Coroico
La Paz
Coroico is a picturesque town located in the Nor Yungas Province of the La Paz Department in western Bolivia. Originally founded as Coroico Viejo near the Quri Wayq'u river, it was initially a gold mining settlement. Due to repeated indigenous attacks, the settlers relocated in the early 18th century to the current defensible location. The town is historically notable for resisting a large Aymara attack during the Bolivian War of Independence, a testament to its resilience. Today, Coroico serves as the political and industrial center of the North Yungas region, producing wood products, fruits, and coca leaves, which are significant for the La Paz area. The town has a predominantly Aymara and mestizo population and features vibrant markets that supply staple goods from La Paz and surrounding areas. Coroico is also known for its proximity to the old Yungas Road, often called the "death road," now mainly used by cyclists. The presence of the Catholic University of Bolivia's satellite campus, Unidad Académica Campesina-Carmen Pampa, adds educational significance to the municipality. The town's cultural identity is marked by the annual Feast of the Virgin celebrated on October 20, reflecting its deep-rooted traditions and community spirit.
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Consejo: The best time to visit Coroico is during the dry season to enjoy outdoor activities and explore the old Yungas Road safely. Visitors are advised to purchase tickets or arrange tours in advance for activities like biking on the 'death road.' Local markets offer authentic products, and travelers should consider exploring the surrounding natural landscapes. Discounts may be available for students or groups at educational and cultural sites. Booking accommodations ahead is recommended due to growing tourism.
Datos interesantes
- •The cave where early settlers took refuge during a lightning strike on Cerro Uchumachi still exists beneath the church on Coroico's main plaza.
- •Coroico resisted an attack by 5000 Aymaras during the Bolivian War of Independence despite having only around 500 inhabitants at the time.
- •The old Yungas Road, known as the 'death road,' is now mainly used by cyclists and adventure tourists.
- •Coroico is one of the smallest but significant coca-producing regions in Bolivia.
- •The town hosts the Unidad Académica Campesina-Carmen Pampa, a satellite campus of the Catholic University of Bolivia offering degrees in agronomy, veterinary science, nursing, education, and ecotourism.
Historia
Coroico Viejo was founded above the Quri Wayq'u river as a gold mining settlement but was abandoned due to indigenous attacks.
In the early 18th century, settlers moved to the current location, which offered better defense.
The town notably resisted a large-scale Aymara attack during the Bolivian War of Independence when 5000 Aymaras attacked a town of only 500 inhabitants.
Coroico was established as the capital of North Yungas in 1899, becoming the political and industrial hub of the region.
The agrarian reforms after the 1952 revolution redistributed land from powerful hacienda families to local communities, shaping the town's modern demographic and economic structure.