La Paz to Chulumani

The road to the Sud Yungas branches east just beyond Unduavi . Though less nerve-wracking than the road to Coroico, this is nevertheless a scenically rewarding trip following the steep-sided valley of the Río Unduavi. Along the way is the beautiful Velo de la Novia (Bridal Veil), waterfall (views from the left side of the bus). The first settlement after Unduavi, Chaco, which is 1 km before the end of La Reconquistada Trail and home to Hotel El Castillo. Here are several hiking trails to waterfalls and a suspension bridge over the river. A few km further on is Florida, where a dirt road turns off to the right to the attractive colonial village of Yanacachi . The main road continues to Puente Villa and then 25 km further to Chulumani.

This tiny colonial village is the ideal place to really get away from it all. It lies at the end of the Takesi Trail (page), or can be reached by turning off the road to Chulumani at Florida and following the signposted rough track. Yanacachi stands in a commanding position overlooking two major river valleys and there are great views over the village and surrounding areas from the bell tower of the village church, one of the oldest in the Yungas, dating from the 16th century. A more recent addition to the village is a major hydroelectric scheme.

There are some lovely walks in the area surrounding Yanacachi, with several out-of- the-way places to stay, making it the ideal alternative for those who want a little hiking but don't want to camp. From the northeast side of Yanacachi you can walk the one-hour pre-Hispanic trail down to Sakha Waya. You can also hike the often-ignored final day of the Takesi Trail. From the bottom of Yanacachi, this pre-Hispanic trail continues on the south side of the ridge, past several small ruins and communities, and Villa Aspiazu, to the crossroads settlement of Puente Villa. From Sakha Waya or Puente Villa you can catch a passing bus up to La Paz or down to Chulumani or Coripata .