Climb Huayna Potosi in Bolivia
BOLIVIA: Huayna Potosi is one of the most accessible 6,000m climbs in all of the Andes.
It is the perfect Andean mountain for novice or experienced mountaineers.
Here, some Andean Trails’ climbers and our own staff give us an insight into their experiences on this fantastic Andean summit.
The customers
A few weeks ago Andean Trails’ customers Sarah and Richard returned from a 3-day trek to summit Huayna Potosi.
The summit provided great views of La Paz, El Alto, Illimani, Mururata, the Amazon Basin, Condoriri, the Cordillera Real, the Altiplano (4000m) and Lake Titicaca.
Sarah said: “Our trek on Huayna Potosi was amazing.
“Osvaldo, Sergio and our cook Maria took great care of us.
“We found the first day’s practice on the glacier really helpful and lots of fun. It gave us a chance to use the equipment properly and test our skills.
“My boyfriend managed to finish the climb though and said that the guides took great care of him and that the views from the top were amazing.”
Acclimatising
Andean Trails’ owner Kathy Jarvis climbed Huayna Potosi in 2006.
She said: “It was a few years ago now, but I still remember it as being one of the most spectacular trekking peaks I’ve climbed.
“The contrast in the views from the top as I looked around is astounding.
“Looking east you could see a thick blanket of cloud stretching into the distance over the Amazon forest.
“To the north and south the glistening snow-capped peaks of the Cordillera Real, with a glimpse of Lake Titicaca in the far distance, and then just to the west of the peaks the vast spreading urban sprawl of La Paz and El Alto.”
Kathy trekked for 5 days across the Condoriri range beforehand.
She continued: “My top tip is to be as acclimatised as you possibly can – that will reduce the risk of suffering from the altitude and make the whole experience a lot more fun.
“A few days trekking in the Cordillera Real or Sajama will help a lot and both are stunning mountain areas.”
Sign up
Andean Trails offers Huayna Potosi climbing dates throughout the main climbing season, April to October.
Usually, a private tour offers the best chance of success as you can control your acclimatisation and fitness levels, unlike others that may be signing up.
A private trek doesn’t work out a lot more expensive than for a group, if there are two or more of you.
Contact us for more about Huayna Potosi, Condoriri and Sajama treks or any other treks and holidays in Bolivia and/or South America.
