At 3,777 meters, Volcan Lanin is one of the highest volcanoes in Patagonia’s “Ring of Fire.” This beautiful volcano is the namesake for Argentina’s Lanin National Park and has that perfectly aesthetic volcanic cone shape.
The south and east faces of Volcano Lanin are glaciated, but the classic route on the north face traverses volcanic rock and snow. (Remember, North Faces get more sun in South America!)
With 2500 meters of solid climbing, our mountain guides spread out the ascent of Volcan Lanin over 2 days, staying in a rustic mountain hut in between.
From September to October, we recommend doing this trip with alpine ski gear. Depending on the year, sometimes spring conditions allow ski mountaineers to put their skis on right at the base of the volcano.
During the South American summer – December through April – Volcan Lanin is a beautiful hike/climb on volcanic terrain.
Itinerary
Day 1
After meeting in San Martin de los Andes, Junin de los Andes or Bariloche, we will drive to the foot of the mountain. From here, we start hiking through a forest, which quickly gives way to volcanic terrain. As we go, we will enjoy plenty of stunning views of the Andes.
Early in the season, we will be hiking or skinning on snow at a lower elevation. There are three mountain huts between 2,400 and 2,600 meters on the North Face of Lanin.
We will hike about 7 km with 1,400 meters of elevation change in 6 hours of climbing.
Day 2
Due to its conical shape, the climb to the summit is on a gradual slope that becomes steeper as we gain altitude. In the spring, the terrain is a nice steady climb on snow and ice, requiring the use of crampons and the optional use of skis. In the summer, we hike mostly on volcanic scree and some steep snow and ice at the top.
Depending on conditions and fitness level of the clients, we can return to the mountain hut, or have a long day of activity and descend all the way to the base of the volcano and stay the night in Junin or San Martin de los Andes.
We will ascend 1,200 meters in 6 to 7 hours of climbing.
Day 3
We descend to the base of Volcano Lanin, and your mountain guide will take you back to one of the nearby towns of Junin de los Andes, San Martin de los Andes or Bariloche.