Nevado Tres Cruces, located on the border of Chile and Argentina is a hidden gem, being overshadowed by its neighbor Ojos Del Salado. Tres Cruces Sur, standing at 6748m/22,139ft) is the 2nd highest mountain in Chile, and the 6th highest mountain in South America. The mountain is less climbed, but many feel a much more challenging climb, and more rewarding than any other mountain in the Atacama region. It is for this reason that Pan American Adventures offers this majestic expedition.

During the expedition, we will explore the breathtaking Laguna Santa Rosa, allowing ample time for acclimatization, unwind in the soothing thermal baths nestled at the base of Laguna Verde, acclimatize with breathtaking climbs of Santa Rosa Volcano, Tres Cruces Norte, Cerros Vicunas, and possible other summits. Ultimately we set our sights on the summit of Tres Cruces Sur (6748m/22139ft).

For those seeking a true adventure, we offer a 15-day expeditions to summit Nevado Tres Cruces, from (Climbing Season-November 15, to March 15) departing from Copiapó, Chile, at a cost of US$7,995 per person. This challenging climb involves high altitudes, harsh winds, and extreme conditions, making it a unique and unforgettable mountaineering

Expedition Overview

Upon arrival in Copiapó, we will transfer you to the charming coastal town of Bahía Inglesa, where you’ll settle into your hotel. After some time to explore the town and its scenic harbour, we’ll gather for a team briefing and an equipment check with your guide, followed by a relaxing dinner.

The next day, we head across the expansive Altiplano plateau towards Nevado Tres Cruces. Each day, we’ll embark on short treks at progressively higher altitudes to aid in acclimatization, setting up camp at the end of each day. Along the way, we’ll visit the stunning Laguna Santa Rosa, famous for its resident Andean flamingos, ascend Tres Cruces Norte, or Cerros Vicunas and enjoy the stunning Laguna Verde, with its inviting turquoise waters and rejuvenating hot springs.

After our acclimatization climbs from our base camp at Laguna Verde, we will pack up and move to base camp (5200m/17060ft) at the foot of Nevado Tres Cruces. From here, we will move to high camp (5800m/19028ft), where we will summit Nevado Tres Cruces Central and ultimately Tres Cruces Sur (6748m/22139ft)

After the summit climb, depending on the time of day, we will either break down camp and start our journey from high camp to base camp, or spend the night at high camp and return to base camp the next morning. From base camp, we will travel to Bahía Inglesa in the morning. Once we are at Bahia Inglesa, you’ll have time to unwind and enjoy a well-earned seafood feast. We’ll then transfer back to Copiapó Airport (CPO) for your flight to Santiago, where you can either continue your South American adventure or catch your international flight home.

Prerequisite Experience

Climbing Nevado Tres Cruces requires a excellent level of physical fitness, as you’ll be exerting yourself for 6-10 hours each day. The expedition is largely vehicle-supported, meaning most days you’ll only carry a light daypack. However, from Tres Cruces basecamp to High Camp, you need to carry 20–25kg (50-55lbs) of equipment.

As we’ll be climbing at high altitudes, it’s important to be aware that the physical demands increase with altitude. Expect some variation in performance, and be prepared for rest days to help with acclimatization. Our approach is to gradually build up fitness over the course of the expedition, but arriving in good health and with a reasonable level of fitness is key.

Summit day is the most physically challenging, with a 1,000m (3,300ft) ascent at high altitude. This rewarding climb typically takes 12–14 hours. The expedition is suited for those with general mountaineering skills, as your guides will provide thorough instruction on high-altitude camping and climbing techniques.

Above all, a positive mindset, a strong team spirit, and a willingness to push through challenges will be essential for success on this incredible journey

Team Size & Structure

Our expedition team will consist of a minimum of 3 participants. The number of guides is adjusted based on the team size, with a typical guide-to-member ratio of 1:3 for climbing. This ensures a personalized experience with the necessary support for each climber.

Itinerary for the Nevado Tres Cruces Expedition

Dates: Schedule between November and March (15 day expedition)

Here's an outline of our ideal itinerary for this remarkable adventure:

Day 1: Arrival at Copiapó Airport. After a scenic transfer to Bahía Inglesa, you’ll have time to explore the charming coastal town and its harbour. Overnight in a comfortable hotel.

Day 2: Transfer from Bahía Inglesa to Valle Chico (3,050m / 10,000ft).

Day 3: Trek from Valle Chico to Laguna Santa Rosa (3,760m / 12,350ft), where we’ll camp and begin our acclimatization.

Day 4: Short trek to Siete Hermanos or Santa Rosa Volcano, then return to Laguna Santa Rosa for an overnight stay.

Day 5: Move from Laguna Santa Rosa to Laguna Verde (4,340m / 14,240ft), where we'll set up camp and enjoy the stunning landscape.

Day 6: Hike to Tres Cruces Norte (6206m/20361ft) for further acclimatization, then return to Laguna Verde camp for the night.

Day 7: Rest day at Laguna Verde.

Day 8: Travel to base camp Nevado Tres Cruces

Day 9: Ascend to high camp

Day 10: Ascend Tres Cruces Central (6629m/21749ft)

Day 11: Rest day

Day 12: Summit Day – After an early start, we’ll tackle the final push to the summit of Tres Cruces Sur (6,748m / 22139ft).

Day 13: Contingency day – a buffer for weather or unforeseen delays.

Day 14: Travel from Laguna Verde back to Bahía Inglesa for a well-deserved rest and celebration.

Day 15: Transfer from Bahía Inglesa to Copiapó Airport for your departure flight, marking the end of an unforgettable adventure.

This itinerary provides a well-paced progression with built-in rest days and contingencies, maximizing your chances of reaching the summit safely and successfully.