SAN PEDRO DE ATACAMA: LICANCABUR VOLCANO ASCENT (2 DAYS)

The Licancabur Volcano, located on the border between Chile and Bolivia, is one of the most characteristic volcanoes in the area, due to its altitude of 5,900 m and its almost perfect cone-shaped summit. Due to its difficult access and technical complexity, its ascent is quite a challenge for the amateurs and experienced mountaineers. Its ascent takes place on trails full of loose stones, with a considerable slope, so an excellent physical condition is required.

Itinerary

Day 1

We will leave by vehicle on the first day from San Pedro de Atacama on a journey of approximately 3 hours, in which we will cross the desert on our way to the Bolivian border. On the way you will pass the base of Sairecabur and the Los Hermanos viewpoint, from where it is possible to see the Blanca and Verde lagoons in Bolivian territory. Upon arrival at the base of the Licancabur volcano, we will set up camp, after which you will take an acclimatization hike, in order to be more prepared for the next day. As you hike, you will be able to test your physical condition, as well as take advantage of the views of the desert from the altitude that the place offers. Back at the camp, you will have dinner and rest very early, since you have to start the ascent at dawn the next day.

Day 2

At 02:00 in the morning you will begin the ascent, which lasts about 8 hours, depending on the pace of the group and weather conditions, of course. You will have the opportunity to see the sunrise in the middle of the ascent, which will give you great postcards during this part of the trip. You will reach the top of the volcano, at an altitude of 5900 m, where in addition to the views of the surrounding mountains, the Bolivian territory and the salt flat on the Chilean side, you will see a small lagoon formed in the crater of the volcano. If the weather and physical conditions allow it, since you have to go down and then climb the same road, you can approach and witness what is considered part of the Inca route where sacrifices were made. After staying a moment at the top, taking pictures and resting, you will start the descent to the base camp, to dismantle everything and continue the return to San Pedro de Atacama, where the activity ends.

Trekking clothes, trekking shoes, sun hat, sunglasses, sun block and water.