NEVADO SAJAMA

Nevado Sajama (6,542 m), the country's highest peak, stands proudly on the horizon, covered in eternal snow. Its ascent is long and perilous. It takes between 2 and 3 days from the village of Sajama to reach the summit. A one-day excursion takes you to the base camp and back to the village.

Practical information. The best time to climb Nevado Sajama is between May and September, during Bolivia's dry season. Mules are used to transport equipment. Contact the travel agency of your choice and ask for a UIAGM-certified professional guide. The Association of Professional Mountain Guides in Bolivia (AGMTB) will put you in touch with the best, most competent and experienced mountain guides. Make sure you take with you a good pair of sunglasses (preferably with polarized lenses), sunscreen, waterproof jacket and pants, thermal layers, warm gloves, walking sticks, good hiking boots and a sleeping bag. A 30-40-liter backpack is suggested. The agency will provide porters, a tent, first-aid kit, helmet, harness, ice axe and crampons. What's more, they'll also provide food and water. The price generally depends on the length of the trip (whether it departs from La Paz or directly from Sajama) and the number of people in the group. It is around US$650 per person for a group of 4 to 8 hikers, US$850 per person for a group of 2, and US$1,500 for a single hiker.

Itinerary. All tours take roughly the same route to the summit. The expedition begins in the village of Sajama, and from there you'll progress for around 3 hours to the first base camp at an altitude of 4,700 metres, where you'll spend the night. The following morning, you'll begin your ascent on the outer side of the mountain, crossing a ridge to the north-west to reach the second camp at 5,500 metres. On the third and final day, you'll begin your ascent at around 2 a.m., roped to your guide and wearing your crampons. It will take you around 6-8 hours to reach the summit. You then take the same route down to base camp. The altitude will make the climb difficult, so don't hesitate to stop to catch your breath. On your way back to the village, ask your guide to take you to the thermal baths.