Nevado Ojos del Salado is a stratovolcano in the Andes on the Argentina–Chile border and the highest and active volcano in the world at 6,893 m (22,615 ft). It is also the second highest mountain in the Western Hemisphere (second only to Aconcagua 6,961 m (22,838 ft).
Due to its location near the Atacama Desert, the mountain has very dry conditions with snow usually only remaining on the peak during winter, though heavy storms can cover the surrounding area with a few feet of snow even in summer. Despite the generally dry conditions, there is a permanent crater lake about 100 m (330 ft) in diameter at an elevation of 6,390 m (20,960 ft) This is most likely the highest lake of any kind in the world.
Although participants should be in excellent physical condition, Ojos del Salado is a non-technical climb—no special mountain climbing technics or equipment are employed; however, previous hiking or trekking experience is essential. Due to the strenuous nature of this climb, a physician’s release is required.
OUR HABITAT
....and its fauna
