The French Route is one of the most challenging and technical ways to reach the summit of the South Peak of Huayna Potosi, standing at 5,950 meters above sea level, one of Bolivia’s most popular mountains. This route is designed for experienced mountaineers seeking an adventure off the conventional paths, featuring steeper slopes and sections of technical ice and snow climbing.
Along this route, climbers face crevasses and arêtes that require advanced skills, providing a unique experience in the Cordillera Real. The French Route is less frequented than the normal route, allowing for a connection between the French Route and the normal route of Huayna Potosi, finishing with a ridge that leads directly to the summit at 6,088 meters. It’s a true expedition on one of the most popular peaks in the Cordillera Real.
This 2-3 day program offers an intense and rewarding experience, culminating in a spectacular view from the summit, with panoramas of the surrounding valleys, glaciers, and nearby peaks.
AD+ to 55° - 80°: Long snow and ice slopes with steep gradients, though they can be ascended on foot. Narrow ridges and arêtes, with moderate difficulty climbs even on vertical terrain. Glacier with crevasses and complicated sections. Mandatory use of rope and technical gear, depending on the season (5 rope lengths).
1 guide per client.
For experienced mountaineers only.
We depart at 9:00 AM from downtown La Paz to the Base Camp of Huayna Potosi in private transportation (approximately 2 hours of drive). Upon arrival at the Base Camp refuge at 4,750 meters, we will have lunch and then organize the climbing equipment. A safety briefing and acclimatization recommendations will be provided here.
We will take a brief hike of about 1 hour to the Old Glacier for a practice session on ice climbing techniques and the use of crampons, ice axes, and ropes on approximately 90° walls. This training is essential for safety during the ascent of the French Route and allows the guide to assess the physical condition and experience of the clients. Duration of the practice: 2 hours. Afterward, we return to the shelter for the first night of acclimatization.
After a hearty breakfast, we prepare our backpack for the hike to High Camp, which starts around 9:00 AM. The ascent takes approximately 3,5 hours and traverses earthy and rocky terrain, offering spectacular views of the lagoons and surrounding landscape. We arrive at the High Camp refuge at 5,250 meters, where we have time to rest and enjoy an early dinner in preparation for the next day's ascent.
After a very early breakfast and all the gear prepared, we begin our ascent to the south summit of Huayna Potosí. This stage can take between 5 and 7 hours, depending on weather conditions and the client's pace. The French Route is more technical than the normal route, with sections of ice climbing and steep slopes.
Upon reaching the summit at 5,950 meters above sea level, we will enjoy breathtaking views of the Royal Cordillera, and, if the weather permits, the Illimani, Sajama, and other nearby mountains. After celebrating our achievement and taking a well-deserved rest, we start the descent via the normal route of Huayna Potosí to the High Camp. There, a hot soup will be waiting to help us regain our energy. After a short break, we prepare our gear for the descent to the Base Camp, where transportation will be waiting to take us back to La Paz city. Estimated arrival time is around 14:30.
+591 76563939
+591 76563939
altitud6000mountaineering@gmail.com
Av. Illampu Nro. 815, galería Bella Vista of.4
