Sajama National Park
Sajama National Park
Sajama National Park is Bolivia's oldest national park, established in 1939. Located in the Andes mountains near the Chilean border, it's home to the majestic Mount Sajama—Bolivia's highest peak at 6,542 meters. The landscape here is truly otherworldly, with vast high-altitude plains, volcanic mountains, and unusual rock formations that make you feel like you're on another planet.
The park is famous for its surreal forest of Queñua trees, some of the highest growing trees in the world that can survive at altitudes over 5,000 meters. These ancient, twisted trees with peeling red bark create an almost mystical atmosphere against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains. The area is also dotted with natural hot springs where the water reaches up to 80°C—a stark contrast to the often freezing air temperatures.
Sajama is rich in cultural heritage too, with ancient archaeological sites including chullpas (pre-Columbian funerary towers) and cave paintings that date back thousands of years. The local Aymara communities maintain their traditional lifestyle, herding llamas and alpacas across the altiplano. Visitors might spot these locals in their colorful traditional clothing moving with their animals through this extreme landscape.
The park's wildlife is specially adapted to the harsh high-altitude conditions. Vicuñas (wild relatives of llamas) roam freely, while Andean flamingos add splashes of pink to the salt lakes. Rare Andean cats, pumas, and condors also call this remote wilderness home, though they're much harder to spot.
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Things to do in Sajama National Park
Top things to do in Sajama National Park by www.bolivianlife.com
Where to stay in Sajama National Park
Best hotels in Sajama National Park:
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Hotel Las Vicuñas (budget hotel)
Hotel Las Vicuñas in Putre, Chile, provides a welcoming and comfortable base for exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Sajama National Park. The rooms are simple yet cozy, with some offering scenic views of the surrounding mountains and lush gardens, creating a peaceful setting for relaxation after a day of adventures.
The standout feature of this hotel is the exceptional hospitality of the owners, who go the extra mile to assist guests in planning their trips. Their local knowledge is invaluable for discovering the best hiking trails and must-visit spots in the region.
While the amenities are straightforward, the location is ideal for easy access to the park's natural wonders. The breakfast receives mixed feedback, but for travelers focused on outdoor exploration, Hotel Las Vicuñas offers good value and friendly service in a prime Andean setting.
book now on booking.com