Ojos del Salado: Highest Active Volcano and Second-Highest Peak in the Americas

Location and physical characteristics

Ojos del Salado is part of the high, dry Cordillera section of the central Andes. Its summit area is notable for extreme aridity and strong solar radiation. The volcano has a broad, steep-sided cone typical of stratovolcanoes and dominates the surrounding landscape, with long-distance views across both countries on clear days.

Geology and volcanic activity

The edifice consists mainly of andesitic to dacitic volcanic rocks. Although there are fumaroles and other geothermal manifestations in the region, there are no well-documented historical eruptions. Scientists classify Ojos del Salado as active because of these ongoing thermal phenomena and Holocene eruptive deposits identified by geological studies.

Human history and mountaineering

The first recorded ascent of the summit was made in 1937 by the Polish climbers Justyn Wojsznis and Jan Szczepański. Since then the peak has become a destination for experienced high-altitude mountaineers. Routes approach from both the Chilean and Argentine sides; climbs are influenced by the high elevation and the mountain’s extremely dry climate rather than heavy snowfall.

Environment

The mountain sits within one of the driest regions on Earth, and permanent ice and snow are limited to small cirques and patches at the highest elevations. Vegetation is sparse and adaptations to cold and aridity characterize the local ecosystems. Wildlife is scarce near the summit, with most animal life found at lower elevations.

Quick facts

• Elevation: 6,893 m (22,615 ft)
• Location: border of Chile and Argentina
• Volcano type: stratovolcano
• Notable records: highest active volcano; second-highest peak in the Americas
• First recorded ascent: Justyn Wojsznis and Jan Szczepański, 1937