From La Paz: Huayna Potosí Mountain 3-Day Ice-Climbing Trip

Embark on an exhilarating 3-day ice-climbing adventure to Huayna Potosí Mountain from La Paz, Bolivia. This comprehensive trip, priced at $235 per person, promises stunning views and expert instruction. With professional guides, transportation, meals, and essential mountaineering equipment provided, participants can enjoy a rewarding experience while ensuring safety and comfort throughout the journey. Free cancellation and reserve now, pay later options make this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity even more accessible. What thrilling challenges await those who take on this icy ascent?

This experience made our list of the 19 Best 3 Day Tours In La Paz.

Key Points

• This 3-day ice-climbing trip to Huayna Potosí Mountain near La Paz is priced from $235 per person and includes professional guides, meals, transportation, and mountaineering equipment.
• The itinerary involves an acclimatization hike, a trek to high camp, and a challenging 9-13 hour round-trip climb to the 6,000-meter Huayna Potosí summit.
• The trip offers private or small group options, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Comprehensive mountaineering gear is included in the package, and additional services like porters and equipment rentals are available.
• Proper acclimatization and fitness level are essential, and the trip is not suitable for certain health conditions.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Trip Overview and Pricing

The 3-day ice-climbing trip to Huayna Potosí Mountain is priced from $235.00 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund and a reserve now & pay later option available.

This adventure lasts 3 days and is offered in English and Spanish, with private or small group options.

The trip provides a rundown of the mountain, including acclimatization, basic climbing technique practice, and an early morning summit attempt to reach the 6,000m peak.

Travelers can expect professional mountain guides, meals, transportation, and all necessary mountaineering equipment, making this an exciting and well-supported experience for those seeking an ice-climbing challenge in the Bolivian Andes.

Itinerary Details

Embarking on the 3-day ice-climbing adventure to Huayna Potosí Mountain, travelers can expect a well-structured itinerary that eases them into the challenge. The first day involves an acclimatization hike and practice of basic climbing techniques near Paso Zongo before an overnight stay in a refuge. On the second day, they’ll trek 3-4 hours to a high camp, preparing their gear for the summit push. The grand finale comes on day three, starting before dawn to scale the glacier using crampons and climbing equipment, ultimately reaching the 6,000m peak of Huayna Potosí. This long but rewarding climb offers breathtaking views of nearby Illimani and Illampu mountains.

Day	Activities	Accommodation	Meals
1	Pickup, drive, acclimatize, practice	Refuge	Lunch, Dinner
2	Hike to high camp, prepare gear	Refuge	Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
3	Early start, summit, return to base	–	Breakfast, Lunch

Day 1: Acclimatization and Practice

Kicking off the 3-day ice-climbing adventure, travelers start their journey with an acclimatization hike and practice of basic climbing techniques near Paso Zongo. After a 1.5-hour drive from La Paz, the group arrives at the starting point.

The first day focuses on helping climbers adjust to the high altitude and learn essential skills for the upcoming challenge. Under the guidance of experienced mountain guides, participants practice techniques like using an ice ax, putting on crampons, and navigating the terrain.

This preparatory phase is crucial, ensuring everyone is comfortable and ready for the demanding ascent to Huayna Potosi’s glacier the following day. The day concludes with an overnight stay at a cozy mountain refuge, complete with lunch and dinner.

Day 2: Hike to High Camp

On the second day, climbers embark on a 3 to 4-hour hike to the high camp, carrying their gear and supplies for the final ascent. The trail winds through rugged terrain, gaining elevation as they approach the base of Huayna Potosí.

Along the way, they’ll pause to catch their breath and admire the stunning glacial landscapes surrounding them. Upon reaching the high camp, climbers will work together to set up their temporary refuge, ensuring they’ve a comfortable and secure place to rest before tackling the summit the following day.

With their camp established, they’ll prepare their climbing gear and review the plan for the early morning push to the top of the mountain.

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Day 3: Summit Huayna Potosí

Typically, climbers rise early at 1 AM on the third day to begin their final ascent to the summit of Huayna Potosí.

Using their crampons and climbing gear, they carefully navigate the glacier, taking advantage of the firm, frozen snow conditions during the predawn hours.

The summit push is a challenging 9-13 hour round-trip endeavor, but the effort is rewarded with breathtaking views of the majestic Illimani and Illampu peaks.

Once at the top, climbers can savor their accomplishment of reaching the 6,000-meter summit before descending back to base camp.

A hearty breakfast and lunch await the weary adventurers upon their return, capping off an exhilarating three-day ice-climbing expedition on Huayna Potosí.

Included Services and Equipment

The ice-climbing trip package comes equipped with a comprehensive set of essential mountaineering gear, ensuring participants are well-prepared for their Huayna Potosí adventure. Included in the package are double mountaineering boots, ice axes, crampons, harnesses, jackets, gloves, and helmets with headlamps. The trip also provides a first-aid kit and an oxygen bottle for emergencies. Plus, a professional mountain guide, private transportation, and the services of a cook are all part of the package.

Equipment Provided	Safety Gear	Logistics
Ice Axes	First-Aid Kit	Professional Guide
Crampons	Oxygen Bottle	Private Transport
Harnesses	–	Cook Services

Additional Services and Recommendations

Participants can opt to rent additional equipment like backpacks and sleeping bags for the trip. Porters are also available to carry personal gear up to 20kg.

While tips of 15-20% are recommended, the trip isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with heart problems, high blood pressure, or mobility impairments. This ensures everyone’s safety and enjoyment during the challenging ascent of Huayna Potosí.

The company provides all the necessary mountaineering gear, including double mountaineering boots, ice axes, crampons, harnesses, and more. A professional mountain guide leads the expedition, and meals are included during the overnight stays in mountain refuges.

With free cancellation and a pay-later option, this ice-climbing adventure is an exciting way to explore Bolivia’s stunning high-altitude landscapes.

Important Information

Participants meet at the Climbing South America flag located at Pachamama Gallery on Linares 940 in La Paz, Bolivia.

Travelers should bring their passport or ID, visa (if required), thermal underwear, gloves, socks, backpack, sleeping bag, sunblock, sunglasses, and snacks.

While no refund is offered for bad weather, proper acclimatization is necessary, and a good fitness level is required.

Plus, the use of acetazolamide (Diamox) is recommended before attempting the climb.

The company can’t accommodate pregnant women, individuals with heart problems, high blood pressure, or mobility impairments.

Customer reviews highlight the guide’s experience and the quality of the provided gear, with an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 7 reviews.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Undertake This Ice-Climbing Trip?

The best time for this ice-climbing trip is typically during the dry season, which runs from May to September. This provides the most stable weather conditions and optimal climbing conditions on the glacier.

Can I Rent Additional Equipment On-Site if Needed?

Participants can rent additional equipment on-site if needed. The tour provider offers options like backpacks, sleeping bags, and porters to carry personal gear. Renting this extra equipment ensures guests have everything they need for a successful and comfortable ice-climbing experience.

Is There Any Age or Fitness Level Requirement for Participants?

This ice-climbing trip has a minimum age of 18 and requires a good level of fitness. Participants should be able to hike for several hours and climb on glaciers using technical equipment. Those with health conditions may not be suitable.

Can I Extend the Trip or Add Additional Activities?

Participants can extend the trip or add additional activities, such as backpack rental, porter services, or customized itineraries. Requests should be made in advance, as availability may be limited. Additional fees may apply for any extensions or add-ons.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Trip?

The trip has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Customers can also choose a reserve now & pay later option, providing flexibility in their booking.

Recap

This 3-day ice-climbing adventure to Huayna Potosí Mountain offers an exhilarating and rewarding experience for adventurous travelers.

With professional guides, essential equipment, and meals provided, participants can focus on conquering the 6,000-meter summit while enjoying stunning views and developing their ice-climbing skills.

The trip’s flexible cancellation and payment options make it accessible, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey for all.

You can check if your dates are available here: