Sajama climb
Climbing Sajama in Bolivia, At 6542 meters, Sajama is the highest mountain in Bolivia and the crowning peak of the Cordillera Occidental.
Sajama is a volcanic peak located in the department of Oruro. Located just 200 km Southwest from the capital city of Bolivia, La Paz, and also right on the border with Chile
Sajama is a great option for who is expecting a thrillling experience and challenging.
The ascending to Sajama is quite difficult. because its high altitude, cold and some times a lot of wind, also we find on route some very steep sections, which makes more challenging the climb.
The climbing is through sensational scenery on the volcano itself, ending with breathtaking view of landspape from the Summit, such as las Payachatas (Parinacota 6.342m. and Pomerape 6.28m.).
The área of Sajama national park is known too, for its unique high desert flora and fauna (wildlife), such us llamas, vicuñas, alpacas, pink flamingos. Including forests featuring quenua trees. And also the área is volcanoes and geothermal features. For that reason, on the área there are Geysers, natural hot springs to enjoy.
Physical Requirements
Climbing Nevado Sajama is very physically demanding, as the high altitude. And strong wind. Also as it is volcanic peak the air that we breathe is dry.
For that reason is recommended for who will climb it. Has a very high level of fitness and acclimatization, becasuse it will make the climb easier and more enjoyable.
From where do the trips starts to climb sajama?
Usually trips to Sajama strarts from la Paz City – Bolivia.
Because you can easily get to La Paz City – Bolivia by plane, also take advantage of the mountains on the Royal Range to do training and acclimatize.
How is the Climbing Route
The normal route is climbed by all the People.
From La Paz City 4 hours driving up to the village of Sajama, from there it is a 3 hour hike to base camp (4,700 m). then 6 hours walk up to the high camp (5,700 m), and summit attempt, which is roughly a 12 hour round trip. After that descent back to base camp, and then to Sajama.
Weather Conditions
As its extremely high altitude and being high up in the Andes, it is constantly cold all year round, with temperatures dropping below 0 degrees celsius.
Best season to climb Sajama
The best season to climb sajama is between May and October, as this is the dry season in Bolivia, and will ensure optimal climbing conditions.
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Private Transport for the group
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6500m.
We will pick you up from your hotel in the morning and drive for 3 hours in private transport to the village of Sajama (4200 meters). From a point near the village of Sajama, we will walk 3 hours to the base camp (4700 m). We will have hot drinks, snacks, dinner and then spend the night in tents.
After having breakfast we will begin the hike to high camp. Our hike to high camp (5700 meters) over sand and scree takes about 6 hours. We will prepare for our ascent the next day and spend the evening in high camp.
Our day will begin very early. Wake up time will be in the early morning hours and we will get dressed with the climbing clothing and equipment and have breakfast.
Once prepared, we will begin the ascent. We will have short breaks to rest and eat chocolates and drink water during the ascent. On the way we will walk through sections of scree before ascending the glacier, where we may encounter sections of penitentes.
Upon arrival at the summit we’ll have a wonderful view of the highlands, the surrounding Cordillera Occidental, the nearby peaks of Parinacota and Pomarapi, and the ever unique sunrise itself.
Our descent to high camp will take around 3 hours and upon arrival we will have soup and hot drinks. At the high camp we will re-pack our backpacks and make the descent to base camp.
We will walk down from the base camp to enjoy a refreshing bath in the outdoor hot springs in the valley below Sajama.
After a soak in the hot spring we will return to the city of La Paz.