From: £1,190
From: $1,585
We set off early from La Paz toward Lake Titicaca, traveling along scenic mountain roads that offer stunning views of the Andes. After approximately 1.5 hours, we turn off the main route and head into the heart of the Cordillera Real, following a dirt road for another hour. The drive takes us through remote landscapes dotted with small farming communities, where locals can be seen tending to their fields and livestock.
We arrive at Rinconada (4,400 meters), the starting point of our trek. The trail begins with a gentle ascent through grasslands. As we progress, the terrain becomes slightly steeper but remains manageable, with breath-taking views of the surrounding peaks.
After about three and a half hours, we reach Jurikhota Pass (4,850 meters), a natural vantage point that rewards us with our first panoramic views of the Cordillera Real. From the pass, we descend into the valley, where Jurikhota Lagoon (4,680 meters) comes into view. Here we set up camp for the night.
Distance walked: 9.2 km/5.7 miles
Max altitude: 4,926m/16,161ft
Starting altitude: 4,431m/14,537ft
Finishing altitude: 4,680m/15,387ft
After breakfast, we begin hiking along the edge of the lagoon until we reach Glacier Lagoon (4,800 meters) located at the base of “Ala Izquierda” (“Left Wing”) – a stunning spectacle with its icy blue waters surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Our walk to the summit today will take around four and a half hours.
The path is rocky and occasionally the snow line drops this low. As we continue, the trail becomes more challenging, typical of high-altitude terrain, but the sense of accomplishment and the unparalleled views make every step worthwhile. We reach Austria Pass (5,140 meters) and pause to take in the sweeping views of the Cordillera Real, with peaks stretching out in every direction.
From here, the final push takes us to the summit of Pico Austria (5,350 meters), a challenging but non-technical climb. Standing on the summit, we are rewarded with a 360-degree view of the Andes, including iconic peaks such as Illimani, Condoriri, and Huayna Potosí. After admiring the views and taking some photos, we begin our descent (around 1.5 hours on a good path) towards Chiarkhota Lagoon (4,650 meters), a beautiful turquoise lake nestled at the base of towering cliffs. We set up camp near the lagoon (4,650 meters).
Distance walked: 6.2 km/3.8 miles
Max altitude: 5,150m/16,896ft
Starting altitude: 4,699m/15,387ft
Finishing altitude: 4,660m/15,305ft
After breakfast, continue southward along a winding trail that leads out of the Condoriri basin and into broader valleys. As the terrain becomes more remote, the striking form of María Lloco (5,490 m) appears ahead—a rugged peak marking the southern end of the massif. We’ll walk for about 5-6 hours today.
We’ll head first to Aguja Negra (4,950 m), the only high pass we’ll face today.
We reach María Lloco Base Camp (approx 4,780 m), set on grassy flats with wide views across the surrounding ridges. We spend the afternoon hydrating, resting, and preparing equipment for the following day’s ascent.
Max altitude: 4,950m/ft
Starting altitude: 4,600m/ft
Finishing altitude: 4,780m/ft
We set off before dawn and begin the approach along the west face of María Lloco. The initial section follows sandy and rocky slopes that gradually steepen as you move toward the upper ridge.
Higher up, the path leads through mixed rocky terrain—stable but exposed in places—and opens onto a broad upper shoulder beneath the summit block. From this point, the final approach to the summit of María Lloco is steady, with views across the Condoriri peaks, the glaciers of Huayna Potosí, and the vast Altiplano to the west.
After enjoying time at the summit, descend carefully by the same route to base camp, arriving in the afternoon for a well-earned rest.
Max altitude: 5,490m/ft
Starting altitude: 4,780m/ft
Finishing altitude: 4,780m/ft
After breakfast, we set off early for the final leg of our trek. We break camp and begin trekking northeast toward the broad saddle connecting the Condoriri group with the Huayna Potosí area. The route crosses high-Andean plateaus with far-reaching views of both the mountain range and the desert-like plains descending toward El Alto.
We reach Huayna Potosí Pass (5,000 m), a natural gateway between two of the most iconic mountaineering zones in Bolivia. Here we meet our vehicle and begin the drive back to La Paz, arriving in the afternoon.
Max altitude: 5,000m/ft
Starting altitude: 4,780m/ft
Finishing altitude: 3,650m/ft
No upcoming departures available.
Camping we use top quality two-man tents on all treks, with a dining tent for meals.
Toilets are a mix of pit latrines and toilet tents.
We have classified this as a strenuous trek, and you need to be in good physical shape and very well acclimatised before starting the trek.
You will walk 6-8 hours for consecutive days including over high passes – the highest is at 5,000m/16,404ft – and we walk and sleep at high altitude throughout this trip.
You can also climb Pico Austria, which is 5,350m/17,552ft.
Pre-trip preparation should include challenging cardiovascular exercise (including regular hikes on varied terrain) and a healthy, balanced diet.
Well-worn hiking boots are highly recommended.
All guests are encouraged to hike at their own pace, taking breaks whenever needed, to ensure a successful and enjoyable trek for all.
Most people go to bed fairly early after a long day trekking, to recover energy for the morning.
Vegetarians and many other dietary requirements are catered for without problems. Please let us know in advance of any requirements you have.
You wake early, usually around 07.00. Breakfast is served in a dining tent, and consists of hot drinks, porridge, toast, jams and bread, and your guide will explain the day’s trekking plans.
Lunch is usually around 13.00 and can feature soups, meats, salads and fish, with vegetarian options and hot drinks too.
The campsites are comfortable and around 17.00 hot drinks, popcorn and other snacks are served to help you recover energy.
Dinner is served around 19.30, and will feature pasta, quinoa, mashed potatoes, meat, fish or vegetarian options, followed by hot drinks and a pudding.
All guides are certified, bilingual, English-speaking guides who have worked with us for many years.
Cooks, mule drivers and additional staff are all from the local, nearby communities and we have worked with them for a long time.
A wonderfully diverse and expertly organised family adventure through Peru and Bolivia, from deserts to rainforests, with Tom’s personal insight, flexibility, and local knowledge turning an ambitious plan into a truly unforgettable journey.
An exhilarating Bolivian adventure combining extreme ice climbs and unforgettable Amazon wildlife experiences.
Condoriri is a striking mountain to trek around – its three highest peaks together resemble a condor lifting its wings before take off.
The great chain of majestic peaks of the Cordillera Real, to the north of La Paz, dominates the landscape on the scenic drive in.
Aptly, Condoriri is an excellent area of the Cordillera Real to spot condors.
From: $3300 per person
Duration
15 days
From: $4450 per person
Duration
17 days
From: $1386 per person
Duration
4 days
Land-locked Bolivia is a country of dramatic landscapes and fascinating native cultures and traditions.
The Altiplano or “High Plain”, averaging 3,800m, is its most populous region. The vast, luminous plateau is flanked to east and west by parallel Andean ranges.
La Paz, the world’s highest capital, lies in a deep canyon at the edge of the Altiplano, and at the foot of Illimani (6,400m). It is a striking city for its dramatic setting and its strong Indian character.
Lake Titicaca is the world’s highest navigable lake. It was sacred to the Incas; according to legend, their founding emperor-gods rose from these waters to give birth to their empire. Just south of the lake stands the sacred pre-Inca site of Tiahuanaco.
On the south-western Altiplano are the Uyuni Salt Flats, the largest in the world. Here, the shimmering white salt pan and deep blue sky combine to create a truly magical spectacle.
The stunning Cordillera Real is a mountain range dominated by huge snow peaks, including Illimani and Illampu (6,380m). The Real divides the northern Altiplano from the tropical forests to the east. The Cordillera Real’s eastern slopes are characterized by the deep, sub-tropical Yungas gorges.
Further south, the tropical Chapare is the agricultural heart of Bolivia. East of this band of high forests and plantations lies Bolivia’s Oriente, a vast swathe of Amazonian jungle and savanna accounting for 2/3 of the country and featuring some of the last untouched wilderness on earth.
In the north-eastern Department of Beni, some 50% of the country’s mammals and birds reside. Below, and in no special order, we outline some of the top places to go and things to do.
Good kit is vital for every trip.
Book with Andean Trails and get 15% off Páramo’s fantastic ethical and high performance outdoor gear.
Good kit is vital for every trip.
Book with Andean Trails and get 15% off Páramo’s fantastic ethical and high performance outdoor gear.
When planning for the varied climatic conditions encountered, layering is the most practical and versatile clothing system. It’s worth remembering that our clothing keeps us warm by retaining and isolating the heat we ourselves create.
To best maintain body heat, several layers of lightweight, warm and quick-drying clothing are far more efficient than one or two thick layers. Layers should have the following qualities:
First (base) layer: This layer wicks the sweat away from our skin, thus helping keep the body dry and warm. To this end, synthetic fabrics such as polypropylene should be used.
Mid layers: These isolating layers should also be synthetic (e.g. the known polar linings such as polartec or windblock, which are light and insulate twice as well as wool). Very important layers for retaining body heat.
Outer layer / shell: Finally, the vital layer which protects us from climatic adversities. A breathable, wind-proof and waterproof anorak, such as Goretex.
Give plenty of thought to kit selection, and try to keep weight down.
We also carry an extensive first aid kit & oxygen on all trips, but these are generally for emergencies only.
Below is a more detailed kit list.
Bolivia lies within the tropics, between latitudes 10º and 22º south. The climate, as varied as its geography, is affected by latitude and, especially, by altitude.
The best time to travel is the winter (dry season) between May and Oct when, typically, weather systems over the Andes are stable, and overall you can expect bright sunny days and cold clear nights. Most of the rain falls from Dec to March. Climate can be divided into these distinct zones:
There is relatively little precipitation on the Altiplano, especially in the dry season – most rainfall is from Dec to March. However, there is periodical, localised rain on high peaks and valleys all year round.
The further south and west you go on the Altiplano, the drier are the conditions; around Uyuni, semi-arid conditions prevail. The Andean sun’s rays are very strong.
Temperature-wise, the Andes and Altiplano experience significant fluctuations over a single day. At 4,000m, the pre-dawn temperature can drop to -15ºC, while noon temperatures at the same location can reach 20ºC.
Southerly cold winds mean the southern Altiplano is not only drier, but also noticeably colder and windier than the north (pre-dawn temperatures at Uyuni in July regularly drop to -20ºC).
On treks in the Cordillera Real in the dry season, expect a range of conditions within a single day: cold/freezing nights at camps above 4,000m (where pre-dawn temperatures sometimes reach -15ºC); warm, spring-like mornings and afternoons; and cold evenings. Conditions are generally dry, but note that mountain weather is fickle and localised, and precipitation is not unusual in the dry season.
Expect temperatures to swing between sun and shade, sheltered and exposed ground and with altitude gain and loss. A quick-setting sun means temperatures drop fast.
The city of La Paz (3,630m) is relatively sheltered. Average high/low temperatures range from 1-17ºC in June and July (coldest months) to 6-19ºC in Nov and Dec (warmest months). In June and July, it rarely rains more than 1 or 2 days per month, while in January there are on average 15 wet days.
Year-round, weather conditions in the Amazon basin are hot and humid and always with the chance of rain.
There is a ‘cooler’, drier winter season between May and October. During this ‘dry season’, the average daytime high temperature is between 25-31°C and the average nighttime low is between 16-22°C.
In the dry season, heavy downpours typically occur every few days.
Note that around 80% of annual average rainfall – approx 2,000 mm in Bolivia’s northern lowlands – occurs in the wet season, Nov-April.
On rare occasions, between May and September, cold fronts from Argentina – surazos – can sweep into southwest Amazonia and push temperatures down to 9°C. (Surazos usually last between 1 and 3 days).
The Yungas shares the same dry/wet months but varies from quite wet to very wet depending on whether it is the ‘dry’ or rainy season. Average temperature is 24°C.
A wonderfully diverse and expertly organised family adventure through Peru and Bolivia, from deserts to rainforests, with Tom’s personal insight, flexibility, and local knowledge turning an ambitious plan into a truly unforgettable journey.
An exhilarating Bolivian adventure combining extreme ice climbs and unforgettable Amazon wildlife experiences.
