Overview
Illampu is Bolivia’s fourth highest mountain, with an approximate height of 6,368 meters above sea level, located in the Cordillera Real in the northern Andes. Known for its impressive profile and demanding terrain, this peak offers one of the most difficult climbs in the country. The entire route requires careful planning, great mountaineering skills, and experience in snow and ice. Its exposed ridges and steep slopes make Illampu a true test of endurance and technique, rewarding climbers with sweeping Andean views and a deeply authentic Andean experience.
Details
El ascenso al Illampu sigue una ruta cuidadosamente planificada a través de nieve y hielo, con crestas expuestas y pendientes empinadas. Cada etapa equilibra el desafío y la seguridad, guiando a los escaladores experimentados hacia la cima y ofreciendo espectaculares vistas andinas.
Location
Cordillera Real North
La Paz – Bolivia
Altitude
6,360 m. / 20,866 ft.
Difficulty
D
difficult
Duration
6 Days / 5 Nights
Day 1.
La Paz – Sorata – Lacatya
A full day in the vehicle. Starting early from La Paz, we travel to the Sorata Valley. After lunch in Sorata, we will continue to the community of Lacatya, where we will make our first camp (4,200 m).
Day 2.
Lacatya – Aguas calientes (Wila Khota)
After breakfast we will start a walk to our second camp, in an area known as Aguas Calientes 4.850m
Day 3.
Aguas Calientes – High Camp
This day we will reach the high camp, at 5,600 meters. The route starts over a moraine and other rocky areas until we reach the beginning of the glacier. The camp is a short distance along the glacier (approximately 5 hours in total).
Day 4.
High Camp – Summit – Higt Camp
After a good breakfast, we will begin the ascent to the summit of Illampu, which will take between 6 and 7 hours. The return will be by the same route to the high camp.
Day 5.
Return to Aguas Calientes.
Day 6.
Return trip to Lacatya estancia and return by vehicle to La Paz.
- Private transportation throughout the expedition
- high-altitude mountain guide
- Dedicated expedition cook
- All meals during the program
- Full technical mountaineering equipment
(boots, crampons, gaiters, harness, ice axe, helmet) - High-quality expedition tents (The North Face or similar)
- Insulated foam sleeping pads
- Porters
- Pack animals (mules/donkeys) for equipment transport
- Entrance permits
- Personal sunglasses
- Sunscreen and personal sun protection.
- Personal sleeping bag
- Any additional personal equipment or items not listed above
