Along the way...

The most impressive trek in Bolivia . . .
The chief crossing of the Cordillera Real, with, as a warm up, a trek on Lake Titicaca (necessary acclimatization) and with reward, the attempt of one of the mystical summits of the Cordillera, el Huyana Potosi (el. 6088 m.a.s.l.).
A two-week mountain trek, across the entire Cordillera, skirting impressive mountain ranges, following large valleys or climbing passes higher than the highest mountain in Europe, in the company of our Aymara team of muleteers.
They are Indian habitants of the communities we pass through, and thanks to them we will get an insight into village life and the treasures this countryside has to offer.

Note: this trek is accessible to all person in good physical condition and with experience with high altitude treks. A good acclimatization is none-the-less necessary.

PROGRAM

DAY 1 : LA PAZ - ARRIVAL

Pick up at the airport (flight number and arrival time to be confirmed) and transfer to hotel (check in time 12 p.m.; if you wish to have a room upon arrival, it is possible to pay for one extra night, check with us). Rest of the day open.
Lunch and dinner open. Hotel.

DAY 2 : LA PAZ / PANORAMIC TOUR – VALLEY OF THE MOON – ANDEAN MARKETS

Meeting in the hotel hall at 9 a.m. for a discovery, in private transportation, of the most spectacular viewpoint over the city, unbelievably located at the bottom of the Choqueyapu river canyon, with the Royal Mountain Range “Giants” as the background: Huayna Potosi, Mururata and Illimani.
This tour, particularly designed for photo lovers, first takes us to the Jach´a Apacheta Mirador, on the edge of the precipice of the city of El Alto. Then we go to the K´Illi K´Illi Mirador and to the Laykakota Park (closed on Mondays), on the Northwestern side of the city. Afterwards, we cross the Americas Bridge to go to the “Plaza de España” Mirador, in the colonial neighborhood of Sopocachi. From there, an abrupt descent leads us to the “South Zone”, passing through Llojeta and the “Garden Cemetery”, and finally to the Valley of the Moon, a place where we will be able to walk between psychedelic looking limestone formations.
In the afternoon our vehicle brings us back to the City Center and drops us off in the heart of the colorful and animated Andean market of La Paz. Return to the hotel on foot, accompanied by our guide.
Lunch and dinner open. Hotel.

DAY 3 : LA PAZ - COPACABANA

Departure from the hotel at 9 a.m. with a private 4WD. We skirt Lake Titicaca and the Cordillera Real before descending towards Copacabana (3 ½ hours).
Visit of the most interesting sites of the town.
We climb the Way of the Cross, ancient pilgrimage, for a beautiful sunset over the Lake (don’t forget your headlamp for the descent).
Lunch and dinner open. Hotel / lake view.

DAY 4 : COPACABANA - TREK ISLA DEL SOL – YUMANI

In the morning, a motorboat takes us to the Northern side of Isla del Sol (Island of the Sun), at the Inca site of Chincana. We begin the trek that follows the crests and takes us to the south side of the Island and to the village of Yumani (3 to 4-hour walk).
Cold lunch (included). All included. Lodging at María and Ismael’s house (basic comfort).
Note: During the 2 following days a boat will be at our disposal to transport the group as well as the gear during the walks.
Hiking time: 4h; Elevation gain: +450m / -250m

DAY 5 : YUMANI – KALAKI – SORATA (el. 2700 m.a.s.l.)

In the morning, a short hop by motorboat first takes us to Pilkokaina temple, south of the island. This palace was built by Inca Tupac Yupanqui for its pilgrimages on the island.
We then head to Isla de la Luna where we visit the temple of the Ñustas, The Inca virgins. We then cross the whole Lake to Kalaki, on the Eastern shore (3 to 4-hour traverse depending on the weather conditions).
There a vehicle awaits us to take us to the village of Sorata, at the foot of the majestic Illampu (el. 6430 m.a.s.l.). 2 to 3-hour journey between Kalaki and Sorata.
Cold lunch (included). Dinner open. Hotel.

DAY 6 :SORATA – LAGUNA CHILATA (el. 4200 m.a.s.l.)

Difficulty: altitude-trek. Daily 6 to 9-hour walk. Excellent physical condition as well as experience with serious treks required.
In the morning we meet our team of muleteers on the outskirt of the village. From Sorata, we start heading up on the slopes of Illampu crossing various hamlets and cultures… we can observe the ancestral methods still in use there.
The scenery becomes increasingly dryer as we ascend and the views of Illampu more impressive.
After a 6 to 7-hour walk on steep llama trails we reach Laguna Chilata. Cold lunch. All included. Bivouac.
Hiking time: 6/7h; Elevation gain: +1600m

DAY 7 : LAGUNA CHILATA – LAGUNA GLACIAR (5038 m alt.) – CAMPO VENADO (4300m alt.)

We depart in the morning for the ascent to Laguna Glaciar owing its name to the glacier plunging into it on its West bank (4/5-hour). Views over Lake Titicaca, the Valley of Sorata and the Andes... The scenery is well worth the effort!
The ascent follows a steep train eventually reaching a breach at the top of a crest.
We then start an even steeper ascent in the middle of immense boulders to reach the laguna after 4 to 5 hours walk.
In the afternoon, descent to our base camp next to the Venado camp. Cold lunch. All included. Bivouac.
Hiking time: 6/7h; Elevation gain: +880m / -800m

DAY 8 : VENADO CAMP(4300m alt.) – SUSANA MINE (4030m) – LOJENA (4360 m alt.)

We by-pass the mountain then stay on a contour line during approximately 3 hours before arriving at a collar.
Then we come down towards Mina Susana’s camp.
We raise first to the Laguna Kota Pata in 4145m, then to other lagoons situated in 4300m. Cold lunch. All included. Bivouac.
Hiking time: 6/7h ; Elevation gain: +640m/-610m

DAY 9 : LOJENA – LAGUNA SAN FRANSISCO (4520m)

We evolve in side of mountain; meet several lagoons then rise up to the collar of Chotanlona situated in 4910m, before coming down again in the valley of the Laguna San Fransisco. The view on the glaciers is magnificent.
Cold lunch. All included. Bivouac.
Hiking time: 5/6h Elevation gain: +700/-560m

DAY 10 : LAGUNA SAN FRANSISCO (el.4520 m.a.s.l.) – LAGUNA CHOJNA QUTA (el. 4770 m.a.s.l.)

We begin our ascent towards the pass located at an altitude of 4920 m.a.s.l. (2h30). Ancohuma comes into view and we find ourselves surrounded by majestic glaciers. We then descend in a first valley at an altitude of 4785 m.a.s.l.
We climb again to 4980 m.a.s.l. (1½-hour climb). We then descend again to 4870 m.a.s.l. before ascending the last pass of the day at an altitude of 4980 m.a.s.l., which leads us to the valley of the Laguna kacha (1 hour climb).
We slowly descend the valley until we reach two beautiful lakes at the base of Paso Calzada, the Laguna Carizal and the Laguna Chojna Quta, meaning Verde (green) in Aymara. There, we set up camp.
Cold lunch. All included. Bivouac.
Hiking time: 7/8h; Elevation gain: +745m / -510m

DAY 11 : LAGUNA CHOJNA QUTA – LAGUNA JISTAÑA QUTA

We take advantage of this day to gain a little altitude on Paso Calzada to be able to admire the two beautiful lakes below.
We leave this valley in the direction of Laguna Kacha. We climb a pass at 5100 m.a.s.l. (2½-hour). We follow the crest before descending in the next valley to Laguna Jistaña Quta nestled at 4560 m.a.s.l., which we reach 1½-hour later.
Cold lunch. All included. Bivouac.
Hiking time: 3 to 4h; Elevation gain: +350m / -515m

DAY 12 : LAGUNA JISTAÑA QUTA – LAGUNA CHISCACALLIUANI (el. 4810 m.a.s.l.)

We start ascending on the mountain slopes until we reach a small lake seeming nestled in the crater of a volcano (1½-hour / el. 4700 m.a.s.l.). The trail the levels out and follow the hillside along the Altiplano and Lake Titicaca below. After an hour and a half of walking, we reach a pass at 4930 m.a.s.l.
We then cross a valley located at 4580 m.a.s.l. (1½-descent), to then climb back up to our first pass at 4985 m.a.s.l. (2-hour). 20 minutes on a level trail takes us to the steep ascent of our second pass at 5000 m.a.s.l.
Steep descent (30 minutes) to a small valley sheltering a lake and its inseparable Huallatas, Laguna Chiscacalliuani at 4820 m.a.s.l. Cold lunch. All included. Bivouac.
Hiking time: 7h; Elevation gain: +800m / -585m

DAY 13 : LAGUNA CHISCACALLIUANI – RIO CHACHA KUMANI – RIO PURA PURANI (el. 4750 m.a.s.l.)

After following the mountain slopes for 2 hours, we reach the beautiful Chacha Kumani Valley (el. 4430 m.a.s.l.). We cross to the other side of the valley and climb a pass at 5000 m.a.s.l.
In an hour, this ascent takes us first to a plateau located at 4600 m.a.s.l., and then to a second plateau at 4750 m.a.s.l. (30 minutes) before reaching a steep scree at the base of the pass (4945 m.a.s.l.). A 3-hour climb total to reach this pass (5000 m.a.s.l.) from where we enjoy a beautiful view of the Chachakumani Glacier. We then descend in the Pura Purani Valley in less than an hour (el. 4750 m.a.s.l.).
Cold lunch. All included. Bivouac.
Hiking time: 6/7h; Elevation gain: +625m / -680m

DAY 14 : RIO PURA PURANI (el. 4805 m.a.s.l.) – LAGUNA WARA WARANI – KUNU PAMPA (el. 4580 m.a.s.l.)

We climb the mountainside and clear 3 consecutive small passes (el. 4850 m.a.s.l.) separated by flat sections (2 hours). We then descend into the valley of Rio Jallawaya (el. 4480 m.a.s.l. / 30 minutes).
We then follow the Wara Warani Valley upriver for an hour (el. 4620 m.a.s.l.). An hour later we reach the end of the valley (el. 4700 m.a.s.l.). From there, we climb the cliff retaining the splendid Wara Warani Lake nestled at 4930 m.a.s.l. (1-hour).
The glacier literally falls into its turquoise waters, a delight!! Another 45 minutes and we reach the pass overlooking the Kunu Pampa glacier (el. 5050 m.a.s.l.). We reach the valley floor in less than an hour, at 4760 m.a.s.l. We camp at the foot of the glacier.
Cold lunch. All included. Bivouac.
Hiking time: 7/8h; Elevation gain: +850m / -820m

DAY 15 : KUNU PAMPA (el. 4580 m.a.s.l.) – LAGUNA KHOTIA - LAGUNA AJWANI (e. 4720 m.a.s.l.)

We ascend Paso Minchin located at 5000 m.a.s.l. (2-hour) before descending to Laguna Khotia (el. 4450 m.a.s.l., 1-hour descent). After lunch, we clear Paso Contador (el. 4760 m.a.s.l. / 2-hour climb) before crossing a swampy area, near Laguna Surakhota (el. 4450 m.a.s.l.). After about 4/5-hour walk from Laguna Khotia, we reach Laguna Ajwani (“bird lagoon” / el. 4650 m.a.s.l.).
Cold lunch. All included. Bivouac.
Hiking time: 8/9h; Elevation gain: +870m / -960m
Note: Less strenuous option, sleep near Laguna Surakhota (1½-hour walk less).

DAY 16 : LAGUNA AJWANI - LAGUNA JURIKHOTA (el. 4700 m.a.s.l.)

We start by following the hillside, clear a first pass at an altitude of 4920 meters (Paso Milluni / 1h45), then we take our time to reach laguna Sistaña (el. 4660 m.a.s.l. / 45mn).
In the afternoon we ascend to a second pass (Paso Janchallani, el. 4900 m.a.s.l. / 1h30), before our last descent of the day towards Laguna Jurikhota (el. 4700 m.a.s.l. / 1h).
Cold lunch. All included. Bivouac.
Hiking time: 5/6h; Elevation gain: +665m / -560m

DAY 17 :LAGUNA JURIKHOTA – LAGUNA CONGELADA – PASO AUSTRIA - LAGUNA CHIARKHOTA (el. 4670 m.a.s.l.)

From Laguna Jurikhota we begin by ascending up a steep slope to reach, an hour and a half later, the Laguna Congelada, (two glaciers literally fall into its icy waters), a jewel nested at an altitude of 4900 meters at the foot of El Condoriri (el. 5650 m.a.s.l.).
From there we keep climbing to a second pass (Paso Austria, 5120 m.a.s.l. / one hour ascent) before descending on the other side towards El Condoriri and El Pequeño Alpamayo base camp, at the edge of Laguna Chiarkhota (el. 4670 m.a.s.l. / 1h30 descent).
Just before reaching the pass, we have the option to climb Pico Austria (el. 5300 m.a.s.l.) to admire the incredible views it offers over the Cordillera Real (45-minute climb, 20-minute descent) Cold lunch. All included. Bivouac.
Hiking time: 6h; Elevation gain: +645m / -670m

DAY 18 : LAGUNA CHIARKHOTA – LAGUNA WICHU KHOTA (el.4680 m.a.s.l.)

We leave the Condoriri behind us, pass at the base of the Black Needle and eventually reach the Jallayko Pass (el. 5025 m.a.s.l.). We then drop into the very beautiful and steep Jistaña Valley, before ascending the Tillipata Pass (el. 5000 m.a.s.l.). The spectacular scenery over the myriad of lagunas down below is ample reward for our efforts.
Then another downhill to Laguna Wichu Khota, where we set up our camp, at the foot of María Lloco (el. 5522 m.a.s.l.).
Cold lunch. All included. Bivouac.
Hiking time: 7h; Elevation gain: +845m / -935m

DAY 19 :LAGUNA WICHU KHOTA – CAMPO CANAL (el. 4800 m.a.s.l.)

We progress amongst the lagunas, until the ancient camp for mine Santa Fe. A short detour to a small nearby summit dominating the camp allows us to get a nice view over all the lagunas. We then climb up to our camp, surrounded by the summits of Imilla Apachita, Maria Lloco and Huayna Potosi (el. 6088 m.a.s.l.). The view is superb (4/5-walk).
The most courageous will be able to hike over to Laguna Glacial del Huayna Potosi. The trail, an ancient dried out stone canal on the hillside, offers wonderful scenery (2-hour round trip).
Cold lunch. All included. Bivouac.
Hiking time: 6h; Elevation gain: +320m / -200m

DAY 20 : CAMPO CANAL (el. 4800 m.a.s.l.) / REST DAY

Rest day. Option to climb to the foot of the Huyana Potosi glacier to see the Laguna Glaciar.
Cold lunch. All included. Bivouac

DAY 21 : CAMPO CANAL – HUAYNA POTOSI SHELTER

After loading the gear on our llamas, we head for the Milluni pass that we reach in the middle of the morning (el. 5000 m.a.s.l). From there, we overlook the Milluni Valley. We keep on going towards our shelter by passing Huayna Potosi on our left. At this point the Andes abruptly drop into the Yungas, a green and tropical area.
This is the end of our trek.
Hiking time: 4h; Elevation gain: +200m / -300m

OPTION 1 : RETURN TO LA PAZ

A private vehicle brings us back to La Paz at the end of the afternoon. Cold lunch (included). Dinner open. 3-star hotel.
Hiking time: 4h; Elevation gain: +200m / -300m

DAY 22 : LA PAZ

Day open. Lunch and dinner open. Hotel.

OPTION 2 : HUAYNA POTOSI ASCENT/ DAY 1

Ascent to the “Rocks camp” (el. 5100 m.a.s.l.). Approximately a 2-hour walk.
Cold lunch. All included. Night in mountain shelter.
Note: team of porters for the 2-day ascent.
Hiking time: 6h; elevation gain: +600m / -300m

DAY 22 : ASCENT OF HUAYNA POTOSÍ / DAY 2 (el. 6088 m.a.s.l.) – LA PAZ

Departure at 2 a.m. for a tentative ascent of the summit. Later on, we descend to the shelter (approximately 10-hour total). Return to La Paz with private vehicle.
Lunch included. Dinner open. Hotel.
Ascent time: 10h; Elevation gain: +1000m / -1400m

DAY 23 : LA PAZ

Day open. Lunch and dinner open. Hotel.

DAY 24 : DEPARTURE

Pick up at our hotel in a private vehicle, 3 hours prior to flight departure time, for transfer to airport / international flight number and time to be confirmed.
Meals open.

Included

- Spanish-speaking guide for la Paz and the trek
- Entrance to parks and cultural places mentioned in program
- Private transportation / Spanish-speaking driver
- 2/3-star hotels in twin room including breakfast
- Night with local hosts
- Meals mentioned
- Trekking guide
- Mountain guide (one for 3 people max)
- Collective equipment for trekking and mountaineering (tents, cooking gear, ropes, etc…)
- Cook starting with 4 people (if less than 4 persons, the guide is also the cook)
- Portage of bags (altitude porters / mules / llamas).

Not included

- International flight round trip
- Airport taxes (about $ 2 US to $ 5 US for domestic flight and $ 25 US per person for international flights)
- Individual equipment (except for the sleeping-mats who are provided)
- Mandatory travel insurance usually covered by your credit card or multi-risk insurance
- Drinks
- Tips
- Open meals mentioned, (from 3 to 8 € per person / meal)

General sales conditions

Your trip will be confirmed once we receive a deposit of 30% of the total amount on our Bolivian account or on our web site (Visa card icon on the top right; enter your name as the reference). The balance must be paid upon arrival in Bolivia in American dollars or Euros.

Prepare for your trip

Travel advice Bolivia
General Sales Conditions
Equipment

Emergencies

In case of major problem during your stay (delay, strike, traffic accident…), an emergency contact will be at your disposal to reach a member of our team:
(010) 712 57 378

Important

- As a security measure, each traveler needs to provide photocopies of passport and individual insurance documentation.
- If you are planning to travel to Brazil, please note that the Brazilian authorities request the yellow fever vaccine certificate to all travelers coming from Bolivia. If you do not leave the transit zone at the airport, it is not required.

Contact us to get the fares