Monte Pissis
Mountain High Andean extinct volcano and Argentina's high peak
High in the central Andes, Monte Pissis is an extinct volcanic peak attracting high‑altitude mountaineers. Climbers tackle steep, remote routes across arid puna with clear skies and expansive mountain views.
Monte Pissis is a high volcanic massif in northwestern Argentina, located in La Rioja Province within the high Puna region. It is recognised as one of the major high peaks of the central Andes.
The mountain presents a remote, high-altitude climbing environment where routes approach from sparsely inhabited desert plateaus; visitors encounter puna landscapes, salt flats and volcanic rock. Because the summit sits well above surrounding terrain, expeditions often involve long approaches and high camps.
Formed as an extinct or dormant volcanic edifice within the Andean volcanic belt, the mountain has been known to local populations for centuries and became a target for mountaineers as high-altitude alpine sport developed in the 20th century.
Located in La Rioja Province in northwestern Argentina, the massif lies in the high Puna plateau near the border with Chile in a sparsely populated, high-altitude desert region.
- Access requirements: The mountain is in a remote high-Andean region and approaches typically require high‑altitude acclimatization, 4x4 access and multiday logistics for water and fuel.
How to Get to Monte Pissis #
Access is via the remote highlands of La Rioja Province. Most expeditions stage from the towns of Fiambalá or Chilecito; from there expect long 4x4 approaches across unpaved tracks. Local guiding companies provide vehicles, oxygen and basecamp support.
Tips for Visiting Monte Pissis #
- Acclimatize thoroughly - Monte Pissis sits at 6,793 m (22,287 ft) and is one of the world's highest volcanoes.
- Plan with experienced high‑altitude support; the route crosses remote desert highlands with little to no rescue infrastructure.
- Water is scarce on approach; arrange logistics to bring both water and fuel, and avoid solo attempts.
Best Time to Visit Monte Pissis #
Best attempted during the Southern Hemisphere winter (May-September) when the high Andes are driest and weather windows are most reliable; serious mountaineering logistics required.
Weather & Climate near Monte Pissis #
Monte Pissis's climate is classified as Ice Cap - Ice Cap climate with freezing summers (peaking in January) and freezing winters (coldest in June). Temperatures range from -19°C to -1°C. Very dry conditions with minimal rainfall.
January
January is freezing with highs of -1°C and lows of -12°C. Light rainfall and windy conditions.
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February
February is freezing with highs of -2°C and lows of -12°C. The wettest month with 36 mm of rain and breezy conditions.
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March
March is freezing with highs of -2°C and lows of -13°C. Light rainfall and breezy conditions.
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April
April is freezing with highs of -4°C and lows of -15°C. The driest month with just 6 mm and breezy conditions.
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May
May is freezing with highs of -5°C and lows of -16°C. Light rainfall and windy conditions.
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June
June is the coldest month with highs of -7°C and lows of -19°C. Light rainfall and windy conditions.
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July
July is the coldest month with highs of -7°C and lows of -19°C. Light rainfall and windy conditions.
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August
August is freezing with highs of -6°C and lows of -19°C. Light rainfall and windy conditions.
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September
September is freezing with highs of -5°C and lows of -18°C. Light rainfall and windy conditions.
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October
October is freezing with highs of -4°C and lows of -18°C. Light rainfall and breezy conditions.
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November
November is freezing with highs of -3°C and lows of -15°C. Light rainfall and breezy conditions.
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December
December is freezing with highs of -1°C and lows of -13°C. Light rainfall and windy conditions.
