Ascent to Andean summits in 14 days

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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).

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.

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.

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.