Volcán de San Francisco

San Francisco Volcano is one of the most impressive and accessible volcanoes in the Andes, making it an ideal objective for those seeking their first high-altitude mountaineering experience. This guided expedition allows participants to enjoy unique landscapes, well-placed camps, and a gradual acclimatization process that ensures a safe and rewarding ascent.

The best season to climb San Francisco Volcano is between September and March, when weather conditions are generally more stable and daylight hours are longer. The region features high-altitude desert landscapes, turquoise lagoons, and the chance to observe vicuñas, condors, and other native Andean wildlife in their natural habitat. Due to altitude and strong winds, a complete mountaineering equipment setup is recommended, including proper boots, thermal clothing, and sun protection to ensure comfort and safety.

This expedition can be combined with other classic Andean routes, such as the ascent of Aconcagua via the Normal Route , the Aconcagua 360° Traverse , and the Ojos del Salado Expedition .

The San Francisco Volcano route includes strategically located camps that allow for progressive and safe acclimatization, with scenery featuring volcanic craters, glaciers, and panoramic views of the Andean mountain range. While the route does not require technical climbing skills, it does demand good physical and mental preparation for altitude, making it an excellent first high-altitude volcano.

Our professional guiding team ensures that every stage of the expedition is carefully planned, providing logistics, support, and safety throughout the ascent. This allows both high-altitude beginners and experienced mountaineers to fully enjoy the route. The expedition combines adventure, safety, and natural beauty, making it a truly unforgettable experience in the Andes.

For official information regarding permits, regulations, and regional details, please visit: www.argentina.gob.ar/turismo/norte/volcan-san-francisco

DETAILED ITINERARY

DAY 01 – LA RIOJA CITY / FIAMBALÁ / REFUGIO CHASCHUIL (3,155 m)
Truck transfer (approx. 4 hours). First acclimatization night in the Puna de Atacama.
Lunch and dinner included.

DAY 02 – REFUGIO CHASCHUIL / REFUGIO LAS LOSAS (3,700 m)

Short scenic transfer (40 min), acclimatization hike, return to Las Losas.

DAY 03 – LAS LOSAS / LA GRUTA / SAN FRANCISCO PASS / LA GRUTA (5,000 m)

Transfer to La Gruta, drive to San Francisco Pass, acclimatization hike up to 5,000 m, return.

DAY 04 – LA GRUTA / FALSO MOROCHO PEAK / LA GRUTA (4,485 m)

Acclimatization ascent of Falso Morocho Peak, round trip.

DAY 05 – LA GRUTA / SAN FRANCISCO VOLCANIC SUMMIT / LA GRUTA (6,018 m)

Early departure (5:00 am), transfer to the pass, ascent to the summit (≈7 hours), return in the afternoon.

DAY 06 – LA GRUTA / CONTINGENCY DAY

Extra day in case of bad weather or additional summit attempt.

DAY 07 – LA GRUTA / FIAMBALÁ (4,088 m)

Vehicle descent (≈3 hours), celebration dinner.

DAY 08 – FIAMBALÁ / LA RIOJA CITY (1,600 m)

Morning transfer (≈3 hours), end of services.