Cordillera Real (Bolivia)

The Cordillera Real is a high Andean mountain chain in western Bolivia, running roughly north-south to the east of La Paz and the Altiplano. It contains numerous glaciated peaks, several exceeding 6,000 metres, and forms a dramatic alpine skyline visible from La Paz and El Alto.

Notable summits in the range include Illimani (approximately 6,438 m), Huayna Potosí (approximately 6,088 m), Illampu (approximately 6,368 m) and Ancohuma (approximately 6,427 m). The range offers a mix of accessible trekking peaks and technically demanding alpine routes, glaciers and steep ridges.

The Cordillera Real has been a focus for mountaineering since the late 19th and early 20th centuries and remains a popular area for climbers, ski-mountaineers and trekkers who use La Paz and nearby highland towns as acclimatization and logistics bases.

Geographically the range runs east of the urban area of La Paz in western Bolivia, forming part of the eastern margin of the high-altitude Altiplano.

• High peaks and access: many of the range's highest peaks exceed 6,000 metres and are approached from bases around La Paz and the high-altitude plateau.
• Climbing conditions: glaciated terrain and high altitude mean climbs often require acclimatization, technical gear and experienced guides.

What to See #

• Illimani: Illimani - a dominant 6,438-metre summit visible from the city of La Paz and a classic mountaineering objective.
• Huayna Potosí: Huayna Potosí - widely climbed 6,088-metre peak often used for acclimatization and accessible from La Paz.
• Illampu and Ancohuma: Illampu and Ancohuma - higher peaks in the northern section with complex glaciated faces that attract technical alpinists.