Sorata has long been a trade and transport centre for coca, quinine, rubber and gold, produced in the lowland areas to which it provides access. More recently, the town has become a popular tourist destination offering superb hiking and trekking as well as being a great place to wander around and relax. It has a pleasant laid-back atmosphere and boasts an extremely comfortable climate. It is lower and noticeably warmer than La Paz, and higher and cooler than most Yungas towns. There are biting insects, so bring repellent.
Sorata was not always so laid back. In 1781 during the great Peru-Bolivia indígenas revolt, Andrés, nephew of the Peruvian rebel leader Túpac Amaru, killed all the Spanish in the town following a three-month siege. In 2003 the town was again badly shaken by social unrest but soon regained its composure. In 2008 it was a tranquil and recommended destination – especially for climbers and trekkers.
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Sorata information
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Getting There
Ins and outs
All but the last 15 km of road from La Paz to Sorata are paved, with work on the remainder in progress in 2008. Buses from La Paz leave hourly from the Cemetery district, returning from the main plaza in Sorata.
Sorata
Bus
From La Paz Trans Unificada, Manuel Bustillos y Av Kollasuyo in the Cemetery district, T02-238 1693; also Flor de Illampu, half a block away on Manuel Bustillos; buses and minibuses throughout the day, US$2, 3 hrs. Booking recommended on Fri. Sit on the right for the best views. Returning to La Paz, buses leave from the main plaza in Sorata.
No ATM in Sorata and nowhere to change TCs, bring cash. Prodem, on the main plaza, Tue 1430-1700, Wed-Sun 0830-1700, US$ cash at fair rates, 5% commission for Visa/MC cash advances.
Internet
Buho’s internet café, main plaza, satellite connection, US$3 per hr.
Medical services
There is a hospital on Villamil de Rada and Illampu.
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