The Chile–Bolivia Altiplano Expedition is a 12-day high-altitude mountaineering adventure designed for experienced climbers seeking a progressive ascent to high elevations while discovering some of the most spectacular landscapes in the Andes and summiting four iconic mountains along the Chilean–Bolivian border.

This expedition includes the ascent of Cerro Huisalla (5,030 m / 16,503 ft), Acotango Volcano (6,052 m / 19,856 ft), Parinacota Volcano (6,380 m / 20,932 ft)—the highest summit in Chile’s Arica and Parinacota Region—and Nevado Sajama (6,542 m / 21,463 ft), the highest mountain in Bolivia.

The expedition takes place between the Arica and Parinacota Region in northern Chile and Sajama National Park in Bolivia. Throughout the journey, we will discover traditional Aymara villages, perfectly shaped volcanoes, wetlands, natural hot springs, geysers, high-altitude lagoons, and remarkable wildlife adapted to one of the harshest environments in the Andes.

The itinerary has been carefully designed to maximize acclimatization. The expedition begins with an acclimatization hike to Montecielo Viewpoint, followed by ascents of Cerro Huisalla, Acotango Volcano, and Parinacota Volcano, before finishing with the High Camp setup and summit attempt of Nevado Sajama.

The program combines comfortable accommodation in Sajama Village, full-board meals, private 4×4 transportation, technical and camping equipment, satellite communications, professional mountain guides, and expedition medical support.

Discover Our 12-Day Full Program!

12-Day Full Program – Chile–Bolivia Altiplano Expedition

Cerro Huisalla (5,030 m / 16,503 ft) – Acotango Volcano (6,052 m / 19,856 ft) – Parinacota Volcano (6,380 m / 20,932 ft) – Nevado Sajama (6,542 m / 21,463 ft)

• Duration: 12 days / 11 nights.
• Starting and Finishing Point: Arica, Chile.
• Program Type: Full Program, private group, open group, or Tailor-Made.
• Physical Difficulty: High.
• Technical Difficulty: Moderate to high, depending on conditions.
• Maximum Altitude: Nevado Sajama, 6,542 m / 21,463 ft.
• Season: May through December.

Day 1 – Arica, Putre, Chile–Bolivia Border Crossing, and Sajama Village

Arica – Putre (3,371 m / 11,060 ft) – Chile/Bolivia Border Crossing – Sajama Village (4,238 m / 13,904 ft).

Included:

• Pick-up from your hotel, hostel, private residence, airport, or another previously agreed meeting point in Arica.
• Introduction to the guide team and general review of travel documentation.
• Private 4×4 transfer from Arica to Putre.
• Lunch in Putre, including one main course and one beverage per participant.
• General inspection of personal and technical equipment before continuing toward the border.
• Logistical coordination and assistance throughout immigration and customs procedures.
• Transfer to Sajama Village.
• Check-in and room organization at the selected accommodation.
• Dinner and full-board meal service according to the program.
• Initial assessment of signs, symptoms, and adaptation to altitude.
• General safety and acclimatization briefing, followed by planning for the next day’s activities.

Day 2 – Acclimatization Day and Hike to Montecielo Viewpoint (4,550 m / 14,928 ft)

Accommodation in Sajama (4,238 m / 13,904 ft) – Hike to Montecielo Viewpoint (4,550 m / 14,928 ft) – Return to the accommodation in Sajama.

Included:

• Breakfast at the accommodation.
• Preparation and review of the daypack.
• Guided acclimatization hike to Montecielo Viewpoint.
• Pace management and scheduled hydration and nutrition breaks.
• Assessment of each participant’s general condition and individual response to altitude.
• Interpretation of the Altiplano landscape and observation of volcanoes and high-altitude wetlands.
• Trail ration or snack according to the day’s plan.
• Return to the accommodation.
• Lunch, dinner, and rest.
• Monitoring of signs and symptoms.
• Safety briefing and preparation for the ascent of Cerro Huisalla.

Day 3 – Ascent of Cerro Huisalla (5,030 m / 16,503 ft)

Accommodation in Sajama (4,238 m / 13,904 ft) – Ascent of Cerro Huisalla (5,030 m / 16,503 ft) – Return to the accommodation in Sajama.

Included:

• Breakfast before beginning the day’s activities.
• 4×4 transfer to the approach area.
• Review of technical equipment, clothing, hydration, and food supplies.
• Safety briefing and ascent planning.
• Guided ascent of Cerro Huisalla.
• Pace management, scheduled breaks, and monitoring of adaptation to altitude.
• Trail ration and snacks for the day.
• Summit attempt subject to physical condition, weather, terrain, and safety considerations.
• Guided descent and return to the vehicle.
• Transfer back to Sajama Village.
• Lunch or dinner, depending on the return time.
• General evaluation of participants and monitoring of signs and symptoms.

Day 4 – Sajama National Park Geysers and Rest Day

Accommodation in Sajama (4,238 m / 13,904 ft) – Sajama National Park Geysers – Sajama Village.

Included:

• Breakfast and an active recovery day.
• Transfer to the geyser area.
• Guided visit and observation of the geothermal landscape.
• Time for photography and exploration of the surroundings.
• Return to Sajama Village.
• Lunch and dinner at the accommodation.
• Time for rest and hydration.
• Monitoring of signs and symptoms.
• Equipment review and planning for the ascent of Acotango Volcano.

Day 5 – Ascent of Acotango Volcano (6,052 m / 19,856 ft)

Sajama Village – Acotango Volcano Approach Area – Summit or Highest Safe Elevation – Sajama Village.

Included:

• Early breakfast and preparation for the summit day.
• Private 4×4 transfer to the approach area.
• Inspection of crampons, ice axe, helmet, harness, and personal equipment.
• Safety briefing and assessment of route conditions.
• Guided ascent of Acotango Volcano.
• Continuous monitoring of physical condition and acclimatization.
• Management of maximum turnaround times.
• Trail ration, snacks, and hydration support.
• Use of technical equipment according to snow and ice conditions.
• Summit attempt subject to safety conditions.
• Guided descent and transfer back to Sajama.
• Dinner, recovery, and general evaluation of the group.

Day 6 – Rest Day and Optional Hot Springs

Accommodation in Sajama – Rest – Optional Hot Springs – Accommodation in Sajama.

Included:

• Breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the accommodation.
• Day dedicated to physical recovery, hydration, and rest.
• Optional visit to the hot springs, subject to operational conditions and the final program plan.
• Review of clothing, technical equipment, and food supplies for the Parinacota ascent.
• Monitoring of signs and symptoms.
• Detailed briefing for the following day.

Day 7 – Ascent of Parinacota Volcano (6,380 m / 20,932 ft)

Accommodation in Sajama – Parinacota Volcano – Summit or Highest Safe Elevation – Accommodation in Sajama.

Included:

• Breakfast before departure.
• 4×4 transfer to the approach area.
• Complete inspection of technical equipment and clothing.
• Safety briefing and assessment of route conditions.
• Guided ascent of Parinacota Volcano.
• Pace management, scheduled breaks, hydration, and nutrition support.
• Continuous assessment of acclimatization and physical condition.
• Assistance with the use of crampons and an ice axe when required.
• Monitoring of weather, terrain conditions, and maximum turnaround times.
• Summit attempt subject to safety conditions.
• Guided descent and return to the accommodation.
• Dinner, rest, and general evaluation of the group.

Day 8 – Rest Day in Sajama

Accommodation in Sajama – Rest Day and Logistical Preparation.

Included:

• Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
• Rest and recovery day following the ascent of Parinacota.
• Organization and preparation of loads for High Camp.
• Inspection of tents, sleeping bags, liners, sleeping pads, and technical equipment.
• Monitoring of signs and symptoms.
• Hydration and nutrition planning for the Sajama summit days.
• Technical and safety briefing.

Day 9 – Approach and Nevado Sajama High Camp (5,700 m / 18,701 ft)

Accommodation in Sajama (4,238 m / 13,904 ft) – Approach – Nevado Sajama High Camp (5,700 m / 18,701 ft).

Included:

• Breakfast and final equipment preparation.
• 4×4 transfer to the beginning of the approach.
• Organization and distribution of personal and group loads.
• Professional guiding throughout the approach.
• Pace management and scheduled hydration and nutrition breaks.
• Trail ration and snacks.
• Continuous assessment of physical condition and acclimatization.
• High Camp setup and organization.
• Distribution and organization of tents, sleeping bags, liners, and standard sleeping pads.
• Expedition meals at camp.
• Water preparation and organization of summit equipment.
• Final briefing, medical check, and rest before the ascent.

Day 10 – Nevado Sajama Summit Attempt (6,542 m / 21,463 ft)

Nevado Sajama High Camp (5,700 m / 18,701 ft) – Summit or Highest Safe Elevation – Descent – Accommodation in Sajama (4,238 m / 13,904 ft).

Included:

• Breakfast or pre-summit meal before departure.
• Complete inspection of boots, crampons, ice axe, helmet, harness, headlamp, and technical clothing.
• Final safety and communication briefing.
• Professional guiding throughout the entire summit day.
• Continuous pace management and monitoring of maximum turnaround times.
• Ongoing assessment of physical condition, acclimatization, and safety.
• Trail ration, snacks, and hydration support.
• Assistance with the use of technical equipment.
• Nevado Sajama summit attempt, subject to weather, terrain, physical condition, acclimatization, and safety considerations.
• Guided descent to High Camp.
• Dismantling and organization of the camp.
• Descent and transfer back to Sajama Village.
• Dinner, hydration, and final evaluation of the day.

Day 11 – Reserve or Back-up Day

Accommodation in Sajama – Reserve day for operational adjustments.

Included:

• Breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the accommodation.
• Reserve day available in the event of weather-related or operational changes.
• If the day is not required for a mountain activity, it may be used for rest, recovery, or a local visit, depending on conditions.
• Monitoring of signs and symptoms.
• Organization of luggage and preparation for the return to Chile.
• Briefing regarding the border crossing and final day of the program.

Day 12 – Return to Chile, Lake Chungará, Cotacotani Lagoons, and Program Closing in Arica

Sajama Village – Bolivia/Chile Border Crossing – Lake Chungará – Cotacotani Lagoons – Lauca National Park – Arica.

Included:

• Breakfast and check-out from the accommodation.
• Private transfer to the border crossing.
• Coordination and assistance during immigration and customs procedures.
• Visit to Lake Chungará.
• Panoramic visit to the Cotacotani Lagoons in Lauca National Park.
• Transfer to Arica.
• Farewell dinner in Arica, including one main course and one beverage per participant.
• One night of hotel accommodation in Arica.
• Subsequent delivery of a digital ascent and/or summit certificate.
• Drop-off according to prior coordination and official conclusion of the program.

Included Services – 12-Day Full Program:

• Private 4×4 transportation and transfers according to the program.
• Vehicles adapted for Altiplano terrain and high-altitude mountain routes.
• Professional mountain guide with international IML-UIMLA and WFR NASAR certifications.
• Assistant mountain guide with international WFR NASAR certification.
• Guides affiliated with ANGM and/or ACGM, depending on the composition of the team.
• Accommodation in Sajama with full-board meals, according to the program.
• One night of hotel accommodation in Arica on Day 12.
• Snacks and trail rations for summit and mountain days.
• Expedition meals during the Nevado Sajama High Camp days.
• Lunch in Putre on Day 1, including one main course and one beverage per participant.
• Farewell dinner in Arica on Day 12, including one main course and one beverage per participant.
• Individual technical equipment: crampons, helmet, ice axe, trekking poles, harness, carabiner, and accessory cord.
• Group technical equipment according to the conditions and planning of each ascent.
• Camping equipment for Sajama: -18 °C sleeping bag, sleeping bag liner, four-season tent, and standard sleeping pad.
• Private tent or shared tent for two participants, subject to availability.
• Starlink satellite internet at the accommodation.
• Garmin InReach GPS and VHF radios.
• Satellite communication through InReach messaging.
• Satellite telephone available; usage is subject to a charge of CLP $2,000 per minute.
• Comprehensive first aid kit for remote areas.
• Supplemental oxygen for emergencies.
• Daily monitoring of signs and symptoms.
• Expedition medical support available through 24/7 remote communication or on-site assistance, depending on the operation.
• Non-professional photographic and audiovisual coverage carried out by the guides.
• Delivery of a selection of photographs through a shared Google Photos link.
• Digital ascent and/or summit certificate.
• Discounts with partner equipment rental companies.

*The number of guides and assistants will depend on the number of confirmed participants and operational conditions.

Private 4×4 Transportation:

• Vehicles adapted for Altiplano roads and high-altitude mountain routes.
• Company logo identification.
• Winter kit and safety equipment.
• Additional spare tire and contingency equipment.
• Drivers with experience on mountain roads.
• Transfers between Arica, Putre, the border, Sajama, the mountain approach areas, and Lauca National Park.

Accommodation:

• Accommodation in Sajama Village during the main portion of the program.
• Full-board meals in Sajama according to the itinerary.
• One night of hotel accommodation in Arica on Day 12.
• Rooms and accommodation options are subject to availability at the time of booking.

Meals:

• Breakfasts, lunches, and dinners according to the program.
• Snacks and trail rations for mountain days.
• Expedition meals during the Nevado Sajama High Camp days.
• Lunch in Putre and farewell dinner in Arica.
• Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary alternatives available with prior notice through the medical form.

Important information: Any additional consumption not expressly included in the program will be the responsibility of each participant.

Mountain Guide, Assistant Guide, and Medical Support:

• Professional mountain guide with IML-UIMLA and WFR NASAR certifications.
• Assistant mountain guide with WFR NASAR certification.
• Professionals affiliated with the national associations ANGM and/or ACGM.
• Expedition doctor support available through 24/7 remote communication or on-site assistance.
• The number of professionals assigned will depend on the size of the group.

Individual Technical Equipment Included:

• Crampons.
• Helmet.
• Mountaineering ice axe.
• Trekking poles.
• Harness.
• Carabiner.
• Accessory cord.

Important: If you have your own technical equipment, it will be inspected before the expedition. If the guide determines that any item is not in suitable condition, it must be replaced with equipment provided by Allmountain Chile.

Camping Equipment Included for Nevado Sajama:

• Four-season tent.
• Private or shared tent for two participants, subject to availability.
• Sleeping bag rated to approximately -18 °C.
• Sleeping bag liner.
• Standard sleeping pad.
• Expedition cooking equipment and meals.

We recommend bringing your own inflatable sleeping pad for additional comfort at High Camp.

Safety, Navigation, and Communications:

• VHF radios.
• GPS and Garmin InReach.
• InReach satellite messaging.
• Satellite phone available, subject to a charge of CLP $2,000 per minute used.
• Expedition first aid kit for remote areas.
• Supplemental oxygen for emergencies.
• Daily monitoring of signs and symptoms.
• 24/7 remote medical support or on-site assistance.

Photography Service:

• Non-professional photographic and audiovisual coverage during activities and ascents, whenever operational and safety conditions allow.
• A selection of photographs will be shared after the expedition through a Google Photos link.

Recommended Personal Clothing and Equipment:

• Sun hat.
• Warm hat.
• Balaclava or Buff-style neck gaiter.
• Lightweight liner gloves.
• Warm technical gloves.
• Insulated down mittens, mandatory.
• Category 4 sunglasses.
• Polarized snow goggles.
• Windproof jacket.
• 800-fill down jacket or parka for high-altitude mountaineering.
• Lightweight down or mid-mountain insulated jacket, recommended.
• Thermal base layers for upper and lower body.
• Fleece mid-layer.
• Winter trekking pants.
• Waterproof shell jacket and overpants.
• Previously worn trekking boots.
• Double or plastic mountaineering boots.
• Lightweight and heavyweight technical socks, with sufficient spare pairs.
• SPF 50+ sunscreen for face and body.
• Lip balm with sun protection.
• 30–40 L personal summit backpack.
• 65–80 L mountaineering backpack or duffel bag for equipment.
• Headlamp with fully charged batteries.
• Spare batteries or backup power source.
• Two 1- or 1.5-liter Nalgene-style bottles.
• Personal inflatable sleeping pad, recommended.
• Towel, swimsuit, and sandals for the hot springs.
• Personal toiletry bag and hygiene items.
• Comfortable clothing for rest days.
• Personal medications and medical prescriptions, when applicable.

Important: If you do not have some of the required clothing or equipment, you may rent it at a discounted rate by presenting your Allmountain Chile booking voucher.

Roca Rental, Santiago: 20% discount.

Sublime Time Rental, Copiapó: 10% discount.

Additional Restrictions and Recommendations:

• This program is intended for participants with previous experience in trekking and high-altitude mountaineering.
• Participants must be in a state of health compatible with the demands of the expedition.
• Participation is not recommended for individuals recovering from recent surgery or experiencing active injuries.
• Participants must be capable of carrying their personal belongings during the ascent days.
• During the approach to Nevado Sajama High Camp, participants will be required to carry a weighted backpack.
• We recommend completing prior training and activities above 3,000–4,000 meters.
• During the first few days, mild acclimatization symptoms may occur, including headache, fatigue, or reduced appetite.
• Maintaining proper hydration before and throughout the expedition is strongly recommended.
• Excessive alcohol consumption should be avoided before and during the program.
• Temperatures may fall below 0 °C during the night and early morning.
• Ultraviolet radiation is extremely intense.
• Mobile phone coverage and internet access may be limited or unavailable in some areas.
• The itinerary may be modified due to weather, route conditions, safety considerations, or the judgment of the lead guide.

This Program Does Not Include:

• Domestic or international flights.
• Hotel accommodation in Arica on the night before the program begins.
• Personal technical clothing.
• Double or plastic mountaineering boots.
• Personal backpacks.
• Travel, accident, or rescue insurance.
• Visa fees or additional immigration documentation required according to the participant’s nationality.
• Additional purchases or consumption at restaurants or accommodations.
• Personal medications.
• Expenses resulting from early withdrawal or termination of the program.
• Services or expenses not expressly listed as included.
• Gratuities.

Price per Person – 12-Day Full Program

Prices in CLP

2 to 3 Participants: CLP $4,000,000 per person

4 or More Participants: CLP $3,500,000 per person

Private Option for 1 Participant: Please Contact Us for an Individual Quote

Reservations

To confirm your reservation, a fixed deposit of CLP $500,000 per participant is required. This amount will be deducted from the final program balance.

• Domestic or international bank transfer.
• Mercado Pago payment link for payments made within Chile.
• PayPal payment link for payments made from outside Chile.
• Credit or debit card, depending on the available payment platform.

As prices vary according to the number of confirmed participants, the final price per person will depend on the group size for each departure date.

The remaining balance must be paid according to the deadlines and conditions stated in the booking confirmation.

• Payments made from outside Chile through PayPal are subject to the applicable platform fee.
• Conversions from CLP to USD, EUR, or other currencies will be calculated using the exchange rate in effect on the date of each payment.

How We Like to Work and Experience Every Expedition

We operate with mountain-equipped 4×4 vehicles, suitable for Altiplano roads and high-altitude mountain routes.

We work with small groups and guide-to-participant ratios adapted to the number of participants and the demands of each mountain.

Allmountain Chile is registered with SERNATUR and operates adventure tourism and high-altitude mountaineering programs.

Our guides have the experience and certifications required to work in remote and high-altitude environments.

We prioritize safety, acclimatization, and responsible decision-making over any summit objective.

We provide technical and camping equipment whenever it is expressly listed as included in the program.

Our Commitment to Responsible and Sustainable Tourism

Cultural Sustainability:

We promote respect for Aymara culture, its villages, customs, cuisine, and traditional ways of life. We aim for every visit to support local tourism and encourage a respectful relationship with the host communities.

Environmental Sustainability:

We follow Leave No Trace principles, remove all our waste, and promote the protection of high-altitude wetlands, lagoons, geysers, hot springs, and Altiplano ecosystems.

Energy Sustainability:

We use communication and charging systems adapted to remote areas, prioritizing efficient and responsible solutions whenever available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it mandatory to have previously climbed a 6,000-meter mountain?

It is not listed as an absolute requirement in the program. However, previous experience in trekking and high-altitude mountaineering, excellent physical fitness, and preparation suitable for ascents above 6,000 meters are required.

Why is there a reserve day?

Day 11 provides flexibility for weather changes, additional rest, or operational adjustments, particularly in relation to the Nevado Sajama ascent.

Will I need to carry equipment?

Yes. Each participant must carry a personal backpack during the ascents and part of the equipment required for the approach to High Camp.

Is internet available during the expedition?

The program includes Starlink internet at the accommodation. Mobile phone coverage and internet access may be limited or unavailable while in the mountains.

Can I rent clothing and mountaineering boots?

We can recommend partner rental companies that offer discounts to Allmountain Chile clients. Equipment availability and compatibility must be confirmed in advance.

What documents do I need to cross the border?

A valid passport or national identity card, depending on your nationality, as well as any visa or additional immigration documentation required by Bolivia.