Things To Do
in Sabaya

Expansive saline plain nearby that offers dramatic wide-angle landscapes, mirrored reflections after rain and minimal light pollution for night shots.

Colorful daily life, traditional dress and the church façade make for intimate cultural portraits and street scenes.

Rugged volcanic shapes and layered altiplano textures are excellent for sunrise/sunset silhouettes and panoramic vistas.

Seasonal lagoons attract Andean waterfowl and flamingos — ideal for wildlife and reflective water photos during the wet season.

Small but lively; good for fresh produce, local cheeses, tortillas and quick soups. Try soups or empanadas prepared at market stalls and buy woven textiles.

Simple family-run eateries around the plaza and on main roads offering set lunches (almuerzos) with soup, a main and drink — very affordable and authentic.

Always greet people with a friendly 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes'; a handshake or a nod is common. When entering shops or homes, a brief greeting is polite.

Show deference to elders and be mindful around traditional ceremonies; ask before photographing rituals or people in traditional dress.

Dress respectfully — modest clothing is appropriate in town and at markets, especially during religious events.

If invited into a home, bringing small gifts like packaged goods or sugar is appreciated; accept food or drink offered as a sign of respect.

Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory in small towns. Leave small change for helpful guides or drivers (a few Bolivianos or a dollar or two equivalent); at restaurants a 5–10% tip is fine if service was good but not expected everywhere.

Cash (Bolivianos) is king — cards are seldom accepted and ATMs are scarce or non-existent in small towns. Bring enough cash from larger towns (Oruro, La Paz) and keep small bills for purchases; consider carrying US dollars as a backup, but exchange locally where possible.

Warmer daytime temperatures but frequent afternoon thunderstorms and occasional road washouts; some saltflat surfaces may have shallow standing water that produces dramatic reflections. Carry waterproof gear and check road conditions before heading to remote areas.

Drying out after the rains with clear skies and stable roads; great visibility for views and photography, with crisp air and cool nights.

Very dry and sunny days but very cold nights (often below freezing); excellent for trekking and stargazing on clear nights. Bring heavy cold-weather gear for overnight stays.

Warming trend with the possibility of early rains toward late spring; flowers and pasture growth make the landscape greener and llamas more active.

Several informal trails wind around nearby volcanic cones and plateaus — day hikes offer panoramic views of the altiplano and are non-technical but windy and at high altitude.

Walks along the rim and shallow edges of the salt flat provide unique photographic opportunities and easy flat hiking; beware of soft or wet surfaces in the rainy season.

Short trails around seasonal lagoons where flamingos and waterfowl congregate; best done in the late morning when birds are most active and temperatures are milder.

From Sabaya you can access approaches toward Sajama National Park areas for longer treks — these are longer outings requiring guides, acclimatization and logistics for altitude and terrain.