Trekking in bolivia
Why trek in Bolivia
Less visited than other Andean countries, but with an exceptional range of peaks. Many within a comfortable drive of the capital La Paz. La Paz, at 3600 meters, is also a great base to help with acclimitization. Apart from the busiest peak Huayna Potosi, you'll often have the mountains you climb to yourself. It's also a very cheap country - to climb, and spend time.
There's a plethora of guide agencies on Sagarnaca (the street leading up beside the big church). Here you can have a trip to practically any peak arranged. Even those further away in Sajama (there are many guides in that town too, but many just make one trip from La Paz).
When to trek in Bolivia
The best time to go trekking in Bolivia is:
May to October is the conventional climbing season, but really it depends on the peaks.
May/June/July are the best months for the peaks in the Cordillera real north of La Paz, with peaks further north like Illampu being best climbed May/June. By July already most climbers are heading north to Huaraz in Peru.
Those in the west (Sajama national park) are good May to October, except the higher Sajama which will wrap up September. Parinacota/Acotango are still realistic into October however.
Where to trek in Bolivia
Bolivia's main regions for climbing 6000-meter peaks are the Cordillera Real and the Western Cordillera. The Cordillera Real, near La Paz, includes notable peaks like Illimani and Huayna Potosí, offering diverse technical challenges. The Cordillera Real extends further north, where still within five hours of La Paz you have Illampu and some lesser known peaks.
The Western Cordillera, home to Bolivia's highest peak, Nevado Sajama, presents a rugged, high-altitude climbing experience in a remote volcanic landscape.
Treks in Bolivia
There are 2 Treks in Bolivia. Get an idea of what separates them here:
