Sajama National Park

Sajama National Park protects high Andean ecosystems in western Bolivia and includes Nevado Sajama, the country’s highest mountain. The park conserves puna grasslands, high-Andean wetlands and scattered Polylepis woodlands.

The park is visited for high mountain landscapes, thermal springs, traditional Aymara communities and for trekking or climbing approaches to Nevado Sajama. Wildlife observation and visits to ancient stone structures and relict Polylepis stands are other draws.

Areas around Sajama have long-standing human presence, including Aymara communities and pre-Columbian stone structures; the park was designated to protect its unique highland environments and cultural sites. Conservation and community use have shaped park management.

Sajama National Park sits in Oruro Department in Bolivia’s far west, near the border with Chile, on the high Andean Altiplano; the nearest larger towns are several hours’ drive away across high mountain roads.

• Altitude: High-altitude conditions dominate - expect strong sun, cold temperatures and thin air near the summit; acclimatization is essential for climbers.

What to See#

• Nevado Sajama: An andean stratovolcano whose summit is the highest peak in Bolivia at about 6,542 meters, a focal point for high-altitude ecology and mountaineering approaches.

Sajama National Park is accessed from the Oruro region; the town of Sajama is reached by road from La Paz or Oruro with long mountain drives required. Regional buses and private 4x4 transfers are the standard access methods.

• Stay in the village of Sajama or nearby hostels and use local Aymara guides for hikes to the base of the volcano.
• Acclimatise before attempting higher walks-Sajama sits at very high altitude and weather can change rapidly.
• Visit the thermal pools near Sajama village for a restorative soak after trekking.