Presa Rodeo Camino – The Hidden Dam Gem of Cochabamba, Bolivia
Discover the quiet charm of a high‑altitude dam tucked away in the Andean foothills. Whether you’re a road‑trip enthusiast, a photography lover, or simply chasing off‑the‑beaten‑path experiences, Presa Rodeo Camino offers a refreshing slice of Bolivian landscape.
1. Introduction
Imagine standing at 3,405 m (11,178 ft) above sea level, the thin mountain air filling your lungs while a modest 3.5‑meter‑high wall holds back the crystal‑clear waters of the Andes. That’s Presa Rodeo Camino – a small but striking dam located in the municipality of Colomi, just a short drive from the bustling city of Cochabamba.
While it doesn’t have a Wikipedia page, this “MMAyA CP‑P‑037” site (its official survey code) is a favorite among locals who know that the best travel stories often begin at places most tourists overlook. In this guide we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make the most of a visit to this hidden dam, from getting there to exploring nearby attractions.
2. About Presa Rodeo Camino
What Is It?
- Type: Dam (🏗️)
- Location: Colomi, Cochabamba, Bolivia
- Coordinates: -17.420036, -65.900175
- Height: 3.5 m (≈ 11 ft)
- Altitude: 3,405 m (≈ 11,178 ft) above sea level
Presa Rodeo Camino is part of a network of small dams that regulate water flow for irrigation, livestock, and occasional hydro‑electric micro‑projects in the high‑plain valleys surrounding Cochabamba. Its modest size belies its importance: by capturing runoff from the surrounding Andean slopes, the dam helps sustain the agricultural terraces that dot the landscape.
A Brief History
Official records label the structure with the reference MMAyA CP‑P‑037, indicating it was cataloged during a regional water‑resource survey conducted by Bolivia’s Ministry of Environment and Water. While exact construction dates are not publicly documented, the dam’s design follows traditional Andean engineering principles—simple stone and concrete work that blends seamlessly into the surrounding terrain.
Why It Matters
- Community Lifeline: Local farmers rely on the stored water for crop irrigation during the dry season.
- Ecological Balance: The reservoir creates a micro‑habitat for birds, amphibians, and high‑altitude aquatic plants.
- Scenic Spot: The dam’s reflective surface, framed by rugged hills and native grasslands, makes it a perfect spot for sunrise or sunset photography.
3. How to Get There
From Cochabamba City
-
By Car / Rental SUV
- Route: Take Route 4 (Cochabamba‑Santa Cruz highway) heading east toward Colomi.
- Distance: ~25 km (≈ 15.5 mi) – about a 35‑minute drive, depending on traffic.
- Directions: After passing the town of Colomi, follow the local road signs for “Presa Rodeo Camino.” The final stretch is a narrow, paved road that leads directly to the dam’s parking area. -
By Public Bus
- Bus Line: “Cochabamba – Colomi” (departing from the main bus terminal, Terminal de Buses Cochabamba).
- Frequency: Every 1‑2 hours from early morning until late afternoon.
- Tip: Ask the driver to drop you off at the “Camino” turn‑off; a short walk (≈ 10 min) will bring you to the dam.
What to Pack
- Altitude gear: Light jacket, sunglasses, and sunscreen (UV is strong at 3,400 m).
- Water: Even though the dam is nearby, carry your own drinking water.
- Footwear: Sturdy hiking shoes or trail sneakers for uneven ground.
4. Best Time to Visit
| Season | Weather | Why Visit |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Season (May – October) | Clear skies, cool mornings, warm afternoons. | Ideal for photography and easy hiking. |
| Rainy Season (November – April) | Frequent showers, occasional fog. | The reservoir swells, offering richer water colors, but some access roads may be slick. |
Peak recommendation: Late May and early September provide the perfect balance of pleasant temperatures, vibrant blue‑green water, and minimal crowds.
5. What to Expect
The Landscape
At 3,405 m, the surrounding plateau is a mosaic of puna grasslands, low‑lying shrubs, and distant snow‑capped peaks. The dam itself sits in a shallow basin, its concrete wall cutting across a gentle river that trickles down from higher elevations. The water is typically a striking turquoise, reflecting the bright Andean sky.
Activities
- Photography: Capture the dam’s symmetry at sunrise, when golden light paints the hills.
- Birdwatching: Look for high‑altitude species such as the Andean Lapwing and Silvery‑grebe near the water’s edge.
- Picnicking: A small, shaded area near the parking lot offers a spot for a quick lunch.
- Short Hikes: Trail fragments lead toward nearby agricultural terraces—great for a leisurely stroll.
Facilities
- Parking: A modest lot (capacity ~15 cars).
- Restrooms: None on site; plan accordingly.
- Connectivity: Mobile signal can be spotty; consider offline maps.
6. Nearby Attractions
While Presa Rodeo Camino is a highlight on its own, the region hosts several other dams and points of interest that can round out a day trip. All are within a 3‑km radius, making them perfect for a short “dam‑hopping” adventure.
| Attraction | Distance | Type | Quick Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Presa San Isidro | 1.5 km | Dam | Small reservoir feeding local farms; great for a quick photo stop. |
| Fountain (Unnamed) | 2.2 km | Fountain | A community water fountain surrounded by traditional stonework. |
| Presa Kuyoj Qhocha | 2.3 km | Dam | Known for its clear water and a small walking trail along the embankment. |
| Presa Rodeo | 2.3 km | Dam | Larger than Rodeo Camino, often used for local festivals. |
| Represa San Pablo | 2.6 km | Dam | Features a modest picnic area and a viewpoint over the reservoir. |
Tip: Combine these sites into a “Dam Circuit”—start at Presa Rodeo Camino, then follow the local road to each neighboring dam. The short distances mean you can spend 15–20 minutes at each spot, soaking in the unique atmosphere of each water body.
7. Travel Tips
| Tip | Details |
|---|---|
| Altitude Acclimation | Spend at least a night in Cochabamba (2,560 m) before heading to 3,405 m to avoid mild altitude sickness. |
| Fuel Up Early | Gas stations are sparse after Colomi; fill up in Cochabamba. |
| Cash Is King | Small villages around the dam may not accept cards. Carry Bolivianos for snacks or souvenirs. |
| Respect the Environment | Pack out all trash; the area is a fragile high‑altitude ecosystem. |
| Safety First | The dam’s edge can be slippery when wet. Keep children and pets supervised. |
| Local Guides | If you want deeper insight into the dam’s role in agriculture, consider hiring a local guide from Colomi—often available for a modest fee. |
| Photography Gear | Bring a polarizing filter to reduce glare on the water’s surface and enhance sky colors. |
| Timing | Arrive early (7‑8 am) for the best light and fewer visitors. |
8. Wrap‑Up: Why Presa Rodeo Camino Should Be on Your List
Presa Rodeo Camino may not have the fame of Bolivia’s iconic salt flats or the bustling streets of La Paz, but that’s exactly why it shines for the curious traveler. It offers:
- Authentic local life: See how a small dam sustains nearby farms and communities.
- Stunning high‑altitude scenery: The combination of turquoise water, Andean peaks, and open grasslands is a photographer’s dream.
- Easy access: Just a short drive from Cochabamba, making it perfect for a day trip or a stop on a longer road‑trip through the Bolivian highlands.
So pack your camera, fuel the car, and set your GPS to -17.420036, -65.900175. Presa Rodeo Camino is waiting—quiet, beautiful, and uniquely Bolivian.
Happy travels!