Solo Volcano, at 6,205 m.a.s.l., stands on the border between Chile and Argentina in Tres Cruces National Park, strategically placed between Nevado Tres Cruces Sur and Ojos del Salado.
It is a stratovolcano that stands out for colors unlike those of the other summits in the area. It is known to have built up through repeated accumulations of material ejected in more geologically active times. There is a lot of pale material on its slopes, which suggests old explosions with pyroclastic flows or "glowing clouds": hot gases mixed with ash and incandescent rock that came down at great speed.
It is a mountain of unmatched beauty. The ascent can be timed with full-moon days, since the light reflected across the whole mountain even lets you walk at night without artificial light.
Technical Features of Solo Volcano
- Height: 6,205 m.a.s.l.
- Elevation gain: 1,200 to 1,400 meters, depending on the amount of ice or snow in some sections.
- Duration: 2 to 3 days, depending on acclimatization, fitness and weather.
- Weather: Keep in mind that snowfall is possible in summer (the "Bolivian winter"), and in winter the cold can reach -20 °C or -25 °C at night.
- Technical difficulty: A volcano with no major technical complications, but it requires good fitness.
- Camps:
- Base Camp: Can be set up at Laguna Verde (4,250 m.a.s.l.).
- Camp 1 (C1): In the gully that joins Tres Cruces and El Solo, at about 4,800 meters.
- Times:
- C1 to summit: 6 to 7 hours.
- Return: 2 to 3 hours.
Recommendations for the Climb
- Plan an acclimatization period before the expedition.
- It is important to have previous knowledge and experience of both high camps and continuous walking days of more than 12 hours.
- Keep very much in mind that water cannot be bought or found at the high camps; carrying water has to be planned.
- Calculate fuel carefully, allowing for possible setbacks. Remember that 4x4 driving and altitude raise average consumption considerably.
- Have previous experience using GPS and a satellite phone.
- Take good care of camera and phone battery charge (the cold drains them fast).
- If symptoms of altitude sickness appear, the best decision is to go down one step to the previous camp.
- Do not forget solar radiation! Always wear certified sunglasses and SPF 50 or higher sunscreen.
Clothing You Need for the Tour
In general, the first thing to be clear about is that all the clothes you wear should be as comfortable and flexible as possible, since this will normally be a long route with elevation changes.
- Upper body: We recommend the layering system:
- Base layer: Breathable top (synthetic material, not cotton).
- Mid layer: Insulation (fleece or microfleece jacket).
- Outer layer: Weather protection (windproof, waterproof or down jacket depending on conditions).
- Lower body: Trekking pants (ideally softshell or zip-off). You can wear thermal tights underneath if it is very cold.
- Note: Remember that if you need mountain clothing, we have some to lend and rent.
Mountain Footwear
Looking after your feet is extremely important. Not only to avoid wounds and injuries, but because the activity consists precisely of walking for hours.
- Boots: Ideally stiff or semi-stiff high-mountain or trekking boots that are comfortable, waterproof and warm.
- Sole: It should be thick and grip well on rocky or snowy surfaces.
- Note: Remember that if you need mountain boots, we have some to lend and rent.
Gear for the Mountain
- Backpack: A summit pack (30-40 liters) for summit day and a larger bag or backpack (70+ liters) if gear is carried to high camp.
- Hydration: Water bottle (Nalgene type) and a thermos for hot drinks. Hydration bladder systems can freeze.
- First-aid kit: Personal kit with bandages, blister patches, painkillers and personal medication.
- Other: Sunscreen, headlamp (with spare batteries), trekking poles.
- Note: Remember that if you need mountain gear, we have some to lend and rent.
About the Expedition
What the Tour Includes
- Transport from the hotel.
- 4x4 transport from San Pedro de Atacama or an agreed point.
- Guide with more than 22 years of experience in the Atacama area.
- Bilingual guide.
- Breakfast.
- Trekking food (sandwich, bars, chocolate and fruit).
- Water for the whole expedition.
- Satellite communication for emergencies.
- Advice on training beforehand.
- Technical advice on walking and breathing.
- Camp (optional): Tents for every 2 people if camping is required.
Final Advice and Our Approach to the Ascent
- The way is the goal: The mountain is everything, not just the summit. There is no need to obsess over the final destination. Enjoying the way and turning the ascent into a healing experience is our aim.
- What matters is coming back: Do not put your life at risk or compromise your health. Sometimes a simple injury gets complicated at altitude. The descent is demanding; save energy for the way back.
- Never go alone: In the mountains, company is safety. If something happens, your partner can assist or look for help.
- Communication: Always tell family or the authorities your route and any change of plans.
- Protection: The sun at altitude is dangerous. Sunstroke causes disorientation. Protect yourself.
- Acclimatization: The golden rule. Go up gradually or climb lower peaks (such as Cerro Toco or Láscar) before trying a "six-thousander".
Rather drive it yourself? See our supported 4x4 self-drive across the Puna de Atacama.
