Bolivia Mountaineering Expedition

Trip Highlights

• Explore La Paz, the world’s highest capital city (11,500 ft.)

• Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Tiwanaku pre-Incan ruins (14,000 ft.)

• Train in glacier travel, crevasse rescue, and technical climbing skills

• Summit Pequeño Alpamayo (17,482 ft.), a classic climb in the Cordillera Real

• Attempt the iconic Huayna Potosí (19,998 ft.)

• Optional 5-day expedition extension to Nevado Sajama (21,463 ft.), Bolivia’s highest peak, or Illimani (21,122 ft.)

Day 1 – Arrival in La Paz (11,500 ft.)

Arrive at your hotel in La Paz. The day is set aside for rest and recovery after the long flight. Light city exploration and a welcome dinner with guides and fellow climbers in the evening.

Day 2 – Tiwanaku Ruins / Acclimatization (14,000 ft.)

Cultural acclimatization with a guided visit to the pre-Incan ruins of Tiwanaku outside La Paz. Gentle walking at elevation before returning to La Paz for the night.

Day 3 – Trek to Base Camp (15,500 ft.)

Morning transfer to the trailhead. With mule support, we hike into the Cordillera Real to establish our first base camp.

Day 4 – Glacier Skills Review (15,500–16,500 ft.)

A training day on the glacier near camp focusing on fundamental mountaineering techniques: glacier travel, crampon use, and ice axe skills.

Day 5 – Intermediate Climbing Skills (15,500–16,500 ft.)

Continue technical training with practice in crevasse rescue and team self-arrest, gaining confidence at altitude while building skills for upcoming climbs.

Day 6 – Summit of Pequeño Alpamayo (17,482 ft.)

An alpine start for our first major ascent: Pequeño Alpamayo, one of Bolivia’s most elegant and rewarding peaks. The climb involves glacier travel and a classic snow ridge to the summit. After summiting, we return to base camp for rest and recovery.

Day 7 – Return to La Paz

We hike out from base camp and transfer back to La Paz. The evening is free to enjoy hot showers, resupply, and a celebratory meal.

Day 8 – Transfer to Huayna Potosí Base (15,500–16,000 ft.)

Drive to the Huayna Potosí area. A short hike takes us to the glacier where we review climbing knots and equipment before settling in for the night.

Day 9 – Ice Climbing Instruction

Spend the day on Huayna Potosí’s glacier practicing ice climbing techniques under the guidance of your instructors.

Day 10 – Climb to High Hut (17,000 ft.)

Ascend to the High Hut with porter support. The hut sits at the edge of the glacier, positioned for the final summit push.

Day 11 – Summit of Huayna Potosí (19,998 ft.)

A midnight alpine start brings us up the glacier and along the summit ridge. At sunrise, we reach the top of Huayna Potosí (19,998 ft.), one of the most iconic summits in Bolivia. We descend to Base Camp or Lower Hut for the night.

Day 12 – Return to La Paz

Hike down to the lower hut, then transfer back to La Paz. Evening celebration dinner with the group.

Day 13 – Departure or Expedition Extension

Early morning flights back to the United States, or begin an optional extension to Sajama (21,463 ft.) or Illimani (21,122 ft.).

Day 14 – Extension or Departure

Final departure flights for those not continuing on extension climbs.

Sajama / Illimani 5-Day Extension

Day 1: Travel from La Paz to Sajama National Park (or Illimani Base Area). Establish camp and review climbing plans.
Day 2: Acclimatization hike and movement of equipment toward High Camp.
Day 3: Climb to High Camp with porters and prepare for the summit attempt.
Day 4: Alpine start for the summit of Nevado Sajama (21,463 ft.) or Illimani (21,122 ft.). Descend to Base Camp.
Day 5: Return travel to La Paz and celebratory dinner. Depart the following morning.

Why go with SWS Mountain Guides?

SWS has been operating throughout California — in both the Sierra Nevada and Mount Shasta regions — since 1981, under the same experienced management. For over 30 years, we’ve also guided small groups of 6–8 clients on international expeditions across South America, Africa, Asia, Japan, Russia, and Mexico. Our expertise spans mountaineering, rock and ice climbing, ski and snowboard guiding, and trekking.

We maintain long-standing relationships with local operators and friends around the world, some for 20–30 years, ensuring seamless, safe, and authentic experiences. Our staff is knowledgeable, personable, and passionate about the mountains, and there is always an American guide present on every expedition, trek, or adventure to provide guidance, support, and a bit of fun along the way

When will I receive my hotel and flight information?

Your lead guide will contact you about 14–21 days before departure with the hotel name, address, and phone number, along with instructions on how to get there. You’ll also receive your guide’s name(s) and flight details so you can check for delays. Make sure to give the SWS office your confirmed flight information so we can track your arrival. Reservations are made under either your guide’s name or SWS Mountain Guides. If you arrive before your guide or there’s confusion at the hotel, don’t panic — check in and we’ll find you. If you’d prefer an airport pick-up, we can arrange that as long as you don’t arrive in the middle of the night.

When will I receive my hotel and flight information?

Your lead guide will contact you about 14–21 days before departure with the hotel name, address, and phone number, along with instructions on how to get there. You’ll also receive your guide’s name(s) and flight details so you can check for delays. Make sure to give the SWS office your confirmed flight information so we can track your arrival. Reservations are made under either your guide’s name or SWS Mountain Guides. If you arrive before your guide or there’s confusion at the hotel, don’t panic — check in and we’ll find you. If you’d prefer an airport pick-up, we can arrange that as long as you don’t arrive in the middle of the night.

What should I know about altitude?

As you climb higher, there’s less available oxygen in the air. Most people notice the effects starting around 8,000–10,000 feet, with symptoms like shortness of breath, headaches, or fatigue. These usually ease after a couple of days, but higher altitudes can bring more serious challenges. To help your body adjust: arrive well-rested, hydrated, and fueled; avoid alcohol and excess caffeine; drink plenty of water; and pace yourself. Our itineraries are designed with acclimatization in mind, so expect the early days to feel slower. On longer trips, bring a book or journal — downtime at high camps is part of the process.

How much water should I drink?

Plan on at least 4–6 quarts a day while climbing, more in hot weather. Dehydration is one of the biggest contributors to altitude and fatigue issues. Avoid alcohol, and use electrolyte mixes or sports drinks to make hydration easier and more effective.

What about food during the expedition?

SWS provides food while in the field, often purchasing local items in country. You’re welcome to help shop if schedules allow. At altitude, appetites tend to decrease even though calorie demands nearly double — up to 4,000–6,000 calories per day. Bring high-energy snacks you enjoy and will actually eat: trail mix, dried fruit, bars, or even candy. Small, frequent snacks are best. Guides will encourage you to eat regularly, even if you don’t feel hungry.

How do we handle hygiene and sanitation?

Waste disposal varies by country and environment. Follow your guide’s instructions, but always keep waste away from water sources, camps, and trails. In many countries, toilet paper goes in a trash bin rather than down the toilet. In the field, bring soap, hand sanitizer, and wet wipes to keep clean — it’s your best defense against illness.

What’s the best way to take care of my feet?

Blisters can ruin an expedition. Treat hot spots immediately with moleskin or Vaseline. Don’t hesitate to stop — most people will appreciate the break. Bring plenty of blister care supplies, and consider a thin layer of petroleum jelly on problem areas before hiking.

What’s expected regarding environmental impact?

We travel as respectful guests. Pick up trash, burn toilet paper when appropriate, bury waste when necessary, and treat the land with care. Locals may have different practices, but our standard is to minimize our footprint and set a good example.

How should I pack for the expedition?

Pack most of your gear in a large duffel bag (max 50 lbs), and protect sharp items like crampons or ice axes with cardboard and tape. Boots should go in your carry-on — they’re the hardest item to replace. In your small travel bag for the plane, include essentials: extra clothes, toiletries, medications, passport, money/cards, copies of ID, warm jacket, electronics and chargers, and your boots if possible. Airlines sometimes misplace luggage, but with these items you’ll be comfortable and able to continue.

What are the baggage limits for international flights?

Most airlines allow:

• 2 checked bags up to 50 lbs each

• 1 carry-on (under 35 lbs and fits under the seat)

Some airlines measure by kilograms and may charge extra for oversized or overweight bags. Always check with your specific airline before travel.

How important is the descent?

Reaching the summit is only half the climb. The descent requires just as much attention, and it often comes when you’re most tired. Weather can change quickly, so keep energy in reserve for the way down. A climb only counts when you’ve returned safely and can share the story.