Torotoro National Park

Torotoro National Park is located southwest of the midpoint of Bolivia.  The park covers an area of 64 square miles (165 sq km), making it the smallest national park in the country.

It is seated on the eastern side of the South American Andes mountain in an area known as the “Elbow of the Andes,” making it a neighbor to Amboro National Park.

Torotoro features a landscape that showcases canyons that reach depths of 984 feet (300 m).  The elevations range from 6,562 feet to 11,483 feet (2000 to 3,500 m) with a mostly semi-arid habitat.

This is one of the most intriguing national parks in Bolivia.  Although it is the smallest national park, it is packed with attractions that include caves, canyon, dinosaur footprints, and mystical treks to explore them all.

Photos

Torotoro National Park Photo Gallery

Highlights

The canyon landscapes are some of the most striking picturesque terrains in Bolivia.  The views over the canyons are breathtaking.  Combined with the array of dinosaur footprints, this is Bolivia’s Jurassic Park attraction.

Dinosaur Footprints

The dinosaur footprints are one of the leading attractions of the park.  Along with the footprints, there are also bone fragments from varying dinosaurs as well.  Dinosaurs from the Cretaceous period account for the majority of footprints.

There are over 2,500 different dinosaur footprints representing both biped and quadruped dinosaurs.  The footprints get up to almost 20 inches (50 cm) in length.  The dinosaur remnants add intrigue to the already remarkable landscapes.

Torotoro Canyon

Torotoro Canyon is the pinnacle attraction of the national park.  Visitors will see several footprints as they trek toward the canyon lookout.  An 800-step staircase takes visitors down into the canyon for completely different views highlighting the splendor of the area.

Visitors may witness vultures soaring above the canyon and swooping along the canyon walls.  The lagoon at the bottom of the steps makes for a refreshing dip before hiking back up.

Cueva Humajalanta

Cueva Humajalanta is an amazing cave located inside the park boundaries.  This is a more adventurous caving experience where you will be wearing a helmet and headlamp as you navigate.

Visitors will crawl along the floor, squeeze through narrow rock formations, and get muddy along the way.  However, those who embark on the adventure will witness various cavern facets, including stalactites, stalagmites, and underground ponds.

Batea Q’ocha Rock Paintings

The Batea Q’ocha rock paintings are a carefully preserved collection of rock paintings from the pre-colonial days.  They are situated along the Torotoro River.  Snakes and turtles are the animal highlights which are complemented by other geometrical shapes.

Torotoro National Park Trails

Hiking is magical and the primary activity for exploring and experiencing the national park.  There are trails you can explore on your own, and there are guided tours.  The guided tours are leveraged for exploring the caves.

Park Protection

Torotoro National Park was created to protect the astounding Torotoro and Vergel Canyons, the caverns, the dinosaur footprints, and the historical record they represent.  The national park also protects the historical and cultural heritage of the Batea Q’ocha rock paints from the pre-colonial days, which are over 1,000 years old.