Ojos del Salado Volcano, Catamarca, Argentina, Argentine Route
THE END IS WHERE I LEFT
Dare to leave the familiar behind and delve into the infinite. Twelve days exploring the Andean Puna, among towering volcanoes, vast salt flats, and an all-encompassing silence. A challenging journey, designed for those who yearn for more than just reaching a summit.
Suri Milestones Collection
PROMOTION MILESTONE
Ojos del Salado Volcano -6,890 meters above sea level-
Catamarca, Argentina
PRIVATE EXPEDITION
14-DAY DURATION
MAXIMUM 6 MOUNTAINEERS
Accompaniment
professional and friendly
A mountain guide with
real height experience,
who leads, cares and teaches
at every step.
A remote environment
and challenging
Far from the tourist routes.
A journey through one of the areas
more lonely and
majestic mountains of the Puna
Andean.
Careful logistics
from beginning to end
Transfers, shelters,
meals and essential equipment:
everything planned for you
focus on what
you came to look for.
A challenging expedition that takes you far.
And inwards.
You will spend fourteen days walking among volcanoes, salt flats and immense skies.
This expedition covers one of the most remote and silent areas of the Andes Mountains.
It's not just the world's tallest volcano. It's a journey steeped in history, symbolism, and difficult decisions.
The Ojos del Salado brings together mountaineers from around the world.
But this isn't the end of your milestones; it's the beginning of what's new.
Under one of the clearest skies on the continent, the stars become silent companions, guiding each night of your journey.
Experience silence in its purest form: no distractions, no urgency, just you, the group, and the untamed grandeur of nature.
Immerse yourself in a world of shimmering salt flats, volcanic landscapes, and endless horizons that take you away from the hustle and bustle and bring you closer to the essential.
Reach the summit of the Ojos del Salado Volcano, at 6,890 meters, slowly but surely.
Let the height transform you, let each step strengthen your body and spirit, even when the effort invites you to slow down.
Treat yourself to a break in Argentina's most beautiful natural hot springs after several days of traveling.
THE END IS WHERE I LEFT, A 14-day expedition in the Andean silence
Day 1 – How does the journey begin?
We meet at La Rioja airport and travel to 3,300 meters. That same day we arrive at the Cortaderas Hotel. The body begins to feel the change in altitude. It's a perfect time to get into the swing of things, get to know the group, and prepare your gear.
Day 2 – What is the first objective?
We set off early for an acclimatization hike to Pastos Amarillos Hill (4,100 m). It's a crucial day to adapt, test your pace, and adjust your gear. We return to the hotel to rest.
Day 3 – Where did we camp for the first time?
We moved to Las Grutas, at 4,100 meters. There we set up our first camp. From this point, everything becomes simpler, more rustic, and focused. We ascend to Falso Morocho (4,500 m). It's not technical, but it does require sustained effort. The landscape changes, and the experience becomes more vivid.
Day 4 – What’s next before San Francisco?
We reach the summit of Bertrand Volcano (5,200 m). It's an intense day, but crucial for gradually gaining altitude. We're almost ready.
Day 5 – Shall we rest?
Yes, and it's strategic. Some take advantage of the opportunity to take a leisurely walk, others enjoy natural hot springs. It's a day to slow down, hydrate well, and mentally prepare for the big day.
Day 6 – What is the climb to San Francisco Volcano like?
Today we're heading for our goal: 6,016 m. We start early, starting at 4,800 m and steadily gaining altitude. The summit offers a breathtaking view of the plateau. The return journey is long, but your body responds differently after that.
Day 7 – Total relaxation? YES!
We have breakfast, organize our gear, and head back to Fiambala, where we'll enjoy natural hot springs in the middle of the mountains. The day ends with a barbecue among the vineyards. It's peaceful, giving you time to descend calmly and absorb everything we've experienced.
Day 8 – How does the expedition end?
After packing all the equipment into the vehicle, part of the group will return to La Rioja airport. The other part will use this day to finalize preparations for the days ahead.
Day 9 – Full 4x4 Adventure? YES!
From Fiambala, we'll embark on an epic journey to the imposing Altura Arenal mountain range, at 5,500 meters above sea level. A ten-hour journey off-road, crossing rivers and challenging extreme terrain in a true 4x4 adventure. At the end of the day, the vastness of the arena awaits you for a night under an endless sky.
Day 10 – Are we leaving?
At dawn, after a revitalizing breakfast, we prepare to ascend the challenging C1 high camp, at approximately 5,800 meters. A four- to six-hour trek will take us to our next mountain camp.
Day 11 – Here and now
The big test begins: the summit attempt at 6,893 meters above sea level. The highest volcano in the world...with determination, we will try to reach the summit where we will enjoy the most incredible views, but above all, the process that led us to get there. We begin the descent to Camp 1.
Day 12 – Are we going back?
We'll return from C1 to board the transfer and leave the valley, taking with us the memories of an unforgettable experience. The day culminates with a night's rest at the Cortaderas Hotel, marking the end of this epic adventure.
Day 13 – Total relaxation? YES!
We have breakfast, organize our gear, and head back to Fiambala, where we'll enjoy natural hot springs in the middle of the mountains. The day ends with a barbecue among the vineyards. It's peaceful, giving you time to descend calmly and absorb everything we've experienced.
Day 14 – How does the expedition end?
After packing all the gear into the vehicle, we begin the return journey to La Rioja airport. The return journey is long, but we share what we've experienced.
Day 15 and 16 – Extra days
The itinerary includes two additional days in case of adverse weather conditions, ensuring that every step on the mountain is as challenging as it is safe.
Stories of those who crossed their milestone
Who leads this expedition?
Ezequiel Di Fabio is a professional mountain guide, physical education teacher, and founder of Suri Expeditions.
For over ten years, he has led treks through challenging natural environments, accompanying people of all ages to explore hills, valleys, and volcanoes safely and in-depth.
He lives in San Rafael, Mendoza, where he trains daily on mountain trails, practices rock climbing, trail running, and skiing during the winter.
His life is in the mountains, and each expedition reflects that experience.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
- Professional mountain guide throughout the trek
- Assistant guide for groups of 4 or more participants
- All meals detailed in the program
- Nights in hotel, camp and inn according to itinerary
- Internal transfers from La Rioja airport according to the route plan
- Management of climbing permits and registration in protected areas
- Entrance to the hot springs
- Group camping equipment (tents, stove, dishes)
- Personal Accident Insurance
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED
- Transfers from your hometown to La Rioja (round trip)
- Pre- or post-expedition accommodations outside the itinerary
- Assistant guide in case of 3 or 2 members (optional)
- Carrying of personal equipment (optional, consult rates)
- Alcoholic beverages or personal extras in shelters or hotels
- Sleeping bag and individual technical equipment
- Expenses incurred by early abandonment of the program or evacuation
The End is where I started | Ojos del Salado Volcano | Argentina Route | Catamarca
From USD 3,500 per person
✓ 14-day expedition guided by high mountain experts ✓ Acclimatization hikes on volcanoes over 5,000 m ✓ Remote camps and mountain hotel accommodation ✓ Access to natural hot springs ✓ Small group and close accompaniment throughout the trip ✓ Complete ascent of the Ojos del Salado volcano (6,980 m)
This expedition requires advance planning
Due to logistics, altitude, and environmental concerns, we work with small groups and limited dates. If you'd like to participate, please contact us to see if it's a suitable time and if there's still availability.
Do I need previous mountain or high-altitude experience to join this expedition?
For the Ascent Milestones we recommend having some previous experience, as this way you will enjoy the experience much more. We recommend the Initiation Milestones to mountaineering.
What is the level of physical demand and what preparation do you recommend?
The level of challenge is high, and even though we don't use our hands to climb, it's challenging. You don't need to be super fit; we recommend regular exercise three or four times a week. If you'd like to start this type of activity, contact us and we'll work out a plan together. We also recommend a checkup with a doctor beforehand.
What type of accommodation is included during the expedition days?
The accommodations that are included are detailed in the section on what is included and what is not.
What personal equipment should I bring and what happens if I don't have everything?
The requested equipment will be provided on a form in advance so you can read it. If you don't have the requested equipment, it can be rented. We recommend not purchasing it without our advice.
What happens if I don't reach the summit for personal or weather reasons?
We will always attempt to reach the summit within a safe environment. Whether due to weather, personal reasons, or the guide's decision, we fail to reach the summit. We will return to the tent or shelter with the satisfaction of having attempted it.
