Huayna Potosi Climb - All You Need to Know

Huayna Potosí, 6,088 m / 19,974 ft, is an emblematic mountain that is part of a bigger mountain range, the Cordillera Real, in Bolivia. This huge and impressive massif is located on the western side of the country, close to the Bolivia's border with Peru, and is one of the icons of the city of La Paz, one of Bolivia's main cities.

Although Huayna Potosí is usually deemed as the easiest climb over 6,000 meters / 19,685 feet, it should not be taken lightly. Huayna Potosí can be climbed by complete beginners, that is true. It is also true that it is a great way to get ready for higher mountains, but you need to be ready for it.

If Huayna Potosí is in your plans, then start training a few months in advance. Trek a few hours a day, climb stairs, train with a backpack, and if you can trek in the mountains, that is even better. Get to your trek as fit as you can. That will raise your chances of making it to the top, as well as making the whole journey more enjoyable.

Do make sure you're properly acclimatized as this trek starts at very high altitude. Spend at least three nights in La Paz with one or two trips above 4000 meters. That will decrease the risk of altitude sickness.

If you are planning your Huayna Potosí ascent, you must choose your dates carefully, especially if this is the first time you will be climbing at high altitude. The best months for trekking in the Cordillera Real mountain range are from April to November. During these months it rains the least and the skies are clearer. However, you must know that during these months, days are shorter, and temperatures can get as low as -20°C. During the rest of the year, temperatures are warmer, that is true, but rainfall is quite abundant, and winds tend to blow stronger.

During the climb, you will spend your night at the Huayna Potosí refuges: Base Camp and High Camp, at 5,200 meters / 17,060 feet. From the High Camp refuge, you can see the summit and other peaks of the Cordillera Real. The Refuges are simple in nature but strong enough to keep you safe and warm during the night. You will spend the night in dormitory rooms with bunk beds. There can sleep 10 or more people in each room. Bear in mind that you will have to bring your own sleeping bag.

Is Huayna Potosí that dangerous? No, not really. Of course, all high mountains can be dangerous if the weather turns bad, but the climb is straight forward, the trails are not particularly steep, and no technical experience is required. There have been many deaths over the years by climbers attempting to summit. However, nowadays, incidents are uncommon. The most important thing is attempting the summit accompanied by an experienced guide, especially if you are an inexperienced high-altitude alpine climber yourself.

Despite being considered the easiest climb over 6000 m, Huayna Potosi is quite a challenge. Having the right equipment with you is paramount in order to reach the summit successfully. Never underestimate the weather at such altitudes and be ready for snow and ice. Make sure that your equipment is suitable for temperatures below freezing temperature, especially your trekking boots, jacket and sleeping bag. We have prepared a suggested equipment list for you to help you to get ready for your Huayna Potosi adventure:

Essential equipment

• Sleeping bag (rated to – 5 º C)
• Headlamp
• Backpack (minimum 50 L capacity)
• Trekking boots
• Trekking pants or leggings
• Fleece jacket / Down jacket
• Thermal clothing
• 3 pairs of socks (at least one thick pair)
• Snacks for the summit attempt
• Sunglasses
• Sunblock
• 2 liters of water
• Personal medication
• Gloves
• Beanie / Woolen hat
• Toilet paper
• Personal items

Tipping your guide and porters after the trek is not customary in Bolivia, however, it is always appreciated. There is no rule as to how much you should tip your crew, but USD 10-15 for each, per trekker, is what the trekking companies suggest. Mind that what might be just a small contribution for you can make a huge difference for your guide, porters, and their family. If you had a nice adventure with them, try to be generous.