Cordillera Real Traverse (Bolivia)
From Paso Mullu to the Hampaturi Region
Introduction – Trekking in the Cordillera Real
The Cordillera Real is one of the most spectacular trekking and mountaineering regions in South America. Stretching along the eastern edge of the Altiplano near La Paz, it forms a dramatic chain of glaciated peaks rising well above 5,000 and 6,000 meters. Famous summits such as Huayna Potosí and Illimani dominate the skyline, while deep valleys, turquoise lagoons, and remote high passes create a perfect setting for multi-day trekking.
Trekking in Bolivia remains far less crowded than in Peru or Chile. Trails are often unmarked, infrastructure is minimal, and encounters with local Aymara communities add a strong cultural dimension. The Cordillera Real in particular offers an exceptional combination of high-altitude wilderness, glacial scenery, and accessible trekking peaks.
🥾 Traverse: Paso Mullu → Hampaturi
A remote and varied high-altitude traverse linking the northern Condoriri area with the wild valleys above La Paz.
📊 Overview
Duration: 5–7 days
Total distance: approx. 60–75 km
Max altitude: ~5,000–5,200 m (passes & optional peaks)
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging (altitude!)
Best season: May – September
🗺️ Route & Stages
Day 1 – Approach to Paso Mullu & High Camp
Hiking time: 4–5 h
Gradual ascent into the high Andes landscape
Camp near Paso Mullu (~4,800 m)
Highlights:
First close views of the Condoriri massif
Wide Altiplano panoramas
Day 2 – Paso Mullu Crossing → Condoriri Area
Hiking time: 6–7 h
Crossing the Paso Mullu, one of the most scenic passes in the region, with sweeping views over glaciated peaks. The descent leads into the famous Condoriri valley.
Highlights:
Glacier views of the Condoriri group
Arrival at Laguna Chiarkhota – one of the most beautiful lakes in Bolivia
Optional sunset hike
Day 3 – Condoriri Exploration & Trekking Peaks
Hiking time: 4–6 h (flexible)
A rest or exploration day with optional ascents:
Possible trekking peaks:
Cerro Austria (5,350 m) – classic panoramic summit
View towards Pequeño Alpamayo
Highlights:
360° views across the Cordillera Real
Close-up glacier scenery
Multiple high-altitude lagoons
Day 4 – High Passes toward Hampaturi
Hiking time: 6–8 h
A demanding stage crossing lesser-known passes into increasingly remote terrain.
Highlights:
Remote passes with no other trekkers
Chains of untouched high mountain lakes
Encounters with local herders and alpaca flocks
Day 5 – Descent into Hampaturi Region
Hiking time: 5–6 h
The landscape changes: less glaciated, more rolling high valleys with striking rock formations and lagoons.
Highlights:
Entry into the Hampaturi Valley
Unique geological formations
Quiet wilderness close to La Paz
Optional Day 6–7 – Exploration in Hampaturi
Hiking time: 3–6 h per day
Perfect for additional hikes and hidden gems:
Highlights:
Lesser-known trekking peaks (~4,800–5,100 m)
Isolated lagoons with intense colors
Views back toward Illimani and Mururata
🌄 Scenic Highlights of the Traverse
🏔️ Passes
Paso Mullu (~4,800 m) – panoramic classic
Remote unnamed passes toward Hampaturi (~4,900–5,100 m)
💧 Lakes
Laguna Chiarkhota (iconic turquoise)
Numerous unnamed high-altitude lagoons
Hampaturi reservoir landscapes
⛰️ Trekking Peaks
Cerro Austria (5,350 m)
Smaller 5,000 m summits along the traverse
Optional viewpoints over the entire Cordillera Real
🧭 Summary
This traverse from Paso Mullu into the Hampaturi region is a true off-the-beaten-path trekking experience in Bolivia. It combines the iconic beauty of the Condoriri area with rarely visited valleys closer to La Paz.
Expect:
High altitude and raw wilderness
Spectacular glacier views and turquoise lakes
Excellent opportunities for trekking peaks above 5,000 m
Almost complete solitude
👉 A perfect itinerary for experienced trekkers looking for something more remote and authentic than the classic routes in the Andes.
https://www.suedamerikatours.de/bolivien
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