The Bolivian highlands, surrounded by the imposing peaks of the Western, Apolobamba and Royal ranges, are home to numerous Aymara and Quechua Indian settlements, making the country's population the most indigenous in South America. The 100-mile-long Cordillera Real forms the eastern border of the highlands and contains twenty-two ice-clad peaks that are 19,000' or higher, creating the largest glacier complex in the Bolivian Andes. These mountains are so striking that early climbers called them the Himalayas of the New World, and ancient peoples worshiped them as gods. Designed for serious hikers, this inspiring trip features a rigorous, off-the-beaten-path trek following one of Bolivia's best high-altitude routes—offering not only fantastic hiking, but also a great introduction to the ancient and contemporary cultures of this captivating destination.

After spending two days visiting La Paz (11,930') and day-hiking beneath Illimani, the highest peak in the Cordillera Real, we drive across the Altiplano and explore the monolithic ruins at Tiahuanaco. Staying in the fishing community of Huatajata on the southeastern shores of Lake Titicaca we visit the traditional reed-boat builders and Kalahuta Island before continuing overland to the pilgrimage center of Copacabana. Continuing along the lake to the Yampupata peninsula, we take a boat to the Isla del Sol for a scenic hike to the Aymara village of Challa and beyond. This will help us acclimate for our more challenging trek in the Royal Range. After exploring Inca ruins and holy sites on the island, we return to Huatajata and drive across the Cordillera Real to the trailhead for an 8-day trek near the community of Ancoma. Our remote route skirts the impressive eastern side of the range and provides excellent views of the glaciated peaks of Illampu, Ancohuma and Chachacomani, as well as panoramic vistas into the deep gorges that plunge from the highlands to the subtropical Yungas valleys. We pass isolated Aymara hamlets such as Cocooyo, Chacapa and Palca (where we enjoy a well-deserved rest day) and perhaps observe large herds of llama and alpaca as we cross at least six high passes en route to Jichukota Lake. We return to La Paz and enjoy a special farewell dinner and Bolivian folk music show.