Ojos del Salado – Chile
Location and Geography
Ojos del Salado is a dormant volcano located in the Atacama Desert region, straddling the border between Chile and Argentina. It is part of the High Andes and rises from the southern end of the Puna de Atacama, a high plateau with an average elevation of 4,000 meters (13,000 feet). The volcano reaches an altitude of 6,893 meters (22,615 feet), making it the highest volcano in the world and the second-highest summit in the Andes. The Chilean side is within Copiapó Province, while the Argentine side is in Catamarca Province.
Unique Features
Ojos del Salado is not a single conical peak but a complex massif formed by overlapping smaller volcanoes, with over 20 craters. The summit is divided into two peaks, known as the eastern or Argentine and western or Chilean summit. The volcano features a variety of geological formations, including lava domes, pyroclastic cones, and volcanic craters. Wind-driven erosion has created unique sand fields on the northern flank.
Lakes
The volcano hosts the highest lake in the world, a crater lake at an elevation of 6,480–6,500 meters (21,260–21,330 feet). This lake is fed by permafrost and snowfields and is surrounded by fumaroles. Additionally, there are two lakes at 5,900 meters (19,400 feet) on the northeastern slope, each covering an area of 2,500 square meters (27,000 square feet).
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Ojos del Salado is during the summer months of December to February. Daytime temperatures range from 10 to 20 degrees Celsius (50 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit), but be prepared for significant drops at night. Warm clothing is essential.
How to Get There
Reaching Ojos del Salado requires careful planning. The journey typically begins in Copiapó, accessible by bus or domestic flight from Santiago, Chile’s capital. From Copiapó, you can hire a local guide or join an organized tour to navigate the challenging desert roads to the base camp. A reliable 4×4 vehicle is crucial for crossing sandy dunes and steep inclines.
Local Transportation
Once at the base camp, exploration is primarily on foot. Hiking is the main way to access the surrounding area. Acclimatization to the altitude is recommended before attempting any ascent. Trekking poles and sturdy hiking boots are necessary for the rugged terrain.
Summit Attempt
For those aiming to reach the summit, technical mountaineering skills and appropriate equipment are required. This challenge should only be undertaken by experienced climbers.
Summary of Facts
- Ojos del Salado is the highest volcano in the world at 6,893 meters (22,615 feet).
- It is located in the Atacama Desert region, on the Chile-Argentina border.
- The volcano features a complex structure with multiple craters and unique geological formations.
- The best time to visit is during the summer months of December to February.
- Reaching the volcano requires careful planning and a reliable 4×4 vehicle.
- Exploration is primarily done by hiking, with summit attempts requiring technical skills.
