Sajama National Park: Bolivia’s Highest Altitude Conservation Area
Located in Bolivia’s Oruro Department, Sajama National Park is one of the world’s highest altitude conservation areas. The park is home to nearly 300 species of plants, 600 species of birds, and a variety of mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. It’s also famous for its towering snow-capped mountain, Nevado Sajama, which is the highest peak in Bolivia, rising to an elevation of 6,542 meters (21,463 feet).
Established in 1939, the park is a major tourist attraction and offers visitors a range of activities to enjoy. Here’s what you need to know about Sajama National Park and why it’s worth visiting.
Getting to Sajama National Park
Sajama National Park is located in the Andes of western Bolivia, about 160 kilometers (100 miles) from the city of Oruro, and is accessible by car or bus. From Oruro, the journey takes about three hours, and from La Paz, it takes around five hours.
The nearest town to the park is Sajama, which is located at the base of the mountain. From here, you’ll need to arrange for transportation if you plan to explore the park, as there are no public buses.
Exploring Sajama National Park
The park is divided into two sections: the high and low altitude areas. The high altitude area is the most popular, as it’s home to the Nevado Sajama mountain, and this is where most of the activities take place.
The most popular activity is trekking, which gives you the opportunity to explore the high-altitude terrain and get up close to the mountain. There are several trekking routes to choose from, ranging from easy to difficult.
The low altitude area is home to lagoons, lakes, and hot springs, and also offers some excellent trekking routes. This area is also a great spot for bird watching, as there are over 600 species of birds in the park.
Other Activities in Sajama National Park
In addition to trekking and bird watching, Sajama National Park also offers a range of other activities, including:
- Horseback riding
- Mountain biking
- Rock climbing
- Camping
- Wildlife spotting
- Sightseeing tours
- Cultural tours
When to Visit Sajama National Park
The best time to visit Sajama National Park is during the dry season, which runs from April to November. During this time, the weather is generally sunny and dry, and the views of the mountain are clear and spectacular.
For those looking for a more adventurous experience, the park is also open during the wet season (December to March). However, the road to the park can be impassable during this time due to heavy rain and snow.
Accommodation and Facilities
Accommodation in the park is limited, with the only option being a campground. The campground has basic facilities, including showers, toilets, and a kitchen, and is the only place in the park where you can find food and drinks.
For those looking for a more comfortable stay, there are several hotels and guesthouses in the nearby town of Sajama.
Conclusion
Sajama National Park is a stunningly beautiful destination in Bolivia, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the high-altitude terrain, spot wildlife,