Volcán Sajama — Bolivia’s Highest Peak and Altiplano Volcanic Sentinel

Volcán Sajama dominates the skyline of the entire Oruro Department altiplano. Standing at 6,542 meters, it’s the highest point in Bolivia and one of the most visually commanding volcanic cones on the continent — rising in near-perfect symmetry above a flat, windswept plateau at roughly 4,200m. The surrounding Parque Nacional Sajama is home to the world’s highest forest of queñua trees, plus vicuña, flamingo, and the occasional Andean condor riding thermals off the summit snowfields. From the village of Sajama, the mountain fills your entire windshield.

Overlanders running the Coipasa-to-Sajama circuit use this peak as a navigation anchor for the final leg. The access track to the park’s interior is passable by high-clearance 4WD — soft volcanic soil, river crossings, and zero signage. Best visited May through October during the dry season. Winds above 5,000m can be violent year-round. Park entry fees collected at the Sajama village checkpoint.

Bolivia's highest peak — 6,542m of raw altiplano.