Global Expeditions South America

Ojos del Salado Expedition

Climb the world’s highest volcano in less than two weeks!

13 Days $7,400

Climb the world’s highest volcano in less than two weeks! Our Ojos del Salado Expedition blends efficient acclimatization, intimate knowledge of the Atacama region, and world-class guidance from Benegas Brothers Expeditions.

Enjoy a deep immersion into Andean culture, explore high-desert landscapes, soak in hot springs, and summit one of the most iconic 6,000-meter peaks on Earth.

Ojos del Salado (22,572 ft / 6,893 m) stands as Chile’s highest peak and the tallest volcano in the world. Located northeast of Copiapó near the Argentine border, it rises above a vast high-altitude plateau filled with shimmering salt flats, turquoise lakes, and dramatic volcanoes.
Surrounded by giants such as Nevado Tres Cruces (18,222 ft / 6,749 m) and Cerro Incahuasi (24,498 ft / 6,621 m), Ojos dominates a mountain chain boasting more than a dozen 6,000-meter peaks.

Before the climb, we acclimatize with day hikes in the Atacama Desert, visits to saltwater lakes, and relaxing hot springs at Laguna Verde (14,765 ft).

Our ascent begins with 4×4 support to 17,000 ft, followed by a high-camp strategy that maximizes acclimatization and summit success.

Meet at Copiapó Airport and transfer to our hotel (Atacama Suites or similar). Team briefing and equipment check.

Travel up the Copiapó Valley to Valle Chico (10,000 ft). Set up camp and enjoy our first expedition dinner.

Morning hike to fossil-rich terrain, lunch, then 4×4 transfer to Laguna Santa Rosa (12,540 ft). Camp beside the beautiful lake and archaeological ruins.

A 4-hour ascent of Siete Hermanos (16,170 ft). Return to Santa Rosa camp.

Continue to Laguna Verde (14,240 ft)—a turquoise lake surrounded by 20,000 ft peaks. Campsite with hot springs and excellent acclimatization terrain.

Alpine start and full-day ascent of this beautiful border peak. Return to Laguna Verde.

Hydrate, recover, and prepare for the move to Ojos Base Camp. The guide may adjust this day based on weather conditions.

Off-road approach to Atacama Hut. Establish Base Camp.

Carry gear and food to Tejos Hut, cache supplies, and return to Base Camp.

Move to Tejos Hut for summit staging. Hydrate, eat, and rest.

Alpine start between 3–5 a.m.
8–9 hour summit push with scree slopes, snow patches, and an easy scramble near the top.
Descend to Camp 1 or Base Camp depending on conditions.

Pack camp, drive back to Copiapó, and return to the hotel.

Transfer to Copiapó Airport, fly to Santiago, and begin your journey home.

ARE YOU READY FOR THIS EXPEDITION?

TECHNICAL EXPERIENCE

Climbers must have previous experience at 18,000 ft / 5,500 m.
Our Ecuador, Peru, and Kilimanjaro programs offer excellent preparation.

ALTITUDE EXPERIENCE

You must be comfortable moving, sleeping, and performing at high altitude. Ojos del Salado pushes the limits of non-technical high-altitude climbing.

FITNESS

Excellent fitness is essential. Expect long high-altitude days, cold conditions, and sustained effort.
A structured training program is highly recommended—contact us for guidance.


EEXPERIENCE WITH BENEGAS BROTHERS’ CERTIFIED GUIDES

Our Ojos del Salado expeditions are guided by IFMGA/AMGA-certified mountain guides, offering the highest level of professional training in the world.
With a small 4:1 climber-to-guide ratio and exceptional logistics, you receive unmatched safety, support, and personal attention.


TRIP COST INCLUDES

Your land costs include:

Hotels & Lodging
  • 2 hotel nights in Copiapó (4-star accommodations)
  • All camping accommodations throughout the expedition
Food & Hydration
  • All expedition meals from Day 2 lunch through Day 12 lunch
  • Freshly prepared meals, snacks, hydration supplies at all camps
Guiding & Logistics
  • IFMGA/AMGA-certified lead guide
  • 4:1 climber-to-guide ratio
  • Professional local support staff
  • All 4×4 ground transportation
  • Camp setup, cooking equipment, and dining tents
  • Group climbing equipment (ropes, anchors, safety equipment)
Permits & Fees
  • All climbing, access, and park permits
  • All hut fees (Atacama & Tejos huts)
Safety & Communication
  • Expedition communication systems (radio, satellite device)
  • First aid and emergency response planning

TRIP COST DOES NOT INCLUDE

  • International airfare to/from Santiago
  • Domestic flight Santiago → Copiapó → Santiago
  • Meals in Santiago or Copiapó outside the program
  • Personal climbing equipment (boots, harness, crampons, etc.)
  • Personal medical or evacuation insurance (mandatory)
  • Tips for guides and support staff
  • Extra hotels, meals, or costs due to delays/weather
  • Excess luggage fees
  • Alcoholic beverages
Do I need previous high-altitude climbing experience?

Yes. You must have climbed to at least 18,000 ft / 5,500 m before attempting Ojos del Salado. This is critical for safety and success.

How technical is the climb?

Ojos del Salado is considered a non-technical high-altitude ascent.
The route involves scree slopes, occasional snow, and a short final scramble where we use a rope for safety.

How cold does it get?

Temperatures can drop below -15°C (5°F) at high camp, with wind. Proper gear is essential.

What is the guide-to-client ratio?

A maximum of 4 climbers per IFMGA guide, ensuring personalized attention and safety.

Will altitude medication be necessary?

Many climbers use Diamox, but it is optional. Always consult your personal physician.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Weather windows are considered carefully. The guide may shift the program using the built-in rest/acclimatization day.

Is emergency evacuation insurance required?

Yes. High-altitude evacuation coverage is mandatory for this expedition.

Are porters used?

No porters are used on Ojos del Salado. We utilize 4×4 vehicle support, and climbers carry their personal gear and a portion of the group’s gear on carry/move days.

Book Trip
Location:
Chile
Duration:
13 Days
Skill:
Intermediate
Dates:

February 8 – Friday, February 20, 2026

February 22 – Friday, March 6, 2026

Pricing

Pricing is a typical estimate, final quote will be provided after receiving your inquiry.