Located at an altitude of 600 meters above sea level, the municipality of Mapiri is part of Larecaja province, north of the department of La Paz. It is bordered to the north by the regions of Bautista Saavedra and Franz Tamayo, to the south by the rubber road to Sorata, to the east by the municipality of Guanay and to the west by Tacacoma. In 2014, Mapiri hosted the Plurinational Student Games, directed by former head of state Evo Morales Ayma.

History

Over a century ago, trails through the territory were used to transport rubber from the lower Amazon. At that time, it required an arduous journey to transport goods to La Paz before their export.

Today

Since its creation on November 27, 2001, Mapiri has developed and now has nearly 10,000 inhabitants. This mining region owes much of its appeal to its economic activities, particularly gold prospecting. Part of the area encompasses exploitation zones belonging to cooperatives and a few private individuals. Work sites line the Mapiri River to facilitate extraction work and recover fine gold deposited on its banks.

Trekking to Mapiri

Mapiri presents one of the most challenging itineraries to consider. Having become a challenge for some but also an ideal opportunity for the more adventurous, the journey offers beautiful trekking perspectives across this isolated region. The adventure begins from Yani, heading towards the Royal Cordillera. Wild nature reveals the unique yungas ecosystem, observed between the dry Andes and the moisture of the Amazon basin. Then an enchanting landscape unfolds as you pass through misty forest. The hike continues by making a detour to the village of Sorata, the site closest to Lake Titicaca. To enhance the journey, you should attempt to climb the Abra Chuchu Pass, which peaks at over 4,600 meters. The descent is made via Illampu, classified as the 4th highest massif in Bolivia. While awaiting arrival at the charming village of Mapiri, contemplate an extraordinary view of the mountains and forests below. Before heading back, don't miss visiting the canton of Sarampiuni, an administrative division near Mapiri.

Climate

Mapiri has a hot and humid climate, classified in the Bwh category according to the Köppen-Geiger classification. Throughout the year, temperatures oscillate between 20 °C and 30 °C. There is also a low rainfall rate, estimated at 478 mm.

How to get there?

First, travel from La Paz to Caranavi, then continue to Guanay. From there, take a taxi or minivan to reach Mapiri. Three taxi syndicates manage transportation at set schedules, namely "Trans Mapiri," "Sindicato 20 de octubre" and "Trans 8 de Mayo."

How to get around?

Motorcycle is the most practical means of transport for traveling within Mapiri.