Climb to the summit of Ojos del Salado (6893m), 12 days with acclimatization

Question 1

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

Answer

There is one guide for every three clients, and after the fourth client, another guide is added. There is also the possibility of hiring an assistant for the summit day (this service is not included in this program).

Question 2

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

Answer

You need to be trained; it is a very demanding mountain, both physically and mentally. It is not suitable for children.

Question 3

How can I get to Fiambalá (starting point of the trip)?

Answer

The biggest city close to Fiambalá is La Rioja. You can take a plane from Buenos Aires to La Rioja, or a bus from different cities in Argentina to La Rioja. From La Rioja city, there are local buses that take you to Fiambalá, or you can also take a local taxi.

Question 4

Are there vegetarian/celiac options for meals?

Answer

All the expedition meals are included and are planned to offer balanced nutrition during the trip. In case you require a vegetarian, celiac, or any other specific diet, you can request it when booking the trip, and we will take it into account, at no extra cost.

Question 5

Which route will we take to the summit of Ojos del Salado? Is this trip from the Argentine or Chilean side?

Answer

This trip takes place from the Argentine side; we take the normal route to the summit, starting from Fiambalá, Catamarca. Climbing via the Argentine side allows you to have a great acclimatization process, climbing lower peaks the previous days, and resting in a comfortable hotel (Cortaderas) before going for the final approach to Ojos del Salado. Besides, you will find much fewer people in the mountains than when going through the Chilean side.

Question 6

How will accommodation and meals be handled on the mountain?

Answer

I take care of this, from the first day to the last day of the expedition.

Question 7

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

Answer

Always be trained and prepared for this kind of challenge. I always recommend cardio training three times a week and weight training three times a week.

Question 8

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

Answer

There are no porters. But only one day we will walk with the backpack loaded.

Question 9

Can I rent equipment for the expedition?

Answer

You can rent a few things in Fiambalá, but it's better to get everything in advance. There are big rental shops in Copiapó (Chile), or Mendoza (Argentina). Once you confirm the booking, we will be in touch, and if you let me know in advance which equipment you need to rent, I will recommend you how and where to rent it.

Question 10

What is the previous experience and fitness level required to go to Ojos del Salado?

Answer

As the Ojos del Salado ascent is not technical, it's not mandatory to have previous mountaineering experience, although it helps. The biggest challenge is altitude, so it's important to do good acclimatization, have a good fitness level, and do solid aerobic preparation for the trip.

Question 11

Can I join a group?

Answer

Yes, you can check the scheduled group dates here: https://www.explore-share.com/trip/climb-ojos-del-salado-6893m-12-days-acclimatization/#join-a-group

Question 12

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

Answer

The best time is at the end of February to April. In December, January, and February, there are many thunderstorms.

Question 13

Which is the best season to go to Ojos del Salado?

Answer

The season for Ojos del Salado goes from November to March. Regarding the weather, the best months are November and March. From December to February, the weather is fine most of the time, but it can be a bit more unpredictable.

Question 14

What's NOT included in the price?

Answer

NOT Included in the price:

- Transport to Fiambalá (starting point of the trip)

- Accommodation in Fiambalá or Catamrca before or after the expedition

- Alcoholic drinks

- Sleeping bag and personal equipment

- Porters for personal equipment

- Any expenses generated by the abandonment of the expedition

- Rescue and evacuation expenses

- Expenses generated by the loss of luggage

Question 15

Which is the acclimatization plan for the expedition?

Answer

Acclimatization is the key to a successful expedition to Ojos del Salado, and we will dedicate several days to a gradual and proper acclimatization plan. We will meet in Fiambalá and then transfer to Cortaderas at 3300m. From there, we will do ascents to nearby peaks of 4000 and 5000 meters, and have a free day to recover as well. The next step in terms of altitude is San Francisco, at 6000 meters, before our final attempt to Ojos del Salado, at 6893m. You can check the details on the itinerary section of the trip.

Question 16

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

Answer

It is always recommended to travel with insurance, but nothing in particular.

Question 17

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?

Answer

You have to bring your own personal technical equipment (crampons, helmet, ice axe). There are no places to rent.

Question 18

Where will we meet to start the Ojos del Salado expedition?

Answer

We will meet in Fiambalá, which is a town in the Argentine province of Catamarca, at the foot of the Andes. The transport to Fiambalá is not included in the price, but we can assist you with recommendations on how to get there. Fiambalá is a very picturesque town, known for its hot springs, tasty local empanadas and wine, and archaeological heritage.