Apolobamba was created for the purpose of protecting high Andean ecosystems and one of the largest vicuña populations in the country. Its scenery is characterized by long sharp gradients that comprise high Andean environments as well as puna and Yungas humid semi-tropical mountain landscapes. The area forms part of the bi-national Vilcabamba-Amboró corridot, considered to be the most diverse hotspotin the world.
Over 800 plant species have been recorded, with estimates that these could come to 1.800 incorporating probable species in unrecorded sites. 296 vertebrate species have been recorded among which are several endangered species such as the vicuña, the small jucumari lensed bear and other endemic species that inhabit the protected area.
The Apolobamba Mountain Range contains the Ulla Ulla National Reservation. From the Reservation, one can frequently see condors, one of the most impressive birds in the world. Its abundant vegetation shelters llamas, alpacas, guanacos and the largest vicuña population in Bolivia. The tourist can also find other wild species such as puma, taruca, Andean bear, ducks and deer, among others.
Over 12 thousand people of Aymara descent in 35 communities, inhabit the area. They keep their ancestral customs and traditions and devote themselves mainly to the raising of camelids (llama and alpaca) as well as sheep.
Finally, the Natural Reservation offers endless possibilities for ecotourism and varied adventure sports such as sport fishing, mountaineering, trekking and others.
To reach this destination one must traverse approximately 360 kilometers and undoubtedly, the best way of doing this is in a private 4-wheel drive all-terrain vehicle. The trip, at a reasonable speed, takes about seven hours, without taking into account the innumerable photo-taking stops that will become musts along the way.
From La Paz one takes the Lake Titikaka highway. Upon reaching Huarina, one takes the road to Achacachi and goes past it, going through Ancoraimes and Carabuco, up to Escoma (km 190), until the end of the asphalt road.
On the way, one must necessarily visit the Carabuco Church, which is covered by some of the most important fresco paintings in South America. This church was built by the Indian prince of the area, the Siñani, chieftain whose descendants still play an important role in today’s Bolivian politics.
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