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Ojos del Salado Climbing Expedition

Climb the 2nd Highest Mountain in South America

DIFFICULTY: Strenuous

MAX ALTITUDE: 6,893 meters

TOUR DURATION: 16 days

LODGING: Mix of hotels, guesthouses, & camping

GROUP SIZE: 8-12 people

Ojos del Salado Overview

Ojos del Salado (6,893 meters), located in the border of Chile and Argentina, is the second-highest mountain in South America after Aconcagua. It is also the world’s highest active volcano. Perhaps best of all, it is far and away from the very busy areas of Aconcagua and other popular Andean peaks.

This is an expedition for the seasoned adventurer looking to experience a proper South American expedition in a wild, and remote setting. 

While the hikes and climbs on this trip don’t represent super technical routes, climbing these high altitude peaks are a real physical challenge due to the rapid acclimatization, strong winds, unpredictable weather, and general harshness of the climate. 

The question is, are you ready to say YES to climbing Ojos del Salado?

Why Choose to Climb Ojos del Salado?

  • Climb the highest active volcano in the world and second highest peak in South America
  • Off the Beaten Path Travel: This part of Chile sees way less tourist traffic than the neighboring countries of Peru and Argentina. 
  • Learn from the best: Our team is led by Epic founder Chris Lininger and legendary IFMGA guide Gustavo Cevallos. 
  • Hit one of the summits on the “2nd 7 summits” list
  • Gain new climbing experience at high altitude

Upcoming Dates

Dates

Deposit

Full

January 10th - 25th, 2026$600$5800

Have a question or ready to book?

Whether you’re just curious about this trip or are ready to make a deposit, we’re here for you.

To submit an inquiry or make a trip deposit, please fill out and submit the form below. Or send us an email to arrange a call with our adventure staff to join and learn more about how we prepare and execute such expeditions as Ojos del Salados.

Your Trip Leaders for Ojos del Salados

Chris Lininger

Since 2018, Chris has been traveling to remote corners of the world leading Epic Expeditions. Every year he leads group trips to K2 Base Camp, the Everest region in Nepal, the mountains of Mongolia, and other destinations in Central, East Asia and South America. He is the director and founder of Epic Expeditions.

Chris wanted to take the concept of an adventure holiday a step further by combining his passion for travel, photography, trekking, and alpine environments into one-of-a-kind curated adventures for people who are as stoked on challenging adventures and discovering new cultures as he is – thus this trip was born. 

Gustavo Cevallos

As a native of Chile and professional mountain guide for the last 20 years, there is not much Gustavo can’t do. 

Gustavo is an IFMGA guide who regularly leads trips around the world. His specialty is in Ecuador and Chile, where he leads multiple expeditions throughout the season every year. 

He is the kind of guy that comes down from climbing Cotopaxi, only to go for a run before dinner. We are luck to have this legend on our team. 

Highlights of Climbing Ojos del Salados

  • Climb three 6000-meter peaks: Challenge yourself and push what you think is possible. 
  • Soak in the Hot Springs at Laguna Verde
  • Remote and rugged landscapes of the high Atacama Desert
  • Wild llamas of course! 
  • Less people around than Aconcagua
  • Perfect training ground for bigger objectives in the 7000er 8000er range
  • A group of like-minded adventures from around the world to share the journey with

Ojos del Salado Itinerary

Our journey begins! 

Today is the day we all meet as a group for formal introductions, the expedition briefing, and gear checks. 

The afternoon is spent doing any last minute gear shopping, exploring the beautiful Chilean capital, Santiago, and getting things organized.  

Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Santiago
Max Elevation: 500 meters
Meals: Free Time / No meals included

The team departs Santiago in the morning and drive to Farellones at 2,340 meters (2-hour drive). Our scenic drive takes us toward La Parva, where we start our trek into the rugged mountains.

The trail to Piedra Numerada is a steady ascent through breathtaking valleys, with glacial streams and towering peaks surrounding us. The hike is designed as an initial acclimatization effort, allowing our bodies to begin adapting to the altitude. We establish camp at Piedra Numerada, enjoying a hearty meal under the stars as we prepare for the climb ahead.

  • Hike duration: 4 hours
  • Distance: 6.30 km; 1,160 meters gain
  • Accommodation: tents
  • Max Elevation: 3500 m
  • Meals: breakfast, box lunch, dinner

We continue our ascent toward Federación Base Camp. As we climb, the terrain becomes increasingly alpine, with grassy slopes giving way to rocky ridges and breathtaking high-altitude views. The slower pace allows for acclimatization, and our guides ensure that everyone is adapting well. 

Reaching Federación Base Camp at 4,100 meters, we settle in for the night, enjoying a warm meal and preparing for our first acclimitization summit attempt the next morning.

  • Hike duration: 5 hours
  • Distance: 4.6 km; 600 meters+
  • Accommodation: tents
  • Max elevation: 4100 m
  • Meals: breakfast, box lunch, dinner

Today is a major event in our acclimatization process. We begin our summit push before dawn, using headlamps to navigate the steep and rugged terrain. The climb involves a mix of scree slopes and glacial sections, making for a challenging but rewarding ascent.

Reaching the summit of Cerro El Plomo, we are treated to awe-inspiring panoramic views of the surrounding Andes. This climb helps our bodies adjust to high-altitude exertion, an essential step in preparing for Ojos del Salado. After taking in the summit experience, we descend carefully back to base camp, where we rest and refuel.

It will take us around 10 hours to reach the summit and return to Federación Base Camp.

  • Hike duration: 10 hours
  • Distance: 8.7 km; 1,340 meters+
  • Accommodation: tents
  • Max elevation: 5430 m
  • Meals: breakfast, box lunch, dinner

We break camp and begin our descent. The hike back down offers a final opportunity to enjoy the stunning mountain scenery in this special part of Chile before we return to civilization. Upon arrival in Santiago, we check into our hotel and enjoy a well-earned rest.

The comforts of the city—hot showers, fresh food, and soft beds—are a welcome treat after our time in the mountains.

  • Hike duration: 5 hours
  • Distance: 10,9 km; -1,750 m.
  • Accommodation: 3* hotel in Santiago
  • Max elevation: 500 m
  • Meals: breakfast, box lunch

We transition to the next phase of our expedition with a short flight (1.5 hrs) north to Copiapó, the gateway to the Atacama Desert. This day is dedicated to more rest and recovery, allowing our bodies to recuperate from the first phase of the expedition.

We use this day to enjoy some downtime in Copiapó before heading back to camp life the following day. 

  • Accommodation: B&B in Copiapó
  • Max elevation: 400 m
  • Meals: breakfast

A rugged drive takes us into the remote wilderness of the Atacama, where the stark beauty of the desert meets towering volcanic peaks.

Our destination is Laguna Verde, a breathtaking high-altitude lake surrounded by dramatic landscapes. After setting up camp, we relax in the natural hot springs (temps around 40 degrees C), letting the mineral-rich waters aid in recovery and acclimatization. And…because everyone loves hot springs!

  • Accommodation: tents
  • Max elevation: 4300 m
  • Meals: breakfast, box lunch, dinner

We’ll wake up very early and drive to the base of Nevado San Francisco at
5,040 meters.

The drive takes about 1 hour, followed by a 7-hour climb
to the summit at 6,023 meters.

Our first 6,000-meter peak is an essential acclimatization climb. While non-technical, Nevado San Francisco presents a significant challenge due to the altitude. The steady ascent allows us to test our high-altitude endurance, and reaching the summit is a powerful confidence boost. From the top, we gaze across the vast Atacama Desert, with Ojos del Salado looming in the distance. After our climb, we return to Laguna Verde for a well-earned rest.

  • Hike duration: 7
  • Distance: 8,8 km; 983 mts+
  • Accommodation: tents
  • Max elevation: 6,023 m
  • Meals: breakfast, box lunch, dinner

A full rest day at 4,300m is crucial for adapting to the thin air before our main objective. We focus on hydration, hot springs, and relaxation. There are optional short walks in the area too to allow for active recovery, and we once again take advantage of the hot springs to ease any muscle fatigue.

  • Accommodation: tents
  • Max elevation: 4,300 m
  • Meals: breakfast, box lunch, dinner

For those seeking an extra challenge, Incahuasi provides another opportunity to push our limits and further improve acclimatization – while bagging another peak above 6,500 meters. This climb is more demanding, but it strengthens our readiness for Ojos del Salado.

Those who prefer to conserve energy can spend another restful day at Laguna Verde, taking in the beauty of this extreme landscape.

  • Hike duration: 7
  • Distance: 5,2 km; 860 mts+
  • Accommodation: tents
  • Max elevation: 6,621 m
  • Meals: breakfast, box lunch, dinner

With Ojos del Salado ahead, we take one final full day of rest. We review our summit strategy, check gear, and ensure everyone is in peak condition for the challenge ahead. Mental preparation is as important as physical readiness at this stage, and we take time to visualize and discuss the climb.

  • Accommodation: tents
  • Max elevation: 4,300 m
  • Meals: breakfast, box lunch, dinner

This is Ojos del Salado 6,893 m summit day. Well wake up at midnight to departure at 1 am. We’ll drive for 3 hours to Tejos hut at 5,800 m. The
roads can be rough but views are incredible. We’ll start hiking at 4 am for around 12 hours up and down. 

The high altitude, rugged terrain, and final rock scramble make this an intense and rewarding climb.

Reaching the summit—the highest active volcano on Earth—is an unforgettable achievement. We take in the view from nearly 7,000 meters, reflecting on the journey before making a careful descent back to camp.

  • Hike duration: 12
  • Distance: 6,8 km; 1,093 meters gain
  • Accommodation: tents
  • Max elevation: 6,893 m
  • Meals: breakfast, box lunch, dinner

From Laguna Verde, 4-hour drive back to Copiapó.

After the ultimate challenge, we pack up and begin the journey back to civilization. The drive to Copiapó provides time to process the accomplishment of summiting Ojos del Salado.

Upon arrival in town, we check into a comfortable B&B and enjoy a well-deserved celebration dinner.

  • Accommodation: B&B in Copiapó
  • Max elevation: 400 m
  • Meals: breakfast

We trade the high mountains for the coastline and 100% oxygen, heading to Bahía Inglesa, a stunning white-sand beach on the Pacific Ocean.

The warm sun, clear waters, and fresh seafood offer the perfect contrast to the rugged peaks we’ve just conquered.

The drive from Copiapó to Bahía is roughly 4 hours. 

  • Accommodation: B&B in Bahía Inglesa
  • Max elevation: 0 M
  • Meals: breakfast, lunch

After a relaxing morning by the ocean, we return to Copiapó and fly back to Santiago.

Our final evening together is spent sharing stories, enjoying a celebratory dinner, and reflecting on an unforgettable adventure.

  • Accommodation: 3* hotel in Santiago
  • Max elevation: 500 m
  • Meals: breakfast

Today is departure day with no planned activities on the schedule.

You leave Chile not only with incredible memories from this Epic expedition, but with the pride of having attempted one of the world’s most iconic high-altitude, volcanic peaks.

  • Accommodation: N/A
  • Max elevation: 500 m
  • Meals: breakfast

Ojos del Salado Expedition FAQ

They speak Spanish in Chile! The Chilean accent is famous actually for being more difficult to understand than the Spanish from neighboring countries. Throw in a copious amount of slang used by the locals and you might think they are speaking something completely different than Spanish! 

That said, study up on the basics before you arrive so you can do things like order food, count, and say basic greetings. Basic Spanish is within your grasp if you put in a little bit of effort. 

For your upcoming expedition to Ojos del Salado in Chile, it’s essential to understand the tourist visa requirements for participants from the United States, European Union, and the United Kingdom. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

United States Citizens:

  • Visa Requirement: U.S. citizens do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days.

  • Tourist Card: Upon arrival, you’ll receive a Tourist Card (“Tarjeta de Turismo”) valid for up to 90 days. Keep this document safe, as you’ll need to return it upon departure. If lost, obtain a replacement from the International Police (PDI) before leaving Chile.

  • Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay and in good condition.

European Union Citizens:

  • Visa Requirement: Citizens of EU member states can enter Chile without a visa for tourism purposes for up to 90 days.

  • Tourist Card: Similar to U.S. citizens, EU travelers will receive a Tourist Card upon arrival, which must be retained and returned upon departure.

  • Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date.

United Kingdom Citizens:

  • Visa Requirement: UK citizens can visit Chile for up to 90 days without a visa.

  • Tourist Card: Upon arrival, you’ll be issued a Tourist Card valid for the duration of your stay, which must be surrendered upon departure.

  • Passport Validity: Your passport should be valid for the entire duration of your stay in Chile.

Additional Considerations for All Travelers:

  • Extensions: If you wish to extend your stay beyond 90 days, you can apply for an extension at the Chilean Immigration Office.

For this trip, we stay in a mix of 3-star hotels, local bed and breakfast guesthouses, and tents. 

The tents we use are robust, 4-season tents built to battle the high-altitude elements. 

Prices are based on same gender room sharing (two people to a room and tent). 

Trip participants need to be in great shape and capable of trekking and climbing over mixed terrain for long distances (Ojos del Salado summit day can be around 12 hours up and down).

On average our trekking/climbing days are 5-6 hours per day. You are NOT required to carry a heavy bag or your main “camp bag” during the climbs – we porter or drive everything between camps. 

The biggest days on the itinerary are the summit days; when the climb will take between 10-12 hours round trip, depending on conditions and your fitness level from bases camp to summit and back to base camp is to be expected.

Because of the high altitude, the name of the game for this itinerary is slow, controlled walking; it is not a race, but a slow, and steady marathon. 

Is Chile Safe for Travelers and Climbers?

Chile is generally one of the safest countries in South America, making it a great destination for travelers and climbers. However, as with any adventure, it’s important to take precautions, especially when visiting remote areas like Ojos del Salado. Here’s what you need to know:

Safety in Santiago

  • Petty Crime: Santiago is safe for tourists, but petty theft (pickpocketing and bag snatching) can occur, particularly in crowded areas, public transport, and tourist hotspots. Always keep an eye on your belongings.
  • Safe Transport: Official taxis, rideshare apps like Uber, and registered airport shuttles are the best transport options. Avoid flagging down taxis on the street.
  • Neighborhood Awareness: Popular areas like Providencia, Las Condes, and Vitacura are very safe, while some downtown areas require extra caution, especially at night.

Safety on the Ojos del Salado Expedition

  • Remote Terrain: The Atacama Desert and the high-altitude regions of Ojos del Salado are extremely remote, with limited infrastructure. Our guided expedition ensures proper acclimatization, emergency planning, and experienced leadership.
  • Altitude & Weather Risks: At over 6,800m (22,000 ft), Ojos del Salado poses risks related to altitude sickness, extreme weather, and high winds. Our itinerary includes acclimatization days, and we carry emergency oxygen and satellite communication.
  • Wildlife & Natural Hazards: There are no dangerous animals in the Atacama, but dehydration, sun exposure, and sudden weather changes are concerns. Travelers should always follow the guide’s safety instructions.

General Safety Tips for Chile

  • Health & Insurance: Travel insurance covering high-altitude climbing and emergency evacuation is mandatory for this expedition.
  • Drinking Water: Tap water is safe to drink in cities, but we recommend using purified water in remote areas.

Overall, Chile is a secure and well-developed country for adventure travel. With proper precautions and an experienced team, your journey to Ojos del Salado will be both safe and unforgettable!

Yes you can! The single supplement charge for both a single hotel room and tent  ⁠Single room supplement: USD $500, Single tent supplement: USD $150. 

 

Yes, we can accommodate pretty much any diet preference. 

Diet restrictions (vegan, celiac, lactose intolerant, etc) do come with extra cost: $200 USD.

Yes, we have gear to rent in Chile. 

The following items can be rented for a fee:

  • Crampons
  • Double or triple climbing boots
  • Harness
  • Ice Axe
  • Helmet
  • Sleeping Bag
  • Parka
  • Down Pants
  • Gloves
  • Mittens
  • Rain Gear
  • Goggles

What Weather to Expect on the Ojos del Salado Expedition (January–February)

The Ojos del Salado Expedition takes place during the Chilean summer (January–February), offering the best weather window for high-altitude climbs. However, conditions can still be extreme, with hot desert days, freezing mountain nights, and strong winds. Below is a breakdown of what to expect along the journey.

Weather by Region & Key Locations

Santiago (Day 1, 5, 15-16) – Urban Summer Climate

  • Max: 30–35°C (86–95°F) | Min: 12–18°C (54–64°F)
  • Conditions: Warm to hot and dry, with little to no rainfall. Evenings are comfortable.

Andes (Day 2-4) – Piedra Numerada, Federación Base Camp, and Cerro El Plomo

  • Max: 10–18°C (50–64°F) | Min: -5 to -10°C (14–23°F)
  • Conditions: Mild days and freezing nights at high elevations. Strong winds and potential snow patches above 5,000m.

Atacama Desert & Laguna Verde (Day 7-12) – High-Altitude Desert Climate

  • Max: 15–22°C (59–72°F) | Min: -5 to -10°C (14–23°F)
  • Conditions: Dry, sunny, and windy with high UV exposure. Nighttime temperatures drop significantly, especially at Laguna Verde (4,300m / 14,100 ft).

High-Altitude Climbs (Nevado San Francisco, Incahuasi, Ojos del Salado)

  • Max: 0–5°C (32–41°F) Min: -15 to -25°C (5 to -13°F)
  • Conditions: Extreme cold and strong winds (50–80 km/h or 30–50 mph). Snow and ice may be present, and windchill can make it feel even colder. Summit days can be unpredictable, requiring full winter gear.

Bahía Inglesa (Day 14-15) – Coastal Desert Climate

  • Max: 25–30°C (77–86°F) | Min: 15–18°C (59–64°F)
  • Conditions: Warm and sunny with ocean breezes—ideal for relaxing after the climb.

General Climate Considerations

  • Strong Winds: High-altitude camps and summits experience powerful winds, making proper layering and windproof gear essential.
  • High UV Exposure: The thin atmosphere increases sunburn risk, so sunglasses, sunscreen, and protective clothing are a must.
  • Extreme Temperature Swings: The expedition includes hot desert days and subzero nights, requiring layered clothing.
  • Low Humidity & Dry Air: Hydration is critical to prevent altitude sickness in the Atacama Desert.

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What People Have to Say About Epic Expeditions

More Epic Photos from Chile and Ojos del Salado

Ojos del Salado - Abridged

A Brief History of Ojos del Salado Climbing

Ojos del Salado, towering at 6,893 meters (22,615 feet), is the highest active volcano in the world and the second-highest peak in the Western Hemisphere, after Aconcagua. Its first recorded ascent was made on February 26, 1937, by Polish mountaineers Jan Alfred Szczepański and Justyn Wojsznis, who were part of a scientific and exploration expedition. Since then, it has attracted climbers from around the world, eager to experience its unique combination of high-altitude mountaineering and extreme desert conditions.

Over the years, Ojos del Salado has become a popular peak for mountaineers aiming to train for 8,000-meter climbs, push their altitude limits, or complete the Seven Second Summits (as the second-highest peak on its continent). Despite its extreme altitude, it remains less technically demanding than other peaks of similar height, making it an attractive goal for experienced trekkers and climbers.

Cool Stuff to Know about this Ojos del Salado Climb

1. The World’s Highest Active Volcano

Ojos del Salado isn’t just a mountain—it’s an active volcano and one of the most impressive on Earth. While no major eruptions have occurred in recent history, fumaroles near the summit indicate ongoing volcanic activity, adding an exciting geological element to the climb.

2. Extreme but Achievable High-Altitude Challenge

  • While nearly 7,000 meters high, Ojos del Salado does not require technical ice climbing (unless conditions demand crampons and an ice axe near the summit).
  • It’s an excellent choice for climbers looking to push their altitude endurance before attempting Everest, K2, or Denali.
  • The final scramble to the summit adds an element of adventure, requiring basic rock-climbing skills and sometimes the use of fixed ropes.

3. Climbing in the Driest Desert on Earth

Unlike many high-altitude climbs in the Himalayas or the Andes, Ojos del Salado is located in the Atacama Desert, the driest non-polar desert in the world.

  • The lack of vegetation, vast, otherworldly landscapes, and crystal-clear skies make for an unforgettable visual experience.
  • The high elevation of the Atacama Plateau (many camps are already above 4,000m / 13,000 ft) allows for better acclimatization before the summit push.

4. Remote, Yet Accessible

  • Ojos del Salado is located in a remote part of Chile, yet it remains relatively accessible with modern infrastructure.
  • Unlike expeditions requiring weeks of trekking, this climb starts with a drive from Copiapó to high-altitude camps, reducing approach times.
  • Despite its remoteness, Chile offers a safe and well-organized climbing experience, with good logistical support.

5. A Unique Post-Climb Experience

  • After summiting, climbers can relax at the stunning Laguna Verde, a high-altitude lake with natural hot springs.
  • The expedition can end with a visit to the Pacific Coast at Bahía Inglesa, providing a perfect contrast between high-altitude adventure and ocean relaxation.

Additional Resources

Trip Leader

Pema is a woman of many talents. The things she has achieved by the age of 30, most people can’t even imagine doing in a lifetime. 

Born in Kathmandu, Nepal to Tibetan Parents, Pema moved to the USA at a young age. 

A keen interest in mountains, photography, and free diving launched a career of full-time world travel and big-time adventures. 

Pema is one of the most experienced members of our trip leader staff. She has summited multiple 8000-meter peaks and completed countless multi-day treks in the Himalayas and Karakoram. 

Throw on top of all of that a bright personality who brings out the best in people, and you have the recipe for an excellent trip leader. That’s Pema. 

General Manager for Pakistan Operations

“Our man in Pakistan” is one way to describe the legend and our dear friend, Nisar Hussein. 

Nisar grew up on the outskirts of Karakoram National Park in the Gilgit Baltistan region of Northern Pakistan. His village, Kanday, is literally at the foot of some of the world’s highest mountain ranges. 

He has a deep passion and love for the Pakistani mountains and truly believes in the potential for tourism in Pakistan to be a force for good in local communities. 

These days he helps run our Pakistani field operations from his dual bases in Islamabad and Skardu. 

Nisar possesses a work ethic beyond compare and is likely behind all of the little details that make our trips in Pakistan so special. 

Trip Leader

Hailing from the Toronto region of Eastern Canada, with a background as a former standout athlete (hockey of course) and a  love of mountain adventure, Clark is a welcomed addition to the Epic team.

In addition to being a keen photographer and adventurer, Clark brings his brilliant sense of humor, leadership skills, and positive attitude to everything he puts his mind to. 

When he is not leading trips, he is working on taking over the hard apple cider game in Canada as a skilled craft brewer. 

Trip Leader

Noemi grew up in the mountains of German-Speaking Switzerland where she naturally developed a deep love and respect for mountain environments.

She is a talented photographer, aspiring climber, and speaks at least 5 languages fluently including Arabic (and probably a few more that we don’t know about), which she taught herself in a matter of months by watching YouTube videos. 

Noemi has spent the last several years traveling, hiking, and photographing her way around many different countries in the Middle East, South and Central Asia, and Europe, and we could not be more stoked to welcome her to the Epic team! 

Adventure Guide

As our man on the ground in Mongolia, there is not much this legend can’t do. As a native the Bayan-Ölgii province of the Western Mongolia Altai, Syerik has been working as a guide and tourism entrepreneur…

for the past several years and is one of the rising stars in Mongolia adventure travel industry. 

He is currently building a beautiful Ger (Yurt) camp near his hometown where he will host Epic Mongolia team members on our trip as well as other travelers from around the world! 

He is the perfect guide for your trip to Mongolia. Serik did an amazing job giving us a well rounded experience in the Altai NP region and down in the Gobi…
The food was fantastic and Serik gave us many opportunities to learn about the Kazakh culture in that region including traditional meals. (I can’t recommend enjoying the milk tea enough!)

– Coastal

Head of canine operations

Choriza started off life as a care-free vagabond on the streets of Madeira Island without any place to call home. From the moment we met her, we knew this dog was just different, and it was pretty much love at first sight. 

She gave up the dog street life in favor of joining her new dad Chris to become a full-time member of the Epic family towards the end of 2022.

These days she can be found listening in on the fringes of important Epic business meetings while half-asleep on the couch. She is a keen hiker, lover of mud, rare steak, and might just be the sweetest little dog we have ever seen. 

Trip Leader

An experienced trek leader and
IFMGA aspirant ski guide, avid alpine climber, devoted adventure photographer.

Organized and guided trekking expeditions, climbs and ski tours in Tajikistan’s Pamirs, Patagonia, Peru, Morocco, Nepal, Kyrgyzstan, Georgian and Russian Caucasus and Kamchatka.

A full member and meets the organiser of the British Alpine Club. Visited over 40 countries, lived in the UK for four years. Certified first-aider.

We joined Andrew on a fantastic trip to the Fann Mountains in Tajikistan, pure nature and magnificent scenery! Andrey was super prepared and led us safely up and down numerous passes and through some rough and icy cold rivers. Thank you for a very memorable trip, your planning and prep was excellent!

– Monika Steinlechner

epic expeditions team

Adventure Guide

Our man in Nepal, Sandip is what we like to call a “Swiss Army Knife”. There is not much Sandip can’t do when it comes to helping Epic to run our expeditions smoothly in Nepal.

His tireless work ethic, passion for all things trekking in the Himalayas, and smart decision-making mean that Sandip is a truly invaluable member of our team.

Sandip is passionate about showing visitors to his country an amazing time, and he goes above and beyond to make sure that happens. 

His company Himalayan Masters is Epic’s trusted partner in Nepal and one of the country’s top new tour agencies.

We really enjoyed the entire journey, and I would like to say that Sandip is truly professional. He guided us and he is a hardworking person, providing us with the best service and taking care of each one of us. Plus, he is super funny! The kind of professionnal you always want to find on your path for your explorations! 

– Alexandra Ruth

Fairy Meadows

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Our Favorite Experiences

#1 Sunrise from Reflection Lake

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#2 Hiking to Nanga Parbat Base Camp

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#3 Playing cricket with the locals

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Trips Where We Visit Fairy Meadows

Our flagship Pakistani adventure tour.  Road trip with some  hiking and cultural immersion.

A trekking-style tour that features some very remote locations, inlcuding a K2 viewpoint.

Trip Leader

João has born in the mountains of Madeira Islands in Portugal. Nature lover, writer, musician, guide, for him, a day without contact with outdoor vibes is a nightmare. 

With a degree in Cultural Studies in Portugal and a Master of Arts in Global Cultures and Creativity in the U.K.

João found out what really matters in life can be found on the trails, and in the contact with people from different backgrounds and cultures.

Guiding, crazy trekking missions, and sharing observations about the natural world, – these are some of João’s passions. 

After trekking to K2 Base Camp and exploring all over Northern Pakistan, he fell in love with the country and the local people. His experiences resulted in his desire to share these feelings with the world.

João is one of the most experienced guides at Epic and his skillset and positive mindset in the mountains is second to none

When not in Pakistan, João is  guiding and exploring in the Madeira Islands trails –  discovering some of the hidden treasures on his Portuguese Island.

João I can not thank you enough for the off the beaten paths and views you keep giving. Definitely one of the most challenging and amazing hikes we did 1200m meters all the way up to Fanal forest and circling back to the hidden village. Wow!

– Jeffery 

travel hunza valley

Adventure Guide

Sohail is the newest addition to the Epic team and we are beyond stoked to have him on board. As a veteran of the Karakoram and a native of Karimabad in Hunza, there is not much Sohail can’t do in the mountains. 

Besides having the ability to speak more languages than we can count, Sohail has explored every corner of Gilgit Baltistan and logs more trekking miles 

in a year than most people will do in a lifetime. As of the summer of 2022, Sohail has summited Gasherbrum 1, Gasherbrum 2, and K2 – three of Pakistan’s five 8000-meter peaks. Sohail guides several trips including our annual bespoke expeditions but specializes in Hunza Valley tours.

Chris and Sohail, and the team at Epic are FANTASTIC! Highly recommend anyone to do a tour with ‘Epic’. They have the perfect balance of fun, excitement and wild adventures, tied in with being super professional and ensuring your safety/health in a foreign environment. Don’t waste a moment and book a tour with these guys as the value for money is UNREAL!

– Borgan

iran travel tour

Trip Leader

Pedro’s been traveling all around the globe since 2009. His keen interests in documentary photography, rural life, and local people from different ethnic groups have been the focus of many of his professional projects.

Since 2012, he has developed his passion for travel and awesome shared experiences into a full-time adventure photography tour leader position.

Pedro has found himself continuously going back to the Middle East, with his likely favorite destination being Iran. Pedro lead his 11th tour in Iran with Epic in spring 2020

When Pedro’s not traveling the world with Epic Expeditions, you’ll find him based in the western south of Portugal planning he’s next adventure missions, logistics and working out his photos in local exhibitions.

 I loved the combination of hiking, camping around breathtaking scenery mixed with the cultural aspects. The guide (Pedro) is knowledgeable and work very hard to make the trip as memorable as possible. All in all an epic adventure with some extremely epic individuals! Go for it, you won’t regret it!

– Coastal

Diane Bouvet

Adventure Admin / Marketing

After fleeing from the corporate fashion world in Paris towards the start of 2020, Diane has been working as a web developer and graphic designer remotely from various bases across the globe

She brings all of her incredible design and organizational power to Epic Expeditions and is responsible for many of the beautiful behind-the-scenes design elements. 

Diane has been to Iran and to Pakistan twice including all over Gilgit Baltistan and KPK.

k2 gondogoro la trek

Head of Operations

A veteran of Pakistan travel, Ralph is an experienced guide, photographer and writer who specializes in documenting remote locations. 

Not one to simply go where everyone else does, he insists on exploring new and lesser-known areas.

Together with Epic Expeditions, he shows people parts of Pakistan that most other operators don’t even know about. He is particularly fond of the village of Barah, which he believes will become just as famous as Hunza one day.

Just got back from EBT’s Trekking Amongst Giants 15 day tour. The experience was first class. Ralph, our head guide, ensured that the entire trip ran smoothly and relatively on time (a bonus for anyone travelling in Pakistan). We had so many unforgettable days on the tour and the trekking was well-planned, safe but also a rewarding challenge. 

– Calvin


Traveling to a non-tourist destination can be a little intimidating but EBT takes all of the worry and trepidation away. From the pre-trip call to meeting the wonderful staff in person you can tell that you are dealing with a company that has a passion for what they do each and every day. Ralph, Zahid, and Khan were supportive, kind, and always willing to go the extra mile to make sure that everyone on the trip was getting what they wanted out of the experience.

– Katrina 

adventure tours pakistan

Founder | Trip Leader | Director

Since he started exploring the world, Chris has been seeking out every shade of adventure in various parts of the globe and had visited more than 70 countries along the way. 

Over the last 10 years, Chris has logged more than 7000 trail miles across five continents and climbed multiple 6000 + 7000 meter peaks in South America, Pakistan, and Nepal.

A few years back, a distant dream and a deep passion for the mountains and the people of Pakistan led Chris to found Epic Expeditions at a time when foreign adventure tourism in Pakistan was almost nonexistent. Since then, Chris has guided more than 65 expeditions to various corners of the earth (and counting). 

Chris believes in using community and powerful adventure experiences to dismantle negative stereotypes regarding what mainstream media considers “dangerous” countries while facilitating unique and meaningful memories in the mountains for countless people from around the globe. 

For him, an ideal start to the day begins with a steaming cup of good coffee, the beam of a headlamp, alpine boots, and a camera in hand.

Although he is originally a native of Southern California, he now lives in Madeira Island, Portugal, when he is not leading expeditions in far-flung lands. 

Chris also works as a writer and photographer on his blog Off the Atlas – an adventure travel blog all about Pakistan.  

Read this interview our staff did with Chris to learn more about him!

Chris believes in Pakistan and its people, and he believes in the value of journeys shared with others and family cultivated on the road. Honesty and integrity are at the heart of what he does, and this really shines through in his work as a guide. He also makes great coffee – whether at 5am in an empty guesthouse or half way up a Himalayan peak.”

– Will De Villers

Pakistan is a magical country! Had 3 of the best weeks of my life thanks to Epic Backpacking Tours with owner, and one of our awesome guides, Chris. From detailed itinerary, preparation with an equipment list, and visa assistance. To amazing food, great porters, helpful guides, and great accommodations. Epic really hit home run after home run. […]

Their desire for adventure and amazing trip is just as high as yours. Bring a good pound of coffee for the trip. French press coffee every morning and no average tin coffee, plus you’ll be in your guides good books.

– Clark Tyler

epic backpacker tours

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