Climbing Huayna Potosí in Bolivia

Huayna Potosí (6088 m) is a snowy peak in the Cordillera Real region, in Bolivia. It is a popular destination among climbers because it doesn't involve major technical challenges and it's rather easy to get there.

The normal route is the most recommended climbing route for ascending this mountain. However, you have to consider it's a high altitude mountain, so it demands a good acclimatization before approaching the summit.

This time, I propose two different options for climbing Huayna Potosí. One of them takes two days, whereas the other takes three days. You can find both itineraries below.

2-DAY TRIP

The first day, a transfer takes us from La Paz up to the heights. We hike for 2 or 3 hours towards 'Campo Alto', a camp at 5135 m.

On day 2, we have breakfast very early and start hiking up the glacier, towards the east face. Then we arrive at the Pala. From there, we follow up for 6 hours to the top of Huayna Potosi (6088 m).

From the summit, you can enjoy some stunning panoramic views on the Andes Mountains as well as the sun rising to the east. Then we'll return to base camp and finally to Zongo lake. A car will be waiting there for us and will take us back to La Paz.

3-DAY TRIP

The first day, we'll travel from La Paz to Zongo lake at 4850 m. We will set our camp there. Then we'll trek shortly to the glacier and practice some ice techniques, including walking, abseiling, climbing and also rescue techniques.

On the second day, we'll begin our ascent (most part of it on rock) to Rock Camp at 5135 m. We'll be hiking for 2 or 3 hours and set our camp right on the glacier.

The last day we'll start really early in the morning to reach the summit of Huayna Potosí (6088 m). Once there, you'll be able to admire wonderful views of La Paz, the altiplano, Lake Titicaca, the valleys around the jungle and the whole Cordillera Real.

Then, we'll return to base camp and finally to Zongo lake. There, a vehicle will take us back to La Paz.

Planning to visit Bolivia? Please contact me if any of this programs seems interesting to you. I will be glad to guide you through one of the most iconic mountains in my country. 

I also organize other exciting trips, like climbing Sajama (6542 m), the highest summit in Bolivia.