Bolivia stands out as one of the most extraordinary destinations in South America, offering some of the most otherworldly landscapes in the world. Unlike neighboring Peru, Bolivia often goes unnoticed by many travelers, keeping its beauty largely untouched.

While places like Salar de Uyuni and Lake Titicaca are must-see destinations, Sajama National Park remains one of the hidden gems of the country, offering an unforgettable and serene experience.

Why Visit Sajama National Park?

Absolute Peace and Tranquility

Unlike the more crowded tourist spots in Bolivia, Sajama National Park remains relatively untouched. While many flock to the renowned Salar de Uyuni and Lake Titicaca, Sajama offers a quiet, peaceful retreat where one can enjoy solitude amidst stunning natural beauty. There’s a real sense of isolation here, with few visitors, allowing for a unique opportunity to experience the wilderness in its purest form.

An Abundance of Alpacas, Llamas, and Vicuñas

In Sajama National Park, the wildlife is abundant, with alpacas, llamas, and vicuñas roaming freely. These iconic South American animals are everywhere, and their presence adds to the charm of the park.

Incredible Landscapes

The park is a photographer’s paradise, offering a wealth of surreal vistas: rugged plateaus, towering volcanoes, snow-capped peaks, bubbling geysers, and colorful lagoons. Unlike the bustling crowds at other Bolivian landmarks, Sajama offers an isolated, unspoiled atmosphere where nature’s beauty takes center stage.

Top Attractions in Sajama National Park

Sajama Volcano

Standing at 21,463 feet (6,542 meters), Sajama Volcano is Bolivia's highest peak and an iconic sight in the park. This extinct stratovolcano can be seen from almost every corner of the park. Additionally, visitors can also spot two neighboring volcanoes, Parinacota (20,930 feet / 6,380 meters) and Pomerape (20,610 feet / 6,282 meters), which sit along the border between Bolivia and Chile.

Huayñacota Lagoon and Flamingos

Located about 8 miles (13 kilometers) from Sajama village, Huayñacota Lagoon is famous for its reflective surface, which mirrors the surrounding landscape. The lagoon is also home to flamingos, adding a touch of color to the tranquil setting. While the lagoon may not always appear as calm as the photos suggest, especially on windy days, it’s still a remarkable sight.

Geysers

Situated around 5 miles (8 kilometers) west of Sajama village, the park’s geysers are a fascinating feature. Visitors can take a scenic walk from the village to reach them, passing through the picturesque landscape. The geysers emit steam and occasionally even erupt, providing an incredible spectacle.

Lagunas de Altura

A bit further from the geysers, the Lagunas de Altura offers a challenging hike that takes several hours to complete. The lagoons are located near the Chilean border, with two of them situated on the Chilean side. The trek is typically done over two days with camping at Lagoon Sora Pata. After reaching Lagoon Chiar Khota, hikers can continue to Aguas Thermales (hot springs), although the trail isn’t well-marked.

Aguas Termales (Hot Springs)

Situated about 1.5 hours from Sajama village, Aguas Termales offers visitors a chance to relax in natural hot springs with incredible views of the Sajama Volcano. The hike to the springs is relatively easy, and the hot pools provide a rejuvenating break after a day of hiking or exploring. A fee of 30 bolivianos is required to access the springs.

Sajama Village

Sajama village, with a population of around 250, is a charming, small settlement. While the village itself may not have many attractions, its beautiful altiplano is a must-see. The peaceful village atmosphere makes it a great place to rest and take in the surroundings before heading out to explore the park’s wonders.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit Sajama National Park is during the dry season, which lasts from April to November. This period offers cooler temperatures, with daytime highs ranging from 10°C to 22°C (50°F to 72°F). The rainy season, from December to March, can make roads and trails slippery and difficult to navigate.

How to Get to Sajama National Park by Public Transport

Reaching Sajama National Park involves a few steps. Start by taking a bus from La Paz to Oruro. Once at Oruro, ask the driver to drop you at the town of Patacamaya. From there, it’s a short walk to the main road, where you can find a collectivo (minivan) heading to the park.

Accommodation in Sajama National Park

Most visitors stay in Sajama village, where basic hostels and guesthouses are available. While it’s not necessary to book in advance, it’s a good idea to check around once you arrive. After getting dropped off in the village, travelers can ask locals for recommendations on where to stay.

Sajama National Park is one of Bolivia’s most serene and beautiful destinations, offering visitors the chance to experience the country’s natural wonders without the crowds. From the towering Sajama Volcano to the wild camelids roaming the altiplano, the park provides a peaceful, immersive escape. Whether you’re hiking through its high-altitude lagoons, soaking in the hot springs, or simply enjoying the solitude, Sajama is a place that captures the essence of Bolivia’s unique charm.

Exploring the Beauty of Parque Nacional Sajama - Bolivia - 4K

Video by Malt Mountain