The Chojlla mine preserves the history of what was once a great Bolivian mining town.
The mine concludes the pre-Columbian Takesi Trail in the rainforests of the department of La Paz.
The mine is located on a broad rocky slope, at an altitude of 2,270 metres, in a temperate and humid climate zone. It was first exploited back in the early Twentieth century and is currently still in use, thanks to the tungsten and tin mined there, albeit the output has dropped considerably.
At its peak, during the 1970s, the massive production of minerals increased the number of workers employed in the mining activities. As a result, houses and other buildings such as schools, theatres and churches were built for families, effectively creating the Chojlla mining town.
Today, after the fall in production compared to the past decades, many of these buildings have been abandoned and have almost disappeared beneath the luxuriant vegetation. The narrow streets with their typical steps offer unique sceneries, sometimes tinged with nostalgia, with lots of beautiful corners for taking pictures.
The Chojlla mine is an important place for a better understanding the history of contemporary Bolivia: contact us for more information and to plan your trip to this part of the country.
Additional Info
It is recommended to wear light clothing for hot weather conditions, comfortable footprint shoes, cap, hat, sunglasses and to bring a camera.
Where
Chojlla mine, Yanacachi municipality, La Paz department.
Transportation
By public transport
From La Paz, at the Minasa bus terminal, some companies leave in the direction of Chulumani, passing through Yanacachi. From there request information to get to Mina Chojlla.
By private transport
From La Paz by National Route 3 towards Coroico. Before getting there, in the town of Unduavi take National Route 25 until the exit that leads to Yanacachi; here take the Chojlla-Yanacachi highway to the town.
Visiting Rules
For your health and the health of local population, remember to comply with all biosecurity protocols and codes of conduct before and during your stay: wear a mask and carry hand sanitizer, plus a first aid kit, with sunscreen and medications for altitude sickness.
During your visit remember to protect the cultural and natural heritage of the region.