Join the Ojos del Salado Guided Expedition and take on a journey to the highest volcano on Earth, towering at an astonishing 6,893 meters. Nestled along the Argentina-Chile border, Nevado Ojos del Salado is the second-highest peak outside the Himalayas and part of the prestigious Volcanic Seven Summits, featuring the tallest volcanoes on each continent.
This exhilarating adventure presents a unique setting, as Ojos del Salado rises at the edge of the Atacama Desert. As you near the summit, the ascent becomes steep and rocky, requiring technical gear, which adds an exciting challenge to your climb.
Our Ojos del Salado Guided Expedition guarantees a safe, well-organized, and enjoyable experience at every stage of your adventure, thanks to our Complete Support Team of guides, porters, and camp staff who are always available to assist you, allowing you to focus solely on the mountain. With meticulous attention to detail, our team ensures that no aspect of your journey is overlooked.
Federico is an outdoor lover with plenty of adventures in The Andes. Specialized in the tour logistics and organization of Expeditions and Treks in the Central Andes, Patagonia, Peru, Bolivia, and French Alps.
Join the Ojos del Salado Guided Expedition to ascend the highest volcano on Earth, standing at 6,893 meters and ranked as the second-highest peak outside the Himalayas
Unique Geological Setting
Experience the breathtaking landscape as Ojos del Salado is located on the edge of the Atacama Desert, providing a stunning backdrop and an exciting ascent
Expert Support for a Safe Adventure
Enjoy a well-organized and secure journey with our Complete Support Team, including experienced guides, porters, and camp staff, ensuring that every detail is taken care of
Route details
Day 1
Arrival in Catamarca (1,385m)
Upon your arrival at Catamarca Airport, your expedition guide will welcome you and escort you to your hotel.
This day is dedicated to checking your mountain equipment; if needed, you can rent any additional gear.
You'll be staying at one of the finest hotels in Catamarca. (Meals are not included.)
Day 2
Catamarca to Fiambalá (1,505m)
The group will take a private transfer to the picturesque town of Fiambalá, known for its breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
This day will be dedicated to relaxation after the lengthy journey, as well as a detailed discussion of the upcoming expedition.
Accommodation will be provided in a hotel.
Day 3
Fiambalá to Quemaditos Refuge (3,600m)
Following breakfast, the group will embark on a truck journey covering 131 km from Fiambalá to Refugio Quemaditos, situated near the Cazadores River.
This will be the site of our first camp setup.
Day 4
Quemaditos Refuge to Aguas Calientes Camp (4,165m)
Our first night in the mountains sets the stage for an early start.
We will take on a 7-hour trek to Aguas Calientes Camp, the final location with a dependable water source from the Cazadores River.
Day 5
Aguas Calientes Camp to Aguas de Vicuñas Camp (5,050m)
An early start after breakfast, with a trek toward Aguas de Vicuñas Camp. This day will push us to a higher altitude as we approach the next camp.
Walking time: 7 hours.
Day 6
Aguas de Vicuñas Camp to Arenales Base Camp (5,200m)
The final approach to the mountain begins today.
We will trek to Arenales Base Camp, where the camp will be set up, and you will have time to explore this incredible location.
Walking time: 7 hours.
Day 7
Rest Day at Arenales Base Camp
This day is set aside for rest at Arenales Base Camp, providing the team with an opportunity to acclimatize and get ready for the upcoming stages of the expedition.
Day 8
Acclimatization – Nearby Peaks (up to 6,700m)
We will hike up the nearby hills and peaks around the base camp, reaching altitudes of up to 6,700 meters.
Along the way, we will have views of notable summits including Cerro Tres Cruces (6,700 m), Cerro del Nacimiento (6,493 m), and Incahuasi Volcano (6,698 m).
This acclimatization hike will aid the team in adjusting to the altitude in preparation for the summit attempt.
Day 9
Rest Day at Arenales Base Camp
This day will include final preparations and equipment checks.
The team will rest to conserve energy for the summit push.
Day 10
Arenales Base Camp to High Altitude Camp (5,800m)
The group will leave early for the ascent to the high altitude camp at 5,800m. Once at camp, we will set up and take in the spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.
Walking time: 7 hours.
Day 11
Rest at High Altitude Camp
This day is reserved for rest in preparation for the summit attempt the following day.
Day 12
Summit day (6,864m and Return to High Camp)
The summit attempt starts at dawn, following a clearly marked trail across sandy terrain with inclines between 15º and 40º.
After approximately six hours of hiking, we will arrive at the crater of Ojos del Salado, where we will proceed towards the summit. The final ascent includes a 30-meter climb rated 5.4 (American grade), and ropes will be available for navigating snowfields and the last push to the top.
We will spend about 15 minutes at the summit, which has limited space for around six people, before making our way back to the high camp, with an estimated total walking time of about 12 hours.
Day 13
High Altitude Camp to Arenales Base Camp
After breakfast, we will pack up the camp and descend to Arenales Base Camp, enjoying the last sights of this incredible region.
We will prepare the gear for the mules to transport the following day.
Day 14
Arenales Base Camp to Aguas Calientes Camp
We will put down the camp, have breakfast, and begin the trek down to Aguas Calientes Camp, marking the end of our expedition.
Difficulty
Challenging
Does not require specific skills, but one must be in good health
Tour provider's comments
Level skill: intermediate-high.
Accommodation
Comfort
Basic
Upscale
Tent
11 nights
Hotel
2 nights
You will spend 2 nights in hotels and 11 nights in the camps. Shared expedition equipment (tents, stoves, and all necessary gear) and full board service will be provided.
11 nights
Tents
2 nights
Hotel in Catamarca
Tickets to group meeting place
Group meeting place
Provincia de Catamarca, Departamento Valle Viejo, Catamarca Airport
Calculate tour price with tickets from your city
Partnered with
Weather during the tour
Weather conditions along the route
You will get a weather forecast for this tour’s route based on
the forecasts for this season
the statistics from previous years’ trips
Tour conditions
Included
Transfers: La Rioja / Fiambalá / La Rioja;
Transport of personal equipment by mules and 4×4 vehicles;
Camps: Full board service (all meals provided);
Shared expedition equipment: Tents, stoves, and all necessary gear;
Professional bilingual guides with extensive experience in the region;
Permanent VHF radio communication from all camps;
Emergency services: First aid kits, oxygen for emergencies, and a pulse oximeter to monitor acclimatization progress daily.
Extras
Any expenses incurred from trip abandonment;
Meals, drinks, and expenses not specified in the itinerary;
Personal insurance;
Porters for personal high-altitude equipment;
Personal equipment (e.g., clothing, boots, sleeping bags);
Personal medication;
Costs related to air or ground evacuations;
Internet, phone, and satellite communications or personal items;
Liability insurance;
Costs related to hospitalization or medication;
Any other services not mentioned in the included services.
Group size
From 2 to 8 tourists
Duration
14 days
13 nights
It's important to know
Personal equipment you need for the tour
UPPER BODY
Synthetic T-Shirt: Breathable material, to keep you fresh and dry.
2 Long-sleeved Base Layer: Lightweight and breathable shirts that keep your body dry and comfortable during the trek, and protected from the sun.
Fleece Jacket or Sweater: Provides additional warmth during cold mornings and evenings.
Waterproof or Windproof Jacket: Essential for protection against rain and wind. It should be lightweight, breathable, and durable. Preferably with a hood.
Insulated Jacket (Synthetic or Down): Offers an extra insulation layer, ideal for low temperatures at high altitudes. Preferably hooded.
1 Pair of Lightweight Gloves and 1 pair of warm/fleece gloves: For Keeping hands warm in cold conditions. Opt for breathable and moisture-wicking materials.
LOWER BODY
Trekking Pants: Comfortable and durable pants that allow freedom of movement. Quick-drying with multiple pockets.
Long Underwear or Tights: Additional layers that provide warmth under trekking pants.
FOOTWEAR
Trekking Boots: Sturdy and durable footwear with good ankle support, ideal for long walks on uneven terrain.
Thick Socks (2 pairs): Warm and cushioned socks to keep your feet warm and prevent blisters.
HEAD
Sun Hat: Vital for protection against the sun’s harmful rays. Choose one with a wide brim and UPF protection.
Wool or Fleece Hat: To keep your head warm in cold conditions. Opt for breathable and moisture-wicking materials.
Sunglasses with 100% UV Protection: Protect your eyes from UV rays and glare, essential at high altitudes. Preferably, with a wraparound design to minimize light entering from the sides.
Neck gaiter or buff: Multifunctional, protects your neck and face from cold, wind, and sun.
OTHER
2 Liter Water Bottle: Essential for staying hydrated. Choose a durable bottle with a wide mouth for easy filling.
35 – 45 Liter Backpack: This spacious and comfortable backpack is ideal for carrying all the necessary gear for a day of trekking.
45 – 70 Liter Duffle bag: This is a super-tough expedition duffel to protect the gear and clothes the mules will haul to the camps.
Headlamp with extra batteries: Hands-free light source for use at camp or in low-light situations.
Comfortable Sleeping Bag (Comfort -5°C): A sleeping bag provides comfort and warmth during cold nights in the mountains.
Sleeping Pad: Adds insulation and comfort for sleeping on hard and cold ground.
Comfortable Camp Clothes (sneakers, socks, cotton shirt, etc.): Comfortable clothes to wear after the trekking.
Sunscreen (recommended SPF 50+): Essential protection against UV rays at high altitudes.
Personal Hygiene Items (towel, soap, etc.): Basic personal hygiene items to stay clean and fresh during the trip.
Personal first-aid kit: bring any prescribed personal medications. Include eye drops in case you are sensitive or allergic to dust.
Swimming suit.
Personal ID or passport
USB power bank suggested
US$ 30 in Chilean pesos (for any small expense arising as drinks or snacks).
What kind of gear should I bring?
For a comprehensive list of equipment, please refer to the Equipment section. If you need to rent any piece of equipment, we’re here to assist you. Don’t hesitate to ask us!
What is the meeting point?
Upon arrival at Catamarca Airport, your expedition guide will greet and take you to your hotel.
Cancellation of booking
In case of early cancellation of the reservation, we will be forced to withhold from you a percentage of the price paid:
regardless of when the cancellation was made - 30
less than 48 hours - 100
Additional terms:
You will be charged 30% of the cost of the expedition, regardless of when the cancellation was made. Refunds will be transferred to the traveler within 30 days after the cancellation date.
Cancellations made with less than 48 hours’ notice before the activity will not be refunded.
Reviews
5.0
Based on 8 reviews
Dates and Prices
The tour dates are not confirmed yet. Please, send a request for clarification
