Ice climbing at Glaciar viejo - Huayna Potosi.

full day

Challenge the altitude and conquer the ice

This full-day program is designed for those who wish to experience the thrill of climbing on ice and snow at one of Bolivia’s most iconic glaciers. The Old Glacier of Huayna Potosí is a perfect training ground for both beginner and advanced climbers, located at 5,000 meters above sea level. Guided by experts, participants will learn and refine ice climbing techniques in a safe and spectacular environment.

High Mountain Climbing

Highlights

  • The glacier offers a spectacular landscape, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and a sense of isolation and tranquility. It is a visual experience that highlights the majesty of the Royal Mountain Range.
  • The Old Glacier features impressive ice formations with crevasses and seracs, which are excellent for practicing ice climbing techniques. The structure of the glacier is constantly changing, providing a different experience each time.

Technicality

  • Altitude: The old glacier is located at altitudes exceeding 5,000 meters above sea level, which implies extreme conditions and low oxygen content.
  • Access: To reach the glacier, a trek is usually undertaken from the base camp of Huayna Potosí. The route can be technical, with uneven terrain and possible rocky sections.
  • Ice Conditions: The glacier features sections of hard ice, crevasses, and seracs, requiring advanced ice climbing techniques and the use of appropriate equipment (ice axes, crampons).
  • The slopes on the glacier typically vary between 30º and 50º. These inclinations allow for practicing ice climbing techniques suitable for different levels of climbers.
  • In some sections, the glacier has nearly vertical ice walls that can reach between 70º and 90º, ideal for experienced climbers.

DIFFICULTY

incluDed

  • Professional climbing guide.
  • Private round-trip transportation.
  • Climbing gear.
  • Snacks.
  • Entrance fee.

not incluDed

  • Extra snacks.
  • Extra drinks.

itinerary

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Full day.

We meet around downtown La Paz. Our private vehicle will take us to the refuge at the Base Camp of Huayna Potosí, located at 4,700 meters. During the journey, you will enjoy stunning views of the Andes and the Bolivian highlands.

Upon arriving at the refuge, we prepare all the necessary equipment for ice climbing in our backpacks, for which a 45-liter backpack will be required.

We start a hike of approximately 1 hour towards the old glacier. The path will take us through rocky terrain, offering impressive views of the surrounding mountains. This hike will also serve as part of the acclimatization process.

We reach the base of the glacier, where the guides will conduct a brief training session on ice climbing techniques. Here we will practice using ice axes, crampons, and the proper way to safely climb ice slopes.

We head to one of the glacier's ice walls, where we will put the learned skills into practice. Depending on the group's level, climbs of varying difficulties will be conducted on walls ranging from 10 to 20 meters high. The activity will be guided and secured by certified high mountain guides (UIAGM).

We will take a well-deserved break at the base of the glacier while enjoying our delicious snack, which will help us regain our energy.

We resume the climbing activity, refining our techniques on other sections of the glacier or tackling new, more challenging routes. The guides will adjust the climbs according to the group's progress and preferences.

After an intense day of climbing, we begin the descent back to the refuge. The return hike will allow us to enjoy the views of the mountainous landscape once again.

We say goodbye to Huayna Potosí and take the vehicle back. Arrival in the center of La Paz, where our adventure concludes.

Photo gallery