From breeding alpacas to weaving garments, every stage in the process of making Tomarapi textiles reveals a profound craftsmanship.
A tradition of craftsmanship that reflects the wild beauty of the land, the local identity and the skilled craftsmanship of the local community.
The inhabitants of the communities surrounding Sajama project into their work a synthesis between the beauty of the local environment and the identity and culture of the region: the marvellous alpaca wool, the creativity of the artisans and the energy of the place are the ingredients that are combined to create refined fabrics, unique garments that evoke the strength and mysticism of Sajama.
With great skill, commitment and dedication, the craftspeople of Tomarapi weave different and original garments every day, depicting in their specific symbolism an entire worldview and a cultural heritage. The members of the community use ancient techniques to make these items and the end result are eternal fabrics that transcend time and fashions.
The travellers strolling through the shops of the area are dazzled by the bright vibrant colours of the fabrics, with their unique details, the most obvious traces of the roots and identity of the inhabitants of these places.
Many of the fabrics made by community members are available at the Tomarapi Ecotourism Lodge: contact us to admire these exclusive garments and to meet the people who make them.
Additional Info
We recommend to wear warm and windproof clothing, comfortable hiking shoes and to bring a sleeping bag, gloves, scarf, hat, jacket, sunglasses and camera with you.
Where
Community of Tomarapi, municipality of Curahuara de Carangas, department of Oruro.
Transportation
By public transport
By minibus proceed from La Paz to Patacamaya; from Patacamaya take another microbus to Sajama National Park. You can only reach the town of Lagunas, the closest entry point to the park.
By private transport
From La Paz proceed along Highway 1 La Paz-Oruro to Patacamaya; once there, take Highway 4 Patacamaya-Tambo Quemado to the park diversion.
You enter the protected area of Sajama identified by the signs through the first or second entrance. From this point you follow a dirt road until you reach Tomarapi.
Visiting Rules
For your own health and that of the local population, remember to respect all biosecurity protocols and codes of conduct before and during your stay: bring a mask and hand sanitizer, as well as a first aid kit, with sunscreen and medication for altitude sickness.
During your visit, remember to protect the region's cultural and natural heritage.