What should you look for when choosing insurance? (Mountaineer’s Checklist)
To avoid surprises on the mountain, ensure your policy includes these 4 key coverage areas:
1. Altitude Limit (Up to 6,500 m): Check the "fine print." You need a plan or an "extreme sports" rider that covers altitudes of at least 6,500 meters.
2. Mountain Search and Rescue: Includes transport from base camps and rescue operations in rugged terrain.
3. Use of Technical Equipment: The policy must allow for the use of crampons and ice axes, as well as roped travel on glaciers.
4. Medical Evacuation and Repatriation: Must cover transport from the mountain to specialized clinics in La Paz or back to your home country.
Insurance Companies Recommended by Our Guides
We have compiled the options most frequently used and trusted by the international engineers and mountaineers who visit us each season:
Global Rescue
Pure rescue and evacuation.
There is no altitude limit, and its medical response team operates 24/7.
Ripcord Rescue Travel
Comprehensive expedition coverage.
Designed by and for mountaineers, it covers both emergencies and mountaineering equipment.
World Trips (Atlas Travel)
Flexible health options.
Allows you to customize the coverage level and include international medical expenses.
Alpine Clubs (ÖAV / DAV)
Mountain club members.
Clubs such as the Austrian Alpenverein include rescue insurance in their annual membership.
Friendly Advice Before Hiring
Take 10 minutes to call or write to your insurance company before paying. Ask them directly: "Does my policy cover me if I have an accident at 6,000 meters while using ropes and ice axes in Bolivia?" If the answer is a written "Yes," you’ll be ready for the adventure.
If you have any questions about whether your current policy is valid for the itinerary you wish to undertake with us, please write to us, and we will be happy to help you review it.
How do rescues work in Bolivia? Meet the Bolivian Andean Rescue (SAB).
Unlike the Alps or the Rockies, the Bolivian Andes lack a state-run, public helicopter mountain rescue service on permanent standby.
In the event of an emergency on peaks such as Illimani or Huayna Potosí—or any mountain in the Cordillera Real or Cordillera Occidental (volcanic zone)—specialized technical response is handled by the *Socorro Andino Boliviano* (SAB).
Who are they?
The *Socorro Andino Boliviano* is an elite volunteer rescue corps composed of trained high-altitude guides (many of whom are UIAGM/AGMTB certified), firefighters, and rescuers specializing in glacial and rocky terrain.
Why is insurance vital to activate the SAB?
* Deployment and Logistics: A rescue operation at altitudes exceeding 5,000 meters requires the mobilization of 4x4 vehicles, communication logistics, porters, emergency oxygen, and experienced guides.
* Operational Costs: Although SAB rescuers are dedicated volunteers, the operation's logistics and supplies incur significant costs that must be covered immediately by the client's insurance provider or their international insurance policy.
* Medical Evacuation: Once the SAB evacuates the patient to the road or base camp, ambulance transport to medical centers in La Paz is coordinated.
