Uturuncu

Also known as: Jaguar

Height: 6,008 m
Country:
Bolivia flagBolivia

Uturuncu, standing at approximately 6,008 meters (19,711 feet), is an extinct stratovolcano in Bolivia’s Sud Lípez Province, near the southern border with Chile. Known for being one of the more accessible 6,000-meter peaks, Uturuncu is often sought by climbers looking for a high-altitude experience that doesn’t involve extensive technical skills.

The climb begins from the small town of Quetena Chico, with a well-established route that allows for a relatively direct ascent. A rugged road leads up to around 5,500 meters, making Uturuncu an appealing option for those seeking to reach high altitudes quickly. From there, climbers face a moderate hike up volcanic scree and rubble, with the summit offering panoramic views over the surreal landscape of the Altiplano, including salt flats, colorful lagoons, and vast desert plains.

While the climb itself is considered straightforward, the altitude is the main challenge, requiring proper acclimatization. The high altitude and the barren, otherworldly scenery make Uturuncu a memorable climb without the need for technical mountaineering skills. It’s a great option for those interested in Bolivia’s volcanic peaks and a stepping stone for higher and more technical mountains in the Andes. Despite its ease of access, Uturuncu offers a true Andean adventure with breathtaking high-altitude vistas.

Prepare for an adventure climbing Uturuncu. This overview provides essential details on routes, difficulty, costs, and the best times to go, helping you plan a successful expedition.

Difficulty

  • F: Easy (alpine grade 1)

Guide links

These guides offer organised mountaineering expeditions for Uturuncu. From here you can check each guides profile, or browse directly to their website to see the trip. You can separately view the guides directory to browse all guides in one place.
Below is a curated list of independent mountain guides offering expeditions for Uturuncu. Each guide provides their own experience, allowing climbers to select the approach that best suits their style, budget, and experience level. You can explore each guide’s dedicated trip page to review what they offer, from logistics and support to pricing details, with no additional influence from us.
GuideInfoCost
Inca Land Toursview guides trip webpage from $580
Grupo Alpamayo Tours logoGrupo Alpamayo Toursview guides trip webpage from $1,950
View the summit location and surrounding terrain to get a sense of the mountain's environment. This map offers a valuable perspective on the peak's position within the region, aiding climbers in visualizing their route and nearby landmarks.
What you can see from the summit of Uturuncu. Click and pan around the map to explore, and zoom in/out to see the names of neighbouring mountains.

Uturuncu Links

useful websites, Groups and communities

Groups / links with more info on the Uturuncu route.

These climbs are similar in length, difficulty, and elevation. Offering a similar level of challenge as the Uturuncu climb.

climm Sajama
Sajama
 PD
Bolivia
$510
 6,550 m
climm Parinacota
Parinacota
 F
ChileBolivia
$580
 6,342 m
climm Pomerape
Pomerape
 F
ChileBolivia
$625
 6,282 m