The Huayna Potosi (6088m)
The Huayna Potosi is the most popular peak in Bolivia as it is easily accesible to novices. At 6,088m it surpasses the magic 6,000m mark, meaning you’re kicking ass if you reach the summit. This climb of the Huayna Potosi is certainly a challenge but attained to anyone who is acclimatized. It is worth every oxygen-depleting step. The breathtaking views, the twinkling night lights below you and the shimmering stars above you makes you fell like you’re floating between two worlds. The incredible sunrise and views over the city and Cordillera Real mountain range make the climb of the Huayna Potosi one of the most memorable and rewarding experiences in South america.
Program 2 days / 1 night
Available April to November
Day 1: La Paz – Base Camp – High Camp
Departure at 9:00 am from La Paz towards El alto. While in the highway you can enjoy unique views of this growing capital city, its surroundings, and some of the highest peaks in Bolivia such as the Illimani, Mururata, Huayna Potosi, and many other peaks reaching over 16,400 ft. (5,000m). The trip continues through the unpaved road to the Zongo Valley, one of the closest cloud forest or “Yungas” form La Paz. This road passes puna grasslands and alluvial valleys with characteristic flora and fauna. There will be short stops, pone of them to view the Milluni lagoon, and a nearby abandoned tin mine. By12:00 hrs. You will arrive to the Low Base Camp located at 15,416 ft. (4,700m). Lunch. After we will take many pictures for the wonderful base camp and the glacial. Later you will climb to the High camp until 17,220 ft. (5,250 m). This slow climb can be done in 3 hrs. This part of the tour will be useful to condition you for the next day. Warm light dinner and early sleep in a refuge. (L, D)
Day 2: High Camp – Huayna Potosi Summit – La Paz
Slow ascension in the dark. Starts at 2:00 am, this ascension is early to avoid the later intense snow reelection. You will start walking with flashlights. The ascension will be grade 2 (or represent a 45 degree slope climbing) and will last approximately 6 hrs. Arrival to the summit is expected by 8:00 am. Sunrises at the Huayna Potosi are astonishing. In clear days you will enjoy a spectacular 360 degree view of this beautiful part of the eastern Andes. The open landscape shows the distant Sajama Volcano; the highest peak in Bolivia, the steaming cloud forest or Yungas and La Paz and El Alto cities. Later descent from the summit to the 1st camp will last around 3 hr. lunch by 1:00 pm at this camp. Departure to La Paz by car. On your way back, during sunset, you can enjoy more enchanting views of the Huayna Potosi and glacial valleys. (B, L.)
Not Included: Backpack of 50l - Sleeping bags - 10º - Flashlight frontal or manual - 2 sweater of wool or fleeze - Thermal trousers - Chocolates - Water bottle - Wool cap - wool gloves - thermal socks - sun block - sunglasses - scarf
