Parinacota, one of the iconic Payachatas (“The Twins”), is an impressive inactive volcano with a conical and symmetrical shape that captivates both climbers and nature enthusiasts. Its majestic open crater, 700 meters wide and 240 meters deep—larger than the famous Cotopaxi in Ecuador—adds even more allure to this mountain.
Nearly 8,000 years ago, the collapse of Parinacota triggered a massive rockslide that traveled 22 kilometers westward, blocking the flow of water and creating the serene and reflective Laguna Chungará at its Chilean base. For climbers ascending from the Bolivian side, the stunning view of the lagoon alongside the imposing volcano is an unforgettable gift that adds a magical touch to this extraordinary experience.
Video Parinacota
This unique, almost symmetrical snow-covered mountain is a photographic dream for many tourists. It is the only volcano in Bolivia with an open crater of astonishing magnitude. From the summit, we can enjoy a wonderful view.
In addition to being located within Sajama National Park, one of Bolivia's first protected area.
The climb to Parinacota is classified as 1/F. It's not a technical mountain, but being a conical volcano with a constant 40° incline, the most difficult part is the climb to the snow line, which is long and arduous due to the loose sand and ash. As always, the high altitude makes the climb quite a challenge.
We depart from downtown La Paz, a 4-hour journey through the vast altiplano admiring impressive volcanic rock formaciones that reveal the geológica history of the región. Our jouney takes us to Sajama National Park, one of the first declared protected áreas in Bolivia, and finally we arrive at the charming village of Sajama, located 4,200 meters above sea level, where we will spend the first night in a hostel surrounded by the tranquility and majesty of mountains.
After breakfast, around 1:00 AM, we depart by 4WD to the end of a remote trail, which takes us deep into the heart of the Payachatas mountains, reaching High Camp at 5,170 meters. We begin our ascent, walking across sand and volcanic rock until we reach the glacier, where the famous penitents—tall, needle-like ice formations—rise over a meter high, depending on the season. After several more hours of climbing, we finally reach the summit of Parinacota at 6,330 meters, where we are rewarded with stunning views of the vast crater, which a sheer drop of 100 meters. We then descend back to High Camp in half the time, before boarding the 4WD that takes us back to the village of Sajama. There, we rest, gather our equipment, and take transport back to the city of La Paz.
+591 76563939
+591 76563939
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