San Francisco Volcano, Catamarca, Argentina
THE BORDER
Cross the line between the known world and the vastness.
Eight days in the Andean Puna, among volcanoes, salt flats and absolute silence.
A demanding adventure, for those looking for something more than a summit.
Suri Milestones Collection
PROMOTION MILESTONE
San Francisco Volcano -6,016 meters above sea level-
Catamarca, Argentina
PRIVATE EXPEDITION
8-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 eight 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 about reaching 6,016 meters. It's about sustaining your pace at altitude, learning to move in the essentials, and leaving behind what's unnecessary.
The San Francisco Volcano marks a milestone along the way.
But what really remains is everything that changed before you arrived.
Sleep under one of the clearest skies on the continent, where the stars accompany you every night on your journey.
Walk among salt flats, volcanic fields and open horizons that disconnect from the noise and connect with you.
Train your body for altitude and learn to maintain your pace, even when the pace slows.
THE BORDER, An 8-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 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.
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
- Internal transfers to and 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 fewer members (optional)
- 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 Border | San Francisco Volcano, Catamarca
From USD 1,400 per person
✓ 8-day expedition guided by high mountain experts ✓ Acclimatization hikes on volcanoes over 5,000 m ✓ Remote camps, mountain hotel and inn accommodation in Fiambala ✓ Access to natural hot springs
✓ Small group and close support before and throughout the trip
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, since that 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, but we will return to the tent or shelter with the satisfaction of having attempted it.
