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Illampu circuit
The Illampu Circuit is tough but incredibly rewarding, taking you away from the usual tourist trails and deep into the Bolivian Andes. You'll find yourself navigating diverse terrains and witnessing some of the most stunning, unspoiled views the Andes have to offer – it's a genuine trekker's experience, challenging but truly worth every step.
Distances
- 6 - 7 days, 110 km, 5,045 m high point
Route
- circuit
- Starting and ending in Sorata
A challenging journey around the iconic Illampu mountain, showcasing diverse landscapes and offering thrilling experiences, including steep ascents, summit views, and a memorable exploration of the stunning Andean terrain.
Day 1
Sorata to Lacathiya (3,950 m)
Distance: 8 kmTime trekking / climbing: 6 hoursElevation change: +1,250 m
Begin the trek with a gradual ascent to the base camp of Illampu.
Day 2
Lacathiya to Korahuasi pass (4,450 m)
Distance: 12 kmTime trekking / climbing: 7 hoursElevation change: +500 m
The path involves a slow ascent through beautiful scenery, crossing a post-glacial plain, and winding through a road under construction with sharp turns, providing breathtaking views of snowy peaks.
Day 3
Korahuasi pass to Sarani pass (4,500 m)
Distance: 14 kmTime trekking / climbing: 6 hoursElevation change: -50 m
The path includes going down a valley, then gradually climbing through clouds with beautiful views. The descent is challenging in foggy conditions and on a poorly maintained trail, leading to a marshy plain where camping is possible.
Day 4
Sarani pass to Calzada pass (5,050 m)
Distance: 17 kmTime trekking / climbing: 6 hoursElevation change: +550 m
After a tough downhill journey in foggy weather and on a difficult trail, you arrive at a frozen area with ice cascades. Then, you make the last climb to Calzada Pass at 5,050 meters, where you can admire breathtaking views of snowy peaks.
Day 5
Calzada pass to Laguna San Francisco (4,500 m)
Distance: 14 kmTime trekking / climbing: 6 hoursElevation change: -550 m
The path includes going down a valley with a narrow path and following an ancient trail along a river. The route changes from a beautiful valley to a road under construction, ending with a descent to Laguna San Francisco, where you can see ice cascades and a small lagoon by large glaciers.
Day 6
Laguna San Francisco to Millipaya (3,500 m)
Distance: 16 kmTime trekking / climbing: 7 hoursElevation change: -1,000 m
The journey includes crossing a large frozen area with ice cascades, descending through a valley with a road under construction. The path then gradually climbs, following an ancient trail, and leads to the final destination, Millipaya.
Day 7
Millipaya to Sorata (2,700 m)
Distance: 8 kmTime trekking / climbing: 3 hoursElevation change: -800 m
The path includes walking on a track through hamlets, offering a close look at rural life. The trek concludes at Sorata's main square.
Illampu circuit Links
useful websites, Groups and communities
Groups / links with more info on the Illampu circuit route.