For two years, the flow of tourism to the north part of the  Isla del Sol, one of Bolivia’s most important tourist destinations, was disrupted due to a conflict between the communities of Challapampa and Challa. This conflict, which centered on the construction of a polemical ecotourism project, led to the indefinite suspension of tourism activities in the northern part of the island. A peace agreement was reached in July of 2019, promising to restore tourism to the north and ensure the safety of visitors.

A Timeline of the Conflict

Ecotourism Project Dispute (February 2017): In February 2017, the Challa community accused Challapampa of destroying a complex of five ecoturism cabins. In response, Challapampa claimed that Challa had sacrilegiously constructed their facilities near the sacred site of La Chinkana. This dispute escalated into increasingly intense confrontations, culminating in a dramatic battle where both sides hurled stones at each other from boats.

Blockade of the North Part of the Island (July 2017): While hostilities eventually subsided, the Challa imposed a total blockade to prevent tourists from accessing Challapampa territory in the northern part of the island, severely impacting the economy of their neighbors. Sentries were stationed at strategic points, effectively restricting tourists to less than half of an island renowned for its scenic walks.

Indefinite Suspension (June 2018): By June 2018, with no resolution in sight, the Vice Ministry of Tourism issued a statement announcing the indefinite suspension of tourism activities in the northern sector of the island. The Bolivian Navy enforced this suspension by blocking any vessels transporting tourists to the island.

Dialogue and Negotiations: Over the two years, more than 40 meetings and dialogue sessions were held to mediate the conflict between Challapampa and Challa. These sessions aimed to find a common ground and resolve the ownership dispute of the ecotourism project.

The Isla del Sol Peace Agreement: The persistent efforts to mediate the conflict finally bore fruit with the signing of the “Isla del Sol Peace Agreement.” This agreement, facilitated by the Ministry of Cultures and Tourism, involved residents from both communities and included several key provisions:

Collaborative Management: The communities agreed to design a joint “management and administration model” for the island’s archaeological sites and natural resources, with shared goals for sustainable development.

Safety Assurance: The agreement commits both communities to “fully and by all means” ensure the safety of all residents and visitors.

Cultural and Archaeological Preservation: The island, besides being a major tourist destination, holds significant cultural and archaeological importance, especially for the indigenous Aymara communities. The agreement emphasizes preserving this heritage while promoting sustainable tourism development.