2010 Dates (16 Days): July 28 - August 12

Land Cost:
$3,850 (3 or more climbers)



Client to Guide ratio 5:1


Climbing Grade: Advanced Beginner

Extinct, snowcapped volcanoes that rise above the barren, sparsely populated altiplano dominate this range. Here lies Bolivia’s highest peak and a multitude of other accessible technically straightforward climbs over 20,000 feet. If you are looking to get over the 20,000-foot barrier this is the place to do it! Amidst this desolate moonscape hotsprings bubble up offering a reward for climbers of a relaxing soak after some fantastic climbing!

After our group arrives in La Paz we enjoy several excursions that will contribute to the acclimatization process. We begin with a visit to one of Bolivia’s most significant archeological sites, the Tiwanaka ruins, an ancient city that offers an excellent example of this pre-Inca culture. On the Island of the Sun in Lake Titicaca we visit Inca sites where we marvel at the local people’s traditional way of life that indeed resembles that of their Inca ancestors of more than four hundred past.

Once our group is acclimatized we climb Parinacota, one of Los Gemelos, or the Twins. This peak has been likened to Ecuador’s Cotopaxi with its perfect cone shape. We ascend from the Twin’s saddle over easy slopes. Then its off to Sajama! After establishing two camps we ascend the mountain’s normal route up straightforward slopes with occasional steeper sections to make things interesting. From the summit incredible views of the Atacama Desert to the south and even more volcanoes await the climbers.

Cost includes:
· Scheduled hotel nights
· Park and museum entrance fees
· Food while on the mountain
· Scheduled restaurant meals in Bolivia
· Group climbing and cooking gear
· Porters
· Airport transfer to hotel

Not included in cost:
· Airfare
· Personal equipment
· Alcoholic beverages
· Staff/ guide gratuities
· Items of a personal nature; phone calls, laundry, room service etc.
· Airport transfer for flight home
· Trip and medical/ rescue insurance

RECOMMENDED EXTENSIONS: There are several extensions that you may consider, either as a great way to acclimatize before the climbing begins or as a way to relax after your climbs. For those interested in Inca culture, 3-6 day excursions to Cusco, the ancient capital city of the Incas, and to the famous ruins of Machu Picchu can be arranged. For diversity, we offer the Trans Andean trek over Cordillera Real pass and into the jungle. Let us know if you are interested in an extension. We can make this the best trip ever!

TRAINING PROGRAM: This trip is rated as strenuous and we cannot over emphasize the importance of physical conditioning. We suggest you begin your training program at least two months prior to departure. While strength is important, endurance training should be your primary focus. Walking up hills and stair climbing are both excellent ways to condition your lower body. Begin slowly, without the weight of a pack, eventually adding weight as you increase your training pace. Take a long hike (4-6 hours) several times with a weighted pack (40-60 lbs.) up and down hills or on small mountains (weight your pack with water containers and pour out the water before your descent to minimize knee stress). Supplement this activity with running, cycling, swimming, racquet sports, basketball, etc. for additional aerobic conditioning. If possible try to take at least two longer hikes of 6-10 hours with at least 3,000 feet of elevation gain.

WEATHER: Like all big mountains, the peaks of the Andes generate and attract their own weather, making conditions impossible to predict. April through August typically have the best weather, but be prepared for a wide range of temperatures, from freezing nights and snowy, windy conditions, to bright sunshine intensified by high altitude. The wide fluctuation in temperatures makes it important to bring everything on the equipment list.

FOOD: Mountain Madness is renowned for providing the best possible mountain cuisine. All of the meals from the trailhead and back will be provided, including pastas, rice, soups, dehydrated, and fresh foods. Bring along your favorite snack foods, energy bars, and after dinner treats.

TRIP CANCELLATION INSURANCE: We strongly recommend the purchase of trip cancellation and travel insurance. This comprehensive travel insurance provides coverage for trip cancellation and interruption, travel delays, loss of baggage and travel documents, baggage delays, medical expenses, and emergency assistance. An insurance application is provided with all trip confirmations.

MEDICAL AND EVACUATION INSURANCE: If your insurance policy does not cover international travel and mountaineering expeditions you will receive policy information from Liaison International with your booking that we strongly recommend you consider.

GENERAL INFORMATION: This trip is subject to the booking information on the Mountain Madness Trip Application. We urge you to read this information carefully and to call us if you have any questions.

QUESTIONS: Call our office anytime at 1-800-328-5925 if you have more specific questions about the trip.

HOW DO I SIGN UP?: Please call our office if you do not already have an application, or you can download it here. We require an application and a $500 deposit for international trips. Please mail your application in or fax it to 206-937-1772 to reserve your spot.

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A variety of clothing will be necessary for your trip. You will need clothing for dining in Quito, trekking in the humidity and heat, and to protect you from the cooler temperatures in the mountains. This list is designed to help you choose the right gear for the demands of this trek and are the minimum required for this trip. You are expected to provide the following personal equipment. These items are mandatory for survival in the mountains, so make sure you have everything on the list

The emphasis on equipment necessary for mountain travel follows two simple tenets: Lightweight and Functional. The items you choose to take should be lightweight, dependable, and adaptable to a variety of extreme conditions. The quality of the equipment you choose has a lot to do with how warm, dry, and safe you will remain so be critical of quality and the proper fit of clothing. Comfort lends itself to a more enjoyable experience!

The layering system outlined is usually sufficient for most people, but if you tend to be colder, bring one extra medium layer such as a vest, which would be ideal for extra warmth around camp. When making the final decision as to what goes into your pack, remember that it's a fine science of taking just enough clothes and accessories to do the job, while not over-burdening yourself with items you probably will not use.

Cotton clothing must be avoided because it dries very slowly and is a poor insulator when wet. Instead, choose wool or synthetic fabrics that "wick" the sweat and moisture away from your skin to keep you much warmer.

Mountain Madness guides and staff swears by Patagonia gear and we know that you will too. Besides having a strong commitment to the environment, Patagonia produces some of the finest outdoor gear in the industry. Check “Our Links” on the Mountain Madness homepage for a direct link to Patagonia. Find out what makes them "committed to the core."

Another company that we believe follows our two simple tenets (lightweight and functional) is Outdoor Research. Founded in the NW, our guides have used OR gear again and again because they know it works in the mountains and trust their quality and durability. Check Our Links page for a direct link.

Mountain Madness works closely with Second Ascent, a new and used gear store. If you are looking at trying to save some money, this is definitely the place to call. They are great at answering equipment questions and also ship anywhere in the US. They can be reached at (206) 545-8810.

We also work closely with Feathered Friends, a retailer in Seattle. They will offer a 10% discount on purchases if you are signed up for a Mountain Madness trip. Please feel free to call them at (206) 292-2210 or visit www.featheredfriends.com


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