Mountain​ Climbing in Bolivia 2025

Bolivia, often referred to as the "Tibet of the New World," offers some of the most extraordinary mountain climbing opportunities on the planet. With peaks towering in the Bolivian Highlands, it attracts climbers from all over the world. While the country's high-altitude climbs are best suited for experienced mountaineers, the breathtaking landscapes and rugged terrain also offer challenges for beginners seeking to explore the Bolivian highlands.

Best Season for Climbing in Bolivia

It is best to climb the Bolivian Andes from June to August when the routes are safer and the weather clear and dry. However, sudden storms should still be considered.

The Cordillera Real

The famed Bolivian mountain range named the Cordillera Real lies southeast of Lake Titicaca and La Paz and is 125 km long and 20 km wide. Six peaks exceed a height of 6,000 m. Owing to such serious measurements these mountains are often regarded as an excellent training ground for those who plan to ascend Himalayan Summits. The slopes are quite challenging, and if you are determined to climb the Bolivian Andes, appropriate equipment like crampons, ropes, and ice axes is necessary.

Huayna Potosí

Huayna Potosí is the most frequently climbed peak in Bolivia, located approximately 25 kilometers (about 16 miles) north of La Paz in the Cordillera Real. The name "Huayna Potosí" comes from the Aymara language, meaning "Thunderous Youth," and local legend claims it is the beloved first son of Illampu and Illimani, the revered "king and queen" of the mountains.

Many consider Huayna Potosí to be one of the more accessible climbs in the region, offering several routes to the summit. Despite its relative ease compared to other high-altitude mountains, it remains a popular challenge for both beginners and experienced climbers. The typical ascent takes around three days, including treks to and from base camp.​

Nevado Sajama

Bolivia is also home to several dormant volcanoes, many of which lie apart from the Andes mountain range. These dormant peaks, due to their inactive nature, are accessible for climbing adventures. One notable example is Nevado Sajama, Bolivia's tallest peak at 6,530 meters (21,424 feet). Sajama's conical shape makes the climb relatively straightforward, with the ascent typically taking about four days. The summit is notably flat, which led to a unique event in August 2001. The Bolivian mountaineering club organized a soccer match on the summit, both to promote mountaineering in Bolivia and to protest FIFA's decision to remove La Paz as a venue for international football matches due to the city's high elevation.

Guided Climbing

Mountain climbing in Bolivia's high altitudes requires significant physical fitness and specialized skills due to the challenging weather conditions and steep terrain. The thin air at these heights can make breathing difficult, and some routes demand dexterity and expert equipment handling. While beginners can attempt climbs in the Bolivian Highlands, they must be in excellent physical condition and adequately prepared for the challenges ahead. It is essential to have a professional guide accompany climbers, ensuring safety and expert guidance through the most difficult sections. A guide's expertise will not only help navigate these challenging landscapes but also mitigate potential risks that come with high-altitude climbing.