Because of its accessibility from La Paz (only two hours drive) and comfortable refuges, Huayna Potosí is crowned as the easiest one due to its ease of acclimatization and comfort. Ideally acclimatizing in La Paz (3655 m) 4 days at least, its Base Camp provides further acclimatization at 4,750 m. From there, the difference between Base Camp to Summit is only 1,338 m. done over two days or three. Though its acclimatization makes it easier, climbing at high altitude is always a breath-taker.
Climbing the normal Route is not extremely technical (Grade II/AD) and takes approximately five to six hours to summit from the high camp. With only two technical faces, the steepest reaching 55°, only a classical ice axe is required. Thousands of tourists annually call this mountain their first 6000!
We depart at 9:00 AM from La Paz for a two-hour drive, passing the historic Milluni Cemetery, an iconic site with stories of the region’s ancient mines. Upon arriving at Base Camp, situated at 4,750 meters, we enjoy a hearty lunch to refuel for the afternoon.
In the afternoon, we hike to the base of the Glaciar Viejo at 4,850 meters, where we engage in a hands-on session practicing essential ice climbing techniques. This training includes the use of crampons and ice axes, as well as key skills for safely navigating glacial terrain. After the practice session, we return to Base Camp for the night, resting in the peaceful surroundings and preparing for the exciting journey ahead.
Start our day with a hearty breakfast at Base Camp before beginning the hike towards High Camp. The ascent typically takes around three hours, leading us to an altitude of 5,250 meters.
Upon reaching High Camp, take some time to rest, acclimatize and later prepare our gear for the upcoming climb.
As the day progresses, we have an early dinner and savor the breathtaking sunset over the Amazon Basin with dramatic landscape.
After dinner, relax at High Camp and allow your body to adjust to the altitude. Get a good night’s rest to ensure you are well-prepared for the summit attempt the following day.
Walking up around 1 am, we begin the summit climb with all mountain gear, slow and steady, we climb between 5 and 6 hours to reach the summit (6088 m) and enjoy its incredible view up there. Returning back to the High Camp in 2.5 hours, we have a hot soup, pack up, and return back to the Base Camp (2 hours) where our transportation awaits to take us back to La Paz, We are back in La Paz around 2 pm.
+591 76563939
+591 76563939
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