Ollagüe
Volcano Stratovolcano on the Chile–Bolivia border
Ollagüe is a high-altitude volcano in northern Chile near the Bolivia border. Geology enthusiasts and mountaineers visit for volcanic terrain, mineral deposits and remote Andean landscapes.
Ollagüe is a high Andean stratovolcano located on the border between Chile and Bolivia, in the central Andes. The mountain rises to well over 5,800 metres and features cratered summits and fumarolic areas with mineral deposits.
Historically the area around the volcano has been associated with small-scale sulfur extraction and occasional scientific interest in its geothermal features. The volcano is remote and is approached from high-altitude Andean roads and tracks rather than developed tourist routes.
Geographically Ollagüe sits in the high Andes on the Chile-Bolivia frontier and is part of the dry, high-elevation puna landscape of the central Andes, with sparse vegetation and wide views across the altiplano.
- Volcanic character: A high Andean stratovolcano located on the Chile-Bolivia border at an elevation above 5,800 metres, notable for its remote high-altitude terrain and volcanic fumarolic activity.
What to See #
- Summit fumaroles: Summit area contains fumarolic fields and solfataric deposits; the mountain has been the site of small-scale sulfur extraction historically and shows ongoing geothermal activity in places.
Tips for Visiting Ollagüe #
- Ollagüe sits at very high elevation and services are sparse; allow time to acclimatize before strenuous activity and plan fuel, food and cash because nearby facilities are limited.
- Road and weather conditions can change quickly in this Andean region-confirm vehicle suitability (high-clearance/4x4 where needed) and current road status with local authorities before setting out.
Best Time to Visit Ollagüe #
For more reliable travel and clearer conditions, visit during the dry season (roughly May-October); expect large day-night temperature swings.
Weather & Climate near Ollagüe #
Ollagüe's climate is classified as Cold Desert - Cold Desert climate with cold summers (peaking in January) and freezing winters (coldest in July). Temperatures range from -16°C to 9°C. Very dry conditions with minimal rainfall with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of -6°C. Moderate rainfall (38 mm).
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February
February is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of -6°C. The wettest month with 43 mm of rain.
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March
March is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of -6°C. Light rainfall.
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April
April is freezing with highs of 7°C and lows of -9°C. The driest month with just 0 mm.
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May
May is freezing with highs of 6°C and lows of -12°C. Almost no rain.
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June
June is freezing with highs of 3°C and lows of -16°C. Almost no rain and breezy conditions.
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July
July is the coldest month with highs of 3°C and lows of -16°C. Almost no rain and breezy conditions.
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August
August is freezing with highs of 4°C and lows of -15°C. Almost no rain.
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September
September is freezing with highs of 6°C and lows of -12°C. Almost no rain.
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October
October is freezing with highs of 7°C and lows of -11°C. Almost no rain.
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November
November is freezing with highs of 8°C and lows of -8°C. Almost no rain and breezy conditions.
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December
December is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of -6°C. Light rainfall and breezy conditions.