• Transportation

  • Guide

  • Snacks

Experience reaching a summit above 5,600 meters of altitude on one of the most accessible ascents in the San Pedro de Atacama area. Cerro Toco, at 5,604 m above sea level, is an excellent option for those wanting to begin in high-altitude mountaineering, test their acclimatization and enjoy a privileged view of the Andean altiplano.

Located near San Pedro de Atacama, this ancient volcano allows for a one-day expedition, combining 4x4 vehicle transport, high-altitude hiking and a safe, guided mountain experience. Since vehicle access reaches approximately 5,200 m above sea level, the elevation gain to walk is close to 400 meters, which makes Cerro Toco one of the most attainable summits for travelers in good physical condition and with proper prior acclimatization.

Tour highlights

  • Guided ascent to a summit of 5,604 m above sea level
  • Ideal as a first high-altitude mountain experience
  • Panoramic view of Licancabur Volcano, the Salar de Atacama and the Andes mountain range
  • Hike of low technical difficulty, but physically demanding due to the altitude
  • Half-day tour from San Pedro de Atacama
  • Accompaniment by specialized mountain guides
  • Experience recommended for acclimatized travelers

Included services

  • Professional high-altitude mountain guide, WFR certified and experienced in the area.
  • 4x4 transport suited for mountain roads.
  • Trail rations, including fruit, chocolates, a sandwich and water.
  • Support gear, such as poles, parka and pants, subject to availability.
  • Safety, with a first-aid kit, emergency oxygen and satellite communication.

Schedule

Reference Itinerary (7:30 to 14:00 hrs)

The excursion begins early in the morning around 7:30 am with pickup from your accommodation in San Pedro de Atacama. From there, the transfer starts in a 4x4 vehicle toward the Cerro Toco area, on a journey of approximately one and a half hours, gaining altitude gradually. Upon reaching the starting point of the hike, near 5,200 m above sea level, the guide will give a safety briefing, check the equipment and share recommendations for walking at altitude. The ascent is done slowly, with pauses to hydrate, breathe correctly and adapt to conditions with less oxygen. The uphill walk takes approximately 2 to 3 hours, depending on the group's pace and weather conditions. Once at the summit, you can enjoy a 360° panoramic view and take photographs before beginning the descent, which usually takes about 1 hour. The return to San Pedro de Atacama normally takes place during the early afternoon, around 14:00 hrs, depending on the day's conditions.

General Conditions

Conditions for Minors

  • The minimum age to complete the ascent is 14 years old.

Difficulty

The ascent of Cerro Toco is considered to be of low technical difficulty, as it requires no prior climbing experience or use of technical equipment under normal conditions. However, since it is an activity above 5,000 meters of altitude, it does demand good physical condition, tolerance to altitude and prior acclimatization.

We recommend doing this tour after having spent at least 2 to 3 days in San Pedro de Atacama and having previously visited high-altitude areas, such as the El Tatio Geysers or the Altiplanic Lagoons

Recommendations: What to bring

To better enjoy the excursion, we recommend bringing warm clothing in layers, a windbreaker jacket, a hat and gloves. It is also important to wear trekking shoes, sunglasses with UV protection and sunscreen.

In addition, we suggest bringing your own water and a small backpack to carry your belongings during the activity.

Safety Conditions During the Service

  • Whether due to weather conditions or route (road) conditions that do not offer the minimum safety guarantees for a safe operation, our provider reserves the right to cancel the service

Acceptance of Activity Risks

  • The passenger declares that they know and understand the risks involved in participating in adventure tourism activities, which cannot be completely eliminated, even when there is compliance with safety standards accredited by the service provider, the purpose of which is to reduce the risks that the development of this activity involves.
  • It shall be the duty of the adventure tourism service provider to inform of the conditions and requirements for carrying out the activity, and likewise, it is the duty of participants who take an adventure tourism service to adequately inform themselves of the conditions under which the service is provided, of the minimum conditions the participant must possess before performing the activity, and to follow the instructions that the company and guide in charge of the activity indicate.

Commercial Conditions

Cancellation Policies

  • Modifications and/or cancellations are permitted up to 10 days before arrival.
  • Cancellations made outside this period are not eligible for a refund.

Other Conditions

  • Prices in United States Dollars (USD) are calculated using the exchange rate of the day from their value in Chilean Pesos (CLP) and may vary depending on the day the payment is made.
  • Services apply with a minimum number of passengers at the time of booking. Minimum of 2 passengers.
  • For safety and operational reasons, schedules may be modified without prior notice
  • On excursions, pickup is at the indicated hotel.
  • For transfer service, it applies from all hotels in San Pedro de Atacama (does not include Ayllus on the outskirts)
  • Excursions with a bilingual Spanish and English guide

Our apply on everything not mentioned before.

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Cerro Toco Ascent from San Pedro de Atacama


      Per Person Price

    Urban area, within 1 km from downtown; if you’re unsure about coverage, select "Assisted booking"

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