Climbing in South America offers an incredible range of experiences, from high-altitude mountaineering to technical rock climbing to ice climbing. This region is home to some of the world’s most iconic peaks, including Aconcagua, the highest mountain in the Western Hemisphere, and Huayna Potosi, a stunning peak in Bolivia that is often used as a training ground for Himalayan expeditions. In addition to these well-known climbs, there are countless other peaks, walls, and boulders waiting to be explored.
One of the great things about climbing in Latin America is the accessibility of the sport. Many climbing areas are located near major cities, and it’s often possible to take public transportation or hire a taxi to reach them. Additionally, the cost of climbing in the region is often much lower than in other parts of the world, making it a great destination for climbers on a budget.
Here are some of the absolute best places to go rock climbing in South Africa.
Torre de Paron, Peru
The Sphinx, located near Huaraz in the Cordillera Blanca, is a renowned climb in South America’s climbing Mecca at the heart of the Central Andes. This jagged peak offers a challenging climb to experienced mountaineers, with a peak that stands at an elevation of 5,448 meters. The Sphinx gets its name from its distinctive shape, which resembles the Great Sphinx of Egypt. The mountain’s steep ridges and exposed faces make it a thrilling and popular destination for climbers seeking an adrenaline-filled adventure.
Mount Fitzroy, Argentina
The Sendero al Fitz Roy hike is a popular trek in Los Glaciares National Park and the town of El Chaltén. This trek is typically done in a day, but for those who prefer a more leisurely pace, there are two campgrounds along the route.
Starting at the edge of El Chaltén, the trail climbs above the Las Vueltas river valley before levelling out through the forest and along Laguna Capri. Hikers then cross some mountain-framed meadows before embarking on the final approach to Mount Fitz Roy on a steep, rocky trail. This trail leads to a viewpoint overlooking Laguna de los Tres.
The Fitz Roy trek covers a distance of about 21.4 km/13.3 mi round trip and takes 8-10 hours to complete. The trail is rated moderate to hard and has an elevation gain of 864 m/2835 ft. It’s an incredible experience that showcases the beauty of Patagonia’s rugged terrain, crystal-clear streams, and the snow-capped peaks of the Andes.
Alpamayo, Peru
Alpamayo Peak (19 511ft / 5947m) is a towering mountain covered in ice, situated in the Cordillera Blanca mountain range of the Peruvian Andes, within the Huascarán National Park. The mountain is known for its steep and almost perfectly pyramidal shape, with a stunning cone-shaped peak that’s as enticing as the best tennis betting tips.
Given its remote location and the challenging terrain, the ascent is recommended only for experienced mountaineers with proper equipment. The name Alpamayo, which means “Earth River” in Quechua, is aptly given to this breathtaking peak.