Coroico travel guide
Bolivia · neighbourhoods, sights, a 3-day plan and the best time to go
The town is a hub for exploring the surrounding ridges. Visitors can walk through steep streets to the central plaza or hike to vantage points overlooking the Coroico River. The mix of Aymara and Afro-Bolivian cultures provides a unique atmosphere compared to the Altiplano. Whether you are interested in birdwatching for Andean cocks-of-the-rock or touring local agriculture, the town offers a base for soft adventure and relaxation in a verdant setting.
Neighbourhoods: where to go and where to stay
Plaza Principal
The heart of Coroico is centered around this square, where local minivans arrive from La Paz. It is lined with cafes and small shops selling local honey and coffee. The church of San Pedro dominates one side, and most of the town's social life happens on the stone benches under the shade of the trees.
Uchumachi Slopes
This area rises steeply behind the town towards the summit of Mount Uchumachi. It is characterized by guesthouses with sprawling terraces and gardens. Staying here offers the best views of the valley, though the walk back from the plaza involves a significant uphill climb along Calle Adolfo Ballivián.
Tocaña
Located a short drive down the valley, this small community is the center of Afro-Bolivian culture in the region. The area is famous for Saya music and dance traditions. Visitors come here to see the local heritage and walk through the coca and citrus fields that sustain the community.
Yolosa
Situated at the bottom of the valley, Yolosa is where many cycling tours conclude. It is lower and hotter than Coroico itself. It serves as the gateway to wildlife sanctuaries and is the primary junction for transport moving deeper into the Amazon basin or back up to the mountains.
Chulumani Road
The road leading southeast towards Chulumani passes through dense vegetation and small family farms. This area is quieter than the town center, making it ideal for those who want to experience the rural Yungas landscape. Several eco-lodges are tucked away here, offering access to birdwatching trails.
Top sights in Coroico
Las Cascadas
These three waterfalls are located about an hour's walk from the town center. The trail leads through coffee and coca plantations, offering a close look at local agriculture before reaching the tiered falls. The pools at the base are popular for cooling off after the hike.
Tip: Wear sturdy shoes as the path can be slippery and muddy after a tropical rain.
Mount Uchumachi
A steep hike leading to a summit with 360-degree views of the surrounding Yungas and distant snow-capped peaks. The trail passes through various vegetation zones, including cloud forest. On clear days, you can see the deep valleys stretching toward the Amazon.
Tip: Start early in the morning to reach the top before the midday clouds roll in.
San Pedro Church
A simple, colonial-style church located on the main square. It serves as the primary landmark for the town. The interior is modest, but the exterior and the surrounding plaza are the focal points for local festivals and community gatherings.
Tip: The square in front is the best place to find shared taxis to nearby villages.
El Calvario
A shrine and viewpoint located on the hill overlooking the town. The walk up follows a path marked by the stations of the cross. It provides an excellent vantage point to see the layout of Coroico and the deep green ravines.
Tip: This is a great spot for sunset photos as the light hits the valley walls.
Senda Verde
Located near Yolosa, this wildlife refuge cares for rescued animals including monkeys, birds, and Andean bears. It focuses on rehabilitation and education regarding the local ecosystem. The sanctuary is set in a lush forest environment by the river.
Tip: Look for the howler monkeys and colorful macaws often visible in the forest canopy.
Tocaña Cultural Center
A site dedicated to the history and traditions of the Afro-Bolivian people. It provides context on the community's unique music and agricultural practices. The center is a short drive from Coroico and offers a different cultural perspective of the region.
Tip: Visit on weekends when there is a higher chance of seeing traditional dance rehearsals.
Local Coffee Plantations
The hills around Coroico are famous for high-altitude organic coffee. Many small-scale farms allow visitors to see the growing and drying process. The beans are known for their mild flavor and are a staple of the local economy.
Tip: Look for signs along the road to Carmen Pampa to see the drying process.
The Old Yungas Road
Known historically as the Death Road, this narrow route carved into the cliffs is now used mainly by cyclists and local farmers. It offers dramatic drops and views of the mist-covered forest. It is a testament to the engineering challenges of the region.
Tip: Even if you do not cycle, the views from the viewpoints near Yolosa are spectacular.
Coroico in 3 days
Classic Coroico
- Morning
- Walk from the Plaza Principal up to El Calvario for a panoramic view of the mountains. Continue along the ridge to get a sense of the town's steep geography and visit the local market to see tropical fruits.
- Afternoon
- Follow the trail to Las Cascadas. Hike through the plantations to visit the three waterfalls and enjoy the natural pools. The return walk offers a different perspective of the forest as the light changes.
- Evening
- Return to the plaza for dinner. Sample local dishes that incorporate citrus and fresh mountain produce while watching the town's social life unfold on the square.
Culture and Nature
- Morning
- Take a shared taxi to the community of Tocaña. Explore the Afro-Bolivian heritage and walk through the coca fields that blanket the hillsides in this part of the valley.
- Afternoon
- Head down to Yolosa to visit the Senda Verde wildlife sanctuary. Spend time observing the rescued animals and learning about the biodiversity of the Yungas region before it transitions into the Amazon basin.
- Evening
- Head back to Coroico for a cup of locally grown coffee. Relax at a guesthouse with a terrace to enjoy the cooler evening temperatures and the sounds of the forest.
The High Peaks
- Morning
- Embark on the challenging hike up Mount Uchumachi. The trail is steep but rewarding, leading you through cloud forest where you might spot unique local bird species.
- Afternoon
- After descending, spend a slow afternoon exploring the smaller lanes of Coroico. Visit a local coffee producer to see the processing of the beans or browse the artisanal honey shops.
- Evening
- Choose a lodge on the upper slopes for a final evening, overlooking the valley. This is the best time to appreciate the dramatic scale of the Andean foothills.
Day trips from Coroico
La Paz
Reachable in about three hours via the paved North Yungas Road, this trip offers a stark contrast between the high-altitude urban life of the Altiplano and the subtropical valley of Coroico.
Chulumani
A town further into the Sud Yungas region, about four hours away, known for its even more remote feel, botanical diversity, and traditional coca-growing landscapes.
Caranavi
Located roughly three hours north, this town is the gateway to the upper Amazon and the center of Bolivia's large-scale organic coffee production.
Getting around
Coroico is a compact town where most central locations are reachable on foot, though the streets are exceptionally steep. Sturdy footwear is essential for navigating the cobblestones and significant inclines. For destinations further afield, such as Yolosa or Tocaña, the primary mode of transport is the shared taxi or trufi. These vehicles depart from the Plaza Principal or nearby side streets once they have enough passengers.
Motorcycle taxis are also common for quick trips within the town limits or to reach higher guesthouses. If you are arriving from La Paz, minivans and buses terminate at the main square or the designated arrival area slightly below the center. Private hire cars can be arranged for custom day trips to specific waterfalls or more remote agricultural areas.
Best time to visit Coroico
Average daily maximum and minimum temperature (°C), 2015–2024. Source: Open-Meteo (ERA5 reanalysis).
Coroico maintains a pleasant subtropical climate year-round, with average daily highs consistently ranging from 21°C to 24°C. The driest months are June, July, and August, which coincide with the Andean winter. During this period, the skies are generally clear and blue, providing the best conditions for hiking Mount Uchumachi and visiting the waterfalls. Evenings can be cool during these months, with temperatures dropping to around 12°C, so a light jacket or sweater is necessary for the nights.
The wetter season runs from December to March, when the landscape is at its most vibrant green. While showers are frequent, they often occur in short, heavy bursts followed by sunshine. During these months, humidity is higher and trails can become quite muddy and slippery. If visiting during this time, pack waterproof gear and strong insect repellent. The shoulder months of October and November see the warmest daytime temperatures, often reaching 24°C.
Tips for your trip
First-time visitors
Acclimatize in La Paz for a few days first, but enjoy the lower altitude here for easier breathing. Bring plenty of insect repellent to ward off the tiny sandflies known as 'mariguis'.
Families
Many hotels in Coroico feature swimming pools, which are a major draw in the humid heat. The walk to the first waterfall is manageable for active children and offers great nature sightings.
Couples
Choose a lodge on the upper slopes of Mount Uchumachi for private balconies with sweeping views of the cloud forest and the valley below, especially during the clear dry season.
On a budget
Eat at the central market near the plaza for affordable local meals like chicken with rice and yucca. Shared taxis are the most cost-effective way to reach surrounding villages.
Frequently asked questions
How many days should I spend in Coroico?
Two to three days is usually sufficient to explore the town center, hike to the waterfalls, and visit a nearby community like Tocaña or the Senda Verde sanctuary.
Is Coroico walkable?
The town center is small but very steep. You will need a decent level of fitness to walk between the main plaza and the guesthouses located on the higher slopes.
What is the best area to stay?
Stay near the Plaza Principal for easy access to transport and restaurants. For quiet surroundings and the best views, look for eco-lodges on the road up Mount Uchumachi.
Is Coroico safe?
It is generally a safe and relaxed town for travellers. However, always watch your personal belongings in the busy market area and around the transport terminals.
When is the best time to go?
The dry season from June to August is ideal, as the clear weather makes hiking easier and the views of the mountains more consistent.
What is a typical food in Coroico?
The region is known for its coffee and citrus. Typical meals often include rice, yucca, and meat served with llajua, a spicy Bolivian sauce made with tomatoes and peppers.
More city guides near Coroico
Last updated: November 2026. Opening times, prices and transport can change; check official sources before you travel. More city guides · Live webcams in Bolivia
