Farellones
Expedition to Cerro El Plomo
- Season
Dates in December and March. - Nearest city
Santiago. - Duration
3 days and 2 nights. - Skill level
Very demanding. Final altitude 5,424 meters. - Equipment
We recommend equipment for low temperatures. - Departures
Minimun 2 pax.
Overview
Cerro El Plomo is a great sports challenge, as well as a wonderful experience. With an altitude of 5,424 meters above sea level, it is the highest mountain in the valley of Santiago city. It poses an exceptional challenge for mountaineering enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers.
Itinerary
Day 1 - Approach Day.
On our first day, we will meet at 8:30 AM at the Hotel de Valle Nevado. We will start with a fairly gentle and suitable trek for everyone, aiming to approach the BASE CAMP and acclimate ourselves before summiting. The journey begins from Valle Nevado or La Parva, where we will walk for approximately 4 hours with an elevation gain of around 750 meters, reaching Federación at 4,100 meters above sea level. We have the support of local muleteers from Farellones, so our hike will be easy-going and enjoyable throughout the journey.
Day 2 - Summit Day.
We start early in the morning with the goal of reaching the summit. This day is much more challenging than the first day, but we will proceed at a slower and steady pace. Reaching the summit takes between 7 and 9 hours, depending on physical conditions and weather conditions. During the journey, we will see the stone enclosure where the "Niño del Plomo" (Lead Child) was found – the first discovery of a perfectly preserved Inca sacrificial mummy. Next, we will cross a section of the Iver Glacier. At this time of the year and due to various factors, the glacier is ice-free, allowing us to cross without the need for crampons. However, in the event of precipitation, it may be covered with snow, in which case we will use crampons and necessary protective gear to cross it. Afterward, just a few minutes away, we will reach the summit ridge, and after a few meters of walking, we will witness the most anticipated moment of this day: an incredible view of Apu Wamani, named by the Incas.
Day 3 - Recovery and Return Day.
The third and final day starts with a more relaxed pace. After a nourishing breakfast, we will enjoy the mountain, do some stretching to recover from our achievement, and then begin the return to the starting meeting point. It will be a spectacular hike where we can see Inca remnants and spot more than one condor soaring in the area. If the ascent is from La Parva, the return will be via the ski slope. If everything goes smoothly, we should be back at home around 5:00 PM.
*Important considerations before signing up for our expedition: It is necessary to come prepared with good physical fitness and the appropriate clothing to face this great challenge. Climbing Cerro Pintor (4,100 meters) on the previous weekend will help you acclimatize and be better prepared. Sleeping at high altitudes during the week before can be of great help. Increase your hydration in the days leading up to the expedition.
Included
- Certified WFR (Wilderness First Responder) guides.
- Complete Meals: Breakfasts, trail rations, snacks, and dinners.
- Cook and support staff.
- First aid and radio communication.
- Mule support (to and from Federación).
- Personal accident insurance.
- VE 25 TNF tents (2 people per tent).
- Common domes: Kitchen and dining area.
- Camp infrastructure.
Not included
- Transportation to Valle Nevado (EXTRA).
- Mountain clothing and footwear.
- Sleeping bag.
- Sleeping pad.
- Technical equipment (Crampons).
Starting place
Our departure point will be from the Valle Nevado Hotel at 8:30 am.
Policies
Read our Terms and Conditions where our cancellation and changes policies are defined. Always remember to plan your trip in advance.