La Paz: Mountain Chacaltaya and Moon Valley Guided Day Tour

Bolivia



Enjoy a guided hike to Chacaltaya, reaching an altitude of 5400m. The vehicle arrives at approximately 5300m. Enjoy spectacular views of the Andes and Valle de Luna at 3200 m. with aeolian formations.

Overview

This guided hike explores the Andes near La Paz, Bolivia, reaching altitudes up to 5,400 meters and visiting diverse ecosystems at Chacaltaya and the Valley of the Moon.

Highlights

  • Hike in the Andes mountain range up to 5,400 meters
  • Observe ecosystem changes in the Valley of the Moon
  • Tour through various social areas of La Paz
  • Visit Chacaltaya Mountain and Moon Valley

Description

The tour begins between 8:00 and 9:15 a.m. with hotel pickup from downtown La Paz. Travel 27 km to Chacaltaya, a former ski area at 5,400 meters altitude, offering panoramic views of the Andes, La Paz, Lake Titicaca, and the Bolivian highlands. Along the way, you may see llamas, alpacas, birds, and viscachas.

The hike starts at 5,300 meters, where the minivan drops you off if the road is accessible. You then ascend to the 5,400-meter peak. The hike is relatively easy when snow is light, but altitude can make it challenging. Participants may return to the vehicle at any time if needed.

After Chacaltaya, the group drives approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to the Valley of the Moon, located 39 km away at 3,200 meters. This area features eroded clay formations resembling obelisks and occasional sightings of local wildlife like viscachas. The landscape resembles a lunar terrain due to the aeolian erosion.

The tour concludes with a return to downtown La Paz around 3:30 p.m., with drop-off near San Francisco Church.

Includes

  • Hotel pickup (downtown La Paz only)
  • Professional guide
  • Transportation throughout the tour
  • Drop-off near San Francisco Church

Excludes

  • Snacks
  • Entrance fee (Bs 55)
  • Gratuities

Important Information

  • All passengers travel by minivan up to 5,300 meters if the road is accessible
  • If you experience vertigo or discomfort at heights, notify the guide for assistance
  • You can choose to ascend to the peak or remain at the base if tired
  • The drive from Chacaltaya to the Valley of the Moon is approximately 1.5 hours
  • Mountain weather is changeable; bring warm, layered clothing suitable for winter conditions

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Booking Advice

Book in the morning to maximize daylight hours. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring water, sun protection, and layered clothing to handle altitude and temperature changes.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour includes hotel pickup, a guided hike to Chacaltaya mountain at 5,400 meters, and a visit to the Valley of the Moon near La Paz, Bolivia.
Chacaltaya mountain reaches an altitude of 5,400 meters on this Andes hike near La Paz, Bolivia.
Yes, the Valley of the Moon near La Paz features unique eroded landscapes representing changing ecosystems.
The tour starts between 8:00 and 9:15 a.m. with pickup from downtown La Paz; check the website for exact hours.
The hike is suited for active travelers but requires good fitness due to high altitude and steep terrain in Bolivia's Andes.
Transportation is provided as part of the tour, covering the 27 km drive from downtown La Paz to Chacaltaya and onward to the Valley of the Moon.
The tour passes through diverse social zones of La Paz, offering insight into local culture and city life in Bolivia.
It is recommended to bring warm clothing, sturdy hiking shoes, sun protection, and water due to high altitude and variable weather near La Paz.
The Valley of the Moon is located a short drive from downtown La Paz, Bolivia, making it accessible on this guided day tour.

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