Wila Ch'ankha

Wila Ch'ankha is a mountain summit in Poopó Province that rises to 4,701 meters above sea level with steep slopes carved into the Andean landscape. The exposed rock formations display reddish hues that make the mountain visually distinctive.

The mountain has served for centuries as a geographical reference point for communities in the Oruro Department. Indigenous peoples used it as a natural boundary marker for their territorial lands.

The name Wila Ch'ankha comes from the Aymara language and means 'red cord', referring to the reddish rock formations that give the mountain its distinctive appearance.

The best climbing season is from May through October when weather conditions are most favorable. The nearby town of Poopó serves as the starting point for accessing the mountain.

From the summit you can see Lake Poopó and Iswaya Island spread across the landscape below, while the Desaguadero River flows through the valleys beneath. These views bring together the region's main water features in a single panorama.

GPS coordinates: -18.40007,-66.93335

Latest update: December 14, 2025 20:29