This ten-day adventure includes climbs to three of the most impressive peaks in the Atacama Desert; visits to Andean lakes, salt flats, geysers, hot spring. Absence of cloud formation and rain, which makes the Atacama Desert the driest in the world, facilitates the ascension to the peaks and allows climbers to view the vastness of the desert universe that opens up as they climb. In fact, distance takes on a new dimension in the clear skies, clean air and high altitudes of the Atacama Desert. The solitude and remoteness experienced here, especially at high altitudes, is food for the soul. No wander the ancient inhabitants of this magic place climbed the highest peaks to worship their gods.
This expedition includes some high altitude climbing and two overnight camps. It is important to be in good physical condition. Our guides are highly experienced in mountain climbing and desert expedition, some have more than 10 years of experience in this very region. They will escort and assist you throughout the trip.
Your Itinerary
Day 1:
Calama - San Pedro
We will welcome you at Calama airport and drive to San Pedro de Atacama. Hotel check-in. We'll visit nearby Valle de la Luna to see geological formations.
(D)
Day 2:
San Pedro - Andean Lakes
Early in the morning we'll head to Toconao, an Andean village located near one of the most beautiful and lush river beds of the region: La Quebrada de Jerez. We'll explore el Salar de Atacama, an ancient salt flat where flocks of Andean pink flamingos come to nest. We'll continue our journey toward the Miscanti and Meniques lakes high in the Andes. Here at 3,900 meters (12,790 ft.) we'll have lunch with an impressive view of the desert. Back to San Pedro. Hotel.
(B) (L)
Day 3:
San Pedro - Toco Mountain (Approximate altitude 5,680 meters or 18,630 ft.)
Early in the morning, we will drive to the Toco mountain, about two hours from San Pedro. Our objective will be to drive as high as possible and then continue toward the summit on foot. This relatively easy climb should take us about four hours. From this summit will have a breath-taking view of the Laguna Verde and the access route to volcano Licancabur which will be climbing later in this trip. Back to hotel in San Pedro.
(B) (L)
Day 4:
San Pedro - Volcano Lascar (Approximate altitude 5,450 meters or 17,876 ft.)
Before sunrise, we'll be driving toward the base of volcano Lascar, three and a half hours from San Pedro. From an altitude of about 4,300 meters or 14,100 ft., we'll start our ascent toward the summit. It should take us about six hours to climb this active volcano. From its smoking crater, the view to the Salar de Atacama is simply astonishing. Some lava can be seen in the crater. Back to hotel in San Pedro.
(B) (L)
Day 5:
San Pedro - Cordillera de la Sal
We'll spend a relaxing day in town visiting the archaeological museum, civic center. We will take a walk to a nearby geological formation called Cordillera de la Sal and watch the sunset from Death Valley. Hotel.
(B) (D)
Day 6:
San Pedro - Tatio Geysers
By sunrise we'll be up and driving toward the geothermal field of Geysers del Tatio. We will admire this spectacular natural wander. Later we will continue our trip to Puritama hot spring. Here incredible clear water gushes out of the volcanic earth to form small pools and tiny waterfalls just warm enough to allow bathing and, of course, great relaxation. Back to hotel in San Pedro.
(B) (L)
Day 7:
San Pedro - Laguna Verde (Bolivia)
Today we will start our journey that will ultimately take us to the summit of the most impressive volcano in the area: Licancabur. We'll drive to our base camp on the Bolivian side of the border near Laguna Verde. We'll take a walk around Laguna Verde to admire the overwhelming beauty of the area and to get used to the altitude. Overnight camping.
(B) (L) (D)
Day 8:
Laguna Verde - Licancabur
We will climb to about 5,100 meters (16,700 ft.) for acclimation and observation of this volcano. Back to base camp. Overnight camping.
(B) (L) (D)
Day 9:
Licancabur - summit - San Pedro (Approximate altitude 5,921 meters or 19,420 ft.)
We will drive before sunrise to the access route and start our climb for the summit. We should summit around midday, providing there is no delay. At nearly 5,900 meters, Licancabur's extinct crater forms a magic lake. This was a ceremonial site for the ancient people of Atacama. This climb should take us about 10 hours. Back to base camp. Drive to San Pedro. Hotel.
(B) (L) (D)
Day 10:
San Pedro - Calama
Morning at leisure. Transfer to Calama airport.
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Also see tour packages in:
South America
Chile
Bolivia
Outdoor: Mountain Ranger
Mountain/Rock Climbing
Hiking & Trekking
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