High Mountain Expeditions

Climbing a mountain or a volcano and reaching peaks of more than 5,000 meters (16,400 feet above sea level) is a unique experience. Preparing to go up to the Licancabur volcano is a challenge for every mountain lover; and even more so considering its inevitable attractiveness and its sacred nature for the Atacameño people.

This 7-night program has been specifically designed including trekking and hikes to different mountains and volcanoes before reaching the Licancabur’s summit, also known as the people’s mountain.

Licancabur (5.000-6.000 m.a.s.l./ 16,400 – 19,600 f.a.s.l.)

Climbing over 5,000 meters (16,400 feet above sea level) is an unforgettable experience and also a challenge for your body, which must gradually get used to altitude. At greater heights there is less oxygen. Hence the importance of the acclimation process on the days prior to climbing the Licancabur volcano.

Our program has been designed so that travelers can explore at different altitudes and climb progressively. This reduces the common impacts of altitude sickness, including dizziness, headaches and fatigue, which are different in every person.

Staying hydrated and eating healthy is crucial during acclimation. We recommend drinking 4 liters (135 oz) of water every day, healthy meals and avoiding alcohol. Also very important is for travelers not to overexert themselves during the first days and to breathe slowly so as to make the most out of each inhalation.

Day to day What to bring

Day to day

Days 1 -3 |Acclimation

Day one begins with Kamur, an exploration at the same height as San Pedro de Atacama, at 2,500 m.a.s.l. (8,200 f.a.s.l). On day two, we go over 3,000 m.a.s.l. (9,840 f.a.s.l) following the exploration Ruta del Agua (within the Puritama Natural Reserve) and on day three, we reach 4,000 m.a.s.l. (13,100 f.a.s.l.) with Río Blanco, a full day exploration in the area surrounding Geysers del Tatio.

Days 4-5 Final Preparation

Once over 4,000 m.a.s.l.(13,100 f.as.l.), days four and five we carry out high mountain explorations at more than 5.000 m.a.s.l. (16,400 f.a.s.l.) Saciel Volcano, Toco Mountain and Corona Volcano were the explorations selected to prepare travelers before reaching the base camp.

Day 6 | Base Camp

We cross the Chile – Bolivia border (Cajón Milestone) to settle in the base camp of the Licancabur Volcano, at 4,633 m.a.s.l. (15,200 f.a.s.l) -8 kilometers (5 miles) away from the border. On this day and depending on the lighting conditions, we take the last trekking before dinner, scheduled for 19:30.

Day 7 | Licancabur Volcano

We start before dawn to ascend the Licancabur Volcano and reach the summit. The return to explora Atacama is scheduled for 17:00, reaching the hotel at about 19:00.

What to bring

30 – 40 liter backpack.
Waterproof high-cut trekking shoes.
First clothing layer: thick socks, warm underwear, lightweight undershirt or shirt.
Second clothing layer: lightweight pants and fleece sweater.
Third clothing layer: windbreaker.
Fourth clothing layer: waterproof jacket (ideally a down jacket).
Convertible pants.
Sun cap.
Sun glasses with UV protection.
Sun block.
Front flashlight.
Passport.

*This exploration needs to be confirmed with at least 60 days in advance to arrival in explora. Minimum 2 travelers. A visa is required to enter Bolivia. explora keeps the right to modify or remove parts or the entire itinerary of expeditions to protect the safety of travelers in case of bad weather conditions.

For further information and questions about our High Mountain Expeditions contact our reservation team at reserve@explora.com or call +56 2 2395 2800.

MORE INFORMATION