HikeMetrics
Global Hiking Index
HikeMetrics
Global Hiking Index
HikeMetrics // Comparison Engine
Route A

Cordillera Apolobamba Traverse

bolivia/lapaz-department-northern-andes
VS
Route B

GR R2 — La Grande Traversée

france/reunion-island

Cordillera Apolobamba Traverse vs GR R2 — La Grande Traversée: Intensity Score Comparison

Both routes share a similar overall intensity (79 vs 76). Depending on personal strengths, the challenge relies more on GR R2 — La Grande Traversée's technicality versus the physical output of the other.

Model-based (not a field report) · Evaluates overall route demand, not danger.

Intensity Difference
+3 Cordillera Apolobamba Traverse is harder
Higher Physical Load
Cordillera Apolobamba Traverse
Higher Technical Seriousness
GR R2 — La Grande Traversée
Greater Commitment
Cordillera Apolobamba Traverse
Overall HikeMetrics Score
Cordillera Apolobamba Traversewins 6 of 9 metrics
6
Route A
3
Route B
bolivia/lapaz-department-northern-andes

Cordillera Apolobamba Traverse

EXTREME // LETHAL
Full Route Report

The Apolobamba Traverse is a remote, high-altitude backpacking route in the northern Bolivian Andes. Spanning approximately 92km between the villages of Pelechuco and Curva, the trek crosses the ancestral territory of the Kallawaya people—traditional herbalists recognized by UNESCO. The route follows ancient stone paths and animal trails, staying almost exclusively above 4,200m. It traverses several high passes, including the 5,100m Sunchuli Pass, offering direct views of the 6,000m peaks of the northern Apolobamba range. Due to its distance from major cities, it remains one of the least-trafficked and most preserved regions of the Bolivian Andes.

france/reunion-island

GR R2 — La Grande Traversée

EXTREME // LETHAL
Full Route Report

The GR R2 is a legendary long-distance trail that traverses the French island of Réunion in the Indian Ocean from north to south. It is widely considered one of the most physically demanding GR trails in the French network due to its extreme verticality and tropical environment. The route crosses the three massive 'Cirques' (natural amphitheaters), climbs the highest peak in the Indian Ocean (Piton des Neiges, 3070m), and borders the active volcanic zone of Piton de la Fournaise.

Head-to-Head Metric Analysis

Intensity ScoreHigher Overall Demand
79 WINNER
76
Physical LoadMore Physically Taxing
82 WINNER
77
Technical SeriousnessMore Technically Demanding
45
WINNER67
DistanceLonger route
92 km
WINNER140 km
Elevation GainMore vertical
3,200 m
WINNER10,000 m
Highest PointHigher summit
5,100 m WINNER
3,070 m
DurationShorter commitment
7 days WINNER
12 days
Hazard Level
EXTREME // LETHAL
EXTREME // LETHAL
Crowd LevelLess crowded
1 / 5 WINNER
3 / 5
RemotenessMore remote
5 / 5 WINNER
4 / 5

HikeMetrics Hazard Scale — Explanation

1
LOW // ACCESS
2
STANDARD // RT
3
MODERATE // CHLG
4
EXPERT // HAZARD
5
EXTREME // LETHAL

The HikeMetrics Hazard Scale is a proprietary 5-point classification system that evaluates hiking routes across five dimensions: physical demand, technical complexity, altitude exposure, weather risk, and rescue accessibility.

Unlike generic star ratings, the Hazard Scale is calibrated against altitude profiles, elevation gain per day, and logistical isolation factors — making it the most precise route classification system available.

Full Scale Documentation
Route A // Hazard Verdict
Cordillera Apolobamba Traverse
EXTREME // LETHAL
extreme isolation and logistical collapse: Access to Pelechuco requires a 12-hour journey on dangerous mountain roads. Once on the trail, there is zero medical support or communication for 100km.
rapid high altitude weather deterioration: Being on the edge of the Amazon basin, the Apolobamba receives sudden, sustained snowstorms even in the dry season.
Route B // Hazard Verdict
GR R2 — La Grande Traversée
EXTREME // LETHAL
verticality: The trail features relentless, steep climbs and descents on slippery volcanic rock.
cyclones: During the wet season (Jan-March), the island is prone to tropical cyclones and landslides.

Required Gear Comparison

Cordillera Apolobamba Traverse
Technical mountain tent (4-season)Sleeping bag rated to -15C or lowerSturdy mountain boots (waterproof/Gor-Tex)Satellite communication device (InReach/BivyStick)Layered alpine clothing including down parkaUV protective glasses and face buffWater purification system for stream water
GR R2 — La Grande Traversée
High-altitude mountain layers (Piton des Neiges is freezing at night)Trekking Poles (Essential)Water purification (though tap water in gites is usually safe)Dry bags for all gear (Tropical rain is intense)Lightweight sleeping bag liner for gites

Compare with Other Routes

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argentina
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argentina
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EXTREME // LETHAL
austria
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EXTREME // LETHAL
australia
Larapinta Trail
EXTREME // LETHAL
belize
Victoria Peak Trail
EXTREME // LETHAL