Bolivia is a land of dramatic contrasts - from deserts, Altiplano highlands, fertile valleys and verdant jungles, to some of the most inspiring alpine peaks in the Western Hemisphere. Most of these mountains are located in the impressive, 100-mile-long Cordillera Real range, towering above the country's highlands and visible from as far away as the northern shores of Lake Titicaca in Peru. The twenty-two, 19,000 foot or higher, ice-clad peaks in this range create the largest glacier complex in the Bolivian Andes. So striking are they, that early mountaineers called them the "Himalayas of the New World.” This superb adventure was designed for intermediate climbers who want a well-rounded mountaineering experience in the Andes, including some cross-cultural opportunities. It features a challenging trek in Condoriri National Park (one of the most stunning areas of the Cordillera Real), followed by an ascent of one of Bolivia's most beautiful peaks.

We begin with a day of acclimatization in La Paz (11,930'). We explore the city's markets and the Valley of the Moon before heading to the Pre-Columbian ruins of Tiahuanaco. We continue on to the fishing community of Huatajata on the shores of Lake Titicaca to visit the traditional reed boat builders and Kalahuta island. The following day, we drive to the trailhead for our 4-day, fully-supported trek into the Condoriri massif. This high-altitude route takes us through some of the most spectacular mountainscapes in Bolivia, offering close-up views of imposing rock and ice walls. We then begin our 3-day summit attempt, following what is known as the normal route, on Huayna Potosi. Our first night is at a climber’s refuge, then we set camp 1 at 18,210'. After reviewing climbing technique and plans for the summit bid, we have the flexibility of two potential days for the final assault on the peak. Returning to base camp, then La Paz, we have a celebratory dinner before flying home.