The Apolobamba Range

Duration

8 Days

Transport

Private

Altitude

3810m

Departure Place

La Paz City

From: $4.428,00

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Apolobamba Trek – 8 Days

This trek begins in the northernmost town of Pelechuco near the Peruvian border in the northernmost remote corner of the Apolobamba range and heads south through one of the most impressive ranges of the Bolivian Andes.  

Surrounded by majestic glacier-covered peaks and deep Andean valleys you will trek through the home of condors and the Kallawaya spiritual healers.

 

Day 1: Arrival in La Paz, city tour visiting historical landmarks and vibrant markets.

Day 2: Trek through the Apolobamba Range, marvel at stunning mountain scenery.

Day 3: Cross high mountain passes, encounter indigenous communities along the way.

Day 4: Explore ancient towns nestled in lush valleys, learn about local traditions.

Day 5: Reach the sacred peak of Mt. Akamani, enjoy panoramic views of the region.

Day 6: Relax and rejuvenate in the natural hot springs of Charazani.

Day 7: Return to La Paz, immerse yourself in the bustling city atmosphere.

Day 8: Free day to explore La Paz at your leisure, soak in the cultural richness.

(Optional) Day 9: Convenient shuttle service to the airport for a seamless departure, bidding farewell to Bolivia.

 

A truly impressive region with peaks over 20,000’ and many solitary summits and deep Andean valleys. We begin with a drive across the Altiplano and Lake Titicaca and into Ulla-Ulla National Park until we get close to the Peruvian border.

The trek heads south, the length of the range and crosses passes close to 17,000’ providing us with truly impressive views of the remote Andes.

The history of gold mining in the region dates from the time of the Incas and continued with the Spanish as evident of the old mining centers we will pass by along the way.

We finish the trek in the southern point of the Apolobamba in the town of Curva, the home of the itinerant medicine men known as the Kallawaya. A final drive across the Andes, Altiplano and Lake Titicaca will deliver us to the city of La Paz. One of the most impressive tours we offer in a truly remote location.

 

Depart Home

Typically, flights to Bolivia depart late in the evening from Miami and arrive in La Paz the next morning. Depending on your airline, you would arrive at different times on day 1 in La Paz. Please let us know your flight info so we can coordinate pick-ups and other services.


Please contact us with any questions.

Anyone can book a single spot on any tour at any time. These prices reflect the cost for one person, based on the total number of fully-paid people booked on a trip. If you have more people in your group and/or if the total number of people rises, the cost per person goes down. These prices are NOT based on a person or complete group bringing in a set amount of people on a tour.

As more people book a spot on a tour the lower price is spread among all the participants. Thus we encourage you to include friends and family to join you so everyone gets a lower price.

Relaxation in Hot Springs!

Itinerary of the Tour

🌞 Day 1 —

La Paz – City Tour

Depart Home

Typically, flights to Bolivia depart late in the evening from Miami and arrive in La Paz the next morning. Depending on your airline, you would arrive at different times on day 1 in La Paz. Please let us know your flight info so we can coordinate pick-ups and other services.

Arrival in La Paz early in the morning. We’ll pick up at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. The rest of the morning is free for you to rest and acclimatize. We will get together for lunch at noon and at 2 PM begin a city tour for a complete view of La Paz and it’s many interesting neighborhoods and open-air markets. After the city tour, the rest of the day is free for you to rest and enjoy. Dinner is on your own to enjoy the many different culinary options that La Paz offers. We recommend rest, drinks lots of water, drink mate de coca (coca tea), eat lightly and stay away from caffeine and alcohol.

Day 2 ―

La Paz – Pelechuco

An early departure from La Paz begins the journey into one of the most impressive and least visited regions of Bolivia – the Apolobamba Range. We drive north next to Lake Titicaca – the world’s highest navigable lake at 12,500 ft. The road goes by Escoma and the plains of Ulla Ulla, a highland Bolivian National Park home to vicunas and Andean wildlife flanked by Andean peaks. We arrive in the town of Pelechuco (11,800’) late in the afternoon. Pelechuco is an old Spanish colonial town that bears likenesses to the towns of Castilla in Spain during the 16th century. Many of the locals are fair skinned (their Spanish ancestry is evident from their facial features and stature) and speak Quechua the regional language. When you walk into Pelechuco…you walk into another time. Basic accommodations in town. (B,L,D)

Day 3 ―

Pelechuco – Apacheta Pampa Camp

The first day of the trek. While the mule drivers and porters are sorting the loads out and organizing the animals we will have time to visit the town and enjoy traveling into another time. Once loaded we begin the journey as the trail winds its way out of the town into the heart of the Apolobamba Range. We will ascend almost 3,000 ft up to a pass close to 15,000 ft. We will continue up and over this pass and make camp at the foot of the mountains next to an Andean stream cascading from the glaciers above us. Camp for the evening. (B,L,D)

Day 4 ―

Apacheta Pampa Camp – Ilo-Ilo Valley

Today will be a tough portion of the trek because we’ll cross a high pass at close to 15,350 ft. and descend another 2,500 ft by the end of the day. The trek takes us into the heart of the range, next to glaciers and steep rock escarpments, the glaciated summits of peaks high above our heads. We’ll finally arrive in the Ilo Ilo valley where alpacas and llamas are raised for wool. The camp will be in the valley at almost 12,850 ft. (B,L,D)

Day 5 ―

Ilo-Ilo Valley – Sunchulli Valley

Today’s portion will be the toughest because we cross our highest pass, close to 16,300 ft. and have a lot of distance to cover. We’ll pass through a potato-growing valley and next to glaciers cascading off the high peaks. We descend through a valley into the Sunchulli valley where we’ll have lunch and rest. This was a mining center since before the Incas and once the Spaniards arrived they took the mines from the Incas and continued to exploit the mineral riches. It is said, a curse was placed on the Spaniards by the Inca priests. The Spaniards nonetheless established a town at the foot of the mountain and continued mining. A seismic movement dislodged millions of tons of ice, rock and mud and destroyed the town some years later. Even today, small mining co-operatives are still looking for the entrance to the famous mine of the Incas. We’ll camp at around 14,400 ft., in view of abandoned mines from the times of the Spaniards. (B,L,D)

Day 6 ―

Sunchulli Valley – Mt. Akamani

Today’s portion will bring us through a narrow and steep canyon where the infamous ‘hill of the 100 turns’ is located. The trail zig-zags down into a hidden couloir and emerges into the rolling hills of the southern Apolobamba. We descend about 1,600 ft at this point to our camp, which will be around 13,120 ft. and is located at the bottom of a steep rock escarpment between two small rivers cascading off the glaciers of Mt. Akamani (18,590′/5666m) – the sacred peak of the Callawayas. Camp for the night. (B,L,D)

Day 7+

Mt. Akamani – Curva – Charazani

The last day of the Apolobamba trek. After crossing the last pass we will pass through a canyon and end up at the base of Mt. Akamani (18,590′/5666m). A long traverse of extensive fields of potato, oca, quinua and medicinal plants will bring us to the town of Curva located at 11,500 ft. We will be picked up by our vehicles here and continue our journey overland to the town of Charazani located on the other side of the river of the same name. There are hot springs here and we will definitely take the time to enjoy their rejuvenating and medicinal benefits. We will have basic accommodations in Charazani for the night. (B,L,D)

 

Day 8 ■Charazani – La Paz

After an early breakfast we begin our drive up and over the Andes heading south towards Lake Titicaca. Our route winds its way slowly across the foothills of the region and continues until we reach the vast Altiplano and beautiful Lake Titicaca. Lunch en route. We should arrive in La Paz in the late afternoon. Upon arrival we will drop you off at your hotel. (B,L)

Tonight marks the official end of this tour but we provide complimentary shuttle service to the airport the next day. Please let us know your flight schedule ahead of time to coordinate the shuttle service.

 

Day 9 ■Depart La Paz – Home (complimentary)

We provide a complimentary shuttle service to the airport for those departing today.

End of our services

— Included —

  • Private transport
  • Qualified mountain guide, Spanish-speaking
  • Spanish speaking driver/guide
  • All meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner)

— Not Included —

  • Personal Expenses
  • Sunglasses
  • Cap, Sunscreen

— Recommended —

  • Water bottle
  • Sunglasses – Sunscreen – Toiletries – Toilet paper
  • Sleeping bag (see FAQ’s). Flashlight
  • Wooly hats
  • Sun block to avoid sun burning

— Frequent Questions —

1. What is the Apolobamba region known for?

The Apolobamba region, located in northern Bolivia, is renowned for its stunning high-altitude landscapes, including snow-capped peaks, pristine lakes, and traditional indigenous communities.

2. What are the popular trekking routes in Apolobamba?

Some popular trekking routes include:

  • Pequeño Alpamayo Trek: A challenging but rewarding trek that offers breathtaking views of the Pequeño Alpamayo peak.
    Condoriri Circuit: A circuit around the Condoriri massif, passing by beautiful glacial lakes.
    Chachacomani Expedition: Climbing Chachacomani provides an unforgettable experience.

3. Is Apolobamba suitable for beginners?

While some treks are challenging, there are options suitable for beginners. It’s essential to choose the right route based on your fitness level and experience.

4. What equipment do I need for trekking in Apolobamba?

Essential gear includes sturdy hiking boots, warm clothing (layers), a good-quality sleeping bag, trekking poles, and a backpack. We can provide detailed packing lists.

5. How do I acclimatize to the high altitude?

Gradual acclimatization is crucial. Spend a few days in La Paz or nearby towns before starting your trek.

6. What type of shoe i need?

You need comfortable walking shoes. your feet will appreciate.

7. Is this tour for me?

But of course if you want to travel. the perfect match if you’re planning to visit bolivia’s most popular destination.

Highlights

Scenic Beauty

The tour offers breathtaking views of the Apolobamba Range, ancient towns, and sacred peaks, providing a visual feast for nature enthusiasts.

Cultural Immersion

Interact with indigenous communities, learn about local traditions, and witness authentic ways of life, offering a rich cultural experience.

Relaxation in Hot Springs

The rejuvenation in natural hot springs in Charazani offers a tranquil retreat and a chance to unwind amidst the serene surroundings, perfect for relaxation.

Historical Exploration

xplore the historical landmarks of La Paz and ancient towns, gaining insights into Bolivia's past and cultural heritage, making the tour educational and enlightening.

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