Chile Destinations : Ojos del Salado Volcano

Ojos del Salado Volcano is not only the highest peak of the Chilean Andes: 22,600 feet (6,893 meters) above sea level, but it is also the highest active volcano on earth, presenting a challenge to mountain climbers. It has two shelters, the first is located at 16,830 feet (5,100 mt) and the second at 18,975 feet (5,750 mt), making this difficult ascent a little easier for adventurers.

Despite there are fumaroles on its peak, there have not been eruptions in recent times. It has been suggested that the lack of eruption records is due to the remoteness and inaccessibility of the mountain, virtually impossible to reach until not long ago.

The ascension is relatively easy, except for the final stretch, where the use of strings and climbing gear is compulsory.

Useful Information

Location
Atacama Region, 245 km (153 mi) northeast of Copiapó.

When to go
Between October and May.

How to get there
From Santiago to Copiapó by airplane or by land. From this city take the route towards the San Francisco frontier complex. On this route you will find various places where you can observe the volcano.
To climb this mountain, it is recommended to hire a guide or an agency that carries out the excursion, considering the complexity of approximation to the volcano and its ascent or rise.

Attractions
View Nevado Tres Cruces National Park.

Activities
Mountaineering
Trekking
Mountain biking

Services
None.