14-day Mountaineering Expedition to Llullaillaco – Antofagasta, Chile

At 6739m, the Llullaillaco is the third highest peak in Chile and the seventh highest in the Americas. It’s height is not its claim to fame, however. In fact, the Llullaillaco is not really famous in the mountaineering world at all. So, why would I want to climb it at all, you ask?

Well, many of the lesser known destinations are also the most magical. The Llullaillaco is certainly no exception.

The Llullaillaco is the highest archaeological site in the world. 

Long before the Llullaillaco appeared on the map, the Incas reached its summit to make offerings to their Gods. Mummies and other objects, presumably of spiritual significance to the Incas, have been found on top of the mountain in recent years. According to archaeologists, the Llullaillaco was the most sacred mountain to the Incas in this area. And not without good reason.

Reaching the summit of the Llullaillaco is no easy feat. Without protection from nearby mountains, the Llullaillaco is largely exposed to the elements. Storms from the West frequently sweep across its surface.

The Llullaillaco is also far more glaciated than sister peaks, Ojos del Salado and Tres Cruces Sur. Plus, the steady presence of its Northwest Glacier makes reaching the summit significantly more difficult.

To say the least, the Llullaillaco is only for those with a strong will. The sense of accomplishment you will feel once you finally reach the summit, however, is unlike any other. Standing atop the Llullaillaco, it’s not hard to imagine why this place was so special to the Incas. Some even say it’s a spiritual experience.

During this unique, 14-day mountaineering expedition, you too can step foot on this sacred ground just as the Incas did hundreds of years ago. Click “Request to Book” now to get in touch with me and reserve your spot.

Given the physical and mental strength required to summit the Llullaillaco, this expedition is reserved for fit, intermediate level mountaineers. You should have prior experience trekking up 3000m mountains over the course of 2+ days with a 15kg backpack.

We will make our ascent on the Llullaillaco via the North Face, crossing two large snowfields at up to 30 degrees. As we approach the summit, we will also encounter a section of large, unstable boulders.

You can find the complete itinerary for this trip below. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions.

I also lead a 16-day Expedition to the Parinacota Volcano in the Chilean Altiplano. Click here for more information.