Great Peaks of Bolivia Guides

About Our Guide

Rachel Molstad is one of Alpine Ascents’ most accomplished international mountain guides and the lead guide for our Bolivia expeditions. Rachel has spent years guiding and climbing throughout the Andes and around the world, earning a reputation for her calm leadership, exceptional technical skills, and unwavering commitment to climber  success.

Rachel’s extensive experience on Bolivia’s spectacular peaks—including Huayna Potosí, Pequeno Alpamayo, Illimani, and Sajama—allows her to expertly manage the unique challenges of high-altitude climbing while creating an environment where climbers feel supported, confident, and inspired. Her thoughtful coaching, attention to detail, and ability to adapt to changing mountain conditions make her an outstanding leader for both experienced mountaineers and those taking on their first major Andean expedition.

Supporting Rachel is an exceptional team of long-standing local Bolivian guides, drivers, cooks, and logistics staff who have worked together for years to deliver seamless expeditions. Their deep knowledge of the mountains, culture, and local conditions—combined with Rachel’s leadership and Alpine Ascents’ guiding philosophy—creates a world-class team dedicated to providing a safe, rewarding, and unforgettable experience.

Whether introducing climbers to the rich culture of Bolivia or leading a summit push high above the Altiplano, Rachel and her trusted local team embody the professionalism, sound judgment, and passion for the mountains that have defined Alpine Ascents for more than 40 years.

Rachel Molstad

Senior Guide: Washington, Alaska, International

Rachel grew up in Oregon and attended college in her home state, earning a degree in International Relations before beginning a series of explorations of many regions of the world, living in several different countries from Asia to Europe. Since 2013 she has made La Paz, Bolivia her home base after discovering a love of exploring the region’s remote glaciated peaks and granite walls. She has been guiding full time since 2014 across various regions of the world including Bolivia, Aconcagua, Denali, Kilimanjaro, and the Pacific Northwest of the US. Rachel has extensive experience in high altitude and international expeditions and has guided climbers to 6000 meter plus summits on over 200 occasions. She has completed numerous female first ascents of technical routes on the highest peaks of the Bolivian Andes, along with a few first ascent routes on lesser explored peaks. Her fluent Spanish language skills are an asset...

Meet Rachel Molstad