Cerro Toco
Conquer a dormant volcano at 5,604m for breathtaking Atacama Desert panoramas. A challenging yet rewarding hike.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Less wind, better visibility
Cerro Toco
Best Time
Less wind, better visibility
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Conquer a dormant volcano at 5,604m for breathtaking Atacama Desert panoramas. A challenging yet rewarding hike.
"Easy hike for a big accomplishment! Views from the top are incredible and greatly accessible."
🚗 Drive Yourself to Trailhead
You can drive to the start of the Cerro Toco hike with a regular car. Ignore 'no entry' signs. :car:
💊 Prevent Altitude Sickness
Acclimatize for 2-3 days in San Pedro. Consider ibuprofen as prophylaxis. Mate de coca helps too. :pill:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Summit Views
Summit
Panoramic vistas of the Atacama Desert from 5,604 meters. A truly breathtaking reward for your efforts.
The Ascent
Hiking Trail
A challenging yet rewarding trek with loose gravel and strong winds. Feel the adrenaline as you climb.
Sulfur Deposits
Hiking Trail
Observe unique geological formations with visible sulfur deposits along the path.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Acclimatize Before Your Ascent
DIY Hike is Possible
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
San Pedro de Atacama 4-5 day Itinerary
🚗 Drive Yourself to Trailhead
You can drive to the start of the Cerro Toco hike with a regular car. Ignore 'no entry' signs. :car:
💊 Prevent Altitude Sickness
Acclimatize for 2-3 days in San Pedro. Consider ibuprofen as prophylaxis. Mate de coca helps too. :pill:
vulcan Lascar - Atacama Desert
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The trail has loose gravel, making footing tricky. Wear good hiking boots for stability. :athletic_shoe:
🌬️ Brace for Strong Winds
It's often below freezing and extremely windy at higher altitudes. Dress in layers and wear windproof gear. :cloudwithwind_face:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive Yourself to Trailhead
You can drive to the start of the Cerro Toco hike with a regular car. Ignore 'no entry' signs. :car:
💊 Prevent Altitude Sickness
Acclimatize for 2-3 days in San Pedro. Consider ibuprofen as prophylaxis. Mate de coca helps too. :pill:
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The trail has loose gravel, making footing tricky. Wear good hiking boots for stability. :athletic_shoe:
🌬️ Brace for Strong Winds
It's often below freezing and extremely windy at higher altitudes. Dress in layers and wear windproof gear. :cloudwithwind_face:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the incredible summit views and the sense of accomplishment from reaching 5,604 meters. Many highlight that the hike itself is manageable, especially when done independently. However, the extreme altitude is a significant factor, with many experiencing headaches or needing to acclimatize thoroughly. The windy and cold conditions at the top are also frequently mentioned.
"5604 meters at the top. Pretty hard because of the elevation. Short hike otherwise. It took two of us 2 hours ten minutes to do the whole thing. Great view at the top! Sulfur is everywhere on this hike."
Joseph Curti
"Excellent hike, below freezing and extremely windy as I went up and the gravel didn't help with the footing. None of that mattered though as the adrenaline was high..."
Anand Venkataraman
"Easy hike for a big accomplishment! Views from the top are incredible and greatly accessible to anyone visiting San Pedro"
Cale O'Day
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can drive your rental car directly to the trailhead of Cerro Toco. The road is generally in good condition and a 2x4 vehicle is sufficient. Ignore any 'no entry' signs you might see.
No, a 4x4 is not strictly necessary. While the car might feel slow at higher altitudes, a standard rental car (2x4) can handle the road to the trailhead without issues.
Yes, many tour operators in San Pedro de Atacama offer guided tours to Cerro Toco. However, it's also very doable to go independently.
The drive from San Pedro de Atacama to the Cerro Toco trailhead typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on road conditions and your vehicle.
You might pass warning signs, but travelers have reported successfully driving past them without issue. The road is generally well-maintained.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no specific entrance tickets required for the Cerro Toco hike itself. The main cost would be transportation to the trailhead.
As of current information, there are no official park fees associated with hiking Cerro Toco.
Cerro Toco is an outdoor natural attraction and does not have set opening or closing hours. You can hike it during daylight hours.
Yes, it is entirely possible and common for visitors to hike Cerro Toco without a guide, especially if you have your own transportation.
If you plan to hike independently, no advance booking is necessary. If you opt for a tour, booking a day or two in advance is recommended.
🎫 ⛰️ Onsite Experience
The hike itself is considered relatively short and easy in terms of technical difficulty, but the high altitude (5,604m) makes it challenging.
Cerro Toco reaches an elevation of 5,604 meters (approximately 18,386 feet) above sea level.
The ascent typically takes around 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours 10 minutes, with the descent being much quicker, around 30 minutes.
You'll be rewarded with incredible, sweeping views across the vast Atacama Desert, surrounding volcanoes, and salt flats.
Dress in layers, including warm, windproof outer gear. Sturdy hiking boots are essential due to the loose gravel.
🎫 💊 Health & Safety
Altitude sickness is a significant risk due to the extreme elevation. Symptoms can include headaches, nausea, and dizziness. Acclimatization is crucial.
Spend at least 2-3 days in San Pedro de Atacama to acclimatize. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and consider taking ibuprofen as a preventative measure.
There are no facilities or water sources at the trailhead or along the Cerro Toco hiking path. Be sure to bring all your own supplies.
If you feel unwell, descend immediately. Drinking mate de coca can also help alleviate symptoms.
While many hike it independently, it's always safer to hike with a companion. Inform someone of your plans and expected return time.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families seeking high-altitude experiences in the Atacama region, consider alternatives like the Tatio Geysers, which are accessible by tour bus and involve less strenuous activity at a still significant elevation. Always prioritize safety and consult with local guides or medical professionals regarding any concerns about altitude for children.
💰 Budget Travelers
Your primary expenses will be transportation (rental car fuel) and any personal gear you might need. Remember to factor in the cost of acclimatization days in San Pedro, which will involve accommodation and food. Packing your own snacks and water for the hike will also save money compared to purchasing them on a tour.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Challenge of Altitude
Prophylactic measures are also recommended. Some visitors have found relief with mate de coca, a traditional herbal tea. Others have taken ibuprofen as a preventative measure, citing a small observational study. Listening to your body and descending if symptoms worsen is paramount for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Remember that the weather conditions at this altitude can be extreme, with temperatures often below freezing and strong, biting winds. Proper layering and windproof gear are essential for comfort and safety during your ascent.
Independent Exploration: The DIY Cerro Toco Hike
Once at the trailhead, the hike itself is relatively straightforward. The path is marked, though sometimes steep, with loose gravel that can make footing a bit challenging. The ascent typically takes between 1 hour 45 minutes and 2 hours 10 minutes, with a much quicker descent. The reward for your effort is the absolutely stunning panoramic view from the summit.
While the hike is accessible, remember to be prepared. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and wear appropriate clothing for the altitude and potential weather changes. Inform someone of your plans and expected return time, as there are no facilities or cell service on the trail.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit