Things To Do
in Coroico
Coroico is a lush Bolivian town perched on the edge of the Yungas, where jungle meets highland scenery. It sits between La Paz’s chilly altitudes and a tropical cloud forest, delivering dramatic valley views and winding roads. The town feels intimate and welcoming, with adobe houses, markets, and farms that spill down into the green slopes.
Access is by scenic drive from La Paz or via local routes, and the climate is warm and humid for much of the year with refreshing elevation changes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Coroico and take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains as you settle into your hotel. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Bolivian dishes. Spend your morning exploring the charming streets of downtown Coroico and visiting the main square.
After lunch, embark on a guided hike to the nearby waterfalls, where you can enjoy a refreshing swim in the cool waters. Marvel at the lush landscapes and diverse wildlife as you make your way through the trails. Take the time to capture the breathtaking scenery with your camera.
As the sun begins to set, head back to town for dinner at a local restaurant, savoring fresh ingredients sourced from the nearby mountains. Enjoy a warm drink while listening to live music in one of the cozy establishments. Wrap up your day by taking a peaceful stroll under the stars.
Rise early and enjoy a hearty breakfast before setting off to explore the stunning cloud forest surrounding Coroico. Join a guided tour where you can learn about the unique flora and fauna that thrive in this ecosystem. Take your time to appreciate the tranquility of nature as you walk through the mist-covered trails.
Have a picnic lunch amidst the lush greenery, surrounded by the sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves. In the afternoon, engage in a guided bird-watching tour to spot various endemic species native to the region. Relax in the company of fellow travelers, sharing stories and enjoying the beautiful scenery.
Return to Coroico in the early evening and treat yourself to a traditional Bolivian dinner. Sample local delicacies while reflecting on the day’s adventures. Wind down with a nightcap at a local pub, listening to stories from locals and fellow travelers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-2 |
| 🚕Local transport (short ride) | $0.5-2 |
| 💧Bottled water | $0.5-1 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Dramatic valley views and easy access to cloud forest
- Warm, welcoming local culture and affordable travel
- Good home base for day trips to nearby farms and viewpoints
- Rich culinary options centered on trout and local produce
- Limited nightlife and fewer upscale options compared to La Paz
- Roads can be rough and weather-dependent
- Smaller healthcare facilities; may require travel for serious emergencies
- Cash is often preferred; card acceptance can be spotty in some spots
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Sí, por favor." - Yes, please.
- "No hablo español muy bien." - I don't speak Spanish very well.
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Puede recomendar un buen restaurante?" - Can you recommend a good restaurant?
- "Estoy perdido." - I am lost.
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "La cuenta, por favor." - The check, please.
- "¿Aceptan tarjetas de crédito?" - Do you accept credit cards?
Places to Visit in Coroico
Visit one of these nice places.
Colonial church backdrop with warm late-afternoon light and shadowed market activity; great for candid street photography.
High overlook along the edge of the valley offering dramatic views of the tropical slopes and winding roads.
Railroad tracks, river bends, and terraced fields provide landscape photography opportunities across the valley.
Soft-fog rainforest scenes with lush greenery and a nearby waterfall—ideal for nature photography.
Food in Coroico
Coroico Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Savory Bolivian empanadas filled with meat, vegetables, and olives; best enjoyed fresh from a local bakery.
Must-Try!
Rich peanut soup with beef or chicken, vegetables, and noodles; a regional comfort dish.
Grilled trout from nearby streams, typically served with rice, plantains, or salad.
A hearty bowl of carne with onions, peppers, potatoes, and hot sauce; a robust Bolivian specialty.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market with fresh produce, prepared snacks, and fruit smoothies; great for tasting local flavors.
Quick bites like empanadas, corn cakes, fried yuca, and fresh fruit cups.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes' when entering shops or starting conversations.
Always ask before photographing people, especially in market spaces or private homes.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or residential areas, and remove hats indoors in formal settings.
Coca leaf chewing is common culturally; avoid misunderstanding by approaching with curiosity and respect, recognizing local norms.
Safety
Tipping in Coroico
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 5–10% is appreciated if tax/service is not included. Guides and drivers often appreciate a small tip at the end of a tour. In markets, small change is common for exceptional service.
Cash (bolivianos or US dollars) is widely accepted in Coroico’s small establishments; many places in town may accept cards, but cash is safer in rural spots. ATMs are more common in La Paz or Santa Cruz; plan accordingly if you’re staying in Coroico for several days.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Nov–Apr brings warm, humid days with frequent tropical showers. Pack a lightweight rain jacket, quick-dry clothing, and waterproof shoes. Trails can be slippery after rain, so take it easy on steeper paths.
May–Oct offers clearer skies and cooler mornings; mid-day heat is milder than in the peak wet season. Perfect for hiking, but evenings can be cool; a light fleece is handy.
Late spring and early autumn provide moderate humidity and manageable crowds. Weather can be variable—carry a compact rain shell and sunscreen.
Coroico at Night
Hiking in Coroico
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic hillside route along the famous Yungas road with viewpoints over the valley and river below.
Easy to moderate loop leading to a nearby waterfall amid rainforest vegetation.
Airports
How to reach Coroico by plane.
Major gateway for international and domestic flights; about a 1.5–2.5 hour drive to Coroico depending on road conditions and traffic.
Another major hub with domestic connections; longer ground transfer to Coroico via road through challenging terrain.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant urban demographic with mixed Indigenous and European ancestry, common in town centers.
Quechua-speaking and regional groups in surrounding areas influence local customs and markets.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region with local leagues, informal games in parks, and community clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Coroico.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer vegetable stews, lentil or bean dishes, salads, and rice-based plates. Ask for dairy-free options and avoid meat-heavy portions; many places can adapt soups and sides to vegetarian needs.