Ulla Ulla National Reserve, Biosphere reserve in La Paz Department, Bolivia
Ulla Ulla National Reserve is a protected area on the high Andean plateau in Bolivia, where the landscape consists of wide plains and bare mountains. The region sits above 4,000 meters in elevation, making it one of the country's coldest and windiest places.
The reserve was established in 1972 as a protected area to safeguard the fragile alpine environment. Shortly after, it received UNESCO recognition in 1977 as a biosphere reserve.
Communities here follow age-old patterns, with herders moving their animals across high pastures and small settlements dotting the plains. You see llamas and alpacas everywhere, shaping daily life and showing how deeply people are tied to this land.
Getting here requires planning, as the region is remote and has few places to stay. It helps to arrange transportation and lodging beforehand and be prepared for harsh weather and thin air at this altitude.
The area holds the country's largest vicuna population and is a key habitat for Andean condors. Spotting these rare animals is a special moment that makes a visit memorable.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
