Charquini Half Day Tour – from and back to La Paz

Enjoy a full-day experience into the heart of the Cordillera Real, where dramatic mountain scenery, local history, and high-altitude nature come together. This tour offers scenic stops with impressive views of Huayna Potosí, a visit to a traditional Andean community, and a rewarding walk in the Charquini area. The journey leads to a beautiful high-altitude emerald lagoon, set against snow-dusted peaks and wide open Andean landscapes. With a mix of short drives, light to moderate hiking, and plenty of time for photos, this tour is an excellent option for travelers seeking nature and mountain views in a single day from La Paz.

ITINERARY (07:30 – 14:00)

Your day begins with hotel pick-up in La Paz, leaving the city behind as you head toward the high Andes on a dirt road that steadily climbs above the already lofty altitude of La Paz. As the urban landscape fades, the surroundings become increasingly remote and dramatic, with open highland terrain and towering mountains drawing closer with every kilometer. The sense of ascent is constant, building anticipation as you travel deeper into the Cordillera Real and toward the Charquini area, where the air grows thinner and the scenery more striking at every turn.

Jilarata Viewpoint

The first stop is Jilarata Viewpoint, a spectacular natural balcony offering panoramic views of some of the most iconic landmarks of the Cordillera Real. From here, you can admire Huayna Potosí, the popular mountain for ice climbing, in all its grandeur, the former Chacaltaya ski area, and—on clear days—even catch a distant glimpse of Lake Titicaca on the horizon. This stop is also a perfect moment to pause, take photos, and gently assess how everyone is adapting to the increasing altitude, while enjoying the vast openness and crisp air of the high Andes.

Milluni Community & Historic Cemetery

The journey continues to Milluni, a highland community set beneath the imposing presence of Huayna Potosí, now seen from much closer. Here, you’ll visit the historic cemetery, a quiet and meaningful place that commemorates the tragic events of the Milluni massacre, offering a moment of reflection within this stark mountain setting. Nearby, a community-run initiative welcomes visitors with warm drinks and basic facilities, representing a recent effort by local residents to promote sustainable tourism and share their homeland with travelers passing through the region.

Charquini Base Camp & High-Altitude Hike

After leaving Milluni, a short drive brings you to Charquini Base Camp at approximately 4,700 m.a.s.l., where the main activity of the day begins. From here, you’ll set out on a steady hike ascending to around 5,000 meters, a walk that usually takes about one hour. While the trail is not technical, the high altitude makes it a moderately challenging experience, requiring a calm pace and regular breaks. The effort is rewarded upon arrival at the emerald-colored Charquini Lagoon, a striking high-mountain setting ideal for photos, videos, and time to enjoy the surrounding peaks.

Descent & Return to La Paz

After spending time at the lagoon, you’ll begin the descent back to Charquini Base Camp, following the same trail at a relaxed pace. Once reunited with the vehicle, the journey continues back to La Paz, gradually descending from the high Andes toward the city. Thanks to the short distance, this experience is completed in half a day, allowing you to return to La Paz with plenty of time to rest after a rewarding high-altitude adventure.

INCLUDED

– Private transportation
– Certified English-speaking guide
– Charquini Mountain entrance tickets

NOT INCLUDED

– Drinks
– Personal expenses
– Tips / gratuities

Important Note

This tour takes place at high altitude (up to 5,000 m / 16,400 ft). It is recommended that participants have prior acclimatization in La Paz, a good general physical condition, and no medical conditions that could be affected by altitude or moderate physical activity.

Recommendations

– Wear warm layered clothing, as temperatures can change quickly at high altitude.
– Comfortable hiking shoes or boots with good grip are strongly recommended.
– Bring sun protection (sunglasses, sunscreen, hat), as UV exposure is high.
– Carry water and light snacks to stay hydrated and energized.
– Take the hike at a steady pace and inform your guide if you feel any discomfort related to altitude.
– A light jacket or windbreaker is useful, even on sunny days.

RATES