A great "taster" day at the base of the Huayna Potosi glacier. Learning basic and advanced techniques with ice axes and crampons on the glacier, as well as the chance to try a bit of top rope climbing and abseiling
| Price per person (USD) | |
|---|---|
| Groups of 2 | $125 |
| Groups of 3 | $110 |
| Groups of 4 | $95 |
| Groups of 5+ | $90 |
| What's included? | |
Itinerary
Depart La Paz on a 2 hour drive to the Huyna Potosi basecamp (4,700m). En route, we will be able to enjoy views of the Chacaltaya peaks, Lake Titicaca and the Milluni Lagoon. Arriving at basecamp, we get our kit ready and start the short (45 min) trek to the base of the glacier.
Your experienced instructors will be there to help get your equipment fitted correctly, before trekking onto the glacier itself. To begin with, you will be enjoying a trek over the base of the glacier, enjoying the haunting creaks and cracks of the moving ice field. Techniques such as basic crampon and ice axe work will be covered, as well as some ropework.
Following on from this, your guide will set up a toprope in a suitable location, giving the opportinity to try your hand at a more challenging icewall. Go as far as you can, before leaning back and enjoying an abseil back down.
Return to basecamp and drive back to La Paz arriving late afternoon.
All technical equipment will be provided, as well as transport, lunch and of course your instructor. A great introduction to ice climbing for those unable to commit to a summit attempt.
Equipment
Climbing Kit List
Provided by Bolivian Mountains
- Tent (2 person, North Face or similar)
- Thermarest plus roll mat
- Cooking utensils (stoves, pans, plates, cups etc.)
- Dining tent at base camps
- Plastic boots (NB we have a wide selection of sizes. However, if your feet are particularly large or small, please let us know in advance to ensure we keep them aside for you)
- Crampons
- Harness
- Ice axe
- Helmets
- Gaiters
- Carabinas
- Ropes
Recommended Personal Climbing Kit List
- Backpack with waterproof lining (35lts recommended size)
- Kit bag (or large backpack) for bulk of kit (porters or mules carry)
- Sleeping bag (ideally 4 season)
- Walking boots
- Headtorch with spare batteries
- Waterproofs – tops and bottoms
- Gloves with waterproof cover (ski gloves are best)
- Warm headwear and sun hat/cap
- Clothes for very cold temperatures (possibly down to -20ºC)
- Sunblock
- Sunglasses with UV protection (essential)
- Water bottle
- Binoculars
- Camera.
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