In this rough silent land, the mummified remains of the ancient inhabitants of Alcaya conjure up mystery, as well as respect and solitude.
Alcaya is the most important archaeological site in the department of Oruro, cradle of the Quillacas Azanaques culture in Bolivia.
The Alcaya archaeological area was designed to protect a pre-Hispanic citadel about nine kilometres from the municipality of Salinas de Garci Mendoza, at an altitude of more than 4,000 meters in the Bolivian highlands. In 2008, the site was declared a National Historic and Cultural Heritage Site by the Bolivian government.
To reach the archaeological area of Alcaya, visitors need to cross an open path between rock formations and hills. Along the way, you can stop at viewing points among the rocks, for an idea of the extent of the ancient human settlements in the area, with the mysterious stone constructions, houses and tombs that still preserve the remains of the ancient settlers, as well as the agricultural terraces still used by the present-day inhabitants.
Travellers can easily distinguish the three sectors that formed the ancient settlement of Alcaya. The first sector, clearly visible, includes the ancient houses and dwellings of the living, built in stone on the slopes with a characteristic round floor plan; the second sector is all about the farming activities of the ancient inhabitants, with irrigation canals and well-built terraces; the third includes the dwellings of the dead, with the chullpares, tombs in the shape of towers, and other burials.
The archaeological site of Alcaya is quite extraordinary, due to the impressive amount of well-preserved mummified human remains that have come down to us. The so-called “Mummy Trail” allows visitors to discover this rather macabre heritage, with most of the bodies and bones still preserved inside the tombs where they were buried. These tombs, built underground, can be seen through the holes used to introduce the corpses. At the site of Alcaya, fragments of pottery – bowls and keros or ceremonial vessels - and textiles are still visible, having managed to retain their beautiful decorative details.
The archaeological complex of Alcaya is under the protection of the same-named community. For this reason, to visit the site you need to be accompanied by the local guides who, during the visit, share the history of the ancient city and the heritage of which they are the proud keepers.
The archaeological site of Alcaya is a great place to explore. Contact us to book your visit and let yourself be carried away by the stories of the local guides who have an excellent knowledge of the area.
Additional Info
It is recommended to wear warm and windproof clothing, comfortable footprint shoes, cap, hat, sunglasses and to bring a camera.
Suggested periods
- Autumn
- Spring
- Summer
- Weekend
Where
Alcaya community, municipality of Salinas de Garci Mendoza, department of Oruro.
Transportation
By private transport
From La Paz or Oruro by road (direction Uyuni). Take the detour at Estancia Condo towards Salinas de Garci Mendoza; from there to the community of Alcaya, you will follow a dirt road. Average duration of the trip: about 8 hours from La Paz and 4 hours from Oruro.
By public transport
There is no public transportation available.
Visiting Rules
For your health and the health of local population, remember to comply with all biosecurity protocols and codes of conduct before and during your stay: wear a mask and carry hand sanitizer, plus a first aid kit, sunscreen and medications for altitude sickness.
During your visit remember to protect the cultural and natural heritage of the region.