Mountain Climbing and Rock Climbing in South America
The towering Andes mountains are one of the planet’s most challenging and exciting destinations for mountaineers. Climbers from the northern hemisphere have plenty to do during their winters at hot spots like Venezuela’s Sierra Nevadas and Bolivia’s Cordillera Real. Rock climbers should be sure to hit the incredible routes outside Rio de Janiero.
Aconcagua, Argentina: Looming at 6,958m (22,829 feet), Aconcagua is the highest summit in the world outside of the Himalayas. It’s not a technical climb, which means anyone in good condition can attempt the peak.
Sierra Nevada de Merida, Venezuela : There are several excellent climbs in this extensive mountain range that attract mountaineers of all levels. Pico Bolivar is the highest peak in the area, topping out at nearly 5,000m. It can be climbed by an easy walk up route or challenging scramble.
Cotopaxi Volcano, Ecuador: Ecuador’s most impressive summit awaits dedicated climbers at 5,897 (19,348 feet). Although it’s certainly not a walk up, most people in good shape can make the peak with the help of a guide. The views, as you’d expect, are stupendous.
Suesca, Colombia : Just an hour north of Bogota is one of South America’s most popular rock climbing areas. The scenery is amazing, and the climbing routes on Suesca the best in the country.
Callejon de Huaylas Valley, Peru : This incredibly scenic valley is home to some of Peru’s best rock climbing routes. Head to the city of Huarez, where you will find a well-developed climbing scene with all the information and guidance you’ll need.
Cordillera Real, Bolivia: Both rock and mountain climbers will find plenty of action in the ‘royal range’ of Bolivia. The imposing granite provides countless faces ideal for climbing, while the lofty peaks are great for summiting.
Bariloche, Argentina : This incredibly scenic area of northern Patagonia is one of Argentina’s best sites for mountain and rock climbing. There are numerous routes to climb, in particular Piedra Parada, Valle Encantado and Catedral.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Most people think of the beach when they think of Rio, but this city is brimming with superb rock climbing. The area around Pedra do Gavea has dozens of great climbs and bouldering sites, including the famous 900m climb to the summit.
Chile’s Volcanoes: The volcanoes of South America offer one of the most unique climbing experiences possible. Their perfect cones and rumbling potential for eruption make them incredibly alluring to mountaineers. Villarrica and Osorno are both active, mildly technical, and popular destinations. Further north lie the beautiful Licancabur and Parinacota volcanoes if you’re seeking something more exciting.
Nevado del Ruiz, Colombia: This snowcapped beauty in Los Nevados National Park offers the best climbing of the five white-capped volcanoes in the area. Head to Manizales and hire a guide for this fun climb to the top.