Hiking in search of viscachas is a fun way to spend a day at Sajama National Park.
Trek among the gigantic rocks where these cute, long-tailed Andean rodents seek shelter.
Observing the varied wildlife that populates the vast nature reserve of Sajama is one of the most exciting experiences to be had in the national park. Among the dozens of animal species that find refuge here, the most outstanding are the viscachas, a species of rodents native to the Andes range.
Although they look very much like large rabbits, due to their large ears and tail, viscachas are not closely related to them and are known for their ability to blend in with their surroundings and for their innate agility. Their body, covered in a light brown or greyish coat, is in fact similar to the colour of rocks: you need to look very attentively to spot them.
Here in the park, the area populated by the viscachas is easily accessible for the guests of the ecotourism lodge of the Tomarapi community, from which it is about twenty minutes away.
If you like to observe animals in their natural environment you cannot miss the viscachas living in the foothills of Mount Sajama. Contact us for more information and have this great experience with us: you’ll love the opportunity to come up close to one of the most characteristic species in the park.
Additional Info
Park entrance fee for foreign tourists is Bs 100, for national tourists Bs 30 and for national students Bs 10.
Suggested periods
- Autumn
- Spring
- Summer
- Weekend
Where
Sajama National Park, municipality of Curahuara de Carangas, department of Oruro.
Transportation
By public transport
With minibuses from La Paz to Patacamaya; from there take a microbus to the Sajama National Park. You can only get to the town of Lagunas, the closest entry point to the park.
By private transport
From La Paz or Oruro take the direction towards Patacamaya; once there, go down the main road to Tambo Quemado; You enter through the first or second entrance to the Sajama protected area identified with the signage
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.