Ojo’s Del Salado (6893m) With Aconcagua (6962m) | Climbing South America Home » Ojo’s Del Salado (6893m) With Aconcagua (6962m) Ojo’s Del Salado (6893m) With Aconcagua (6962m) tab general Climbing and Mountaineering The high desert of the Chilean plateau east of Copiapó, above Chañaral, is well known by world mountaineers for having the highest concentration six thousand meter peaks in the world. What makes it even more unique is that many of these peaks are volcanoes. Hidden amongst them are the two peaks of Vn Copiapó, and Vn Ojos del Salado which we propose to climb. First we will attempt Vn. Copiapó as part of our acclimatization and then Vn. Ojos del Salado, the highest volcano in the world. During the trip we travel through stunningly diverse landscapes, and from the summits of both peaks the 360-degree panorama is beyond words.

After our attempt on Ojo`s del Salado we drive into Argentina and make our way south towards the city of Mendoza. From Mendoza we head out to Aconcagua, the highest mountain in the Americas (6962m). Our attempt will be a quick ascent as we will have already acclimatized to the altitude on Ojos del Salado. This part of the Andes is noticeably different from the barren mountains we will have just visited in Chile, especially the lowlands were verdant vineyards dominate the landscape. Document: Dry season: days are mild and nights Highlights: Visiting the Atacama desert, Climbing the two highest mountains in South America.

Visiting Chile and Argentina Tour starts in: Prices include: Professional English speaking guide, Guide ratio 3 to 1 Meals as mentioned, including drinks at camp meals and restaurants (B – breakfast, L – Lunch, D – dinner) Full private transport for all days 2 Night’s at the CONAF ranger station Laguna Negro Francisco 5 Night’s Hotel ( Copiapo, Chile chico, Mendoza amd Penitents) 5 days base camp services at Aconcagua Mules to carry gear up to base camp and back down for Aconcagua Full camp, includes: tents, kitchen equipment, chairs, tables, dinning tent etc Cook Climbing permit for Ojos del Salado and Aconcagua Extra services not mentioned in the program Tips Per person $5700 US, based on 4 people minimum Itinerary Description Day 1: Copiapo Airport - Copiapo (200m) Transfer to hotel, meeting with guide and question time. Later we have a welcome dinner 45 mins (D) Hotel Day 2: Copiapo – Valle Chico (3000m) In the morning we head out for the drive up to the Altiplano.

The road heads east up the dry valleys. Scenery changes from dry mountains to rivers in the lower valleys. Our camp is along the road in one of the dry valleys. This first night is part of our acclimatizing before we head up to the Altiplano. 3 – 4 hours Driving (BLD) camping Day 3: Valle Chico - Laguna Santa Rosa (3800m) We make a short walk in the morning near area, which is all part of our acclimatizing. After lunch we pack up camp and drive to our second camp site. The road takes us to the pass of, Portezuelo Maricunga, at 4125m above sea level. From the pass we head down to laguna Santa Rosa and Maricunga Salt Flat. Near the Laguna is a small hut where we make our second camp, at 3800m. We are in the middle of the Chilean high plateau, which is the most southern part of the Atacama Desert and the home of a very diverse wildlife, such as flamingos and foxes.

In the evening we can make a short walk, where we have the chance see local flora and fauna where there is a large variety of birds. 2 – 3 hours (BLD) camping Day 4: Laguna Santa Rosa – Siete Hermanos (4950m) - Laguna Santa Rosa After breakfast we begin our acclimatization process by climbing the easy summit of Cerro Siete Hermanos, after which we return to our camp. We will probably meet some guanaco's families (Lama Guanicoe) during the climb. 6 - 7 hours (BLD) camping Day 5: Laguna Santa Rosa – Mina Marte – Laguna Negro Francisco (4100m) Our drive today takes us through an incredible landscape that leads us to Laguna Del Negro Francisco (4200m) during the drive we pass Mina Marte, an abandoned gold mine in the middle of the Chilean high plateau. We stay at the CONAF ranger station. 2 – 3 hours driving (BLD) Hostel Day 6: Laguna Negro Francisco – Volcano Copiapo (6050m) – Laguna Negro Francisco We start very early in the morning.

First we make a transfer to the start of the climb. The summit is at 6050m with views of all the surrounding mountains. Near the summit are a few Inca tombs which have been excavated by archaeologist. Back in the afternoon to Laguna Negro 9 – 10 hours (BLD) Hostel Day 7: Laguna Negro Francisco – Laguna Verde (4350m) We leave Vn. Copiapó area driving back on the same road and then heading North West to the international route to Argentina, gaining altitude very quickly. We can see Ojo’s in the distance from the road. Later in the day we arrive at Laguna Verde. We have the use of a base camp tent and can sit in the hot springs in the afternoon. 3 – 4 hours driving (BLD) camping Day 8: Laguna Verde - Atacama Refuge (5200m) A easy day today with a drive up to base camp. The road follows the dried out river beds. We cross sand flats and steep rock, which are sometimes snow-covered slopes. At base camp there is a small hut (Atacama refuge). This place will be our base camp for the next days.

2 – 3 hours driving (BLD) camping Day 9: Atacama Refugio (BC) -Tejos Refugio (5825m) – Base Camp Today we carry some food and fuel up to Camp I (Tejos) following the sandy and rocky slopes, we drop our loads inside the metallic hut. We have time for rest and can take a look around. After we head back to the BC. This carry will improve our acclimatization. 5 – 7 hours (BLD) camping Day 10: Rest day at Atacama Refugio (Base camp) We can use this day to rest and recover, before we go up to camp I and give the final push to the summit, which will be physically demanding. This day can also be used as reserve day in case of bad weather. (BLD) camping Day 11: Atacama Refugio - Tejos Refugio (Camp I ) (5825m) Today we work our way up, following the mountain slopes, and carrying all the rest of the gear we will need for the summit day. It's a short day: we arrive early to get hydrated and rest for tomorrow's effort.

3 – 4 hours (BLD) camping Day 12: Tejos Refuge - Summit (6893m) - Tejos Refuge – Atacama Refugio Starting very early in the morning, we climb 8 to 9 hours up to the summit, once again on land that may be snowy or dry depending on the weather. From this incredible summit we will see all the major peaks of the area, including Tres Cruces and Pissis to name just a few. Depending on how much time we have, we can walk back down to Refugio Atacama. 10 – 12 hours (BLD) camping Day 13: Atacama Refugio - Chilocito (1080m) We dismantle the tents, organize the gear, pack the equipment and load the cars. Then we drive into Argentina and continue to Chilecito where we spend the night. 7 - 8 hours driving (BLD) Hotel Day 14: Chilecito – Mendoza (740m) Today we drive through dry deserts with spectacular scenery. It’s a long way so we need to leave early. We stop along the way for lunch and to take photographs.

Later in the day we arrive in Mendoza and check in to our hotel. 7 – 8 hours (BLD) Hotel Day 15: Mendoza – Puente Del Inca (2600m) – Confluencia (3300m) In the morning we pay for our climbing permits before heading out to Puente del Inca. A little further from Puente del Inca we arrive at Horocones, the park entrance. Here we need to show our climbing permits and then enjoy an easy walk up the valley up to the Confluenica. 2 - 3 hours (BLD) camping Day 16: Confluencia – Plaza de Mules (4230m) Today we have a long day walking up to Plaza de mules. Crossing the Playa ancha (the wide beach) along the way, we get a views of the south face of Aconagua. We also notice the amazing colours and formations in the rock which makes up the valley around us. Occasional gauchos (Argentine cowboys) pass by with their mules, living a life that hasn’t changed much in 200 years.

7 to 9 hours (BLD) camping, base camp services Day 17: Plaza de Mules Today will be a rest day in base camp. We also get our gear and food ready for our first trip up to camp one. There are a few things to see around base and we can use the local hotel to make phone calls if necessary. There is also bouldering near the base camp for those with lots of energy. We are obliged to make a medical check up with the doctors in base camp before the ascent (BLD) camping, base camp services Day 18: Plaza de Mules – Camp 1, Nidos de Condores (5400m) – Plaza de Mules Today we make a carrying trip up to camp 1. We take most of the food, tents and some climbing equipment. After a rest we will head back down to PDM. 6 – 7 hours (BLD) camping, Base camp services Day 19: Plaza de Mules – Nidos de Condores Today we will move up to our camp one taking the same zigzag trail we took yesterday. Once in camp, we set up our tents and start preparing hot water and food.

4 – 5 hours (BLD) camping Day 20: Nidos de Condores – Summit (6962m) – Nidos de Condores Today is our big day, to try for the summit! We leave around 4 am. It’s going to be cold on the mountain, so this means we want to dress well. The trail is well defined as it zig zags its way up the mountain. The first mayor place is Berlin camp (5800m) a small wooden hut. Next mayor place is Independencia (6200m), a small hut almost destroyed. This is a good place for a break as it’s has some protection from the wind. After Independencia we climb up to traverse Paso el viento (windy pass). This is going to be the coldest place on the mountain and can reach up to -45°C. We going to be moving slow through here to try and conserve energy for the last part, the Canaleta! After the traverse we reach the bottom of the Canaleta. From here the summit looks really close, but it’s still 2 more hours minimum.

The Canaleta can have ice and snow and this means we need to use our ice axe and crampons. The Canaleta is also the steeps part of the route so pacing is a must if your going to reach the Summit. Next stop is the summit! We made it! From the top we have amazing views all around us. After some rest and photos we head back down the same way. Going down through the Canaleta can be a little tricky, so this means we want to take it easy. Once we are below the Canaleta the trail gets easier. A few more hours and we are back at camp. Time for a rest and to rehydrate. The trip down is quick, once at back at Nidos de Condores we pack up camp and head back down to PDM. Note. This might seem quick compared to many other programs, but as we have acclimatized on Ojos del Salado, it will make a big difference. A program like this is not as hard as it looks after acclimatizing on Ojo’s.

12 – 16 hours climbing (BLD) camping, base camp services Day 21: Reserve day Facts About Nevado Ojos del Salado in Chile Elevation: 22,608 feet (6,891 meters) Prominence: 12,200 feet (3,688 meters); 43rd most prominent mountain in the world. Location: Andes Mountains; northern border of Chile and Argentina in South America. Coordinates: 27.10611° S / 68.53944° W First Ascent: First ascent on February 26, 1937 by Justyn Wojsznis and Jan Szczepanski, Poland. Fast Facts: Nevado Ojos del Salado, with an elevation of 22,615 feet, is the second highest mountain in South America and the highest mountain in Chile . The mountain straddles the border between Chile and Argentina . Ojos del Salado is the second highest mountain in the Western Hemisphere and the Southern Hemisphere.

It is located 370 miles (600 kilometers) north of 22,841 feet (6,962 meters) Aconcagua , the highest mountain in the Western Hemisphere. Ojos del Salado, with 12,200 feet (3,688 meters) of prominence, is an ultra-prominence peak (one with more than 5,000 feet of prominence) and the 43rd most prominent mountain in the world. continue reading below our video Understanding Baseball Ojos del Salado, a massive stratovolcano , is the highest active volcano on earth. It last erupted 700 A.D., plus or minus 300 years. It’s most recent activity was a gas and ash emission in 1993. Fumaroles , openings that emit gases and steam, and lava flows (of an uncertain age) also indicate recent minor volcanic activity. A strong smell of sulphur sometimes engulfs the summit from nearby fumaroles. The summit of Ojos del Salado has two peaks which are roughly the same elevation.

The west summit in Chile measures 21¼ inches (54 centimeters) higher than the east summit in Argentina. Most climbers ignore the slight difference in elevation and climb one or the other, although some, to make sure that they’ve reached the true summit, climb both peaks. The east summit is more difficult to reach, requiring a short technical climb that is usually climbed with a rope for protection. Both are rotten and loose. Ojos del Salado rises above the Atacama Desert , the driest place in the world. Some parts of the Atacama have never recorded any rain, and evidence indicates that the desert received no measurable precipitation from 1570 to 1971. Ojos del Salado is extremely dry for a high mountain, especially compared to those farther north in the Peruvian Andes. The mountain has no glaciers and any snow that falls in the winter melts off completely in summer. The highest known lake in the world is found at 20,960 feet (6,960 feet) on the eastern flank of Ojos del Salado. The crater lake is 310 feet (100 meters) in diameter.

The exact depth of the lake is unknown but is thought to range between 15 and 30 feet deep. Due to its relative remoteness, the exact elevation of Ojos del Salado has been controversial with some climbers and geographers claiming that it was higher than Aconcagua . In 1956, a climbing team from Chile made the mountain’s second ascent and measured its height at 22,926 feet (6,988 meters), higher than Aconcagua, with a pocket pressure altimeter, which are unreliable. In the 1970s the Chilean government arbitrarily raised its elevation to 22,998 feet (7,010 meters), placing the highest mountain in the Western Hemisphere in Chile and making Ojos the hemisphere’s only 7,000-meter peak. Later an Argentinean team measured the nearby mountain Monte Pissis at 22,579 feet (6,882 meters), making it two meters higher than Ojos del Salado, meaning that the two highest mountains in the Western Hemisphere were in Argentina. Now the great elevation debate has basically been settled.

A 2007 survey found Ojos del Salado to be 22,608 feet (6,891 meters) while Monte Pissis was 22,287 feet (6,793 meters), while Global Positioning System (GPS) surveys indicate that Ojos del Salado is between 22,570 feet (6,880 meters) and 22,670 feet (6,910 meters) high. The exact elevation is as yet undetermined but Aconcagua is still the Western Hemisphere’s highest mountain and Ojos del Salado is second. The Spanish name Ojos del Salado, literally “eyes of salt,” derives from large eye-shaped salt lagoons on the slopes around the mountain.

Aconcagua Home / Aconcagua Expedition / Routes / Ojos de Salado & Aconcagua with Porters Ojos de Salado & Aconcagua with Porters Ojos de Salado 6893 m/22615 ft &Aconcagua 6.959m/22.841 ft The highest mountain in the world outside of Mount Everest is Mount Aconcagua in Argentina, very popular among those climbers willing to reach an easy Seven Summit and gain experience to climb higher peaks. And the second highest peak in the Americas is Ojos del Salado. Both Aconcagua & Ojos del Salado are strenuous and demanded introduction to any of those goals in terms of altitude, temperature and winds with the exception of technical degree, which have non through their respective classic routes. KL Adventure has re set again this 25 day exclusive expedition tour in his annual climbing calendar for those climbers who want to take advantage to match two great peaks in the isolate Atacama region as well in the Central Andes. Our acclimatization plan starts in the north city of Copiapo, a rich silver and copper mining district in the Atacama region.

We follow a 5 days trekking and hiking in the Santa Rosa & Negro Francisco lagoon inside the Nevado Tres Cruces National Park. Located just south of the Salar de Maricunga, the Santa Rosa lagoon is known for its pink flamingoes, which reside on the lagoon year-round. Laguna Santa Rosa, along with Laguna del Negro Francisco, is a Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention. As a nationally protected area, there is an abundance of fauna, such as flamingoes and vicuñas. Later we move north east into Laguna Verde 14,765' (4.400m) a turquoise lake with a view of snow-capped volcanoes and red desert slopes almost in front of our final destination, Ojos del Salado. The base camp named Refugio Atacama and located at 17,000' / 5.350m is a 4-wheel drive vehicles reachable point, which make this tour not only an easy and fantastic climbing peak, but a very necessary and gradually altitude adjustment step program minimizing any risk of high altitude sickness such as puna and edema..

From this point we hike to Refugio Tejos, a hut at 19,350' / 5.750m, which is probably the highest mountain hut in the world! Gentle scree slopes and occasional snow patches lead us to the main summit. There is fix rope at the last 80 meter summit push, which needs to be climb to stand in the real summit!! Our return is directly to the city of Copiapo to catch the afternoon domestic flight to Santiago. On the following day we flight to Mendoza and start to climb the Aconcagua through the normal route. Route Map Route Overview Day by day itinerary Day 1 Reception in Copiapo by a KL Adventure Guide, transfer to hotel, check in procedures, and climbing equipment check. Hotel Day 2 Transfer to Valle Chico, 3.000 mts. Tent Day 3 From Valle Chico we move to Santa Rosa lake, 3.800 mts. Tent Day 4 Move to Negro Francisco lake, 4.100 mts. Tent Day 5 Easy hike nearby San Francisco. Tent Day 6 Climb Volcan Copiapo.

Tent Day 7 Today we move to Laguna Verde, 4.400 mts and take great hot spring with the full colors of the this high plateau lake. Tent Day 8 Rest day, trek around this beautiful turquoise lake. Tent Day 9 Climb Mulas Muertas 5.897 mts. and return Laguna Verde. Tent Day 10 Move to Refugio Atacama at 5.350 mts. Tent Day 11 Portage to Refugio Tejos at 5,750m, return to Refugio Atacama. Tent Day 12 Rest day. Tent Day 13 We ascend to Refugio Tejos. Tent Day 14 Summit day and return to Atacama camp. Tent Day 15 Reserve day. Tent Day 16 Transfer to Copiapo to connect the afternoon flight to Santiago, transfer to comfortable hotel. Hotel. Day 17 Early transfers to the airport and fly 30 minutes to Mendoza Argentina. Transfer to Aconcagua office for permits and transfer in a 3 hours drive to Penitentes.

Transfer to Aconcagua park ranger station for registration and start trekking 3 hours to Confluencia middy camp located at 3.300 mts. Camp Day 18 We continue on towards Plaza de Mulas base camp at 4,300m of elevation. This is a 7 to 8 hour hike to our Plaza de Mulas camp. Our Chef awaits us here with a big dinner and hot drinks. Tent. Day 19 Rest at Plaza de Mulas base camp. It is necessary to drink plenty of water and rest to achieve a good adaptation to the altitude before continuing on to the high camps and before summit day. Tent. Day 20 Ascent and portage to Nido de Cóndores high camp at 5,380m and return to Plaza Mulas camp. Tent. Day 21 Rest at Plaza Mulas. Tent. Day 22 Ascent to Nido de Cóndores high camp. Tent. Day 23 Ascent to high camp 2, Berlin, at 5,850m. Tent. Day 24 Summit day and return to Berlin or Nido. Tent.

Day 25 Extra day to allow for weather conditions at Berlin or Nido high camps. Tent. Day 26 Descent to Plaza de Mulas. Tent. Day 27 From Plaza de Mulas we have mules to help carry out our gear, allowing for a "light" trek through Playa Ancha and Horcones Valley to the village of Penitentes in a 6 to 7 hour hike. At the Park Rangers station transport awaits us to take us to Hotel in Penitentes village. Hotel Day 28 Transfer to Santiago. End of expedition. ✓ All local organization and supervision by KL Expeditions & Aconcagua Express Expeditions Staff. ✓ Private transportation. ✓ Four (4) Hotel nights double occupancy with breakfast. ✓ Difrol permit process. ✓ All meals during the expedition and trekking program. ✓ Full base camp set up dining tent, chair, tables, etc.. ✓ High quality expedition common gear: The North Face, Mountain. Hardware and Marmot tents, isolate mattress, high camp stoves & Gaz. ✓ Permanent access to hot drinks, tea, coffee, biscuits at base camp tent. ✓ First aid kit, hyperbaric chamber, oxygen bottles, oximeter.

✓ Radio communication VHF 2 mt. ✓ Satellite phone at base camp on a per minute payment basis. Services Not Included ✘ Ojos del Salado & Aconcagua climbing permit ✘ Flight Santiago - Copiapo - Santiago with 20 kg baggage ✘ Flight Santiago - Mendoza with 20 kg baggage. ✘ All personal climbing equipment gear. ✘ Porter for personal gear. ✘ Any cost involve in an early or late departure. ✘ Meals in Copiapo and Santiago. ✘ Any drinks (soda, beer or wine) in the cities. ✘ Cancellation, accident and rescue insurance. ✘ Cash for extra expenses. ✘ Any other service not mentioned in the list. ✘ Gratuities are not included. Important Important ☝ All itineraries are subject to change due to changes in the weather, individual's acclimatization rates and the guide's preferences. ☝ Private Porter to be shared between two expedition members, carrying 10kg each, available upon request at additional cost.

☝ Any departure dates can be re-scheduled with a minimum of 6 persons Duration: 20 Argentina Highpoints : Climbing, Hiking & Mountaineering : SummitPost Aconcagua (6962m) - Mendoza Photo by William Marler Aconcagua, the highest summit in America (South, Central, or North) is Argentina's most famous mountain. Interestingly, despite being the highest, this is almost certainly the most popular peak on this list... well, I guess that's because it is the highest. Although technically a walk-up, at nearly 7000m, this is a serious mountain, one on which several people die each year. I believe the peak hosts the largest base camp in the world other than Everest. During the summer months, thousands of climbers flock to the mountain, despite climbing fees that are as high as $1000 during high season. Most people hire mules for the two day trip to base camp, then ferry loads to two or more high camps on the mountain. Crampons and ice axe are generally necessary to reach the summit, but no other technical gear is needed on the normal route.

However, don't take this mountain lightly, as the high altitude makes it a very serious undertaking. The weather can be extremely cold and, if the weather doesn't cooperate, there is nothing trivial about this mountain at all. Ojos del Salado (6893m) - Catamarca Photo by Corax Ojos del Salado, the second highest mountain in the Andes, is also the highest mountain in Chile and, reputedly, the highest volcano in the world. The summit straddles the international border between Argentina and Chile and can be reached from either side. In fact, technically there are two summits, an Argentine summit and a Chilean summit. Supposedly, the Chilean summit is 50cm higher, but who really knows. Both summits require a short pitch, of fairly loose, mildly technical scrambling / rock climbing. Given the altitude and the remoteness, most parties choose to belay this final summit pitch. Everything below the summit pitch is non-technical, but snow gear is necessary, and the cold and the altitude make this a serious undertaking. Approaching from Chile allows for a shorter approach and use of a mountain hut, but the permitting is more complicated and more expensive.

Climbs from Argentina are less common and require a longer approach, but there is much more solitude and no red tape. Additionally, a new 4x4 track to the base of the mountain, has made access from Argentina much easier than in the past. Pissis (6793m) - La Rioja Photo by Corax Mount Pissis, the third highest mountain in the Andes, is actually on the border of La Rioja and Catamarca. Located roughly 50 kilometers south of Catamarca's high point Ojos del Salado, Pissis is hardly overshadowed by its next highest neighbor. Ojos del Salado may be taller, more popular, and more famous, but Pissis is more complex, more glaciated, and arguably more impressive. The Pissis massif includes at least five different summits with at least 200m prominence, it boasts the only significant glaciers in the Puna de Atacama, and there are several interesting alkaline lakes surrounding the peak. The common approach from Argentina involves 100 kilometers on a rough 4WD road. Access from Chile is also possible, although reportedly even more complicated.

The ascent is still non-technical, but probably more challenging than any of the other major peaks in the Puna de Atacama. As usual in this region, expect cold temperatures, strong winds, and high altitude in a remote environment. Llullaillaco (6739m) - Salta Photo by Fabrice Rimlinger Llullaillaco, the seventh highest peak in the Andes and the sixth highest in Argentina, is a high remote mountain located in the northwest of Argentina. Llullaillaco is famous for having the highest archaeological site in the world. In fact, if you go to the High Mountains Museum in Salta (Capital), you can see the remains of the Inca mummy found near the summit. Like many of the high peaks in northern Argentina's Puna de Atacama, this is a non-technical climb, but it is at very high altitude and can be quite cold. It is accessed via an extremely remote border pass, seldom visited, and only accessible via lengthy 4x4. Furthermore, water can be complicated to find in this high, dry desert, so make sure to be prepared.

Mercedario (6720m) - San Juan Photo by William Marler Mercedario, another monster peak, is the seventh highest peak in Argentina and the eighth highest peak in the Andes. In fact, in the Andes, outside of the Puna de Atacama, only Aconcagua and Huascarán Sur (Peru) are higher. This part of the High Andes is generally much colder than the Puna de Atacama, receives far more precipitation, maintains more significant glaciers, and involves steeper terrain. Mercedario is easily visible from Aconcagua's Camp Nido de Condores and, in many ways, is a very similar peak. The climbs require similar approaches, both peaks have at least one non-technical route, and the weather conditions are comparable. Mercedario is some 250m lower, but probably receives fewer than 1% of the visitors, and there are no peak fees. However, it is extremely remote and you will have little assistance in case of emergency.

Nevado de Chañi (5930m) - Jujuy Photo by Silvio1973 Nevado de Chañi, located in the far northwest corner of Argentina on the provincial border between Jujuy and Salta, is technically part of the Puna de Atacama, but in many ways is quite different than the other peaks in that group. Apparently, it has a granitic base that is unlike nearly all other peaks in the area. As a result, the peak has a number of potential technical routes to the summit. Nonetheless, there is still an easier non-technical route that can be reached within a few days, but it involves over 4000m of elevation gain. Nevada de Cachi also differs from the other main Puna peaks in that it is offset several hundred meters from the crest of the Andes on the border with Chile. It is also far enough north that it is starting to be influenced by the Boliviano Invierno and, therefore, best climbed during the Argentine spring before the rainy seasons arrive. Nevado de Chañi is also of interest culturally.

Inca ruins were found on its summit and it is also located near the Quebrada de Humahuaca, home of what is arguably the most in tact indigenous culture in Argentina. Cerro Bolsón de los Cerillos (5550m) - Tucumán So far, I have been unable to find much published information about this mountain despite it being a major feature fairly close to the several cities. On or near the Tucumán/Catamarca provincial border, this appears to be the highpoint of the ridge that separates the two provinces, roughly halfway between San Miguel de Tucumán and San Fernando del Valle de Catamarca. I'm fairly certain that I've seen it from near Amaicha del Valle. I recall a gentle, but prominent ridge with a minor snow cap. I'm not sure if it would be accurate to refer to this as part of the pre-Cordillera or perhaps a Cordillera Oriental, but this peak is part of a ridge that is fairly distinctly separated from the main Andes chain. In fact, Cerro Bolsón de los Cerillos lies over 200km almost due east of Ojos del Salado.

With over 3000m of prominence, this peak is one of the 100 most prominent peaks in the world, on this list only surpassed by Aconcagua, Ojos del Salado, and Mercedario. So, we're talking about a big mountain. I don't have any route information, but I imagine it requires a long, dry, presumably non-technical ascent, potentially facilitated by some of the active mining roads in the area. Volcán Domuyo (4709m) - Neuquén Volcán Domuyo is sometimes referred to as Patagonia's highest peak, but this is mostly just a technicality. Neuquén may be a little far too north to be considered Patagonia, but it does represent a fascinating transition between the higher, dryer peaks of central Argentina and the lower, wetter, glaciated peaks in southern Argentina. Unique vegetation and hot springs abound in the area and it is seldom visited by foreigners. Public transportation to the region is limited, but you can drive to within a couple days of the peak. The ascent is supposedly non-technical, but there are reportedly numerous accidents, presumably because people get lost on the peak.

Surprisingly, there is not yet a page here on Summitpost, but Andes Handbook has some good information on the peak. It would probably make an excellent ski descent in winter. Mount San Lorenzo (3706m) - Santa Cruz Photo by Monika via Nikman Mount San Lorenzo is the first true Patagonian peak on this list. It is situated on the Argentina/Chile border somewhere between the Northern and Southern Patagonian Icecaps. Although it is not part of either of these icecaps, I believe that it is home to the third largest mass of ice in mainland Patagonia. The easier routes are accessed from Chile, involving a couple days of hiking and a challenging roped, glacier climb rated at AD. A number of technical mixed routes have been opened on the Argentine side in recent years. This is another peak in a very remote area, but this time it's not surrounded by a dry, waterless desert, but instead a wet, muddy, temperate rainforest. The weather in this area is notoriously unpredictable, so be prepared for rain and snow, and be prepared to wait for a good weather window, then go for it.

Mount Chiriguano (3660m) - Tierra del Fuego (Antarctica) I believe that Mount Chiriguano is actually located in Antarctica. As mentioned earlier, Argentina claims a portion of the continent of Antarctica as its own territory. I believe that this territory is considered to be part of the province of Tierra del Fuego. If one supports this claim, it seems like Mount Chiriguano is the highpoint of Argentine Antarctica making it Tierra del Fuego's highpoint. I believe that this is the logic used by 23 Cumbres in placing this peak on their list. At this time, I don't have any other information about this mountain, not even its precise whereabouts. I will add more information when I find it or somebody presents it to me. An alternative mainland Tierra del Fuego highpoint (Cerro Cornú) is discussed below. Cerro Tronador (3491m) - Río Negro Photo by Fabrice Rimlinger Cerro Tronador is a massive volcano on the international border halfway between Bariloche, Argentina and Osorno, Chile.

It is the centerpiece of Argentina's Nahuel Huapi National Park and Chile's Vicente Rosales National Park and the highpoints of both the Río Negro province and the Los Lagos region. The mountain actually has three main peaks, the Argentine, the Chilean, and the International. The International Peak is the main summit and probably the most difficult of the three, rated at AD/D. Access from Argentine is easy. A short daily bus ride, followed by a half day walk, leads to a mountain hut at the base of the glacier. From there, a the summit can be reached in a long day. Ascents from Chile are more difficult due, among other reasons, to lengthy approaches. Tronador is a popular trekking destination. Summit attempts are more common on the Argentine summit than the International summit. The Argentine military even uses the mountain for training to prepare for duty in Antarctica. Cerro Champaquí (2770m) - Córdoba Cerro Champaquí, Córdoba's highpoint, is the first peak on this list that is not part of the Cordillera de los Andes.

If you look at a topographical map for the entire country of Argentina, the Sierras de Córdoba immediately sticks out as the only significant range other than the Andes. Nowhere near as high or extensive as the Andes, the Sierras de Córdoba host a wide range of peaks, creeks, and woods. The city of Córdoba is a musical and cultural center and the surroundings towns in the sierras are quaint and fun. There are numerous peaks to climb and a few popular rock climbing locales in the area. Cerro Champaquí is easily accessed from several different sides. Most of the routes require a long day or an overnight. There may be a hut that you can stay in. Alternatively, a rough jeep trail climbs to the summit ridge and within 15 minutes of the peak itself. Cerro Dos Picos (2525m) - Chubut It sounds like Cerro Dos Picos, Chubut's highpoint, has only been climbed a handful of times. Located near Cholila, a little bit north of the provincial capital of Esquel, this mountain is in a little explored area of northern Patagonia. Access is best via the west side of Lago Cholila.

A boat can save a couple days worth of hiking. Upon crossing the lake, the valley of the Río Tigre leads to the base of the peak. The peak is quite steep and is notorious for poor quality rock. There is a large glacier on the mountain, but it is unclear if the route crosses said glacier. This region is generally quite wet and access can be complicated by thick brush. Note that this peak is not to be confused with Cerro Tres Picos, a somewhat more well known peak also in Chubut, more or less due east of Cerro Dos Picos. Cerro Tres Picos is a prominent peak east of Highway 40 in Cholila, while Cerro Dos Picos is west of Cholila and Highway 40. There are also several heavily glaciated peaks on the international border further to the west of Cerro Dos Picos. Apparently, none of them rise higher than Cerro Dos Picos, at least not on the Argentine side of the border. Cerro de las Ovejas (2260m) - San Luis Cerro de las Ovejas, the San Luis highpoint, is still part of the Sierras de Córdoba.

Most of this range is actually within Córdoba, but in spots the west side sneaks into San Luis. There is some debate about whether the true highpoint is Cerro de las Ovejas or nearby Cerro Divisadero. The uncertainty is due to surveying imprecision, not boundary issues. For the time being, we'll assume that Cerro de las Ovejas is the highpoint, but Cerro Divisadero is only 5 kilometers away if you want to tag both, just in case. The climb is entirely non-technical. If you take the 4WD road, it's a short walk. Otherwise, it can be done in a long day or a quick overnight. Cerro Cornú (1490m) - Tierra del Fuego (Mainland) If you support the international community's view that Antarctica is not owned by any nation, then Mount Chiriguano does not qualify as the highpoint of Tierra del Fuego, despite effectively being under Argentine control. Restricting Tierra del Fuego to the South American continent leaves Cerro Cornú as the provincial highpoint. I don't know a whole lot about this peak either.

It appears to be located about 30 km east of Ushuaia, but within about 5 km of a road. Anything in that region can be expected to be steep and heavily glaciated, even at relatively low elevations. The weather is extremely windy, wet, and unpredictable. I am hopeful that I'll be able to find more out about this peak so that I can describe it in more detail soon. Cerro Tres Picos (1239m) - Buenos Aires Cerro Tres Picos is the highest peak in the province of Buenos Aires. It is actually located several hundred kilometers of the city of Buenos Aires in a fairly rural area well to the interior of the coastal city of Mar del Plata. Naturally, should not be confused with either Cerro Dos Picos or Cerro Tres Picos in Chubut. Cerro Tres Picos is part of the Sierra de la Ventana, just north of Bahia Blanca at the southern end of the province of Buenos Aires. This is one of several scenic small ranges in the area. Sierras del Tandil, although significantly lower, are also supposed to be quite nice. The normal route begins on private property at the Estancia Funke.

Access provided for a reasonably cost with prior registration. The Estancia is located between the towns of Tornquist and Villa Ventana. The zone can be reached two times per week by overnight train from Constitución in Buenos Aires. From Estancia Funke, the climb can be completed in one long day or an overnight. There is also a new, challenging route called the El Condor Pasa. The 23 Cumbres Website (in Spanish) has the best information available on the web. Cerro Negro (1188m) - La Pampa La Pampa is the true breadbasket of Argentina, generally known for fields of wheat and cattle. The region was initially thought to be a flat desert until the underground water sources were understand. In fact, while many parts are flat, others have rolling hills. One such undulating area is in the northwest of La Pampa, close to the province of Mendoza, where you will find Cerro Negro. No doubt there are numerous Cerro Negros in Argentina. I am familiar with one in Río Negro and one in Neuquén, but there must be others.

La Pampa's Cerro Negro is by no means the most impressive, but it is the provincial highpoint and it can give you a reason to stop in an interesting region that most people just pass through. From the town of Algarrobo del Aguila, head nearly 100 km towards the town of Agua Escondido in Mendoza to reach the Puesto Cerro Negro. The summit is easily accessible, but you will need to ask permission first. For more detailed information that will actually get you to the highpoint, check of the 23 Cumbres Website (in Spanish). Barrancón (835m) - Misiones Misiones is the province that occupies the northeast corner of Argentina. Bordering both Brasil and Paraguay, best known for the international tourist destination of Iguazu Falls, in many ways, Misiones feels more like Brasil than Argentina. The semi-tropical rainforest of the region is unlike any other part of the country and is heavily threatened by intensive logging and plantation forestry. Many people speak a sort of Portañol, a mixture of Spanish and Portuguese. There are many people who even speak Guaraní, the indigenous language in Paraguay.

Barrancón, the highpoint of Misiones, can be found near the Argentina border town of Bernardo de Irigoyen, right next to the Brasilian towns of Barracão and Dionísio Cerqueira. Barrancón can be reached by a short easy walk easily accessible from Highway 14 (or 17?). The city water tank is on the actual highpoint in front of school #604. For details, see the 23 Cumbres Website (in Spanish). Orco Esquina (790+m) - Santiago del Estero This one's quite a mess. Everybody agrees on the name of Santiago del Estero's highpoint, but nobody seems to have any idea where it is actually located. The 23 Cumbres Website (in Spanish) discusses the confusion, suggesting three possible candidates. The first is in the sierras de Sumampa near the provincial border with Córdoba, but this is quickly eliminated because it's elevation is only ~580m. The second candidate is in the sierras de Guasayán near the provincial border with Catamarca and Tucumán.

Although measured at only ~720m instead of the recorded 790m, 23 Cumbres suggests that this is the actual highpoint and it is near the town of Sol de Mayo. The third alternative, which is that selected by Peakbagger , is in a flattish area in northwestern Santiago del Estero near the provincial border with Salta. Both sites agree that there is a point in this area that reaches >800m in elevation. However, 23 Cumbres disqualifies this location (for the time being), arguing that the provincial border is not precisely defined in this zone. Whichever of these highpoint candidates you choose, you are likely to encounter a fairly unexciting, nondescript location, but touch them both and you can (reasonably) confidently say that you've climbed Orco Esquina. Mount Usborne (705m) - Islas Malvinas (Falkland Islands) I'm not sure why I've even included this peak in the list. I suppose it's only a matter of Argentine national pride and, of course, I'm not even from Argentina.

Nonetheless, one could make the argument that the Islas Malvinas rightfully belong to Argentina, thus making this a territorial highpoint of sorts. Of course, they are very clearly under British control and called the Falkland Islands by their current residents. Nonetheless, apparently Mount Usborne is the highpoint of said territory. Unfortunately, I don't know anything at all about this controversial highpoint, but I suspect it to be a fairly easy climb. It appears to be within about 1 km of a reservoir, so it should be fairly accessible be road. Chaco Highpoint (272m) - Chaco The Argentine province of Chaco is as flat as they come. There are no good surveys that specify the true highpoint of the province. The best determination of the highpoint to date is based on the following logic proposed by 23 Cumbres . The highest topo line on the map is an arc that connects a point on the provincial border with Santiago del Estero and a point on the provincial border with Salta, isolating the highpoint to a >600 square kilometer area at the western extent of the province.

Observation of the direction of flow of the rivers in this region suggests that the highpoint is at the Salta-Chaco border, near Ruta 16 and the town of Taco Pozo. There is another candidate a few kilometers north of here. However, until a proper technical survey is completed, nobody really knows. Formosa Highpoint (239m) - Formosa The Formosa highpoint has been identified with more confidence than that of Chaco, but it is similarly inglorious. Much like Chaco, Formosa is almost entirely flat, with an imperceptible slant that ascends as the province extends westward. According to 23 Cumbres , the provincial highpoint can be found atop a minor rise near the border with Salta just south of the Pilcomayo River. The highpoint can be reached from Formosa via the property of a certain María Cristina or from Salta via the Alto La Sierra ranch. Corrientes Highpoint (236m) - Corrientes Apparently, Corrientes has only one area, near the town of La Cruz, that boasts even modest peaks.

There are three of them, in fact: Cerro Chico, Cerro Capará, and Cerro Nazareno. Most people in Corrientes mistakenly think that Cerro Nazareno is the provincial highpoint, but it is not. That honor goes to an otherwise insignificant hill near the border with the province of Misiones which is to be found near the road that connects the town of San Carlos with Ruta 14. This spot is near the base of the Sierras de San José that are located predominantly in Misiones. This information all comes from 23 Cumbres , so feel free to doublecheck there. Peakbagger can help provide you with a map of the area. Santa Fe Highpoint (137m) - Santa Fe The Santa Fe Highpoint actually has several potential candidates in fairly disparate locations. For the time being, 23 Cumbres believes that the provincial highpoint is atop a small hill that lies in the field cultivated by a certain Señor Tossi. This site is located in between the following towns: San Ricardo, Santa Fe; Villia Eloisa, Santa Fe; Armstrong, Santa Fe; and Cruz Alta, Córdoba.

One debunked potential candidate is a point on the border with Santiago del Estero that is listed as the highpoint in the Firestone roadmap with a published elevation of 133m. The other potential candidate is a point near the town of Arias, Córdoba that has been listed as high as 142m on certain maps, but has not yet been investigated fully. For the time being, the highpoint is listed as the 137m point near Armstrong, but this is one that may be proved inaccurate if and when further detailed surveys take place. Entre Ríos Highpoint (119m) - Entre Ríos Like Santa Fe, the true highpoint of Entre Ríos is still unclear. This time, there is agreement that the highpoint is located somewhere in between the towns of Crespo, Camps, Villa General Ramirez, and Aranguren. All four of the towns seem to be near Ruta 12, but 23 Cumbres refers to a Ruta 19, I'm not sure whether or not that is in error. Regardless, there are several candidates.

The top candidate appears to be a spot near the railroad in Camps, but there are also potential candidates somewhere between Camps and Villa General Ramirez, as well in the town of Aranguren. The following trip reports by Andrés Espindola (Spanish) and Dennis Stewart (English) may provide some guidance, or maybe they'll just confuse you more. Either way, to tag the Entre Ríos highpoint, you'll have to go there yourself, choose one or several potential spots, and declare success to whatever degree of certainty makes you most comfortable. Capital Federal Highpoint (38m) - Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires The Buenos Aires city highpoint is not mentioned by the folks at 23 Cumbres. The city of Buenos Aires is part of the province of Buenos Aires, which has the 1239m Cerro Tres Picos as its highpoint. However, in many ways, Capital Federal (the municipality of Buenos Aires) is a separate political unit, so its highpoint will be included here for completeness, even though it is not strictly required to complete the 23 Cumbres challenge. The Buenos Aires Capital Federal highpoint is located within barrio of Villa Devoto.

Again, there seems to be a slight bit of uncertainty, but all reports put the spot within a couple city of blocks of one another. Interestingly, the reported elevation of said site seems to vary by as much as 10m. Once again, Dennis Stewart has helped us with his trip report. Based on the coordinates provided at Peakbagger , he located the highpoint at the city's municipal water distribution center. This building seems to occupy the square block between the following streets: Avenida Francisco Beiró, Jose Pedro Varela, Mercedes, and Gualeguaychú. However, a website from the barrio of Villa Devoto (in Spanish) confidently places the city's highpoint at the interesection of Avenida Francisco Beiró and Calle Chivilcoy, about a block away from the city's municipal water distribution center. Interestingly, this source states that the highpoint has been accurately measured at roughly 27m, considerably lower previously reported. In all likelihood, this barrio Villa Devoto website is probably the definitive source. External Links Andes: World’s Longest Mountain Range Credit: Johnathan Esper Shutterstock The Andes is the longest mountain range in the world and boasts some of the highest peaks.

The range is also known for its volcanoes, ruins of long-ago civilizations and the source of a malaria treatment. The origin of the name Andes has not been definitively determined; most agree that it comes from the Quechua word anti, which translates to "high crest." A minority argue that it comes from Anti Suyu, which is one of the four regions of the Incas who once inhabited the range. The Andes Mountains stretch about 4,500 miles along the western coast of South America. Credit: CIA World Factbook Located along the entire western coast of South America, the Andes mountain range is about 4,500 miles (7,242 kilometers) long. The mountain range spans seven countries — Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile and Argentina — and can be found between 10 degrees north and 57 degrees south latitudes and 70 degrees to 80 degrees west longitude. It is up to 500 miles (804 km) wide. The only mountains that are taller than the Andes are the Himalaya Mountains and their adjacent ranges, including the Hindu Kush.

The average elevation in the Andes is about 13,000 feet (3,962 meters). The highest elevation in the Andes is Mount Aconcagua in Argentina, which is 22,841 feet (6,962 m) above sea level. The Andes are dotted with a number of depressions that separate the length of the range into several segments. [ Image Gallery: Journey into the Tropical Andes ] Climate of the Andes Because the Andes act as a large wall between the Pacific Ocean and the continent, they have a tremendous impact on climate in the region. The northern part of the Andes is typically rainy and warm, and the weather is also wet in the eastern part of central Andes, and the area to the southwest. To the west, the dry climate is dominated by the Atacama Desert in northern Chile. The mountains form a rain cover over the eastern plains of Argentina, which have extremely dry weather. The Andes Mountains of South America are home to 99 percent of tropical glaciers ­— permanent rivers of ice at high enough elevations not to be affected by the types of balmy temperatures usually associated with the tropics.

The Andes are also home to the world’s highest volcano when measured above sea level, Ojos del Salado on the Chile-Argentina border, which reaches 22,615 feet (6,893 m), and more than 50 volcanoes that reach 19,685 feet (6,000 m). [ Related: Satellite Image of Chile-Bolivian Border ] Machu Picchu was an Incan retreat for its emperor. Credit: UNESCO Who and What Lives There A number of cities have sprung up along the Andes, including Huaraz and Cuzco in Peru; Quito and Baños in Ecuador; La Paz, one of the two capitals of Bolivia; Bogata and Medellin in Columbia; and Pucon and Puerto Natales in Chile. A male Andean condor flies above the highlands of Ecuador. Credit: Ammit Jack Shutterstock There is not a lot of evidence of early human life in the Andes, with the oldest human remains being an average of 10,000 to 12,000 years old; although scientists believe there was human habitation prior to that time.

The lack of oxygen at high altitudes and rough terrain made it hard for people survive. The mountain shepherds have survived at higher altitudes of 17,000 feet on a permanent basis because their bodies have been able to adapt, including changes to the makeup of their cells. The Incas managed to establish themselves in the Peruvian Andes in the 15th century, only to be wiped out by civil wars and disease from European invaders to which they had not developed immunities. Their existence was largely undiscovered, save for some local residents, until July 24, 1911, when the locals led Yale University professor Hiram Bingham to Machu Picchu , at an elevation of 7,710 feet (2,350 m) in the Peru portion of the mountain range. Because it was relatively undisturbed, Machu Picchu provided a glimpse into the life of the Incas and scientists believe it served as the palace compound of Pachacuti Inca Yupanqui, who reigned from about 1438 to 1471. It now serves as a major tourist destination.

Vicuñas, which live in the high alpine areas of the Andes, are related to camels. Credit: Ammit Jack Shutterstock While Bingham thought he had stumbled upon the Vilcabamba, or lost city of the Incas, when he came upon Machu Picchu, he would later find the so-called lost city when he discovered another ruin, Espíritu Pampa. To survive in the Andes, animals have to be rugged, agile and be able to keep warm. One of the most well-known animal inhabitants of the Andes is the chinchilla. Their fur gets thicker in the colder, higher altitudes and their ability to jump and climb serves as a protection from predators. Other animals include llamas and alpacas; the Andean condor, the largest vulture in South America; and the vicuña, a member of the camel family. The Andes has a rich plant population and is home to about 30,000 various species of plants. The Andes are dotted with Cinchona pubescens trees, which produce quinine, coveted as a treatment for malaria.

In the high altitudes of the Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia and Chile segments of the range, there are also forests of Polylepis, a group of tree species that have distinctive gnarled shapes. They are members of the rose family. — Kim Ann Zimmermann, LiveScience Contributor Related:

Question: In which range of mountains are the two highest peaks Aconcagua and Ojos Del Salado?
Answer: THE ANDES