Ollagüe at a Glance
About Ollagüe
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.
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | - | -6° - 8° | -4° | 38 mm | - | - | 5.8 m/s | - | - |
| February | - | -6° - 8° | -4° | 43 mm | - | - | 5.5 m/s | - | - |
| March | - | -6° - 8° | -4° | 22 mm | - | - | 5.2 m/s | - | - |
| April | - | -9° - 7° | -6° | 0 mm | - | - | 5.1 m/s | - | - |
| May | - | -12° - 6° | -9° | 1 mm | - | - | 5.4 m/s | - | - |
| June | - | -16° - 3° | -14° | 1 mm | - | - | 6.2 m/s | - | - |
| July | - | -16° - 3° | -14° | 1 mm | - | - | 6.0 m/s | - | - |
| August | - | -15° - 4° | -13° | 1 mm | - | - | 5.8 m/s | - | - |
| September | - | -12° - 6° | -9° | 2 mm | - | - | 5.8 m/s | - | - |
| October | - | -11° - 7° | -8° | 1 mm | - | - | 5.6 m/s | - | - |
| November | - | -9° - 8° | -6° | 6 mm | - | - | 6.0 m/s | - | - |
| December | - | -6° - 9° | -4° | 11 mm | - | - | 6.0 m/s | - | - |
