Location & How to Get There

Sajama National Park is situated in Western Bolivia, near the small town of Curahuara de Carangas. The park lies approximately 200 kilometers west of Oruro, the nearest major city. The most common route is via a scenic but rugged drive from La Paz (4-5 hours) or Oruro (3 hours). Public transport options are limited; most visitors arrange private 4x4 vehicles or join guided tours from La Paz.

Opening Hours & Tickets

The park is accessible year-round, with no formal opening or closing hours. Entrance fees are typically paid at the park's ranger station (around 100 BOB for foreigners, less for Bolivian nationals). Tickets must be purchased in cash; no online options are available.

Meilleur moment pour visiter

The dry season (May to October) offers the clearest views of the Andean landscapes and Sajama Volcano. Early mornings are ideal for photography, with fewer clouds obscuring the peaks. Temperatures drop sharply at night, even in summer.

Duration of Visit

A full day allows for short hikes and hot spring visits, while 2-3 days are recommended for trekking or climbing Nevado Sajama. Overnight stays in basic lodges or camping are possible.

Activités

• Trekking to high-altitude lagoons and geysers
• Soaking in the Termas de Polques hot springs
• Wildlife spotting (vicuñas, flamingos, Andean foxes)
• Photographing the world's highest forest (queñua trees)
• Technical climbs on Nevado Sajama (6,542m) for experienced mountaineers

Installations

Basic accommodations exist in Curahuara de Carangas and the village of Sajama. The park itself has minimal infrastructure—no restaurants or shops. Public restrooms are available near the hot springs. Bring all necessary supplies, including food and water.

Ce qu'il faut apporter

• Layered clothing for extreme temperature shifts
• Chaussures de randonnée robustes
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and lip balm (intense UV at altitude)
• Cash in small denominations (no ATMs nearby)
• Altitude sickness medication (park elevations reach 4,500m+)

Rules & Regulations

• No littering—carry out all waste
• Campfires prohibited outside designated areas
• Respect local Aymara communities and sacred sites
• Climbing Nevado Sajama requires a certified guide

Contact Information

Park administration is managed by SERNAP (Bolivia's National Protected Areas Service). No direct phone number is publicly listed; inquiries are best made through tour operators in La Paz.