The Wila Wila tambo is an impressive Inca ruin, with a history of thousands of years, reflected in the waters of Lake Titicaca.
In the Aymara language wila means red: the construction materials of the tambo blend with the reddish hue of the stones of the surrounding landscape.
The Wila Wila tambo can be found along one of the sections of the Qhapaq Ñan, the great network of pre-Columbian roads that criss-crossed South America. Not far from the main road of Desaguadero, after the Apacheta del Cóndor Imaña, the tambo is located in a strategic position from which you can enjoy an extraordinary view of the sacred Lake Titicaca.
The Wila Wila tambo is a pre-Columbian inn. Often used by priests and officials of the Inca empire, tambos were erected near the roads to provide a place where travellers could rest and where food or other products could be stored, such as llama wool, firewood and quinoa.
According to local accounts, the building is between 1500 and 2000 years old. Recently restored, you can still make out the simple rectangular rooms of the structure, although the original gabled roof has been lost.
Today, the site is considered of great historical and cultural value. In fact, the importance of the Wila Wila tambo is such that every year, on June 21, celebrations for the Andean New Year, one of the most heartfelt celebrations of the local communities, is held on the hill of Corimana, just a few metres away.
If the Qhapaq Ñan is your next destination, contact us: we'll help you discover the Wila Wila tambo, and other amazing places and people along the way.
Additional Info
It is recommended to wear warm clothing, fit for windy weather conditions, and comfortable shoes, and to bring a hat and sunglasses, binoculars, and a camera.
Suggested periods
- Autumn
- New Year
- Año Nuevo Andino Amazónico Chaqueño
- Spring
- Summer
Where
Desaguadero Municipality, department of La Paz.
Transportation
By public transport
From La Paz, in front of the General Cemetery, on J. M. Asin Street, or from the El Alto interprovincial terminal, minibuses leave for Desaguadero. The trip lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.
By private transport
From the city of La Paz, take National Route 1 towards the Desaguadero community; from the road before reaching Desaguadero you can see the reddish buildings of the site; It is reached by a dirt road that is partially passable by car and then on foot.
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, with sunscreen and medications for altitude sickness.
During your visit remember to protect the cultural and natural heritage of the region.