Adventure to the Ojos del Salado Volcano
Updated on 25 de September, 2025
2-day expedition to the giant of the Andes
2 DAYS
DISTANCIA
500 km
CANTIDAD DE DÍAS
2 days
DESTINOS
TEMPORADA RECOMENDADA
ATRACTIVOS
ACTIVIDADES
Inicio del itinerario
Atractivos incluidos en este día
Day 1
Acclimatization and hot springs in Laguna Verde
The expedition begins in Copiapó, from where you will embark on a 5-hour journey in a 4×4 vehicle, ascending through the mountains towards the base camp of Ojos del Salado. Your first stop will be Laguna Verde, an incredible turquoise-colored salt lake located 4,350 meters above sea level.
The goal of this afternoon is acclimatization. And the best way to do it is to relax in the hot springs that are on the shore of the lagoon. Immerse yourself in its warm waters while observing the impressive Altiplano landscape, in a unique experience that helps the body adapt to the altitude.
At sunset, take a gentle walk around the lagoon, without overexerting yourself. It is crucial to have a light dinner and hydrate constantly to have a good night. Prepare for extreme cold, with temperatures that can drop below -15°C.
Atractivos incluidos en este día
Day 1
Acclimatization and hot springs in Laguna Verde
The expedition begins in Copiapó, from where you will embark on a 5-hour journey in a 4×4 vehicle, ascending through the mountains towards the base camp of Ojos del Salado. Your first stop will be Laguna Verde, an incredible turquoise-colored salt lake located 4,350 meters above sea level.
The goal of this afternoon is acclimatization. And the best way to do it is to relax in the hot springs that are on the shore of the lagoon. Immerse yourself in its warm waters while observing the impressive Altiplano landscape, in a unique experience that helps the body adapt to the altitude.
At sunset, take a gentle walk around the lagoon, without overexerting yourself. It is crucial to have a light dinner and hydrate constantly to have a good night. Prepare for extreme cold, with temperatures that can drop below -15°C.
Atractivos incluidos en este día
Day 2
Exploration of the base of the Ojos del Salado Volcano
After breakfast, your goal will be to explore the surroundings of Ojos de Salado by vehicle, advancing along the vehicle route that enters the massif. As you progress, you will get increasingly spectacular views of the volcanic landscape and the high-altitude desert.
If road conditions permit, you can get closer to the Refugio Tejos, one of the highest mountain shelters in the world, located at 5,800 meters above sea level. From this point, the magnitude of the volcano is overwhelming, offering a unique opportunity for high mountain photography.
After a morning of exploration on the roof of the Andes, you will begin the long journey back. The descent will take you again through the vast landscapes of the Puna de Atacama to the city of Copiapó, culminating in an unforgettable expedition.
Atractivos incluidos en este día
Day 2
Exploration of the base of the Ojos del Salado Volcano
After breakfast, your goal will be to explore the surroundings of Ojos de Salado by vehicle, advancing along the vehicle route that enters the massif. As you progress, you will get increasingly spectacular views of the volcanic landscape and the high-altitude desert.
If road conditions permit, you can get closer to the Refugio Tejos, one of the highest mountain shelters in the world, located at 5,800 meters above sea level. From this point, the magnitude of the volcano is overwhelming, offering a unique opportunity for high mountain photography.
After a morning of exploration on the roof of the Andes, you will begin the long journey back. The descent will take you again through the vast landscapes of the Puna de Atacama to the city of Copiapó, culminating in an unforgettable expedition.
What you should know
How to get there by air
Your entry point is the Desierto de Atacama Airport in Copiapó (CPO), where you can arrive with flights from Santiago (SCL) or other air terminals in the north. From the airport, it is essential to continue in a 4×4 vehicle suitable for the altitude and rugged terrain of the Puna de Atacama.
How to get there by land
From Copiapó, it is 250 kilometers to Laguna Verde via a high mountain route, which will take between 5 to 6 hours to travel. It is mandatory and essential to use a 4×4 vehicle. To get around the area and explore the base of the volcano, it is strongly recommended to hire an experienced local guide with their own vehicle.
Climate and clothing
You will face a high mountain climate, extreme and unpredictable. The days have intense sun and icy wind, while at night there may be sub-zero temperatures, even -15°C or less. It is essential to use multiple layers of technical clothing, total sun protection and mountain equipment.
Must-Know Tips
Altitude sickness (puna) is a real and severe risk. This itinerary is highly demanding and does not include the summit. A real ascent requires weeks of acclimatization. Move slowly, hydrate and consider hiring an experienced guide.
