Selado peak

Climbing Ojos del Salado is a multi-day expedition, typically requiring 10 to 14 days from arrival in Copiapó, Chile, to account for proper acclimatization. The actual summit push usually takes a full day from a high camp, but the overall trip involves several days of ascending to various camps to adapt to the extreme altitude.

Ojos del Salado is primarily considered an advanced climbing challenge due to its extreme altitude (6,893 meters / 22,615 feet), remote location, and harsh conditions. While the most common routes are not technically difficult in terms of rock climbing, they demand excellent physical conditioning, significant high-altitude experience, and proper acclimatization. There are no 'beginner' routes in the traditional sense; even the easiest ascent requires mountaineering skills and preparation for extreme environments.

Yes, permits are required to climb Ojos del Salado, as it straddles the border between Chile and Argentina. Climbers typically need to obtain permits from the Chilean authorities (CONAF or local police/military, depending on current regulations) and sometimes from Argentine authorities if approaching from that side. It's crucial to check the most current requirements well in advance of your trip, as regulations can change.

Due to its remote location, there isn't a conventional parking lot or trailhead like for smaller peaks. Access to Ojos del Salado typically involves specialized 4x4 vehicle transport from cities like Copiapó, Chile. These vehicles transport climbers to base camps such as Laguna Verde or Atacama Refuge, which serve as starting points for the multi-day ascent. Parking is generally informal at these high-altitude camps.

No, Ojos del Salado is not suitable for family outings or dog-friendly hikes. The extreme altitude, harsh weather conditions, and demanding terrain make it a serious mountaineering expedition. It poses significant risks for children and pets, who are not equipped to handle such an environment. The area is best reserved for experienced high-altitude climbers.

Winter hiking on Ojos del Salado (roughly May to September in the Southern Hemisphere) presents significantly harsher conditions than the already challenging summer season. Expect much colder temperatures, stronger winds, and increased snowfall, which can make routes more technical and increase avalanche risk. While possible for highly experienced and well-equipped mountaineers, it is generally not recommended due to the heightened dangers and logistical complexities.

Beyond the summit itself, climbers can experience several unique natural features. Ojos del Salado hosts the world's highest lake, a permanent crater lake found at an elevation of 6,480–6,500 meters within its summit crater. The surrounding region also features dramatic landscapes of deep green lagoons like Laguna Verde, vast salt flats, and other volcanic peaks, all set within the incredibly arid Atacama Desert.

Despite the arid, high-altitude environment, the area around Ojos del Salado, particularly near the high-altitude lagoons such as Laguna Santa Rosa and Laguna Verde, supports diverse wildlife. Visitors often have the chance to observe flamingos, foxes, guanacos (a type of llama), and vicuñas in their natural habitat.

No, there are no commercial cafes, pubs, or formal accommodation options directly near Ojos del Salado. The mountain is in an extremely remote and uninhabited region. Climbers typically stay in expedition-style tents at various high-altitude camps (e.g., Atacama Refuge, Tejos Refuge) during their ascent. All supplies, food, and water must be brought in from cities like Copiapó, Chile, which is the closest major hub for services and accommodation.

The ascent of Ojos del Salado involves a gradual but relentless increase in elevation across varied terrain. Lower sections may involve rocky desert paths, transitioning to scree slopes and volcanic ash fields. As you gain altitude, you'll encounter more challenging sections of loose rock, snow, and ice, especially on the upper slopes and near the summit crater. The extreme dryness means less permanent snow cover than other high peaks, but ice patches and strong winds are common at higher elevations.

Essential gear for Ojos del Salado includes high-altitude mountaineering boots, crampons, an ice axe, a helmet, and a robust layering system for extreme cold (down jacket, thermal base layers). You'll also need a high-quality sleeping bag rated for very low temperatures, a four-season tent, cooking equipment, and sufficient food and water. Given the remote nature, a satellite phone or communication device is highly recommended for safety.