A gentle but powerful trek that takes you to the foot of an ancient glacier. Ideal for anyone looking to get started in the mountains with safety, beauty and pauses to take in the surroundings and yourself.

Season

October to May

Type

High Mountain

Difficulty

Moderate to High

Duration

2 to 3 days

Price

From US$950

High Mountain Camp – Between Pintor and El Plomo

Sleep at altitude, breathe a different pace, walk among giants.

This journey invites you to experience what it's really like to camp in the high mountains, without having to climb demanding summits. We walk the classic trail to Cerro El Pintor, crossing Laguna Piuquenes and continuing to high areas where the landscape opens toward the Apu El Plomo. From there, we set up a boutique, safe and well-equipped camp to sleep under the stars above 3,500 m.

You can choose a 1 or 2 night version, with the option of reaching El Plomo base camp if conditions allow. We're not after the summit: we're after the experience. The silence, the starry sky, the mindful effort and the feeling of being in a world few people set foot in… but everyone remembers.

A deep mountain experience, with no stopwatch and no conquest. Just being there.

Moments that make the difference

The moments that make this trip a one-of-a-kind experience.

You'll sleep in the high mountains

You'll spend the night above 3,500 m, surrounded by silence, stars and the Andes.

You'll walk among giants

El Plomo, El Pintor and the peaks around the area will open up before you like guardians from another time.

You'll experience the mountains without chasing the summit

No pressure to achieve: just immersion, nature and presence.

ITINERARY OPTIONS

Duration: 2 days / 1 night
Maximum altitude: 4,180 m (Pintor summit)
Level: Moderate to Demanding

Description:
A short, intense experience. We camp next to Laguna Piuquenes at 3,600 m, under the Andean sky, and at dawn we climb the classic summit of Cerro El Pintor, with views of El Plomo, the La Parva valley and the entire central Andes. Ideal for those who want to try sleeping at altitude with an achievable goal the next day.

Duration: 2 days / 1 night
Maximum altitude: 4,180 m (Cerro Pintor)
Level: Moderate to Demanding

Description:
A point-to-point journey that starts at La Parva and takes us to Cerro El Plomo base camp, passing Piedra Numerada and the intermediate wetlands. We walk through real high mountain terrain, with no summit, but with all the energy of the Apu. We sleep at base camp and descend the next day via Cerro Pintor. Perfect for those who want to get to know El Plomo from the inside.

Duration: 3 days / 2 nights
Maximum altitude: 4,600 m (Refugio Agostini)
Level: Moderate to Demanding

Description:
A total immersion in the Andes. We hike to El Plomo base camp, and from there explore the meltwater lagoon of La Hoya glacier, a silent white natural terrace, and the Refugio Agostini area, with breathtaking views. No summit, no pressure, just presence. Ideal for those seeking depth, acclimatization and a real connection with the mountains.

INCLUDED

UIMLA mountain guide (English/Spanish)
Private transportation from your hotel
Tent, sleeping bag and sleeping pad
Option for gear porterage
All meals included: meals and snacks
Toilet tent or waste disposal
Professional photos, edited
Trekking poles and helmet available
Emergency satellite communication
First aid kit
Accident insurance

NOT INCLUDED

Personal mountain gear
Meals outside the program
Optional tips
*Optional gear rental

REQUIREMENTS

Mountain boots
30+ liter backpack
50+ liter backpack or duffel
Technical clothing for extreme temperatures
*Detailed list when you book

The Puma seal behind every experience

We design private experiences with safety, closeness and attention to detail

We're Vicho and Javi, the founders of Puma Adventures. Every experience is designed to our standard of safety, closeness and attention to detail. Even when the trip is led by different professionals on our team, the Puma seal is there before, during and after the mountain.

Personalized attention

Every person matters. We design flexible experiences at your own pace, with small groups and real presence. Here you're not a number: you're part of the process.

Human support

We listen, we understand and we walk with you. From the first conversation to the very last step. No one walks alone. No one gets left behind.

Push your limits

The mountain is just the stage. The real challenge is within. We walk with you through it, with respect, challenge and support.

Professional safety

Real certifications, rigorous planning and mindful presence. We don't just do mountains: we do them right, with our heads and our hearts.

EXCELLENT

Based on 171 reviews

Alice AnderssonSeptember 2026

I cannot emphasize enough how much I have appreciated this experience with Vicho and Javi.
The adventure itself a lovely mix of challenges and magic. Most of all, this couple were the best people to share this experience with, I appreciate all their knowledge, expertise, mental and physical support, thoughtfulness, hospitality, friendliness and flexibility according to my needs and preferences. This was especially important for me since this was the first time I did something of this kind, and I felt safely out of my comfort zone.
Until next time!

GoPlaces43356612969September 2026

Trekking incrível nos Andes
A experiência com Raquetes de neve foi maravilhosa e recomendo totalmente. O local da trilha foi lindo. Desde o início tratei com os donos da agência, que são muito atenciosos, muito focados e dedicados para que a experiência seja incrível. Quando estiver no Chile novamente, irei procurá-los para outro trekking de montanha.

Bruno M.September 2026

Agência muito segura e profissional. São muito atenciosos e amigável. Recomendo a todos. Quando retornar ao Chile, farei nova atividade com a Puma Adventures.

✅ This experience is for you if...

You want to disconnect without the hassle: everything is taken care of.
You're drawn to camping at altitude without needing a summit.
You have no experience, but you'd like to start with something easygoing.
You're ready for a long hike, with no rush and in good company.
You value a safe, human and well-guided expedition.

⛔️ It's not for you if…

You'd rather avoid experiences that involve camping.
You have no previous experience with long trips.
You're looking for total comfort or sightseeing.
You're uncomfortable with cold, altitude or temporary discomfort.
You want a quick or technical summit.

A private experience, tailored to you

From $950 USD – Total price per private experience

We're with you from the moment you decide to join
We design the trip just for you, no extras and no rush
We pick you up, wherever you are
You choose the date, we adapt
Thoughtful food to take care of your body and energy
Everything essential included, so you can enjoy it worry-free
An experience made for you, no rush, no noise
🎁 SPECIAL BONUS
Professional photos, edited to remember the moment

Get a quote on WhatsApp

Frequently Asked Questions

🥾 Do I need previous experience for this activity?

You don't need to have climbed summits or be a mountaineer, but it is important to have good physical condition and basic trekking experience. This journey isn't technical, but it involves hiking with a backpack, sleeping at altitude and facing the cold. If you've already done full-day treks and feel comfortable in the mountains, this experience is within your reach.
📍 Where is the high mountain area?

This experience takes place in the Farellones – Valle Nevado area, inside the Yerba Loca Nature Sanctuary, in the mountains of Santiago. The trek starts near La Parva and climbs trails that connect with Laguna Piuquenes, Cerro El Pintor and viewpoints of Cerro El Plomo. It's one of the most classic and spectacular routes for experiencing real mountains… without needing to summit.
🎒 What should I bring?

For this activity, bring:

- 30+ liter backpack
- Hiking shoes, ideally mid or high-cut
- Comfortable hiking clothes
- Warm layers for low temperatures
- Gloves and beanie
- Sun cap, sunglasses and sunscreen
- At least 2 liters of water

We'll confirm the gear based on the weather conditions.
🧍 Can I go on my own?

Of course! Many people come on their own and end up making new friends on the mountain.
🧑‍🧑‍🧒‍🧒 Can I bring children or pets?

Children are welcome, as long as they have the right gear and are used to walking.
Our activities are not suitable for pets, out of respect for the environment and other participants.
🥗 Do you have options for vegetarians, celiacs or other diets?

Yes. We adapt the food to your needs: vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free or other restrictions. Just let us know when you book and we'll take care of the rest.
📝 How do I book?

Just fill out the form on this page. Once we receive it, we'll confirm the date and all the details so you get the best possible experience. Then we'll send you the payment link and, after payment, you'll fill out a medical form.
❌ What happens if I cancel or can't make it?

We have a clear cancellation policy, with refunds or credit depending on how far in advance you cancel. You can read it in full in our terms and conditions.
⛈️ Is it canceled if the weather is bad?

It's only canceled due to extreme weather or safety risks. In that case, we offer to reschedule or refund your money.
📊 Experience fact sheet

Total distance: 14–18 km (depending on the route and option)
Elevation gain: 800–1,000 m
Maximum altitude: 4200 m
Hiking time per day: about 4–6 hours
Difficulty level: Moderate to demanding (no technical sections)

High Mountain Camp

PRIVATE CAMP TO SLEEP AT ALTITUDE AMONG GIANTS