Sama Biological Reserve

The Cordillera de Sama Biological Reserve (Reserva Biológica Cordillera de Sama) is a protected area in Tarija department spanning a remarkable range of altitudes — from the high altiplano of the Sama mountains down toward the temperate valleys near the city of Tarija, about 90 km away. Its most celebrated section is the high-altitude Tajzara zone, a chain of permanent salt and freshwater lakes set among puna grassland, sand dunes and snow-touched peaks, where three species of flamingo and more than thirty other bird species gather year-round. The reserve protects both this Andean highland and the watersheds that feed the Tarija valley, making it ecologically and hydrologically vital.

The area is also rich in human history: it has been inhabited for over 8,000 years, and the highlands bear witness to Incan and pre-Incan structures such as irrigation channels and water tanks. A well-preserved section of the Inca Trail begins inside the reserve and is in good enough condition that it was used for military transit during the Chaco War. For travellers, Sama offers some of the finest high-Andean scenery and birdwatching in southern Bolivia, combined with trekking on an ancient road and a glimpse of millennia of Andean settlement — an accessible day trip or overnight from Tarija.

The high country has a cold climate, reaching as low as −20 °C in winter, with temperatures dropping sharply at night; a sleeping bag is wise even indoors, as the community lodge (albergue) has no heating, though it provides blankets and warm water. The dry winter (May–September) offers the clearest skies but the coldest nights, while flamingo and waterbird numbers around the lakes peak roughly November–February. Created in 1991, the reserve covers a large area, with the Tajzara lakes as its visitor focus.

By Car / Road

The reserve lies about 90 km from the city of Tarija. Buses on the Tarija–Tupiza or Tarija–Villazón routes pass the turn-off to the village of Pujzara, which sits near one of the three Tajzara lakes; the trip takes approximately 2.5 hours from Tarija. From the turn-off, side tracks lead to the lakes and albergue, sometimes best with a high-clearance vehicle. Many visitors come on organised tours from Tarija, which is the simplest way to reach the high Tajzara zone.

Within the reserve, exploration is on foot — trekking between the lakes, across the dunes and along the Inca Trail is the way to experience Tajzara. There are also driving routes circling some of the lakes for those with a vehicle. Distances and the high altitude demand fitness and acclimatisation; hiring a local guide from the communities or arranging a Tarija tour is recommended for the trails and the Inca route.

• Tajzara lakes (Lagunas de Tajzara) — four permanent high-altitude lagoons that attract birds, especially the three species of flamingo, plus over thirty other bird species; the reserve's premier sight, with the densest bird concentrations from November to February.
• Sand dunes — striking dunes set against the mountainous, lake-studded backdrop.
• Inca Trail and pre-Incan structures — a well-preserved stretch of the ancient road begins inside the reserve, alongside Incan and pre-Incan irrigation channels and water tanks.
• Colonial-era church — a historic church in the reserve area adds to its cultural interest.

The signature experiences are birdwatching at the Tajzara lakes — flamingos and dozens of Andean waterbirds, best November–February — and walking on the sand dunes. The reserve is also a trekking destination: you can walk part or all of the Inca Trail, which begins about 7 km from the albergue, following an ancient route across the high country. Photography of the lakes, flamingos, dunes and peaks is outstanding. Visiting and supporting the local communities adds a cultural dimension. Prepare thoroughly for cold and altitude.

Food options within the reserve are very limited and centre on the community lodge.

• Albergue de Pujzara — the community-run lodge can organise home-cooked highland meals with advance notice; arrange this ahead of your visit.
• Self-catering — for treks and day visits, carry your own food and supplies, as there are no restaurants in the high Tajzara zone.
• Tarija — for a full range of dining, the city (about 2.5 hours away) is the base before and after.

Vegetarian options at the albergue are limited; specify needs when arranging meals.

Warming drinks help against the cold and altitude — bring or request mate de coca, tea and coffee. Carry plenty of water for treks and stay well hydrated against the altitude. The albergue offers warm water. Do not drink untreated water from the lakes or streams; use bottled or purified water, and bring an adequate supply, as there are no shops in the reserve.

• Budget / community lodging: The community-run Albergue de Pujzara offers simple room accommodation near the lakes, with blankets and warm water but no heating — the classic base for an overnight in the reserve. Bring a warm sleeping bag. Arrange in advance.
• Mid-range: There is no mid-range lodging within the reserve; comfortable hotels are in the city of Tarija, roughly Bs 200–400, from which many visitors make a long day trip or overnight excursion.
• Upscale: There is no upscale accommodation in the reserve; the upper-tier hotels of Tarija serve travellers seeking more comfort.

There are no shops within the reserve, so buy all supplies — food, water and warm gear — in the city of Tarija before setting out. Within the highland communities around Tajzara, local people produce Andean weavings and woollen goods from llama and sheep wool, which can sometimes be bought directly and make the most authentic souvenirs while supporting local livelihoods. Bring sufficient cash in small denominations, as there are no banks, ATMs or card facilities anywhere in the reserve.

• Tarija (≈90 km, ~2.5 hours) — the wine capital and departmental seat, main base for the reserve.
• Yunchará (adjacent highlands) — altiplano town near the Tajzara lakes.
• Uriondo / Valle de la Concepción (toward Tarija) — the wine and singani route.
• Tupiza (northwest, Potosí dept) — red-rock canyons and southwest circuit.
• Villazón (south) — the Argentine border crossing to La Quiaca.
• San Lorenzo (near Tarija) — colonial town and folkloric heart of the valley.