Ojos del Salado High-Altitude Expedition
A 14-day acclimatization and summit program in the Atacama Desert, leading to the highest volcano on Earth.
A high-altitude expedition through the Atacama Desert, combining progressive acclimatization, Altiplano lagoons, hot springs, volcanic landscapes and the ascent of Ojos del Salado.
Available months: November to April
This expedition uses San Pedro de Atacama as the initial acclimatization base. The idea is to take advantage of the region’s variety of altitudes and activities to allow the body to adapt gradually before moving into the high-altitude area of Ojos del Salado.
Through hikes, visits to high-altitude lagoons, thermal springs and progressive ascents, the group gains valuable adaptation time without needing to spend too many consecutive days in extreme environments. This improves recovery, supports better rest and allows the days in the Ojos del Salado region to be reserved for the most specific phase of the expedition: approach, condition assessment and summit attempt.
The strategy aims to reduce unnecessary exposure to extreme altitude and improve the quality of field decisions, always considering each participant’s individual response and the mountain conditions.
This expedition uses San Pedro de Atacama as the initial acclimatization base. The idea is to take advantage of the region’s variety of altitudes and activities to allow the body to adapt gradually before moving into the high-altitude area of Ojos del Salado.
Through hikes, visits to high-altitude lagoons, thermal springs and progressive ascents, the group gains valuable adaptation time without needing to spend too many consecutive days in extreme environments. This improves recovery, supports better rest and allows the days in the Ojos del Salado region to be reserved for the most specific phase of the expedition: approach, condition assessment and summit attempt.
The strategy aims to reduce unnecessary exposure to extreme altitude and improve the quality of field decisions, always considering each participant’s individual response and the mountain conditions.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1 – San Pedro de Atacama, Valle del Bus Mágico, and Valle de la Luna
Settle in and rest before beginning the acclimatization process.
Day 2 – Valle de Marte, Pukara de Quitor, and Laguna Cejar
Hike through the dramatic red landscapes of Valle de Marte. Visit the historic Pukara de Quitor and cool off in the salty waters of Laguna Cejar.
Day 3 – Machuca and the climb to Cerro Dos Tetas (4,215m)
Discover the traditional village of Machuca and its local charm. Tackle the climb to Cerro Dos Tetas, with stunning views of the Chilean highlands.
Day 4 – Puritama Hot Springs and Astronomical Tour
Relax in the thermal pools of Puritama Hot Springs, surrounded by canyons. At night, admire the desert sky with an unforgettable astronomical tour.
Day 5 – Piedras Rojas, ascent of Mount Colorado (4,191m) and Mirador del Salar
Explore the intense colors of Piedras Rojas and the vastness of the Salar de Atacama. Climb Mount Colorado and enjoy the viewpoint with breathtaking panoramic views.
Day 6 – Free morning and afternoon: transfer to Licancabur (Bolivia)
Enjoy the morning for rest or optional activities. In the afternoon, transfer to the base of the Licancabur Volcano in Bolivia to prepare for the adventure.
Day 7 – Licancabur Volcano Ascent (5,916m) and Transfer to the Spa
Climb to the summit of Licancabur Volcano and admire the altitude and unique landscapes of the highlands. Return to San Pedro for rest and recovery.
Day 8 – Spa Transfer – Late Afternoon Transfer to Calama
Enjoy a peaceful morning at the spa. Transfer to Calama for connection and completion of the day's activities.
Day 9 – Transfer from Copiapó to Laguna Santa Rosa (3,700m)
Transfer to Laguna Santa Rosa. Prepare for the upcoming high-altitude challenges, surrounded by stunning natural scenery.
Day 10: Transfer to Laguna Verde (4,350m) — Thermal bath and active rest
Moderate hike to continue acclimatization
Return to camp
Day 11: Laguna Verde (4,350m) — Ascent of Volcan El Ermitaño or Vicuñas + 6000m
Our big training session, passing 6,000m with the goal of acclimatizing to the 6,900m-plus Ojos del Salado. Transfer to Laguna Verde
Thermal bath and relaxation
Day 12: Free morning - Afternoon transfer to Murray Refuge (4,600m)
Easy hike around the refuge
Overnight at the refuge
Day 13: Transfer to Atacama Refuge (5,200m)
Easy hike around the refuge
Overnight at the refuge
Day 14: Ascent to Ojos del Salado (6,893m)
Departure at dawn for the summit
Return to the refuge and then to Copiapó
Settle in and rest before beginning the acclimatization process.
Day 2 – Valle de Marte, Pukara de Quitor, and Laguna Cejar
Hike through the dramatic red landscapes of Valle de Marte. Visit the historic Pukara de Quitor and cool off in the salty waters of Laguna Cejar.
Day 3 – Machuca and the climb to Cerro Dos Tetas (4,215m)
Discover the traditional village of Machuca and its local charm. Tackle the climb to Cerro Dos Tetas, with stunning views of the Chilean highlands.
Day 4 – Puritama Hot Springs and Astronomical Tour
Relax in the thermal pools of Puritama Hot Springs, surrounded by canyons. At night, admire the desert sky with an unforgettable astronomical tour.
Day 5 – Piedras Rojas, ascent of Mount Colorado (4,191m) and Mirador del Salar
Explore the intense colors of Piedras Rojas and the vastness of the Salar de Atacama. Climb Mount Colorado and enjoy the viewpoint with breathtaking panoramic views.
Day 6 – Free morning and afternoon: transfer to Licancabur (Bolivia)
Enjoy the morning for rest or optional activities. In the afternoon, transfer to the base of the Licancabur Volcano in Bolivia to prepare for the adventure.
Day 7 – Licancabur Volcano Ascent (5,916m) and Transfer to the Spa
Climb to the summit of Licancabur Volcano and admire the altitude and unique landscapes of the highlands. Return to San Pedro for rest and recovery.
Day 8 – Spa Transfer – Late Afternoon Transfer to Calama
Enjoy a peaceful morning at the spa. Transfer to Calama for connection and completion of the day's activities.
Day 9 – Transfer from Copiapó to Laguna Santa Rosa (3,700m)
Transfer to Laguna Santa Rosa. Prepare for the upcoming high-altitude challenges, surrounded by stunning natural scenery.
Day 10: Transfer to Laguna Verde (4,350m) — Thermal bath and active rest
Moderate hike to continue acclimatization
Return to camp
Day 11: Laguna Verde (4,350m) — Ascent of Volcan El Ermitaño or Vicuñas + 6000m
Our big training session, passing 6,000m with the goal of acclimatizing to the 6,900m-plus Ojos del Salado. Transfer to Laguna Verde
Thermal bath and relaxation
Day 12: Free morning - Afternoon transfer to Murray Refuge (4,600m)
Easy hike around the refuge
Overnight at the refuge
Day 13: Transfer to Atacama Refuge (5,200m)
Easy hike around the refuge
Overnight at the refuge
Day 14: Ascent to Ojos del Salado (6,893m)
Departure at dawn for the summit
Return to the refuge and then to Copiapó
Take a look at prices, payment and cancellation conditions
Investment Per Person (USD)
USD 6,190 — Private Experience (1 Guest)
A fully personalized expedition with maximum flexibility, dedicated guiding, and complete focus on safety, objectives, and pace.
USD 3,390 — Private Experience (2 Guests)
A tailored private journey balancing personalized guiding with more efficient shared logistics.
USD 2,990 — Small Private Group (3 Guests)
A refined balance between exclusivity and cost-efficiency, maintaining a high standard of service.
USD 2,790 — Exclusive Group (4 Guests)
An optimal group size for smooth logistics, strong group dynamics, and an immersive experience.
USD 2,590 — Private Group (5 Guests)
A well-balanced option offering excellent value while maintaining comfort, safety, and expedition quality.
USD 2,390 — Group Experience (6 Guests)
An efficient structure with optimized costs, while preserving professional guiding standards and overall experience quality.
Guide-Only Option
If you prefer to hire mountain guide services only (without logistics), customized rates are available upon request.
Payment Terms
We offer flexible and internationally recognized payment methods:
Credit Card (installments available) via Mercado Pago or PayPal
International Bank Transfer via Wise or standard bank transfer
Additional Options
40% deposit to confirm the booking
Remaining balance split into:
30 days before departure
60 days before departure
Cancellation Policy
30+ days before departure
→ 100% refund or full credit valid for 12 months
15–29 days before departure
→ 50% refund or 70% credit
Less than 15 days before departure
→ No refund, 50% credit valid for 6 months
Company cancellation (weather or safety reasons)
→ Rescheduling at no additional cost
USD 6,190 — Private Experience (1 Guest)
A fully personalized expedition with maximum flexibility, dedicated guiding, and complete focus on safety, objectives, and pace.
USD 3,390 — Private Experience (2 Guests)
A tailored private journey balancing personalized guiding with more efficient shared logistics.
USD 2,990 — Small Private Group (3 Guests)
A refined balance between exclusivity and cost-efficiency, maintaining a high standard of service.
USD 2,790 — Exclusive Group (4 Guests)
An optimal group size for smooth logistics, strong group dynamics, and an immersive experience.
USD 2,590 — Private Group (5 Guests)
A well-balanced option offering excellent value while maintaining comfort, safety, and expedition quality.
USD 2,390 — Group Experience (6 Guests)
An efficient structure with optimized costs, while preserving professional guiding standards and overall experience quality.
Guide-Only Option
If you prefer to hire mountain guide services only (without logistics), customized rates are available upon request.
Payment Terms
We offer flexible and internationally recognized payment methods:
Credit Card (installments available) via Mercado Pago or PayPal
International Bank Transfer via Wise or standard bank transfer
Additional Options
40% deposit to confirm the booking
Remaining balance split into:
30 days before departure
60 days before departure
Cancellation Policy
30+ days before departure
→ 100% refund or full credit valid for 12 months
15–29 days before departure
→ 50% refund or 70% credit
Less than 15 days before departure
→ No refund, 50% credit valid for 6 months
Company cancellation (weather or safety reasons)
→ Rescheduling at no additional cost
See what's included
ACGM and UIMLA certified mountain guide: Professional guidance throughout the trek.
Complete itinerary planning: Prior briefing, adaptation of the itinerary to weather conditions and group pace.
Meals: Breakfast, trail lunch, and dinner during the trek.
Shared equipment: Tent, stove, first aid kit, VHF radio, and GPS/satellite for emergencies.
Logistics management: All transportation Calama - SPA - Calama and Copiapo - Ojos del Salado - Copiapo.
National and local parks fee.
Pre-expedition assistance: Personal equipment list, training and fitness tips.
Complete itinerary planning: Prior briefing, adaptation of the itinerary to weather conditions and group pace.
Meals: Breakfast, trail lunch, and dinner during the trek.
Shared equipment: Tent, stove, first aid kit, VHF radio, and GPS/satellite for emergencies.
Logistics management: All transportation Calama - SPA - Calama and Copiapo - Ojos del Salado - Copiapo.
National and local parks fee.
Pre-expedition assistance: Personal equipment list, training and fitness tips.
What is not included
Flights: (may be offered as an extra or recommended to the client).
Personal equipment: Backpack, sleeping bag, individual tent (can be rented separately).
Accommodation in SPA and before/after the trek: If the client wishes to extend their stay.
Outdoor activity insurance: Covers any accidents during the trek.
Hotel in San Pedro de Atacama, Calama and Copiapo
Personal equipment: Backpack, sleeping bag, individual tent (can be rented separately).
Accommodation in SPA and before/after the trek: If the client wishes to extend their stay.
Outdoor activity insurance: Covers any accidents during the trek.
Hotel in San Pedro de Atacama, Calama and Copiapo
FAQ – Atacama & Ojos del Salado
Why choose this tour?
Explore the Atacama Desert on a 14-day expedition combining trekking, mountaineering, and adventure. Discover high-altitude lagoons, archaeological sites, relaxing hot springs, and active volcanoes. Perfect for those seeking challenges and breathtaking landscapes.
Activity level
The tour is high-level, recommended for participants with excellent physical condition and prior mountaineering experience. Includes volcano ascents and demanding hikes.
Best time for the tour
Available from November to April, when weather conditions are more stable and favorable for high-altitude activities.
Duration and pace
14 days of adventure, combining trekking, ascents, and exploration of natural landscapes. Daily activities vary from 3 to 7 hours at a moderate to demanding pace, allowing time to enjoy scenery, wildlife, and local attractions.
Accommodation & comfort
Comfortable stays in San Pedro de Atacama and high-mountain refuges with basic infrastructure, ensuring safety throughout the expedition.
Meals
Includes breakfast, trail lunch, and dinner. Meals are nutritious, energy-focused, and can accommodate dietary restrictions (vegetarian, vegan, or allergies) if informed at the time of booking.
Tip: bring your favorite snacks to maintain energy during trekking days.
Recommended personal gear
Trekking backpack (~40 L)
Sturdy and comfortable mountaineering boots
Layered clothing (base, mid, and waterproof layers)
Hat, gloves, sunglasses, and sunscreen
Water bottle or hydration system
Trekking poles (optional but recommended)
Technical mountaineering equipment (provided by the team if needed)
Transport & logistics
All ground transfers are included, from the arrival point to the tour bases. Ensenada Tours manages all equipment and supply logistics, allowing you to fully enjoy the experience without concerns.
Number of participants & support
Small, personalized groups with guides certified by ACGM and UIMLA, fluent in Portuguese, Spanish, and English, ensuring safety and clear communication throughout the expedition.
Sustainability & environmental responsibility
We follow “Leave No Trace” principles. Participants are encouraged to carry out all waste, respect local flora and fauna, and use eco-conscious products.
Training and fitness
No professional athletic experience required, but good physical condition and basic trekking/mountaineering experience are recommended. Our team can provide guidance on preparation and what to bring to enjoy the adventure safely and comfortably.
Ready to explore the Atacama Desert and conquer Ojos del Salado?
Don’t miss this chance to experience one of South America’s most incredible routes — immersive nature, unforgettable landscapes, and full logistics to enjoy every moment.
Book your exclusive tour now
Explore the Atacama Desert on a 14-day expedition combining trekking, mountaineering, and adventure. Discover high-altitude lagoons, archaeological sites, relaxing hot springs, and active volcanoes. Perfect for those seeking challenges and breathtaking landscapes.
Activity level
The tour is high-level, recommended for participants with excellent physical condition and prior mountaineering experience. Includes volcano ascents and demanding hikes.
Best time for the tour
Available from November to April, when weather conditions are more stable and favorable for high-altitude activities.
Duration and pace
14 days of adventure, combining trekking, ascents, and exploration of natural landscapes. Daily activities vary from 3 to 7 hours at a moderate to demanding pace, allowing time to enjoy scenery, wildlife, and local attractions.
Accommodation & comfort
Comfortable stays in San Pedro de Atacama and high-mountain refuges with basic infrastructure, ensuring safety throughout the expedition.
Meals
Includes breakfast, trail lunch, and dinner. Meals are nutritious, energy-focused, and can accommodate dietary restrictions (vegetarian, vegan, or allergies) if informed at the time of booking.
Tip: bring your favorite snacks to maintain energy during trekking days.
Recommended personal gear
Trekking backpack (~40 L)
Sturdy and comfortable mountaineering boots
Layered clothing (base, mid, and waterproof layers)
Hat, gloves, sunglasses, and sunscreen
Water bottle or hydration system
Trekking poles (optional but recommended)
Technical mountaineering equipment (provided by the team if needed)
Transport & logistics
All ground transfers are included, from the arrival point to the tour bases. Ensenada Tours manages all equipment and supply logistics, allowing you to fully enjoy the experience without concerns.
Number of participants & support
Small, personalized groups with guides certified by ACGM and UIMLA, fluent in Portuguese, Spanish, and English, ensuring safety and clear communication throughout the expedition.
Sustainability & environmental responsibility
We follow “Leave No Trace” principles. Participants are encouraged to carry out all waste, respect local flora and fauna, and use eco-conscious products.
Training and fitness
No professional athletic experience required, but good physical condition and basic trekking/mountaineering experience are recommended. Our team can provide guidance on preparation and what to bring to enjoy the adventure safely and comfortably.
Ready to explore the Atacama Desert and conquer Ojos del Salado?
Don’t miss this chance to experience one of South America’s most incredible routes — immersive nature, unforgettable landscapes, and full logistics to enjoy every moment.
Book your exclusive tour now
Would you like to know if this expedition is suitable for you?
Send your previous experience, travel dates and objectives so we can evaluate it together.
Send your previous experience, travel dates and objectives so we can evaluate it together.
+56 9 5640 6085
marcelo@ensenadatours.cl
marcelo@ensenadatours.cl
Explore Chile through carefully curated experiences led by a certified mountain guide with extensive experience in Patagonia and Antarctica.
Each journey is designed around you — with personalized itineraries, seamless logistics, and the highest standards of safety and quality.
