Coroico, Bolivia

Coroico, Bolivia
Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Coroico_town.jpg
Author: Fernando Jauregui


Coroico is a small town in the La Paz Department, on the west central part of Bolivia. Located 1,525 m (5,000 ft) above sea level, it has a population of around 2,200 people (2012 estimate).

Coroico traces its history to the late 17th and early 18th century. It began as a mining town located above the Kori Huayco River. Regular attacks by the native tribes forced the settlers to relocate to the present location. However fierce storms forced them to seek shelter in a cave, around which the present town developed.

Attacks by local Indian tribes continued into the 19th century. Nonetheless the settlers held on to their position, and over time, Coroico grew into a substantial town. It was made the capital of the North Yungas province in 1899. The town used to be ruled by a number of powerful families, known as the hacienderos. These families were eventually overthrown in a revolution.

Visiting Coroico

A highway was completed linking Coroico to La Paz in 2006, cutting journey time between the two places to just two hours. You can get to Coroico by van or local taxi-collectivo.

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