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Ancohuma
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Ancohuma, also known as Janq'u Uma, is the highest peak in the Cordillera Real and the third highest in Bolivia, reaching an altitude of 6,427 meters. It is located in the northern section of the range, standing prominently near the town of Sorata. The mountain is characterized by its broad, ice-covered slopes and massive glaciers, which are among the largest in the central Andes. Its name translates from Aymara as "White Water," reflecting the abundance of snow and ice that feeds the region's watersheds. The first recorded ascent was completed in 1919 by Rudolf Dienst and Adolf Schulze. Ancohuma serves as a critical source of freshwater for the surrounding high-altitude plains and the valleys leading toward the Amazon basin. Scientific studies indicate that the mountain's glaciers are retreating rapidly, mirroring a broader trend across the tropical Andes that threatens long-term water security for local populations.
- Location: Bolivia
- Top sights: Mirador Titisani · Ancohuma · Ch'iyar Qullu
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Sep, Nov.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 |
| Rain mm | 152 | 137 | 98 | 54 | 27 | 19 | 22 | 24 | 29 | 59 | 64 | 123 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The mountain is typically approached from the town of Sorata, which serves as the primary base camp for expeditions into the northern Cordillera Real. Local transport usually connects the town to trailheads higher up the valleys.
Best season
The best time for mountaineering is during the dry season, which generally runs from May to September in the Bolivian Andes, offering clearer skies and more stable weather conditions.
Terrain & paths
Expect highly challenging alpine terrain with extensive glaciation, crevasses, and steep ridges that require advanced technical climbing skills and previous high-altitude experience.
What to bring
Comprehensive mountaineering gear is absolutely essential for this ascent, including ice axes, crampons, ropes, harnesses, and specialized cold-weather clothing rated for extreme altitudes.
Parking
Vehicles are typically left securely in the base town of Sorata before beginning the multi-day trek and climb, as road access ends long before reaching the upper mountain slopes.
Safety
Altitude sickness is a severe risk on this massive peak, making proper acclimatization mandatory. Climbers must also be prepared for unpredictable high-altitude storms and objective glacier hazards.
Time needed
An expedition to summit the mountain typically takes between a week to ten days, depending on weather conditions, the chosen route, and the required acclimatization schedule.
Geography
Facts
- Ancohuma stands at an elevation of 6,427 meters (21,086 feet).
- The first ascent was recorded in 1919 by a German expedition.
- It is the tallest peak in the Cordillera Real mountain range.
- The mountain is situated at coordinates 15.85° S, 68.53° W.
- The glacier system on Ancohuma is vital for local irrigation.
- It is often climbed in combination with the nearby peak of Illampu.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Ancohuma (4)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is Ancohuma higher than Illampu?
Yes, Ancohuma is slightly higher at 6,427 meters.
Do Illampu and Ancohuma belong to the same massif?
Yes, together they form the Illampu-Ancohuma massif.
What is the difficulty level of the climb?
It is considered technically very demanding and prone to avalanches.
Are there glaciers on Ancohuma?
Yes, the mountain is heavily glaciated.
When is the best time for an expedition?
The Bolivian winter from June to August has stable weather.
Ancohuma: where is it located?
Ancohuma is located in Bolivia.
Ancohuma: what is there to see?
Highlights include Mirador Titisani, Ancohuma, Ch'iyar Qullu.
Ancohuma: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Sep, Nov.
Ancohuma: why is it worth visiting?
Ancohuma, also known as Janq'u Uma, is the highest peak in the Cordillera Real and the third highest in Bolivia, reaching an altitude of 6,427 meters.
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History & landmarks
Estación Central Mi Teleférico
The main station of the spectacular cable car network in La Paz, which was formerly the city's old central train station.
Mercado de las Brujas
The fascinating Witches' Market in La Paz is full of traditional remedies, amulets, and spiritual offerings for Pachamama.
Basílica de San Francisco
Exquisite Catholic basilica in La Paz showcasing a unique blend of Baroque and indigenous art.
Obelisco de La Paz
A historic monument in the middle of La Paz's traffic center, serving as an important landmark in the city.
Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Paz
The neoclassical cathedral on Plaza Murillo impresses with its steep stairs and magnificent dome.
Plaza Murillo
The central square of La Paz and the historical heart of Bolivian politics and government.
Mirador Killi Killi
A strategically located viewpoint on a hill that offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of La Paz and Mount Illimani.
Mirador Laikakota
A popular park and viewpoint in the Parque Urbano Central, offering excellent views of the low-lying part of La Paz.
Nature
More places
Illampu
Massive snow-capped peak in the northern Cordillera Real, known for its steep and technical routes.
Bennett Monolith
The largest stone sculpture ever found in Tiwanaku, depicting a high-ranking figure holding ceremonial objects.
Kalasasaya
Rectangular ceremonial courtyard in Tiwanaku designed for tracking the solar calendar.
Ruins of Tiwanaku
Ancient Pre-Columbian archaeological site near Lake Titicaca that served as a powerful spiritual center.
Gate of the Sun
The Gate of the Sun is a monolithic stone archway featuring mysterious and intricate carvings.
Akapana Pyramid
Large stepped pyramid in Tiwanaku that was once a major ceremonial and religious structure.
Puma Punku
Complex within Tiwanaku famous for its massive and incredibly precise megalithic stone blocks.
Chacaltaya
Chacaltaya was once the highest ski resort in the world before its glacier completely melted in 2009.