days to cool nights.
Shoulder Season (April and November)
These months serve as transition periods between the dry and wet seasons, offering a mix of pleasant weather and fewer tourists. It's a great time for those who want to experience Coroico with slightly less crowded attractions.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Choroboca
A rugged trail with stunning views of the Andes and the lush valleys surrounding Coroico. Ideal for adventurous hikers looking for a challenge.
La Senda Verde
A scenic trail that winds through a nature reserve, offering opportunities to see local wildlife and diverse plant species.
El Choro Trek
A famous multi-day trek that starts near Coroico, descending to the Aymara community of Choro, offering breathtaking landscapes along the way.
Cerro del Choro
A challenging climb that rewards hikers with panoramic views of the Yungas region and the surrounding mountains.
Caminos de Los Yungas
A network of trails through the Yungas, known for its rich biodiversity and stunning scenery, perfect for leisurely hikes.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Coroico through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Coroico by plane.
El Alto International Airport (LPB)
Located in El Alto, near La Paz, this is the main international airport serving Bolivia and is approximately 100 km from Coroico.
Viru Viru International Airport (VVI)
Located in Santa Cruz, this is one of the largest airports in Bolivia and is about 450 km from Coroico.
Jorge Wilstermann International Airport (CBB)
Located in Cochabamba, this airport serves both domestic and international flights and is around 230 km from Coroico.
Capitán Oriel Lea Plaza International Airport (POI)
Located in Potosí and offers limited international flights, this airport is about 280 km from Coroico.
Sucre International Airport (SRE)
Located in Sucre, this airport offers domestic flights and is roughly 400 km from Coroico.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Indigenous Peoples
Indigenous communities such as the Aymara and Quechua represent a significant demographic group in Coroico, with rich cultural traditions and languages.
Mestizos
Mestizo individuals, who are of mixed Indigenous and European descent, make up a substantial part of the population, often combining elements from both heritages.
European Descendants
People of European descent, primarily from Spain and other European countries, are present in smaller numbers compared to the Indigenous and Mestizo populations.
Afro-Bolivians
A minority group in Bolivia, Afro-Bolivians are primarily descendants of enslaved Africans brought to South America and contribute to the cultural diversity of the region.
Immigrant Communities
There are various immigrant communities, including people from neighboring countries such as Peru and Brazil, contributing to the cultural and social fabric of Coroico.
The Soul of Coroico
Discover the essence of Coroico through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football
Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Coroico, widely played and followed by the local community. Various local teams compete in regional tournaments.
Cycling
Coroico's scenic landscapes make it a popular destination for cycling, both for local riders and tourists seeking adventure along the mountain trails.
Volleyball
Volleyball is a favored sport among the youth in Coroico, with many informal games played in schools and community centers.
Basketball
Basketball is increasingly popular in Coroico, with local courts available for practice and games, especially among younger generations.
Traditional Indigenous Games
Local traditional games and sports are still practiced, such as 'tinku', which is often associated with cultural events and festivals in the region.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
While many traditional dishes in Coroico feature meat, several restaurants and cafes offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly alternatives, such as hearty vegetable stews and fresh salads.
Gluten-Free Choices
Travelers with gluten intolerance can sample dishes like quinoa-based soups and rice-based specialties, with some eateries accommodating gluten-free dietary needs upon request.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Coroico with these cultural adventures.