Laguna Glaciar (3 Days)

One of the most popular treks from Sorata. The route leads over Laguna Chillata up to Laguna Glaciar at over 5,000 m. An intense high-mountain experience without technical climbing – ideal for well-acclimatized trekkers.

Laguna Glaciar (2–3 Days)

Overview

  • Location: Sorata, La Paz Department, Bolivia
  • Height: 5,037 m (Laguna Glaciar)
  • Length of time: Normally 2–3 days (depending on the route)
  • Difficulty levelHigh (due to the altitude and steep sections)
  • LandscapeGlacial lakes, snow-covered peaks, alpine flora and fauna
  • Best time to travelMay to October (dry season)

Day 1

Sorata to Laguna Chillata (acclimatization)

Since the Laguna Glaciar Since the trek reaches a considerable altitude, it is often recommended to do it in two stages to better acclimatize. The first day leads to the Laguna Chillata, a beautiful mountain lake on approx. 4,200 m.

The course of the first day:

  1. Start in Sorata (2,700 m): The hike begins in Sorata, a charming little village.

  1. Hike to the lagoon lakeThe climb is strenuous, but the scenery becomes increasingly impressive. The last 2-3 hours of the ascent lead through steep, rocky sections.

  2. Arrival at Laguna ChillataThis lake is a perfect place to recover from the hike and acclimatize to the altitude. You can pitch a tent, camp near the lagoon, or set up a base camp.

Day 2

Laguna Chillata to Laguna Glaciar (5,037 m)

The second day is the most strenuous part of the trek, as you have to... Laguna Glaciar on 5,037 m You will reach it. The hike leads through alpine landscapes with glaciers and rugged cliffs.

Course of the second day:

  1. Early departureThe ascent to Laguna Glaciar begins early in the morning. The path leads through steep rocky and scree-covered sections, which are strenuous, especially in the thin air.

  2. Alpine flora and glacier viewsThe trail offers fantastic views of the surrounding mountains, including the Illampu (6,368 m), the Ancohuma (6,427 m) and the glaciers of the Cordillera Real.

  3. Arrival at Laguna GlaciarAfter about 5–7 hours you will reach Laguna Glaciar. The glacial lake is surrounded by imposing cliffs and offers an incredible panorama. Here you can rest, enjoy the surroundings and, on a clear day, even see the nearby glacier.

 

Day 3

Return to Sorata

The return to Sorata takes place on the third day, and there are several options depending on your energy and time. Normally, you take the same route back. Laguna Chillata and then further down to Sorata.

Way back:

  1. Hike backThe descent back to Sorata takes about 5-6 hours.

  2. Alternative return routesIf you don't have time for the entire return journey, you can also choose a shorter route starting from the Laguna Chillata leads to Sorata.