NEVADO SAJAMA

The Nevado Sajama (6 542 m), the highest point of the country, stands proudly on the horizon, covered by its 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 allows to go to the base camp and then to return to the village.

Practical information

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

Itinerary

All the tours follow roughly the same route to the summit. The expedition begins in the village of Sajama, and from there you will progress for about 3 hours to the first base camp located at 4,700 meters above sea level, where you will spend the night. The next morning, you will begin the ascent on the outer side of the mountain, crossing a ridge to the northwest, to reach the second camp, located at 5,500 meters. On the third and final day, you will begin your ascent at about 2:00 am, roped to your guide and wearing your crampons. It will take you about 6 to 8 hours to reach the summit. You will then descend by the same path to the base camp. The altitude will make the ascent difficult, so don't hesitate to stop to catch your breath. On your way back to the village, ask your guide to pass by the thermal baths.