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

Cordillera Apolobamba Traverse

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

Le GR20

france/Corsica

Cordillera Apolobamba Traverse vs Le GR20: Intensity Score Comparison

Le GR20 is unequivocally more demanding overall (+14 points). While Cordillera Apolobamba Traverse is a serious endeavor, Le GR20 pushes the limits further, particularly regarding technical seriousness and exposure.

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

Intensity Difference
+14 Le GR20 is harder
Higher Physical Load
Cordillera Apolobamba Traverse
Higher Technical Seriousness
Le GR20
Greater Commitment
Cordillera Apolobamba Traverse
Overall HikeMetrics Score
Cordillera Apolobamba Traversewins 5 of 9 metrics
5
Route A
4
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/Corsica

Le GR20

EXTREME // LETHAL
Full Route Report

The GR20 is widely regarded as the most demanding long-distance trail in Europe. Stretching 180km along the jagged mountain spine of Corsica, it is a high-altitude odyssey between Calenzana in the north and Conca in the south. The route sits on the boundary between strenuous trekking and non-technical alpine scrambling, characterized by steep granite ridges, exposed chains, and the legendary Mediterranean sun. It requires not just physical endurance but a high degree of comfort with rocky, uneven terrain. Note: Compiled from public sources — not a field report.

Head-to-Head Metric Analysis

Intensity ScoreHigher Overall Demand
79
WINNER93
Physical LoadMore Physically Taxing
82 WINNER
75
Technical SeriousnessMore Technically Demanding
45
WINNER95
DistanceLonger route
92 km
WINNER180 km
Elevation GainMore vertical
3,200 m
WINNER12,000 m
Highest PointHigher summit
5,100 m WINNER
2,604 m
DurationShorter commitment
7 days WINNER
15 days
Hazard Level
EXTREME // LETHAL
EXTREME // LETHAL
Crowd LevelLess crowded
1 / 5 WINNER
5 / 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
Le GR20
EXTREME // LETHAL
extreme summer heat and storms: Corsica in July and August is punishingly hot, yet the high mountains generate sudden, sustained afternoon thunderstorms with frequent lightning.
technical granite scrambling: The northern stages (especially around the Monte Cinto bypass) feature highly exposed scrambling on bare rock that becomes remarkably slick when wet.

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
Le GR20
Premium mountain boots with sticky Vibram soles designed for scramblingLightweight, extreme breathability clothing (temperatures can exceed 35°C in the valleys)Water filter or purification tablets (refuges have spring water, but filtration is highly recommended)A lightweight, low-volume sleeping bag (for staying in the mandatory PNRC refuges or provided tents)Trekking poles (essential for saving your knees on the strenuous descents)

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austria
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australia
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