SURROUNDINGS OF ILLIMANI, 1 Day
 Code: 4WILLIMA

Day trip to visit the surroundings of the westerns slopes of Illimani massif and return to La Paz by microclimatic valleys; an amazing contrast in the landscape.
Dates: Upon request
Price: Upon request More information about prices (land services only)
Single Room Supplement: N/A More information about prices
Difficulty: Moderated More information about Difficulty grading
Accommodation: N/A
 

Illimani Mnt. surroundings (R.Audet)Cordillera Real is the main portion of the northeaster Bolivian Andes, 6 of the 13 highest peaks of the country are located in this mountain range. Cordillera Real is highly appreciated by mountaineers and visitors, not only for the elevation and beauty of its mountains, but also for the accessibility. In fact, Potosi and Illimani mountains are an impressive first sight for visitors arriving to la Paz.

Due to intensive agricultural and mining activities, many roads were built in this area making most of the mountains incredibly accessible, with relatively short and free of any technical difficulty approaches. All of these factors make this range very popular among climbers and trekkers.

Illimani, the highest peak in Cordillera Real and the second highest in Bolivia, lies in the southern part of the mountain range and is revered as the “protector” of La Paz city. “The Shining one” is the meaning of its name is a very important symbol that can be found everywhere in the city (hundreds of business use this name).

In this route we will drive back and forth from La Paz city to Pinaya village at the foot of Illimani, optionally we can make a short hike to approach towards to the mountain; a 4WD journey that has been designed for those who would like to visit and enjoy great views of the mountain without needing to climb it.

Itinerary:

D1. Transp.to Pinaya. Transp.to Tawapalca. Transp.to La Paz.

 Highlights:
  • Splendid views of the microclimatic valleys that surround Illimani massif.
  • Impressive views of Mururata Mountain and the southern slopes or Illimani massif.

Day 1. Transport to Pinaya. Return to La Paz.
Elevations
La Paz 3,650m (11,972f)
View point 4,300m (14,104f)
Tawapalca 2,371m (7,776f)
Cllana pass 4,037m (13,241f)
La Paz 3,650m (11,972f)
Timing
Driving: 6-7 Hrs
Walking: 1-2 Hrs
Meals
L
This long day begins by crossing the residential areas of La Paz to enter deep into the Palca valleys. This is an area ideal for an appreciation of the tectonic and erosive handiwork of nature. We will probably be able to observe miners in search of gold in small holes dug out into the riverbanks. We pay a visit to the Unna and Pinaya villages where, following a short walk to build up our appetites, we can enjoy a snack accompanies by one of the most fantastic views of Illimani. Later on we cross the western slope to Cohoni village from where we can observe the “normal route” to the 6,430m (21,090ft) summit and admire the glaciers, walls and peaks of this immense massif. The return is not less spectacular. First we will drop down to Tawapalca (literally four river junctions) where fruit and vegetables are cultivated for the markets of La Paz. All waters flowing to the western side of Cordillera Real are tributaries of La Paz river, which cuts the Cordillera Real in two and culminates in the Amazon. Following the river we will climb a zigzagging road up to Collana village, following a ridge with magnificent views of Illimani and Mururata mountains in one side and La Paz river at the other side. Later we will descend to La Paz valley.


ALTITUDE CHART

SERVICES

Included

Not included

MORE INFORMATION

Please get into our “Resources” page in our website, there you will find plenty of information about pre-departure, National Parks, suggested reading, useful links and much more.

If you would like us to make additional hotel reservations besides the accommodation that is included in your trip, please get into our Reservations page