Cobija is the capital of Pando Department, in northern Bolivia, set in the Amazon basin close to the border with Brazil. Its location makes it a distinctive stop for travellers who want to see a part of Bolivia that feels very different from the Andean highlands and the city of La Paz.
The town is also known by the name Puerto Acre, a reminder of its position on the frontier between the two countries. Walking through Cobija, visitors tend to notice the humid lowland air, the wide, quiet streets and the way daily life is shaped by the river and forest that surround the settlement.
What a visit offers
- A look at Bolivia's Amazon region, far from the highland cities most travellers know.
- The experience of a border town, with the Brazilian frontier nearby.
- A relaxed pace, suited to those who enjoy unhurried exploring.
Planning your trip
Cobija is a destination for travellers willing to go off the main tourist routes. Because it sits in the lowlands, the climate is warm and humid for much of the year, so light clothing and water are sensible to bring. Anyone interested in the surrounding Amazon landscape should plan to explore its area beyond the town itself, and should check travel connections in advance, as the region is more remote than Bolivia's main hubs.