Sajama

Mount Sajama or Nevado Sajama is the highest mountain in Bolivia and is a volcano. It is 6,542m high and is one of the highest volcanoes in the world. Surrounding the mountain is the Sarajama National Park, which forms the southwest border between Bolivia and Chile. The mountain stands on the 4,200 m high plateau of the Altiplano, which makes it appear smaller than it actually is. The Sajama volcano has been dormant for over 25,000 years. The summit is covered by an ice cap, hiding any trace of the crater. The Nevada Sajama is considered a sanctuary in the surrounding villages and is equated with a male god.

To climb the summit you need about two to three days, the tour is declared as moderately difficult. Guides for this tour can be booked cheaply in Sajama village. There is also enough accommodation and free beds.

A special feature are the Queñua trees, which grow up to an altitude of around 5,000m. On the ascent you pass many of these trees, the residents of the national park are proud of the highest growing tree species in the world. The shoots of the tree can be made into a tea, said to help with altitude sickness.