Cotapata National Park and Integrated Management Natural Area National Park

Cotapata National Park and Integrated Management Natural Area is a protected complex in Bolivia’s La Paz Department that combines national park protection with zones where sustainable use is allowed. It protects cloud forest, montane forest and high Andean ecosystems in the Yungas-east-Andean transition.

Cloud-forest biodiversity, steep valley scenery and areas of traditional agriculture managed alongside conservation zones. The park supports ecological connectivity between Andean highlands and lower montane forests and is used for research, recreation and limited community use in designated areas.

The area was set aside to conserve Andean and cloud-forest habitats and to provide integrated management with local communities, reflecting combined conservation and sustainable-use goals. Management divides zones for strict protection and for regulated human activities.

Geographically it lies east of the city of La Paz in the Yungas region, covering steep terrain from high Andean zones down into humid montane forest valleys. Access is typically from road corridors leading into the Yungas.

• Ecosystem variety: Contains a range of cloud forest, montane and puna ecosystems across steep elevational gradients, making it important for species adapted to Andean-forest transitions.

The park is northeast of La Paz; access is usually by road from La Paz to El Alto and then local roads into the Cotapata sectors (routes vary by entrance). Local cooperatives and registered guides can arrange permits and transport.

• Hire a local guide familiar with altitude and weather; weather can change rapidly above 4,000 m.
• Acclimatize in La Paz for at least two days before attempting treks into the park's higher zones.
• Bring cash for park permits and local fees-remote ranger stations may not accept cards.