ALA IZQUIERDA (LEFT WING) CONDORIRI 5.532 M.
A Stunning Alpine Face Hidden in the Shadows
The Left Wing (Ala Izquierda) is situated immediately west of the iconic Cabeza de Cóndor (Condor’s Head).
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Tour Summary
Just north of the Chiar Khota lagoon rises one of the most spectacular mountain groups in the entire Cordillera Real: the Condoriri massif—a majestic cluster of three peaks resembling a soaring condor.
The most famous of these summits is the central peak, popularly known as Cabeza de Cóndor (Condor's Head). Flanking it are two incredible peaks simply named the Left Wing (Ala Izquierda) and the Right Wing (Ala Derecha).
The Left Wing is a striking pyramid of snow, rock, and ice. While it is frequently overshadowed by its famous neighbor, it offers world-class alpine climbing. Although you cannot fully appreciate the sheer scale of the mountain from base camp, standing at the foot of its impressive 450-meter (1,476 ft) south face is a truly breathtaking experience that will leave you in awe.
DID YOU KNOW?
The standard route ascends via the West Ridge, but the technical and highly aesthetic routes right up the center of the South Face wall offer a world-class challenge. Establishing a high camp is strongly recommended to ensure you are 100% rested and energized for the summit push.
Want to extend your adventure? You can easily combine this climb with other classic peaks in the area, such as Cabeza de Cóndor, Pequeño Alpamayo, or Pirámide Blanca. Contact us to build your custom itinerary.
Day 1/ LA PAZ - BASE CAMP (LAGUNA CHIAR KHOTA)
We leave La Paz and drive for 2.5hrs to La Rinconada (4530m) where we load our equipment onto donkeys. We then hike for an hour to Laguna Chiar Khota (4620m), our basecamp. We have the choice of sleeping in tents or in the Fisherman’s house, a small mountain refuge at the edge of the lake. Depending on how you feel you can either rest or explore the surrounding area to help with your acclimatisation.
Day 2/ BASE CAMP - HIGH CAMP
Following a hearty breakfast, we pack our climbing gear and begin a 3-hour trek across rugged moraine and rocky terrain bordering the glacier. We establish our high camp right at the glacier's edge (5,120 m / 16,797 ft) and settle into our tents to rest up for the big day.
(Note: High camp is optional. Climbers in exceptional physical condition can choose to push for the summit directly from base camp.)
Day 3/ SUMMIT DAY(LEFT WING) & RETURN TO LA PAZ
Our summit push begins around 4:00 AM after a light alpine breakfast. If we take the standard West Ridge route, the ascent takes 3 to 4 hours. Opting for the more technical South Face route requires 5 to 6 hours of sustained, thrilling climbing. After celebrating on the summit, we descend via the standard route back to high camp. Following a brief rest and a warm drink, we pack up camp and continue down to La Rinconada, where our private transport waits to take us back to La Paz.
Certified bilingual Bolivian Mountain Guide (English/Spanish).
Private round-trip transport from La Paz.
All meals and hot drinks during the expedition.
Mules and porters to transport group gear and personal duffel bags.
High-quality 4-season tents (The North Face or similar).
Group dining tent with tables, chairs, and full kitchen setup.
National Park entrance fees and permits.
Technical Group Gear: Ropes, pickets, ice screws, and safety equipment.
Personal Mountain Gear Rental: Helmet, ice axe, climbing harness, gaiters, and professional double mountaineering boots.
Please take with you:
Packs: 35L-40L daypack (for summit day) and a durable duffel bag or large backpack (for the mules).
Sleeping Gear: 4-season sleeping bag (rated to at least -10°C / 14°F).
Footwear: Comfortable trekking boots or approach shoes for Day 1 and Day 3.
Layering System: Moisture-wicking thermal base layers (wool or synthetic), fleece mid-layer, and heavy down jacket for camp/summit morning.
Outerwear: Waterproof/windproof hardshell jacket and pants (Gore-Tex or similar).
Hands & Feet: Heavy waterproof mountaineering gloves, liner gloves, and thick wool hiking socks.
Sun Protection: Category 3 or 4 glacier glasses (UV protection), sunscreen, and lip balm.
Hydration: Durable water bottle (like a Nalgene) or insulated flask (hydration bladder hoses freeze easily).
Tour details:
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