Acamarachi

Acamarachi, also known as Cerro Pili, stands at around 6,046 meters (19,836 feet) in Chile’s Atacama Desert region. This remote stratovolcano is part of the Central Volcanic Zone of the Andes and sits within one of the driest landscapes on Earth. Despite its imposing height and rugged terrain, Acamarachi is known for its relatively non-technical ascent, making it a unique choice for climbers interested in high-altitude volcanic peaks.

The ascent typically begins from the town of San Pedro de Atacama, with a drive taking climbers close to the base of the mountain. The climb itself is a mix of rocky scree and volcanic sand, which can be challenging on steeper sections. Acamarachi's summit offers expansive views of the Atacama and surrounding volcanic summits, including neighboring peaks like Licancabur and Sairecabur.

Climbers face high-altitude conditions and a stark, almost lunar landscape, with extreme temperature fluctuations between day and night. Proper acclimatization is essential, as the air here is thin and the conditions can be harsh. Acamarachi is a great choice for those looking to experience Chile’s high-altitude volcanoes without technical climbing but with all the challenges of a high Andean ascent in a remote desert setting.