Skyline Bolivia: Peaks of the Cordillera Real

Another acclimatization day in La Paz.

The main purpose of our second day is to spend another night above 10,000'. This is a great occasion to visit La Paz and its many colonial sites.

We drive into the stunning Condoriri Valley, arriving at a small mountain village where we meet our burros, ready to carry our gear. From here, we enjoy a scenic 3–4 hour hike to our Base Camp, set beside a crystal-clear alpine lake and surrounded by the breathtaking peaks of the Condoriri massif. We’ll rest and prepare for our ascent of Pequeño Alpamayo (17,618 ft / 5,300 m) the following day.

We begin pre-dawn with headlamps, ascending the main glacier in the peaceful morning light. After several hours of moderate climbing, we reach the base of Pequeño Alpamayo’s steep, pyramid-shaped peak. From here, enjoy spectacular snow and ice climbing to the 17,618 ft (5,300 m) summit, followed by a rewarding descent to Base Camp.

After hiking out, a 4x4 drive across the Cordillera Real takes us to the base of Huayna Potosí (19,974 ft / 6,088 m). To maintain our acclimatization, we begin the hike to Camp 1 the same day. Porters may assist with group gear.

We continue up to Camp 2 (High Camp), gaining elevation and preparing for summit day.

An early start leads us up the snow-covered slopes to the summit of Huayna Potosí. After taking in the views, we descend—either to High Camp or all the way to base, and possibly drive back to La Paz for a well-earned meal and hot shower.

A relaxed day to recover, clean gear, shop for supplies, and prepare for the grand finale: Illimani.

We drive southeast to the mighty Illimani (21,201 ft / 6,438 m), the highest peak in the Cordillera Real. At the road’s end, llamas and their handler help carry our gear to Base Camp (15,000 ft).

We carry a load to High Camp (18,000 ft) and return to Base Camp to rest and prepare.

We settle into High Camp, surrounded by stunning views of Lake Titicaca and Illimani’s icy cirque.

Summit day! Weather permitting, we begin early to tackle the steep Southwest Buttress, weaving through impressive crevasses and ascending a 40–45° ice face to the gentle summit ridge. At the top, we’re rewarded with panoramic views of the Andes.

We descend and return to La Paz for a celebration dinner.

Fly home or continue your South American adventure!