Illimani facts for kids

Illimani is a giant mountain in Bolivia. It stands tall in the Andes mountain range. This amazing peak is about 6,438 metres (21,122 ft) high! That makes it one of the tallest mountains in Bolivia. It is also the 17th highest mountain in the entire Andes.

Illimani is very special to the people of La Paz, Bolivia's capital city. It watches over the city like a guardian. Many people see it as a symbol of their home.

Where is Illimani?

Illimani is located in the western part of Bolivia. It is part of the Cordillera Real mountain range. This range is a section of the larger Andes mountains. The mountain is very close to the city of La Paz. You can see its snowy peaks from many places in the city.

How Tall is Illimani?

Illimani has three main peaks. The highest one is called Pico Sur. It reaches an incredible 6,438 metres (21,122 ft) above sea level. This makes it the second highest mountain in Bolivia. Only Sajama is taller. Illimani's massive size and snowy top make it easy to spot. It truly stands out in the landscape.

Why is Illimani Important?

Illimani is more than just a tall mountain. It is important for several reasons:

• A Symbol of La Paz: For many years, Illimani has been a symbol of the city of La Paz. It appears on many local flags and emblems.
• Water Source: The glaciers on Illimani are a source of fresh water. This water melts and flows down to local communities.
• Cultural Significance: Local people have many stories and legends about Illimani. It is a sacred place for some.

Can You Climb Illimani?

Climbing Illimani is a big challenge. It is considered a difficult climb. Only experienced mountain climbers should try to reach its summit. The climb involves crossing glaciers and dealing with high altitudes. Despite the difficulty, many climbers dream of standing on top of Illimani. They want to see the amazing views from its peak.

Illimani's Glaciers

Illimani is covered in large glaciers. These are huge bodies of ice that move very slowly. The glaciers on Illimani are important. They store a lot of water. However, like many glaciers around the world, they are slowly shrinking. Scientists study these glaciers to understand climate change.

Images for kids

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  Illimani has become a symbol of La Paz, Bolivia's seat of government.

See also

In Spanish: Illimani para niños