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Andes Flex: Pay Only for the 6000m Peaks You Climb

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(1)

Andes Flex: Pay Only for the 6000m Peaks You Climb
6000ers Atacama
10-day Atacama trek and climb to Licancabur
10-day Atacama trek and climb to Licancabur
10-day Atacama trek and climb to Licancabur

Discover all the beauty of the Andes! Join this 14-day adventure, starting with Nevado San Francisco, and if you are ready for the challenge we can tackle other 6000m peaks, including Ojos del Salado!

Group

Andes

14 Days

Jan - May, Sep - Dec

Very high

Intermediate


Highlights

  • You pay for the 1st 6017m peak Mt San Francisco, then decide the rest
  • You can choose from a variety of 19 x 6000 meter peaks
  • All-inclusive logistics covering every expense outside Copiapó
  • Full 4x4 support reaching up to 5,800 meters of altitude
  • Maximum comfort in the desert with Base Camp Chef, Starlink, and electric generator

Description

Discover the Freedom of Andes Flex (6,000m+)

Embark on a one-of-a-kind high-altitude adventure with Andes Flex — the first and only expedition where you choose which 6,000-meter peaks to climb, and only pay for the ones you summit. This program is perfect for climbers who are unsure whether they’re ready to tackle major peaks like Ojos del Salado (6,898m). Start with the ascent of Nevado San Francisco (6,017m) — a beautiful and accessible 6,000er ideal for acclimatization. From there, you decide: if you’re feeling strong, you can continue on to Ojos or other high summits. If not, you can opt for a second, more moderate peak — or return home without pressure. It’s freedom, flexibility, and expert support in one of the most spectacular and remote regions of the Central Andes.

Why choose Andes Flex?

Because it’s the most customizable climbing experience in South America. We begin with the ascent of Nevado San Francisco (6,017m), a stunning non-technical peak that prepares your body for bigger objectives. After that, you decide what comes next — whether it’s a moderate 6,000er like Vicuñas or Copiapó, or a full push to Ojos del Salado (6,898m) or the majestic Tres Cruces Massif.

Our flexible pricing model means you only pay for what you climb. This expedition was designed by Maximo Kausch, the world record holder for the most 6,000-meter peaks climbed in the Andes. He has climbed every single 6,000er in Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina — and most of the Peruvian ones too. His deep, firsthand knowledge of the region is the foundation of Andes Flex: a program created to match each climber with the right peak, at the right time, in the right conditions.

Thanks to this unprecedented experience, we know every route, approach, and nuance of each mountain in the area. Whether you aim for the towering Ojos del Salado or prefer something less technical, you’ll be supported by expert guides, all-terrain 4x4 vehicles, and a refined logistics structure that maximizes your summit chances — all while keeping safety, comfort, and flexibility at the core of your journey.

Price includes

  • Accommodation included
  • Guiding fee
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Transport during the trip
  • Transportation start and back
  • Permit and entrance fees
  • Mountain guide expenses
  • Luggage transfer
  • Tents
  • Rope
  • Cooking utensils
  • Accommodation
  • Transportation from your hotel/airport (if in area) to the start of the trip and back
  • All meals during trip
  • Group equipment
  • Transport to the start of the trip
  • Luggage transfer during the trip
  • Personal drinks and snacks
  • Mountain guide's expenses (lifts, meals, accommodation, etc)
  • Clean drinkable water
  • Clean, drinkable water during the trip

Price details

  • You pay for the first 6000meter peak, then pay for every additional peak
  • Base Package:
  • First acclimatization peak (Nevado San Francisco, 6,017m): USD 2,530
  • Additional Peaks:
  • Each additional “low” 6000m peak (up to 6,200m): USD 500
  • Each additional “high” 6000m peak (above 6,200m): USD 1,000
  • INCLUDED:
  • Extremely experienced English speaking Andes-Specialists team leader
  • Average of 2 clients per guide on summit push
  • Ascent of Mt San Francisco 6017m (also 4300m peak and 5200m peak)
  • Basecamp chef cooking 3 delicious meals every day
  • Daily medical checkups
  • Assistance with rental climbing equipment
  • Starlink internet at basecamp
  • Electric generator
  • Satellite phone throughout the expedition
  • Entry fees to the National Park
  • 2 nights in a hotel in Copiapó (3 or 4 stars – Hotel Cumbres de Atacama with breakfast)
  • Airport pickup and airport drop-off
  • Treated drinking water at all camps
  • Large comfortable tents in all camps (2 per tent)
  • All 4x4 transportation adapted for high altitude
  • Climbing permits
  • Transportation of 20 kg throughout the itinerary
  • 2-night stay at Laguna Santa Rosa Hut (Maricunga Hut)
  • Dining tent at basecamp
  • Toilet tents at basecamp
  • Storage tents at basecamp
  • All meals outside of Copiapó
  • Stoves, gas, and all kitchen equipment
  • Large medical kit
  • Oxygen for medical use
  • NOT INCLUDED:
  • Personal mountain equipment
  • Refunds in case you quit
  • Travel Insurance
  • Lunches and dinners in Copiapó
  • Airfare to/from Copiapó
  • Extra days in Copiapó (more than the 2 nights included)
  • Hotel cost if you prefer not to share a room (you have to pay hotel nights in full)
  • Costs of descent due to personal or medical reasons

Meeting point

Copiapó
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Itinerary

Day 1: Day 1 – Arrival in Copiapó

You’ll arrive in Copiapó, Chile, where our team will be waiting at the airport. Depending on your arrival time, you may already check your gear. In the evening, we’ll all meet for a team dinner and a welcome briefing. Accommodation in a comfortable hotel is included.

Day 2: Day 2 – Drive to Laguna Santa Rosa (3,700m)

We’ll leave the city behind and drive about 210 km into the heart of the Andes. After around 4 hours, we’ll arrive at a small mountain refuge next to the stunning salt lagoon of Santa Rosa. This is our first night at altitude, allowing the body to begin acclimatizing gradually.

Day 3: Day 3 – Acclimatization Hike to Siete Hermanas (4,300m)

We’ll do a short acclimatization hike to the Siete Hermanas ridge. The goal is to reach the highest point possible—around 4,300 meters—before returning to the refuge. This helps the body adapt to thinner air while enjoying the beautiful views of the altiplano.

Day 4: Day 4 – Drive to Laguna Verde (4,300m)

Today we’ll drive about 120 km to reach Laguna Verde, a surreal lake surrounded by volcanoes. The trip takes around 3 hours on high-altitude roads. Our camp will be set near the lake, where we’ll spend the night in tents and enjoy the nearby natural hot springs.

Day 5: Day 5 – Acclimatization Hike to Mulas Muertas (5,200m)

Time to climb Mulas Muertas (5200m), just a few kilometers away from our hut. We’ll take it easy and go as high as we can depending on the team’s overall condition. This hike normally takes 4 hours round trip. Included: Breakfast, snack, dinner, and overnight in tents.

Day 6: Day 6 – Rest Day at Laguna Verde (4,300m)

After five active days, we’ll take a full day to rest, rehydrate and recover at our base camp near Laguna Verde. The natural hot springs, open sky, and peace of the desert will help your body regain strength for the coming challenges.

Day 7: Day 7 – Acclimatization Drive to Tejos Refuge (5,800m)

Today we’ll head out in our 4x4 vehicles toward Refugio Tejos, located at 5,800 meters. The goal is to explore the access road and expose the body to higher elevation without much effort. After spending some time up high, we’ll return to Laguna Verde for the night.

Day 8: Day 8 – Rest Day at Laguna Verde (4,300m)

Another well-deserved rest day, giving your body time to adapt to the altitude gain from the previous day. You’ll enjoy more time in the thermal waters and have the chance to organize your equipment and mindset for the climbs ahead.

Day 9: Day 9 – Ascent of Nevado San Francisco (6,017m)

We’ll leave camp early and drive to the base of Nevado San Francisco in our 4x4s. From there, we’ll begin the ascent to its 6,017-meter summit. The roundtrip climb takes about 7 hours and gives us our first true experience above 6,000 meters—an excellent final preparation for Ojos.

Day 10 to 11: Days 10 & 11: Chosen Peaks

Your itinerary continues based on the peaks you’ve selected. Choose from lower or higher 6,000-meter summits depending on your goal, condition, and weather.

Day 12: Day 12 – Return to Copiapó

After dismantling our camp, we’ll drive back to Copiapó, closing the expedition with a sense of accomplishment and unforgettable memories. Depending on arrival time, we may stay one final night in the city.

Day 13: Day 13 – Extra Day for Weather or Emergencies

A full day is reserved for weather delays or extra acclimatization if needed. It increases your chances of a successful summit while allowing flexibility in case of unforeseen conditions.

Day 14: Day 14 – Departure from Copiapó

We’ll transfer you to the airport in time for your flight back home, full of stories and new altitude records.

 

Details

More info

Please keep in mind that you will need complete and adequate mountaineering equipment to have a successful expedition to San Francisco. For that purpose, all your personal equipment will be checked by one of our guides in the hotel. There are no rental shops in Copiapo or Santiago. If you need to rent mountaineering equipment, we can rent it for you in Mendoza but we need to know all your sizes in advance.

Climbing Possibilities:

- Ojos del Salado 6898 m (22,616 ft) - Barrancas Blancas 6119 m (20,069 ft) - Peña Blanca 6058 m (19,873 ft) - Tres Cruces Norte 6030 m (19,792 ft) - Vicuñas 6067 m (19,902 ft) - Volcán Solo 6202 m (20,341 ft) - Incahuasi 6638 m (21,782 ft) - Muerto 6516 m (21,376 ft) - Nevado Copiapo 6052 m (19,857 ft) - Tres Cruces Sur 6742 m (22,112 ft) - Volcán Fraile 6061 m (19,881 ft) - And 10 more...


Equipment you will need to bring

Participants will receive assistance with gear acquisition, including pre-expedition orientation, discount coupons for partner stores, and personal gear checks upon arrival.

Essential Gear:

  • Head: Cap or visor, tubular bandana, warm hat, mountain sunglasses, headlamp, balaclava (optional)
  • Upper Body: Fleece shirt, base layer shirt, waterproof jacket, 2-3 long sleeve Dryfit shirts, thin down jacket, thick down jacket with hood
  • Lower Body: 2-3 trekking pants, base layer pants, waterproof pants, Polartec or fleece pants, 3-4 underwear, swimming shorts for hot springs
  • Feet: Trekking boots, double boots, 3-4 pairs of trekking socks, 1 thick pair of socks, crampons, gaiters, chemical foot warmers, sandals or Crocs
  • Hands: Polartec or fleece gloves, down mittens
  • Miscellaneous: Trekking poles, 55-65 liter backpack, 100-120 liter duffel bag, 1-2 thermal pads, -5°C sleeping bag, 2 water bottles or Camelbak, personal hygiene kit, continuous use medications

Rental Options at Copiapo:

  • Foam matt: $35
  • Down jacket: $115
  • Double boots La Sportiva: $130
  • Down mittens: $50
  • Crampons: $50
  • Climbing helmet: $40
  • Ice axe: $50
  • Sleeping bag (-5°C to -10°C): $90

FAQs

What experience and how fit do I need to be to climb this mountain? Is this program suitable for children or older people?

For the Andes 6000 Flex expedition, you need to have cardiovascular training up to date and prior experience with high-altitude mountains is recommended. This ensures participants are prepared for the physical demands and altitude of the climb. Physical demand is only responsible for 20% of success in these kinds of climbs. Given the demanding nature of the Andes 6000 Flex expedition, which involves high altitudes and physical exertion, it is generally not suitable for children or older individuals without the required fitness levels and prior experience. Although there aren't legal requirements, participants should generally be between 16 and 70 years old to do well.

How far in advance should I start training and what kind of training do you suggest?

Participants should start training several months in advance, focusing on cardiovascular fitness, strength training, and acclimatization hikes. Specific recommendations include regular aerobic exercises like running, cycling, and stair climbing, combined with strength workouts targeting legs, core, and upper body. Altitude training or hikes at high elevations can also be very beneficial.

Will I need to bring any technical equipment of my own? Is it possible to rent equipment, and if so, what would be the approximate cost of that?

Participants need to bring certain technical equipment. However, it is possible to rent equipment in Copiapó. The approximate costs are as follows: Thermal mat: $35, Down jacket: $115, Double boots La Sportiva: $130, Down mittens: $50, Crampons: $50, Climbing helmet: $40, Ice axe: $50, Sleeping bag (-5°C to -10°C): $90.

Will there be porters to help to carry group and personal equipment?

There is no need for porters on the Andes 6000 Flex expedition. We use 4WD vehicles to carry heavy equipment up to 5900m.

How will accommodation and meals be handled on the mountain?

Accommodation will be provided in mountain refuges (e.g., Maricunga) and tents at various campsites along the route. Meals will be included throughout the expedition, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided at the camps. All meals outside Copiapó are included. Tents and hotel rooms (also included) are shared between two expedition members.

What happens in the event of bad weather?

A reserve day is included in the itinerary to accommodate potential delays due to bad weather. In cases of severe weather conditions, the itinerary might be adjusted to ensure the safety of all participants.

Are there any other special requirements such as permits/insurance/vaccines that we need to consider before the tour?

Permits: Permits for climbing are included in the expedition package.

Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is recommended.

Vaccines: It is advisable to check for any health advisories related to travel to Chile beforehand.

What is the guide-to-client ratio to climb this mountain?

The guide-to-client ratio for the Andes 6000 Flex expedition is approximately 1 guide for every 2.5 clients on summit day and 3 clients per guide in other situations. This ensures personalized attention and support during the climbs.

What is the best time of the year to climb this mountain?

The best time to participate in the Andes 6000 Flex expedition is during the Southern Hemisphere summer, particularly between January and March. These months offer more stable weather conditions, making the climbs safer and more manageable.

Can I join a group?

Yes, you can join a group for the Andes 6000 Flex expedition. Check out our set dates to join.

What kind of altitude acclimatization strategies are used during the expedition?

During the Andes 6000 Flex expedition, we employ a gradual acclimatization strategy. This includes ascending to higher altitudes during the day and returning to lower altitudes to sleep. Acclimatization hikes and rest days are also incorporated into the itinerary to help your body adjust to the altitude gradually.

What safety measures are in place for the expedition?

Safety measures for the Andes 6000 Flex expedition include having experienced guides trained in first aid and high-altitude rescue, carrying medical kits and portable oxygen, and using satellite communication for emergencies. We also ensure regular LLS health checks for participants and have evacuation plans in place.

How are medical emergencies handled during the expedition?

In the event of a medical emergency, our guides are trained to provide immediate first aid and assess the situation. We use 4WD vehicles to evacuate participants if needed, which can take up to 5 hours to reach the nearest hospital. We recommend that all participants have comprehensive travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation.

Do I have to have rescue insurance?

No. Rescue insurances such as Global Rescue depend on organising air rescues through Chilean authorities which can be quite tricky and too slow to respond in emergencies. This is due to the fact we'll be climbing at the Argentine border area the helicopter flight have a few legal restrictions there. The other problem are the high winds. Therefore we consider a 4WD rescue much more efficient than helicopters in this area. We ask all our clients to bring at least USD 400 with them and use it in case of emergencies.

What are the living conditions like in the mountain refuges and campsites?

Mountain huts such as those at Laguna Santa Rosa are basic, with shared bunk beds and limited facilities. Campsites are equipped with high-quality tents, and we provide a communal dining tent. While amenities are limited, we ensure comfort and basic hygiene throughout the expedition.

Are there charging facilities at basecamp?

Our bomb proof basecamp does have a generator and a backup system to keep our Starlink system online as well as the backup communication system Inmarsat and our 'plan-C' system Iridium. Therefore there are AC and USB charging facilities during generator hours (9 hours per day).

What kind of food is provided during the expedition?

We provide nutritious and balanced meals throughout the expedition, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Meals are designed to meet the high-energy needs of participants and include a variety of proteins, carbohydrates, and vegetables. Special dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice.

What if I'm a vegetarian or vegan?

No problem. Our chef can cook delicious vegan meals during the trip and have a very well balanced menu including high levels of vegetarian protein in all main courses such as quinoa, lentils, black beans, soy, mushrooms, etc.

Is there any communication available during the expedition?

While there is no 4G coverage once we leave Copiapó, we use a Starlink system to ensure participants can stay connected during the expedition. This allows for communication with family and emergency services as needed.

How Do I Pay for Additional Peaks During the Trip?

No problem at all — we’ve made this process smooth and flexible. Thanks to our satellite internet connection via Starlink, we can generate a secure payment link at any point during the expedition. You’ll be able to pay for any additional peaks you choose to climb using various payment methods, including credit card, PayPal, and international transfers. We understand that mountain plans can evolve, so we’re ready to adapt with you.

About the guide

Guide profile image

-Andes Specialists

4.8

(5)

Mountain Guide

Andes Specialists is a guiding company founded in 2012 with a clear mission: to transform a passion for high-altitude mountaineering into a professional, adaptable, and reliable service. Created by Maximo Kausch, the company was born from his dream of turning a lifelong connection with the mountains into a project focused on deep knowledge, real guiding experience, and personalized service.

We operate exclusively in the Andes, not only in the most iconic mountains, but also in remote and rarely visited regions where few — if any — guides work. Our clients recognize us for our flexibility and ability to adapt to their goals, just like the mountains that inspire us.

All of our expeditions are led by certified guides, and we place special emphasis on a guide’s professional experience in the field — not just their personal climbing résumé. We believe that strong logistics, leadership, and group care are what truly define a world-class mountain guide.

Maximo Kausch, the founder, personally leads most of our expeditions. When he’s not available, clients are guided by handpicked members of his trusted team. Maximo has led over 10 expeditions to 8,000-meter peaks, several to 7,000-meter peaks, and more than 90 to 6,000-meter mountains. He has climbed over 250 extreme altitude peaks, reached the summit of K2, and currently holds the Guinness World Record for the most 6,000-meter peaks climbed — with 89 summits officially recognized.

At Andes Specialists, guiding isn’t just about reaching the summit — it’s about going beyond the obvious, with safety, expertise, and genuine connection.

Languages

Portuguese | English


What people are saying about this trip

Aleksander

The expedition was very professionally organised with a good guide to client ratio (between 2:1 and 3:1), great food (cook Charlie was absolutely amazing, the food was better than in restaurants although we were in a remote location in a desert at 4,300+ meters above sea level), the guides all spoke English very well (big plus!) and the communication from the guides before and during the trip was very clear and helpful (e.g. asking questions what equipment to bring etc). Would recommend to others for sure


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