Ojos del Salado Base Camp Atacama

This basic mountain refuge sits at 14,100 feet on the approach to Ojos del Salado, the world’s highest volcano. The concrete shelter provides wind protection and has a metal roof, but no amenities — bring everything. Space for maybe 8 people inside, with tent sites on the rocky flats outside. Views across the altiplano are stark and endless.

Access requires high-clearance 4WD on rough volcanic track from Highway 31. The final 15 kilometers are particularly brutal with loose scree and sharp rocks. Altitude hits hard — most overlanders stage here for acclimatization before summit attempts. No water, no cell service, and weather can turn violent without warning.

High-altitude refuge near world's highest volcano