Overview
The Lascar is one of the most active volcanoes in the central Andes. A large eruption of Lascar volcano occurred in 1993 when pyroclastic flows reached 8.5km from the summit.
Lascar is a popular target for mountaineers, due to its relatively low altitude is a good mountain to get acclimatized for higher tour.
Under good weather conditions, warm clothes and trekking boot are enough, but after a snowfall or in the winter season, (June - August) you may need special gear for the summit area.
The massif is composed of two strato-volcanoes whose center are 1.6km apart. Each crater measures approximatey 900m in diameter and 300m deep. At present day, Lascar is the only volcano in the region to be erupting Lava. Background activity varies from steam emissions to fumarolic emissions, but occasional minor vulcanian eruptions occur and slugs of ash and vapour are emitted.
Getting There
From the touristic center of San Pedro de Atacama a road leads through the villages of Toconao and Talabre, past Legia Laggon, up to southeast foothills of Lascar. Itīs a tough road and itīll take you about three hours for a 120km trip. Beware ! When it snows, the road tracks disappear, making it dangerously difficult to find the way back to San Pedro.
A 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended!
*** Ascent ***
From the large boulders follow the trail for about 1 hour on foot or 10 minutes by car, up to the end of the track. Then climb up the smooth part in the middle of the slope. From here a discernible path runs up the volcano; however, on this side the air is often rarefied by sulphur dioxide, at which times this route becomes impossible.
Alternatively, take the way to spot ridge at the western side of the slope. However, this route is steeper, takes you higher and consists mainly of rocks. You will need approximately 3 hours for this route.
Red Tape
No permits or summit fees are required, but in San Pedro it is possible to hire vehicles and guides if you want to.
When To Climb
Summer is dec-march, also wet season. We were there in February and it was very nice, though not warm. The sun is intense and the nights can be cold. Put on lots of sunscreen everyday and be prepared for temps down to the 20's F for January, colder in their winter.
Camping
It is often not possible to camp on the mountain slope due to the sulphur dioxide laden wind that blows down the mountain. Further down, at aprox. 4500m at the left side of the road, you will find some spots sheltered from the wind suitable for setting up the tents. Anybody who is not yet acclimatized to camp at such high altitudes, can find a nice place to camp at Tumbre valley (3900m). A good choice, where you will find nice places to hike.
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