Immerse yourself in a unique culture built on sharing and respect for nature. Nestled in a splendid bay between Achacachi and Carabuco in Bolivia, Santiago de Okola brings together a community of fishermen and farmers of indigenous descent. The region offers you an authentic experience on the shores of Lake Titicaca through the warm welcome of locals, activities in perfect harmony with nature, and above all a magical and paradisiacal landscape dominated by a beach with crystalline waters and the splendid 'Sleeping Dragon' hill. Travellers seeking a restful getaway will be particularly delighted.

Discovering the Santiago de Okola Community

Located 140 km from La Paz, the Santiago de Okola community is part of the Sisasani district in Camacho Province. It sits on the route leading to the Cordillera Apolobamba and brings together approximately 80 families, some of whom live there permanently while others travel between La Paz and Okola. The Aymaras inhabiting the region have deep connections with the lake and the land. While welcoming tourism, the small village of Santiago de Okola maintains many traditional cultural traditions centred on the use of medicinal plants and the preservation of sustainable resources.

The ASITURSO Association

Founded in 2008 by residents of Santiago de Okola, ASITURSO is an agro-tourism project aimed at sustainable resource development. It seeks to preserve traditional cultures and plant varieties, currently numbering 250, including potatoes, quinoa, beans, onions, wheat and other organic vegetables.

ASITURSO also aims to provide employment and local activities for young people to prevent rural exodus. Of the 24 member families, 12 receive visitors in their homes, which feature private rooms or dormitory-style accommodation.

What to Do in Santiago de Okola?

The Santiago de Okola community is renowned for the kindness, simplicity and generous hospitality of its inhabitants. Families welcome you with pleasure into their homes, with modest but comfortable amenities, and share their daily lives, juggling fieldwork and weaving workshops. They also arrange several activities that allow you to explore their culture and discover the beauty of the place.

An excursion on the shores of Lake Titicaca

A genuine sharing experience awaits you on the shores of Lake Titicaca accompanied by families from the village. While admiring spectacular views of the lake and the snow-capped peaks of the Cordillera Real, you'll have the opportunity to savour Andean culinary specialities such as Apthapi, a typical Andean menu prepared with fresh local products. Then enjoy the brilliant sunshine of Santiago de Okola for swimming or a short boat ride. Don't forget your camera to capture the beauty of the landscapes and create lasting memories. In short, a day of complete immersion in nature awaits you.

A visit to the community museum

To learn more about this authentic village, stop by the community museum. This museum was established by the association to trace the history of the community. Here, you'll discover more about the various activities available in the region such as weaving, fishing, agriculture and livestock raising. You can even participate in community work if you have time. Discover the weaving techniques of the Andes and open your eyes to the different aspects of Aymara life for an unforgettable experience with family or friends.

Hiking around the village

The small village of Santiago de Okola is a favourite destination for hikers. Indeed, to reveal the beauty of this place, local guides offer trails that open onto magnificent landscapes. With the Tortuga Island, located across from the community, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the lake and Isla del Sol. Bird enthusiasts will find themselves entirely at home, as you can observe all sorts of birds such as ducks, Andean geese and pink flamingos. Otherwise, the trek to the Sleeping Dragon offers you the privilege of discovering rock paintings located on rocks at the foot of the dragon's head. The paths wind through shrubland, and upon reaching the summit, you'll be treated to a magnificent panorama of the village, Tortuga Island and the entire bay.

A walk to discover local agriculture

The Santiago de Okola community is primarily agricultural, with crops such as maize, potatoes and quinoa. You can learn more about local agricultural practices by visiting the fields and talking with local farmers. Since the region is also rich in medicinal plants, you can also initiate yourself into this practice by discovering the different types of herbs that cure all kinds of ailments such as stomach issues, headaches, respiratory problems, fractures, arthritis and cough. If you suffer from altitude sickness, locals will even prepare herbal remedies for you.

When to Visit?

The best time to visit the Santiago de Okola community is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. With clear, sunny weather, hiking in the surrounding mountains and exploring the community and its surroundings are ideal. However, temperatures can be cool at night, so don't forget to bring warm clothing to protect yourself from the cold.

Santiago de Okola is 1 hour 30 minutes by boat from Isla del Sol and 3 hours 30 minutes by road from La Paz. If you land at El Alto International Airport, you can take a bus or rent a private car. Several bus companies operate in the region.