Explore the incredible Bolivian high plain, marvel at Bolivia’s highest mountain, natural hot springs and Andean Wildlife. A real off the beaten track adventure in an area seldom visited by tourists. Staying two nights in an authentic Bolivian village near the base of Sajama Mountain. Transport in a private 4×4 vehicle and this tour involves plenty of hiking in the area.
Available March to December Only
DAY 1
Leave La Paz in 4×4 and drive through El Alto until we reach the highway that goes towards Oruro (modern highway). We drive for a few hours and will turn off on the road that goes all the way to the Chilean Border. Along the way we will stop at Curahuara de Carangas (3 hours to here approximately) where we will visit a chapel referred to as the “Sistine Chapel of the Altiplano”. After our visit we will continue a little longer before we stop for our lunch and rest from the journey a bit. Â We will go for a hike from the village to explore the local area and you will have some free time stroll around the village and see the local colonial era church. We stay the night in the Sajama village in our local accommodations.
DAY 2
This morning we will drive a little until we reach a lake called Laguna Huayña Khota situated at the base of Cordillera Occidental mountain range. At this lake we can often see Andean wildlife against the back drop of wonderful Andean scenery. This morning we will also hike up to one of the base camps of Sajama Mountain. Going up to 5.000 meters this hike will be a little strenuous for some but there will be time and you are not pushed too hard.
In the afternoon, after our active morning we will welcome the chance to rest ourselves in the natural hot springs that offer a magnificent view of Sajama Mountain. After this recuperating soak we will head back to the village to have dinner and spend the night there again.
DAY 3
After breakfast today we will explore more of Sajama Nationals Park’s natural beauty, first by visiting the geyser field a few minutes’ drive from the town. This is a wonder of nature and as we are off the beaten track we will likely have the place to ourselves. We continue onto the tombs of Macaya – colorfully painted burial towers where we will learn about their history. We unfortunately have to start our journey back to La Paz and leave this wonderful area and from here we start the 5 hours’ drive back to the city arriving some time from 17.00 – 20.00 (depending how early we set off and traffic in El Alto)
Highlights include:
- Staying at and learning about a traditional Bolivian village and its way of life
- Sajama Base Camp hike and Queñua forest (highest altitude “trees” in the world at 5000m)
- Amazing Views of Mount Sajama – Bolivia’s Highest mountain
- Relax in the natural hot springs
- Andean Wildlife spotting – Llamas, Alpacas, flamingos, viscachas and (with some luck)  vicuñas and condors.
- Visit a geyser field
- Visit the Tombs of Macaya
N. B. – This tour needs a minimum of two people to leave but we can check for other people if you are a solo traveler or you can pay a solo traveller supplement if you wish to go with just one person (see Pricing options in the booking form below). Leaving time is early approx. 7.00am (exact time will be confirmed when booking is confirmed). Return time varies and is usually from 7pm to 10pm.
INCLUDED IN TOUR
- English/ Spanish Speaking Guide
- 2 Breakfast, 3 Lunches , 2 Dinners
- 4WD transport
- 2 night in a basic local accommodation.
NOT INCLUDED IN TOUR
- Sajama National Park Entrance Fee – 40bs (we are not responsible for price changes)
- Travel Insurance
- Sunglasses & Sun cream
- Tips & Others not mentioned
- Extra water, Â beverages or snacks – Alcohol / softdrinks.
IMPORTANT Â INFORMATION
This tour takes place at high altitudes of 3600m to 4400m so it is advisable to have spent a day or two at this altitude to get used to it so you can fully enjoy it. A moderate fitness level is recommended. The sun can be strong here, so sunglasses and sun cream are essential. Whilst the tour is in a private 4×4 vehicle when we are in Sajama National Park we participate in plenty of walking so you must be physically able to do this (if not you will have to sit out those sections in the car).
GROUP SIZES
Group sizes are small usually from 2 (min) to 6 (max) people.