Mountaineering in Chile: Top Outdoor Adventures Awaiting You

Chile forms a curious long and narrow strip that is squeezed between the Pacific Ocean to the west and the Andean mountains to the east. The country is 2,653 miles long, yet just 110 miles wide on average. Chile borders Peru and Bolivia to the north and northeast, while to the east it borders Argentina, with which it shares much of the Andes. To the south of Chile lies the Drake Passage. Its extreme length creates a deep diversity of climates and terrain, with the mountains playing a prominent role.

Volcanic neighbourhood

The Central Volcanic Zone in western South America forms one of the major volcanic neighbourhoods along the Andes. The high rising Ojos del Salado is home here, which at 6,893 meters is the world’s highest active volcano, as well as being the second highest mountain in both the Western and Southern Hemisphere, peaked only slightly by Aconcagua (6,961 meters).

Rich and rugged environment

The landscape that surround the giant mountains and stratovolcanoes are home to unique environments. It’s punctuated with green lagoons, volcanoes that at times can be covered in snow even in the summer, and vast desert that rolls beyond the eye can see. This picture-perfect country is also home to flocks of flamingos, coots, ducks and foxes that populate the lands and wander among the high altitude territory.

Rewarding challenges

Chile is home to naturally challenging terrain that forms a high and rocky border with Argentina. Its territory provides spectacular beauty that requires a lot of effort to capture some of the most unforgettable rewards of mountain climbing. Mountain climbing here demands strong levels of fitness and previous climbing experience. And once you reach the peaks, you’ll capture breathtaking views of the Andes.

The mountains of Chile receive temperatures that are much cooler than other regions of the country, as well as experiencing a windy and dry climate.

Visit between December and March for quality mountain climbing conditions.

The prime mountaineering season in Chile runs from December to March, when the Andes offer more stable weather, milder temperatures, and safer summit conditions. Some expeditions—especially high-altitude climbs in the Atacama—are available nearly year-round with a certified mountain climbing guide.

Hiring a certified mountaineering guide in Chile is highly recommended, especially for volcano climbs, glacier travel, and high-altitude ascents like Ojos del Salado. A guide manages route finding, acclimatization, safety, and logistics, ensuring a smoother and safer climb.

Chile offers a wide range of summits, from accessible volcanoes to demanding high-altitude peaks. Popular options include Ojos del Salado, Villarrica, Llaima, Parinacota, and the iconic granite towers of Patagonia. Many routes are ideal for guided mountaineering programs for all levels.

Most mountain climbing programs in Chile require a good general fitness level and experience hiking at altitude. For high-altitude ascents above 5,000 meters, prior acclimatization and strong physical conditioning are important.

Gear varies depending on the summit but typically includes mountaineering boots, crampons, helmet, harness, ice axe, layers for high-altitude conditions, and glacier safety equipment. Many guided programs include technical gear or offer rental options.

Yes. Several volcanoes—such as Villarrica, Llaima, and Antuco—are suitable for beginners joining a guided ascent. For first-time climbers, a certified guide will help with pacing, safety, and basic mountaineering skills.