Hiking Cerro Toco

My son and I wanted to challenge ourselves to h high altitude hike while in San Pedro. Gary was really helpful in giving us guidance and setting a pace that meant we didn’t have any altitude sickness issues. The view from the top of Cerro Toco is fantastic- across to the surrounding volcanoes and Laguna Blanca and verde in Bolivia. The walk itself would be easy at low altitude but going up to 5600m having a guide is a must.

These were incredible days with the Sorbac guides in the Atacama desert. Are attentive, animated, super professional, would come back (and hope to come back) more often for new trips together!

Gary was super friendly and helpful. We didn't realize this was a private tour, but that was great! The altitude made this super challenging, even for 2 late 20s individuals who are pretty consistent about working out. Felt like we were stepping so slowly and yet can barely breathe! We ascended in about ~1 hr 30 mins, and descended in ~40, with some brief acclimation time at the start and rest at the top, total time was 3.5 hrs, which seems to be a little faster than average. Definitely take any anti-altitude sickness and remedies in advance... we underestimated that and got sick on the way back / had a persistent headache. The view is unbelievably spectacular though. If you're looking for a more challenging excursion, this would be it.

This has been the highlight of our vacation so far. This is an amazing hike - it is not a difficult trail but the altitude makes it very hard, but the views are worth it. Our guide Gary was great, he made sure we prepared for our hike beforehand so that we did not get altitude sickness and taught us a lot about the area. He also made timed our hike to avoid a storm that was coming in on the top of the volcano. Over all this is a must do if you enjoy a strenuous, but not too long of a hike (took us a little over 3 hrs).

A great experience, the place is beautiful. It is worth remembering that it is necessary to adapt to altitude. It's also not for beginners, you need to have a minimum level of physical fitness to avoid getting sick and ruining your group's tour. You need to be very well dressed, even if it is hot in São Pedro, you are going to an extremely high place with sharp winds. It is essential to have suitable footwear. I went at the beginning of October and it was still very cold, even with 3 layers it was freezing.

I was in Atacama with my partner in August 2023 and we did the bike tours to Garganta Del Diablo and the ascent of Cerro Toco with Sorbac. The experience was excellent! From the email service for reservations with Monica, to the support from Silvia (a sweetheart 🫶🏽) when we arrived in San Pedro, to the support of the guides JP and Christian on the tours. JP and Christian are experienced mountaineers and were extremely patient and careful during both routes. Hiring Sorbac was crucial for us to have positive and unforgettable experiences! The work they do is exceptional and very committed. I recommend it 100% and would hire it again without a shadow of a doubt! Thank you, Sorbac team! And until next time 🙋🏽‍♀️