Bolivia Alpine Expedition

Today, we set off from La Paz on a scenic 4-hour drive to the legendary shores of Lake Titicaca, accompanied by a knowledgeable cultural guide. Our journey takes us to Copacabana (12,546 ft./3,825 m), a picturesque town renowned for its rich cultural heritage, stunning lakefront, and status as both a resort destination and a spiritual pilgrimage site.

From Copacabana, we’ll board a motorboat for a 1.5-hour journey across the sparkling waters to Pilkokaina, the historic site of an Inca Temple located on the southern tip of Sun Island (Isla del Sol). Upon arrival, we’ll enjoy a late lunch with panoramic lake views before exploring the ancient temple grounds.

Our day continues with a gentle hike to Ecolodge PallaKasa, where we’ll check in for an overnight stay. As evening approaches, we’ll hike to the island’s highest point (13,350 ft./4,070 m) to witness a breathtaking sunset over Lake Titicaca, casting vibrant colors across the expansive waters. Afterward, we return to Ecolodge PallaKasa for a cozy dinner and a restful night, surrounded by the tranquility of Bolivia’s most sacred lake.

We start our day with an early hike to the enchanting “Garden of the Incas,” where we’ll visit a natural spring revered by locals as a fountain of youth. Afterward, we board our boat back to Copacabana, where we’ll wander through the vibrant Indian market and visit the iconic church of Copacabana Town.

From here, we begin our drive toward the majestic Andean mountains, stopping for a scenic lunch along the way. The journey leads us to Rinconada del Cuchi (4,450 m), our gateway to the stunning Condoriri mountain range. At the Rinconada campsite, which doubles as the trailhead for the Condoriri base camp hike, we settle in and prepare for an afternoon acclimatization hike. This peaceful hike helps us adjust to the altitude, setting the stage for the exciting days of exploration in the high Andes.

Today, we begin our trek to Condoriri Base Camp, a key base for our upcoming high-altitude adventures. After loading our gear onto donkeys, we set out on a scenic 1.5 to 2-hour hike towards Laguna Chiar Khota, or "Black Lake." This stunning glacial lake offers sweeping views of the impressive Condoriri group, a striking formation of thirteen peaks that embody the grandeur of the Bolivian Andes.

Upon reaching Laguna Chiar Khota, we establish our base camp at an elevation of 15,420 ft. (4,700 m), where we’ll spend the next several days acclimatizing, practicing essential mountaineering skills, and preparing for climbs ahead. Nestled among dramatic Andean landscapes, Condoriri Base Camp provides the perfect setting for immersing ourselves in Bolivia’s most rugged and beautiful mountain terrain.

Following a hearty breakfast, we embark on an acclimatization hike, leading us on a one-hour trek to the glacier base for a comprehensive alpine training session. This day is dedicated to essential skills practice and mountain safety techniques, perfect for preparing for the climbs ahead.

Our alpine school covers everything from anchor setups for fixed and running belays to the fundamentals of glacier travel. You’ll review and practice belaying on both snow and ice, master efficient crampon techniques, and learn crucial crevasse rescue procedures. Additional training includes ice axe handling, self-belay, self-arrest, rappelling, and strategic route finding—all key skills for confident, safe climbing. This focused day of training ensures you’re well-prepared for Bolivia’s Alpinist objectives, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Condoriri peaks.

Today marks our first summit climb on the Bolivia Alpinist expedition! We set our sights on Piramide Blanca (5,350 m), a stunning peak in the renowned Condoriri range. This climb offers an ideal opportunity to build on our acclimatization, preparing us for the higher elevations ahead.

The ascent to Piramide Blanca features a breathtaking yet accessible summit ridge, making it an enjoyable and rewarding climb. We’ll spend approximately four hours reaching the summit, where panoramic views of the Andean peaks await. After celebrating at the top, we make a 2.5-hour descent back to camp. This first summit experience is a perfect introduction to high-altitude climbing in the Cordillera Real.

Today is a well-earned rest day at Condoriri Base Camp, allowing our bodies to recover and continue adjusting to the high-altitude environment. Take time to relax, update your journals, and refresh with a wash, all while enjoying the serene mountain landscape.

For those seeking extra adventure, an optional climb to a nearby peak is available, providing an additional opportunity to enhance acclimatization and hone climbing skills. This day of rest and flexibility ensures we’re physically and mentally ready for the demanding climbs ahead in the Cordillera Real.

Today, we set out to reach the summit of Pequeño Alpamayo (5,370 m), often called the hidden gem of the Condoriri Valley. Known for its distinct beauty and airy climbing  route, Pequeño Alpamayo is a highlight of the region, offering a truly memorable climbing experience.

Following our previous path, we continue upward, passing the summit of Tarija (5,320 m) on our way to the ridge that leads to Pequeño Alpamayo. From afar, the peak resembles a shark’s fin, with a slender ridge leading to a small, photogenic summit. Though it appears challenging, the ascent is manageable, yet steep and exposed. After descending a rocky slope to a col, we make our way up the final ridge to the summit. 

Standing atop Pequeño Alpamayo is an unforgettable experience, revealing stunning panoramic views over Bolivia’s Cordillera Real and cementing its place as a hidden treasure of the Andes.

After a successful adventure in the Condoriri Range, we enjoy a relaxed morning hike from Condoriri Base Camp back to Rinconada. Here, our transport awaits to bring us back to La Paz, where a comfortable hotel stay and a well-deserved rest await.

This return journey allows us to reflect on our achievements amid Bolivia’s stunning Andean landscapes. Once in La Paz (11,810 ft./3,600 m), you’ll have the evening to unwind and enjoy the comforts of the city after an unforgettable climbs in the Cordillera Real.

After a restful night in La Paz, we fuel up with a hearty breakfast before setting off for our next adventure—Huayna Potosi. Our journey begins with a scenic 2-hour drive from La Paz to the village of Zongo, offering stunning views of Huayna Potosi’s imposing icy pyramid from the Altiplano. As we draw closer, the mountain reveals its elongated, majestic form, building anticipation for the climb ahead.

From Zongo, we embark on a 2-hour hike to the mountain refuge, where porters assist with our gear as we ascend the rocky trail leading to Huayna Potosi’s east ridge. The refuge offers a comfortable base to rest, acclimatize, and make final preparations for our summit bid. Tonight, we overnight in the Huayna Potosi mountain refuge, readying ourselves for the iconic climb that awaits.

Today, we aim for the summit of Huayna Potosi, a magnificent glaciated peak in the heart of Bolivia’s Cordillera Real. Known as Bolivia’s most accessible 6,000m mountain, this climb offers an unforgettable high-altitude experience. We begin our ascent before dawn, starting with a challenging 2-hour climb up a steep slope to reach the summit ridge, where we carefully navigate around large crevasses.

The final 180 meters are an exhilarating mix of ice, snow, and rocky terrain, with slopes angled between 35° and 40°. Upon reaching the summit, climbers are rewarded with an awe-inspiring 360-degree view over the Cordillera Real, contrasting snow-capped peaks with the lush tropical rainforest below.

After soaking in the views, we descend to the mountain refuge for a well-deserved meal—be it a late breakfast or early lunch! From there, we continue our descent to Zongo Pass, where our transport awaits to bring us back to La Paz, completing this unforgettable adventure.

After the challenging climbs, today offers a well-deserved rest in La Paz, with opportunities to dive deeper into the city’s vibrant culture. Enjoy more of La Paz’s rich history, explore local markets, and savor Bolivian cuisine. For those looking to stay active, there’s an option for rock climbing at a nearby sport crag.

For climbers not continuing to Illimani, today marks your departure. Taxis are readily available to El Alto International Airport, with flights back to the U.S. typically departing early morning or in the evening.

Itinerary Note: While we strive to adhere to the planned schedule, this itinerary is subject to adjustments based on weather, route safety, or other factors outside our control, as determined by the guide’s professional judgment.

We will depart for our final objec­tive, 21,122-foot / 6438-meter Neva­do Illi­mani. A scenic dri­ve through the coun­try­side of Bolivia ends at the small vil­lage of Hacien­da Una. From here, we dri­ve through small farm­ing vil­lages and alpine mead­ows to base camp.

We’ll make the scenic drive through varied agricultural zones from La Paz to the village of Pinaya and further up to Puente Roto, the base camp of Illimani. Overnight at Puente Roto Camp (14750 ft / 4495 m).

Today, we embark on a challenging ascent up a rugged ridge to reach Illimani’s high camp, known as Nido de Condores or the "Condor’s Nest." Situated at an impressive 18,045 feet (5,500 m), this camp provides a strategic point for our final summit push. Upon arrival, we’ll establish camp and take the time to rest and acclimate, ensuring we’re fully prepared for tomorrow’s summit day on this majestic Bolivian peak.

Today, we make our ultimate ascent to the summit of Illimani (21,125 ft./6,439 m), one of South America’s most breathtaking climbs and the crown jewel of our Bolivia Alpinist Expedition. Beginning before dawn, we navigate Illimani’s majestic glaciers under a starlit sky, reaching the steeper upper slopes as the sun rises—a stunning reward for our early start.

The route follows a dramatic snow ridge, threading through steep and challenging sections, putting all the skills we've honed over the past two weeks to the test. After several hours, we’ll reach the scenic summit ridge and traverse it to Illimani’s highest point. From this iconic summit, the views are unparalleled, spanning the vast Cordillera Real and beyond—a truly epic reward for a day of hard work and endurance.

After celebrating our achievement, we return to Puente Roto Camp (14,750 ft./4, 495 m), where we’ll spend the night reflecting on the accomplishment and camaraderie of an unforgettable journey.

After a leisurely breakfast at camp, we pack up and begin our descent to the trailhead, soaking in our final moments in the stunning Andes. From there, we’ll drive back to La Paz, where we’ll wrap up our incredible Bolivia Alpinist adventure with a celebratory team dinner—an evening to share stories, reflect on our achievements, and toast to new friendships. Overnight accommodations in La Paz will provide a comfortable end to our unforgettable high-altitude journey.

After our successful expedition on Illimani, we begin our journey back, descending from Puente Roto to the village of Pinaya and continuing on to La Paz. Once in the city, we’ll celebrate our achievements with a team dinner, sharing stories and highlights from the adventure. Overnight accommodations in La Paz (11,810 ft./3,600 m) provide a comfortable rest as we conclude our unforgettable Bolivian mountaineering experience.

Excellent physical fitness is essential for the Bolivia Alpinist Expedition. High-altitude climbing demands months of regular, intensive training to prepare for the challenges of prominent peaks. We recommend a structured fitness program, ideally with guidance from a gym or personal trainer, to build the endurance needed for altitude. Contact us for training recommendations to help you get ready for this adventure.

Climbing Grades:

Beginner: No prior mountaineering skills required.

Advanced Beginner: Basic skills recommended, including self-arrest, crampon use, ice axe handling, and glacier travel; some basic rock climbing may be needed.

Intermediate: Experience with technical terrain (40–50° snow/ice slopes) and rock climbing up to 5.6, if applicable.

Advanced Intermediate: Solid mountaineering skills with experience on technical terrain and high altitudes up to 20,000 feet, while carrying a pack.

Advanced: Requires advanced mountaineering skills with experience in technical rock and ice climbing and ascents over 20,000 feet; climbs are longer and more challenging.

Trekking Levels:

Easy: Flat terrain, light walking (e.g., safari walking for up to an hour).

Moderate: Varied terrain with elevation gains up to 2,000 feet; 4–6 hours of hiking per day, with some challenging days at higher elevations (up to 3,000 feet).

Strenuous: Steep, high-altitude terrain with elevation gains of over 3,000 feet; 6–8 hours of hiking daily, often over consecutive days in rugged conditions.

For a peak of this magnitude, we recommend and find that most climbers already own personal climbing gear. If needed, Benegas Brothers work with local rental agents and can pro­cure some items in the coun­try of des­ti­na­tion. Call us for specific information regarding your trip.

Rescue insurance is mandatory for all our international expeditions, including Bolivia Alpinist, to cover costs in case of mountain rescue (e.g., helicopter or medical evacuation). We also highly recommend travel insurance to protect against unexpected trip cancellations, such as due to illness. For comprehensive coverage, we suggest Global Rescue , which offers both required Rescue (Evacuation) Insurance and optional Travel Protection.

Looking for a custom expedition? Over 50% of our groups are tailored adventures! Contact us to discuss a personalized Bolivia Alpinist experience that meets your goals.

Included in Your Trip Cost:

• All in-country accommodations as per the itinerary (double occupancy in town, group lodging in mountain huts)

• Breakfasts in town and all meals on the mountain

•  Group camping and climbing equipment

•  All park and climbing permits

• Scheduled in-country transportation and airport transfers

• Certified guides throughout the expedition

Not Included in Your Trip Cost:

• International flights to/from Bolivia

• Extra nights in hotels outside the itinerary

• Airport taxes and visas

• In-town dinners

• Immunizations

• Tips for guides and local staff

• Travel, rescue, or any type of insurance

• Hospitalization or evacuation expenses

• Single supplement charges for private accommodations

• Excess baggage fees

Additional expenses due to delays or changes beyond Benegas Brothers Expeditions’ control.

Review our Cancellation Policy here.