Sajama High Altitude Expedition

A remote high-altitude expedition on Nevado Sajama designed to test your independence in isolated terrain, build resilience at sustained altitude, and deepen your experience in true expedition conditions.

The Details

Expedition Overview

Time: 4 Days/3 Nights

Availability: May – September
Difficulty: Challenging
Group Size: Small expedition teams (up to 6 travelers/Two per guide)


Expedition Stats

Total Distance: 32 km / 19.9 miles
Total Vertical Gain: 2,300 m / 7,546 ft
Maximum Altitude: 6,542 m / 21,463 ft


Shared Group Expedition

From $900 USD per person


Private Expedition Options

1 Trekker (Private): $1,800 USD per person
Full private guide, fully personalized pace, exclusive experience

2 Trekkers (Private): $1,100 USD per person
Private expedition experience for small teams


What This Expedition Represents

This is your remote expedition stage in the Andes.

You are operating in isolated high-altitude terrain where self-reliance, resilience, and endurance define success.

This is where you move beyond standard climbs into true expedition environments.

Start your journey

The Logistics

Day 1: Sajama Village – Base Camp Approach | Into Remote Bolivia


We leave Sajama village and begin the approach into one of the most remote mountain regions in the Andes. The terrain opens into wide volcanic plains and quiet, untouched landscapes.

We establish base camp beneath the mountain as the expedition begins to take shape.


Focus: Remote approach & altitude entry

Elevation gain: ~700 m / 2,296 ft
Elevation loss: ~100 m / 328 ft

Distance: ~8 km / 5 miles
Hiking time: ~3–4 hours
Campsite elevation: ~4,700 m / 15,420 ft

Highest point: ~4,700 m / 15,420 ft

Difficulty: Moderate
Accommodation: Expedition tents


Day 2: High Camp Ascent | Entering Expedition Terrain


We move higher into the mountain, gaining elevation steadily through volcanic slopes and alpine terrain.

The environment becomes more isolated and physically demanding as we establish high camp in preparation for summit.


Focus: High altitude ascent & endurance building

Elevation gain: ~800 m / 2,625 ft
Elevation loss: ~200 m / 656 ft

Distance: ~10 km / 6.2 miles
Hiking time: ~5–6 hours
Campsite elevation: ~5,000 m / 16,404 ft

Highest point: ~5,000 m / 16,404 ft

Difficulty: Challenging
Accommodation: Expedition tents

Day 3: Acclimatization Rotation | Preparing for Summit Push

We spend the day adapting to altitude with controlled movement above high camp.

Short ascents and technical preparation help condition the body for summit day.

We return to camp for rest and final preparation.


Focus: Acclimatization & summit preparation

Elevation gain: ~300 m / 984 ft
Elevation loss: ~150 m / 492 ft

Distance: ~5 km / 3.1 miles
Hiking time: ~3–4 hours
Campsite elevation: ~5,000 m / 16,404 ft

Highest point: ~5,200 m / 17,060 ft

Difficulty: Challenging
Accommodation: Expedition tents

Day 4: Summit Sajama | Bolivia’s Highest Peak


We begin early and ascend toward Rainbow Mountain at over 5,000 m. This is the breakthrough point of the expedition—full adaptation to extreme altitude. After time at the summit viewpoint, we continue through the Red Valley and return toward camp. Afternoon is for recovery. We begin early and ascend through glacier terrain toward the summit of Sajama.

The climb is steady and remote, with a true expedition feel from start to finish.

At the summit, the vastness of the Andes unfolds in every direction.


Focus: Summit Sajama ascent

Elevation gain: ~1,542 m / 5,059 ft
Elevation loss: ~2,242 m / 7,356 ft

Distance: ~6–8 km / 4–5 miles
Hiking time: ~10–12 hours
Campsite elevation: ~5,000 m / 16,404 ft

Highest point: 6,542 m / 21,463 ft

Difficulty: Very challenging
Accommodation: Not included

What's included

Transportation


Transportation within the Sajama region is included, ensuring smooth movement between the village, base camp, and expedition routes in one of the most remote areas of the Andes.


Expedition Camping Equipment


All group camping equipment is provided, including high-altitude tents and cooking systems designed for extreme conditions.


Professional Mountain Guide


An experienced high-altitude guide leads the expedition, managing logistics, pacing, and safety throughout this remote climb.


Support Team


A dedicated support team assists with camp setup and expedition logistics, allowing you to focus fully on the climb.


Meals


All meals during the expedition are included, providing the fuel needed for sustained effort at high altitude.


Permits


All required permits and national park entry fees are included.


What’s Not Included: Things to Keep in Mind


Tips (Optional)


Tips for guides and staff are not included but are appreciated for their work and support.


meals after the expedition are not included.


This expedition takes you into one of the most remote mountain environments in South America, fully supported and prepared.

Before You Go

Prepare for Extreme Altitude


Sajama is the highest peak in Bolivia, reaching 6,542 meters (21,463 feet). Altitude is the defining challenge of this expedition. We strongly recommend arriving well-acclimatized, ideally after spending time at elevation in places like La Paz.


Hydration, patience, and proper pacing will determine how well your body performs at this level.


Understand the Remoteness


This is one of the most remote expeditions in the Andes. Once you leave Sajama village, there is no infrastructure, limited communication, and no quick access to services.


You are stepping into a true expedition environment where self-sufficiency and preparation matter.


Prepare for Cold and Exposure


Conditions on Sajama are harsh and unforgiving. Expect freezing temperatures, strong winds, and long periods of exposure.


Daytime temperatures can feel manageable in the sun, but nights and summit push conditions drop well below freezing. Proper layering is critical for both safety and comfort.


Build Your Endurance Before Arrival


This expedition requires strong physical fitness. Long days at altitude, combined with the summit push, demand endurance and consistency.


We recommend training with uphill hiking, weighted packs, and sustained cardio to prepare your body for the effort.


Adopt an Expedition Mindset


Sajama is not a guided hike—it is a high-altitude expedition. Conditions can change, pacing may vary, and flexibility is required.


Success on this mountain comes from staying focused, adapting to the environment, and moving efficiently as a team.


Prepare for a Long Summit Day


Summit day begins early and involves a long, steady ascent at extreme altitude. Movement is slow and controlled, with every step requiring effort.


Rest, nutrition, and mental preparation leading into summit day are essential.


Respect the Environment


Sajama National Park is a protected and fragile ecosystem. This region remains untouched because of its isolation.


All waste must be carried out, and the environment must be respected at all times.


Final Mindset


This expedition is about more than reaching the summit.


It is about stepping into one of the most remote high-altitude environments in the Andes and learning how to operate within it.


Come prepared, stay adaptable, and commit to the process.

What to Bring

Passport: Required for entry.


Backpack: 30 day pack liter recommended. 65-75 Expedition Pack


Duffel Bag: For main gear.


Mountaineering Boots: Required for summit conditions.


Crampons: Provided or bring your own.


Ice Axe: Required for glacier travel.


Sunglasses: High UV protection.


Sunblock: Essential at altitude.


Warm Hat: Required.


Gloves: Insulated gloves required.


Base Layers: Thermal clothing.


Fleece Jacket: Mid-layer insulation.


Down Jacket: Heavy insulation.


Waterproof Jacket and Pants: Protection from elements.


Trekking Pants: Quick-dry.


Sleeping Bag: Rated to -15°C (5°F).


Sleeping Mat: Insulated.


Water Bottle: Reusable.


Electrolytes: Recommended.


Snacks: Energy food.


Headlamp: Required.


Power Bank: Optional.


First Aid Kit: Personal.


Toilet Paper: Required.


Hand Sanitizer: Required.


Trekking Poles: Optional.


Cash: Small amount.


Camera or Phone: Optional.

FAQ

How do I book the Sajama expedition?

To book your Sajama expedition, click the Start Your Journey button, select your preferred departure date, and complete the booking form with your personal details.


A deposit of $150 per person is required to secure your spot. Once received, we will send you a confirmation along with a detailed expedition form to complete.


How do I pay the remaining balance?

You can pay securely via credit card (Stripe), PayPal, or Venmo.


You may choose to pay in full or pay the remaining balance 30 days before departure. Installment options are also available upon request.


What is your cancellation policy?

If you book more than 30 days in advance, you may cancel within 48 hours for a full refund.


After that, the following applies:


100% refund if cancelled more than 60 days before departure

75% refund if cancelled between 59 and 30 days before departure

50% refund if cancelled between 29 and 21 days before departure

0% refund if cancelled less than 21 days before departure


Any non-recoverable expedition costs may be deducted.


How difficult is Sajama?

This is a very challenging expedition. The altitude is extreme, and the environment is remote with minimal infrastructure.


You should have strong physical fitness and be comfortable with long days at high altitude. This is a true expedition experience, not a standard climb.


Do I need mountaineering experience?

Previous high-altitude or glacier experience is highly recommended for Sajama.


While the route is not highly technical, the altitude and length of summit day make it physically demanding.


How remote is Sajama?

Sajama is one of the most remote climbs in the Andes. Once you leave the village, there are no towns, limited communication, and no easy access to services.


This remoteness is part of what makes the experience unique.


Do I need to bring my passport?

Yes. Your original passport is required for travel and entry into the national park.


What time does the expedition start and end?

The expedition typically begins in Sajama village in the morning.


Return timing depends on summit conditions, but most expeditions finish in the afternoon on the final day.


What makes Sajama different from other climbs?

Sajama stands apart for its isolation, scale, and true expedition feel.


There are no crowds, no infrastructure, and no shortcuts—just a high-altitude climb in one of the most untouched regions of the Andes.