Ranging over 13,000 ft.
(3,900 m) above sea level, the Bolivian Altiplano hosts several peaks that belong to a
chain of inactive volcanoes that crown an extensive highland plateau inhabited by powerful
Aymara "señorios" (kingdoms) that existed long before the Incas and Spanish. The Sajama
volcano is the highest peak in Bolivia, at 21,457 ft. (6,540 m). The harsh alpine landscape
is striking and beautiful from sunrise to sunset. The extensive pastures are home to llamas,
alpacas, guanacos and vicunas. Many species of Altiplano and Andean birds, like the threatened
Andean Rhea, three species of flamingos, eagles and hawks, and Andean Flickers can be found here.
The historical attractions include pre-Inca burial tombs (chullpas) and several small churches built
during the 17th Century by the Spanish. They remain as evidence of the intense cultural exchange
and colonial trading activity in this area that lasted 120 years. Today local residents still
preserve a rich mix of traditional customs with pre-Inca and colonial influences, giving this
area a very interesting atmosphere.
