Ascent to the Sollipulli Volcanoes: an introductory and rewarding mountain experience

June 25, 2026

Ascensión a los Nevados de Sollipulli: una experiencia de montaña introductoria y gratificante

In the heart of the Andean Araucanía, far from the hustle and bustle of the region's more well-known volcanoes, lies one of Chilean mountaineering's best-kept secrets: the Nevados de Sollipulli. This volcanic massif is famous for housing one of South America's most impressive craters, over 4 kilometers in diameter, within which hides a gigantic glacier that seems to belong to another world. Ascending it is one of those experiences that combine accessibility and awe in equal measure.

A crater that looks like another planet

What makes Sollipulli unique is not only its height—reaching 2,282 meters—but the sheer magnitude of its volcanic caldera. Unlike other volcanoes in the area, whose craters are relatively small and concentrated, here we find a depression of colossal dimensions, completely covered by an ice cap. Walking along its rim and looking down into the vast, white crater evokes a feeling of insignificance in the face of nature that few mountains manage to convey with such intensity.

An ideal mountain for beginners

One of Sollipulli's great virtues is that it is a technically accessible climb, making it an excellent gateway to high-altitude and glacier mountaineering. It doesn't demand the same technical experience as other active volcanoes in the region, allowing people with moderate physical fitness and a desire for adventure to enjoy the route without major complications, always accompanied by a guide.

This doesn't mean it's an easy stroll: the route crosses varied volcanic terrain, sections of snow and ice, and requires good physical condition to sustain several hours of hiking. But the relationship between the effort invested and the visual reward is hard to match.

Views spanning all of Araucanía

From the upper parts of Sollipulli, an extraordinary panorama unfolds, combining two faces of Araucanía: the Andean and the lacustrine. To the east, the mountain range extends with its neighboring volcanoes cutting the horizon; to the west, the landscape opens up towards the lakes and forests that characterize this area of southern Chile. It is one of those summits from which one understands, in a single glance, why Araucanía is considered one of the most beautiful regions in the country.

What the Climb is Like

The route to the Sollipulli Nevados combines sections of native forest, high-altitude grasslands, and finally volcanic and glacial terrain. As you gain altitude, the vegetation gives way to an increasingly lunar landscape, until reaching the edge of the large glaciated crater.

The full ascent—round trip—usually takes between 7 and 9 hours, depending on the group's physical condition and the day's weather. It is advisable to start the hike very early, both to take advantage of the snow in better conditions and to avoid the wind that usually intensifies during the afternoon.

When to go

Spring and summer (November to March): This is the most recommended season, with better access to the area, longer days, and more stable snow conditions for those new to this type of ascent.
Autumn and winter: Snow accumulates more deeply and access can be complicated, so it is only recommended for experienced groups and always with specialized guides.

Recommendations before climbing

Ascend with an agency or mountain guide experienced in the area, as some sections require orientation in volcanic and glacial terrain.
Wear appropriate trekking footwear, layered clothing, and sun protection, as exposure at high altitudes is considerable.
Stay well hydrated throughout the trek and consider bringing trekking poles for the steep sections.
If this is your first experience on mountains with glaciers, Sollipulli is an excellent starting point before venturing into more challenging ascents.