Ojos Del Salado Rapid Ascent™

The “Eye’s of Salt”

Ojos del Salado is the highest active volcano in the world, and towers over the altiplano at a breathtaking 22,615’/6,893m. It’s also the second highest mountain in the southern hemisphere, falling just 200’ short of nearby Aconcagua. Ojos del Salado is situated on the border of Chile and Argentina. The name, meaning “Eyes of Salt”, describes the round salt lagoons that are found on the side of the volcano. These lagoons are home to flamingos who fish for algae and krill in the salt waters. At 14,400’/4,400m above sea level, Laguna Verde is actually a thermal spring fed by the volcanic activity in the area. The crater lake at the top of the Ojos del Salado mountain sits at 20,960’/6,390m, making it the highest lake in the world. At 22,615’/6,893m, the volcano feels remote but remains easily accessible. Other peaks of similar size in Alaska and the Himalaya require weeks just to reach a basecamp, whereas Alpenglow climbers arrive safely, summit, and depart in just 9 days.

Expedition Overview

It all starts with Rapid Ascent

The expedition to Ojos del Salado begins with an at-home routine of pre-acclimatizing for 28 days prior to Day 1 of the expedition itinerary. By utilizing Hypoxico tents and following a carefully-outlined schedule, you’ll be slowly increasing your oxygen efficiency at approximated altitudes up to 16,490’/5,025m. Alpenglow Expeditions handles the shipping and receiving of the tent unit. All you have to do is set it up in your home and follow the prescribed schedule that we’ve created for you. For a bit of insight into how the tent works, check out this video about Rapid Ascent™ pre-acclimatization with the Hypoxico tent.

Let the Climbing Begin

Climbers meet in Chile’s capital of Santiago. After a night to settle in and meet the team, we move to a refuge high at Santa Rosa Lake. This camp provides stunning views of Ojos del Salado, where we practice skills and further acclimatize. We spend the next few days moving up higher on the mountain while continuing to practice mountaineering skills.

Soon, we are ready to climb. We wake around midnight and climb in small rope teams, each led by an Alpenglow guide. The terrain varies from hiking on trails, to small glaciers, to a final steep summit ridge. The views from the summit are stunning, encompassing many of the altiplano as well as the active crater of Ojos itself. After enjoying the summit, our descent and arrival back to Santiago is quick, in time for a celebration dinner with the team before catching flights home. If time allows, we will build in extra excursions such as – stopping by neighboring beaches to relax, while viewing penguins, and sand dunes.

The Alpenglow Difference

Rapid Ascent™ Approach

Alpenglow’s combination of pre-acclimatization at home, with the leading standards in certified guides, and in-country logistics has revolutionized Himalayan expeditions. The same system has reduced expedition length on peaks like the major peaks of the world by 30-50%. On this Chilean expedition, we utilize the same pre-acclimatization, quality of logistics, and guiding team. We work with you not only on the mountain, but also throughout your pre-acclimatization and preparation. Our goal is for each climber to be healthy, strong, and prepared for their summit climb of Ojos del Salado.

Guide Ratio and Best in Class Logistics

Our Ojos del Salado Rapid Ascent™ climbs are guided by one or more of Alpenglow’s AMGA/IFMGA certified lead guides. This certification is the highest possible training available to guides, and only the most experienced and dedicated attain it. Our small team size and low ratio of climbers to guides (4:1) ensures that you stay healthy and strong, and are able to enjoy each component of your experience. This combined with our fantastic in-country logistics creates a one-of-a-kind experience for you.

Expedition Doctor on Call

Dr. Monica Piris, has been on fourteen 8,000-meter peak expeditions. She is in daily communication with our teams during the entirety of the expedition and is available for client consultation at any time.