Why do this tour?
Cerro Plomo is one of the best introductions to high-altitude mountaineering in Chile.
– Reach a real 5,000-meter summit near Santiago
– Experience the Central Andes in a safe and guided way
– Enjoy a non-technical mountain ascent
– Learn how to move, breathe, and pace yourself at altitude
– Sleep in high mountain camps
– Discover one of Chile’s most classic Andean objectives
– Prepare for future mountains such as Marmolejo, Aconcagua, or Ojos del Salado
The goal of this program is to make the experience enjoyable, progressive, and realistic for people who are fit but not expert mountaineers.
Overview
Location
Central Andes, Chile
Duration
3 days
Level
moderate
Highest Point
5,424 M
Season
november - april
Grupo Size
3 - 10 people
Price From
USD 1,150 per person
Dates
To be confirmed & 1 collective date
Cerro Plomo is one of the most iconic mountains in the Central Andes and a classic high-altitude objective near Santiago. Rising to 5,424 meters, it offers a unique opportunity to experience a real Andean summit without requiring advanced mountaineering or technical climbing skills.
This program is designed for active people with good physical condition who enjoy hiking and want to take their first step into high-altitude mountain travel. The route follows a gradual approach through the Farellones, La Parva, or Valle Nevado area, with established camps, beautiful Andean landscapes, and excellent views of the surrounding mountains.
Although Cerro Plomo is not a technical climb, the altitude makes it a real physical challenge. The program focuses on moving at a comfortable pace, staying well hydrated, adapting to the elevation, and enjoying the experience without unnecessary pressure.
Cerro Plomo also has important cultural significance, as it was used by the Incas as a ceremonial mountain. Reaching its summit is not only a physical achievement, but also a memorable way to connect with the history and landscapes of the Central Andes.
This is an ideal program for people looking for their first high-altitude summit, preparation for future expeditions, or simply a powerful mountain experience close to Santiago.
Trip Details
Day 1 — Santiago to Piedra Numerada Camp
- Pick-up in Santiago
- Transfer to the Farellones, La Parva, or Valle Nevado area
- Start of the approach hike
- Walk at a comfortable pace toward **Piedra Numerada Camp**, at approximately 3,350 m
- Camp setup
- Dinner at camp
Objective: Begin the ascent gradually, adapt to the altitude, and enjoy the first night in the mountains.
Day 2 — Piedra Numerada to Federación Camp
- Breakfast at camp
- Gradual ascent toward Federación Camp, at approximately 4,100 m
- Slow and steady pace focused on acclimatization
- Arrival at camp and rest
- Camp setup
- Review of clothing, food, water, and equipment for the summit day
- Early dinner and rest
Objective: Reach high camp, continue acclimatizing, and calmly prepare for the summit attempt.
Day 3 — Summit Day and Descent
- Early start before sunrise
- Slow and steady ascent toward the summit
- Regular breaks for hydration, food, and layering
- Summit of Cerro Plomo, if weather and conditions allow
- Enjoy panoramic views of the Central Andes
- Descent back to camp
- Continue down toward the trailhead
- Transfer back to Santiago
- End of the program
Objective: Attempt the summit safely, respecting the pace of the group, the altitude, and the guide’s assessment.
I
Included
- Certified IFMGA/UIAGM Mountain Guide
- Maximum ratio of 3–4 participants per guide (or guide assistant)
- Private transfer from Santiago to the trailhead and back
- Full camp setup (kitchen dome, tents, cooking equipment, group gear)
- Meals during the expedition
- Group technical equipment (ropes and safety gear if required)
- Mules for load transport
Not Included
- Personal mountaineering equipment
- International or domestic flights
- Travel & rescue insurance (mandatory)
- Personal camping equipment
- Personal snacks
- Alcoholic beverages
- Tips for guides
An Unforgettable First
Ski Experience in Chile
Our first time in Chile — and our first ski experience in South America — became an unforgettable journey. The professionalism, warmth, and local knowledge of the guides made these days in the Chilean Andes truly exceptional. We came for the mountains, but we’ll remember the people most.
Practical
Info
Requirements
Participants should have:
- Good physical condition
- Previous hiking or trekking experience
- Ability to walk several hours per day with a backpack
- Motivation to spend multiple days camping in the mountains
- A positive attitude toward cold, altitude, and changing weather conditions
No technical climbing experience is required.
Additional Notes
Cerro Plomo is a non-technical mountain, but the altitude makes it a serious physical challenge.
The summit is not guaranteed and depends on weather, route conditions, acclimatization, and the guide’s safety assessment.
The pace will be adapted to the group.
The itinerary may change depending on weather, snow conditions, and group performance.
Crampons may be required depending on the season and conditions.
Equipment
A complete mountaineering equipment kit and personal camping gear are required, including mountaineering boots, poles, crampons, helmet, proper layering for high-altitude conditions, sleeping bag and mat.
A detailed packing list is provided after booking confirmation.
Payment Conditions
A 50% deposit is required to secure your booking. The remaining balance must be paid 60 days before departure. Deposits are non-refundable and services are only confirmed once full payment has been received.
For full details, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.
Cancellation
Client cancellations more than 60 days before departure are eligible for an 80% refund. Cancellations within 60 days are non-refundable. Weather, safety, or force majeure events do not generate refunds, but alternative programs may be offered.
See full policy in our Terms & Conditions.
Insurance
Participants are responsible for obtaining their own insurance coverage for the planned activity, including personal liability, assistance, search and rescue, and repatriation, regardless of location or altitude
F.A.Q.
Have questions about preparation, acclimatization, route conditions, or difficulty level? Visit our FAQ section or contact us directly — we are happy to guide you through the process.
