Illampu

Itinerary

DAY ONE

A full day in vehicle. Starting early from La Paz, we travel down into the valley of Sorata. After lunch in Sorata we will continue to the community of Ancoma, where we will set our first camp (4,200m).

DAY TWO

After breakfast we begin a short trek to our second camp spot, in an area known as Aguas Calientes (4,850m). During these three hours, on a clear day, we are able to appreciate the majestic Illampu massif.

DAY THREE

Today we will reach the high camp, at 5,600m. The route begins over a moraine and other rocky areas until we reach the start of the glacier. The camp site is a short distance along the length of the glaciar, (approx 5 hours in total).

DAY FOUR

The summit. After a hearty breakfast, we will begin our ascent to the summit, which will take around six hours. The return will be along the same route to the high camp.

DAY FIVE

Return down to Aguas Calientes.

DAY SIX

Trek back to Ancoma and return by vehicle to La Paz.

Did you know?

Although it is not the highest in the country. Illampu is considered by the indigenous communities of Bolivia as the most important of the mountain gods. It is the furthest northern peak in the Cordillera Real and, according to indigenous folklore, is known as the king of the mountains, reigning over the others together with his queen mount Illimani, the southernmost mountain in the range.