Norwegian man missing in Bolivia’s Sajama National Park as search teams face harsh conditions

Rescue teams in Bolivia are engaged in a search for a Norwegian man who has been missing for several days while hiking alone in Sajama National Park, situated in the central Andes.

A spokesperson from the national rescue service reported that the man was last seen between September 6 and 9. Local residents initiated a search operation shortly after he was reported missing, but no leads were found. It wasn’t until September 19 that the national rescue service was alerted and dispatched to assist in the effort.

The search has predominantly taken place on foot, conducted both day and night under extremely harsh conditions, including storms, cold temperatures, and strong winds. The rescue leader mentioned during a press conference that the situation has been very challenging for the search teams.

Currently, there are no helicopters available for the operation. The rescue leader stated, “We have come as far as we can, and we will not take any chances.” Teams have discovered some of the missing man’s belongings, including pieces of luggage and clothing, at a location believed to be where he stayed before embarking on his hike. However, there have been no further signs of him since then.

According to reports, search crews are exhausted as they have been working tirelessly since sunrise.

The Norwegian embassy in Buenos Aires is in contact with the man’s relatives via Norway’s honorary consulate in La Paz, and they are also coordinating with Bolivian rescue services, who are responsible for the ongoing search operations. Sajama National Park, established in 1939, is known for its high-altitude environment and is home to Sajama, the highest mountain in Bolivia, standing at 6,542 meters.