BOLIVIA DESCRIPTION

Bolivia is the least visited of the Andean countries, and in many ways it’s the most attractive. The scenic variety, the colorful culture, and the exotic isolation make it a most appealing destination. The mountaineering there is extensive, varied, easily approached, and uncrowded. In August of 2008 we will spend two weeks there. After acclimatizing at Lake Titicaca, we’ll climb four unique peaks, culminating with Sajama, the highest in the country. All climbs will be guided by Skip Horner, with the able assistance of Eduardo Unzueta, a famed Bolivian climber and guide.

July 30 Arrive La Paz, Bolivia. 12,000’ above sea level. Transfer to Hotel Rosario.

July 31 Visit the mysterious ruins of Tiahuanaco, a civilization that thrived for 600 years then disappeared in 1200 AD. Continue on to Copacabana (12,500’), a small, bright and enchanting town on Lake Titicaca. Overnight at the Hotel Rosario del Lago in Copacabana.

August 1 Boat excursion to Isla del Sol (Island of the Sun), known as the birthplace of Sun, as well as the first Inca, Manco Capac. There are no vehicles on the so we’ll spent the day hiking between villages and ruins. O/n in Copacabana

August 2 Drive 3 hours to Plaza de Mulas, then hike 3 hours to our first basecamp at
15,000’ at Laguna Chiarcota, with porters and mules carrying the heavy loads. Prepare for our first ascent. Overnight in tents.

August 3 Climb Janchallani, 16,000’. This is a non-technical climb that will help us acclimatize. Overnight in basecamp.

August 4 Climb Pequeno Alpamayo, 17,600’. This is a full-day climb. Lower down we’ll practice glacier climbing techniques, then continue with the climb, which culminates with two 45 degree pitches to a dramatic summit. We’ll use fix ropes to reach the top. This is one of the most picturesque peaks in the Andes. Overnight in basecamp.

August 5 Drive back to La Paz for a rest at the Hotel Rosario. Dinner on your own.

August 6 Drive 4 hours to Acotango High Camp, 16,000’. Overnight.

August 7 Climb Acotango, 19,855’. This is a straightforward ascent that offers sweeping views across the wild Bolivian landscape and into the mountains of northern Chile. Sajama will be clearly visable to the north. Descend and drive to Sajama village. Overnight at Augerque Tomarapi.

August 8 Rest day. We’ll visit the local thermal hot springs to soak our tired muscles. Overnight at Augerque Tomarapi.

August 9 Drive to the trailhead and hike up to Sajama Basecamp, 16,500’. Porters and mules will carry the heavy loads.

August 10 Hike 3 hours up to Sajama High Camp, 18,000’.

August 11 Rising early, we’ll ascend Sajama, 21,460’, the highest peak in Bolivia. This is not a technically demanding climb, but the extreme altitude will make it quite difficult. Descend to Basecamp.

August 12 After a leisurely start, we’ll hike back to the trailhead and return to La Paz for a celebratory dinner, and overnight at the Hotel Rosario.

August 13 Flights home.

Bolivia Details