Rising to an impressive 6,160 meters (20,210 feet above sea level), Cerro Las Tórtolas is one of the great summits of the Central Andes and one of the most remarkable high-altitude mountaineering objectives in Chile’s Coquimbo Region.

Located approximately 140 kilometers (87 miles) east of La Serena, directly on the Chile–Argentina border, this magnificent six-thousander dominates the Andean landscape. Its remote location, impressive altitude and spectacular natural surroundings make it an ideal objective for mountaineers seeking an authentic high-altitude expedition in Chile.

Cerro Las Tórtolas is recognized as the second-highest mountain in the Coquimbo Region and, together with Nevado de Olivares, forms part of the exclusive group of peaks exceeding 6,000 meters in this section of the Andes. Its isolated position and the absence of neighboring high summits allow its imposing silhouette to be admired from many points along the approach.

This expedition leads us through the most remote and untouched landscapes of the Elqui Valley Andes, crossing vast valleys, high mountain passes, rocky terrain and expansive alpine scenery. The slopes of Cerro Las Tórtolas give birth to the Vacas Heladas River, one of the waterways feeding the Elqui River basin and the namesake of one of the mountain’s principal access valleys.

Along the route, we will pass through areas such as Paso Vacas Heladas, located above 4,700 meters (15,420 feet above sea level), advancing through an environment of exceptional beauty where silence, vast open landscapes and the power of the Andes accompany every stage of the expedition.

However, Cerro Las Tórtolas is remarkable not only for its altitude and breathtaking scenery. The mountain also possesses extraordinary historical, cultural and archaeological significance, having been one of the sacred high-altitude sanctuaries used by the Inca civilization.

Within the Andean worldview, the highest mountains were regarded as sacred beings—powerful protectors closely connected to the land, water, fertility and the spiritual world. Cerro Las Tórtolas was one of these revered sanctuaries and is now recognized as one of the most important and extensively studied archaeological mountain sites in the Andes.

At its summit, archaeologists identified a large stone ceremonial structure measuring approximately eight meters long by four meters wide, with retaining walls nearly one meter high. Archaeological expeditions have also documented fire pits, ceramics, firewood and anthropomorphic figurines crafted from silver and marine shells, evidence of the mountain’s profound ceremonial importance within the Inca Empire.

Ascending Cerro Las Tórtolas is therefore much more than standing atop a 6,160-meter summit. It is a journey across ancestral lands, an opportunity to discover part of the pre-Hispanic history of the Andes, and a chance to connect with a mountain considered sacred for centuries.

The progressive gain in altitude, long expedition days, demanding high-mountain weather and the remoteness of the environment make this a significant physical and mental challenge. Each camp brings us one step closer to the summit while offering unforgettable sunrises, sunsets and exceptionally clear night skies in one of the wildest areas of the Coquimbo Region.

From its upper slopes, an extraordinary panorama unfolds across the Andes, the Chile–Argentina border and the vast mountain ranges of northern Chile’s semi-arid landscapes.

Reaching the summit of Cerro Las Tórtolas means completing one of the Elqui Valley’s most meaningful high-altitude expeditions—an experience that combines mountaineering, wilderness, archaeology, Inca culture and a profound connection with the spiritual heritage of the Andes.

Experience a professionally guided expedition to Cerro Las Tórtolas with Allmountain Chile and discover one of the Andes’ most important, remote and historically significant six-thousand-meter peaks.

Where is Cerro Las Tórtolas Located?

What Distance Will We Cover?

Are Any Access Permits Required to Visit This Mountain?

At Juntas del Toro, near the Aguas Negras International Border Crossing, every expedition member must be registered before entering the area. All participants must carry a valid passport or national identification document.

If you are a foreign visitor, a DIFROL permit is required because the mountain is located within Chile’s international border zone. Our team can arrange this permit on your behalf.

Access authorization from the local community must also be obtained in advance. In addition, a daily entrance fee is charged for each expedition participant. Our team takes care of requesting all necessary community permits and paying the entrance fees on behalf of our clients.

Are There Any Entrance Fees or Additional Access Charges?

In addition to obtaining the required community access permit, a daily entrance fee must be paid for each participant.

Highlights of the Cerro Las Tórtolas Expedition

Discover one of the great sacred Apus of the Coquimbo Region, located in the Elqui Province and deeply connected to the ancestral history of the Andes.

Climb an impressive mountain exceeding 6,000 meters (19,685 feet above sea level), recognized as one of the most important summits in the semi-arid Andes of northern Chile.

Experience a true high-altitude expedition with long approach days, mountain camps, progressive acclimatization and a demanding summit attempt.

Test your physical endurance, mental resilience and adaptability while overcoming significant elevation gain in one of the most remote mountain environments in Chile.

Walk through a landscape of extraordinary historical and spiritual importance, recognized as one of the most significant Inca high-altitude ceremonial sanctuaries in the Andes.

Discover the legacy of Nobel Prize-winning poet Gabriela Mistral while experiencing the unique identity, culture and energy of the Elqui Valley.

Enjoy local cuisine and discover the rich pisco-making tradition of the Elqui Valley, one of Chile’s most renowned wine and pisco-producing regions.

Explore spectacular Andean landscapes featuring deep valleys, rugged ravines, mountain rivers, high passes and vast alpine terrain.

Learn about the native flora and fauna of the Coquimbo Region and the Elqui Valley, including species uniquely adapted to this extreme mountain environment.

Witness unforgettable sunrises, sunsets and crystal-clear night skies in one of the most spectacular and remote sectors of the Andes.

From the upper slopes, enjoy breathtaking views of Nevado de Olivares (6,216 meters / 20,394 feet above sea level), the Chile–Argentina border and the magnificent mountains of Elqui Province.

Reaching the summit means completing one of the most rewarding and challenging guided high-altitude expeditions in Chile’s Coquimbo Region.

Best Season for This Expedition

We recommend undertaking this expedition between November and April. The beginning of the expedition season on this mountain depends on the opening of the Aguas Negras International Border Crossing, which generally takes place in November. Our team remains in direct contact with the relevant authorities to coordinate the beginning of the expedition season. It is also important to consider that the opening of the Aguas Negras Border Crossing must be coordinated with the issuance of the access permit by the local community responsible for authorizing entry.

What Are the Requirements for This Expedition?

Previous experience in trekking, mountaineering and/or long-duration ascents is required.

You must have an appropriate level of physical fitness to undertake long days, demanding elevation gain, uneven terrain and travel while carrying a backpack.

You must be in a state of health compatible with high altitude and the physical demands of a high-altitude expedition.

Participation is not recommended if you have recently undergone surgery, have muscular or joint injuries, respiratory or cardiovascular conditions, or any other medical condition that may be aggravated by physical exertion or altitude.

If you have any medical condition, previous injury, ongoing treatment or regularly use medication, you must inform the guiding team in advance.

You must have appropriate personal technical clothing for cold temperatures, strong winds, solar radiation, possible precipitation and sudden changes in weather conditions.

All personal equipment specified in the program and in the equipment list provided in advance by our team is mandatory.

You must have suitable mountaineering footwear that has already been worn and is in good condition. Wearing new boots for the first time during the expedition is not recommended.

You must be prepared to carry part of your personal equipment for extended periods over rocky, uneven and high-altitude terrain.

A responsible attitude, willingness to work as part of a team and commitment to following schedules, instructions and safety protocols are required.

Throughout the expedition, you must follow the guide’s instructions, especially regarding hiking pace, hydration, nutrition, acclimatization, equipment use and safety decisions.

Participation and continuation in the expedition are subject to assessment by the guiding team, taking into account physical condition, technical ability, weather conditions and overall safety.

Before the expedition, you must complete, sign and submit the medical form and any other documentation requested by our team.

Participants under the age of 18 must have written authorization from a parent or legal guardian and must be accompanied by a responsible adult, in accordance with the conditions of the program.

We recommend obtaining accident and rescue insurance that covers trekking, mountaineering and travel in high-altitude environments.

Participation under the influence of alcohol, drugs or any substance that may impair judgment, coordination or physical ability is strictly prohibited.