Cambios

In the northern part of the trail the Andes are very high with some summits exceeding 6000 m. Here passes typically exceed 4000 m altitude and steep rocky terrain and glaciers impede walking along the main mountain chain close to the continental divide which forms also the border between Chile and Argentina. Therefore the trail climbs through the Precordillera mainly along the first mountain range next to the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chilean_Central_Valley Chilean Central Valley]. But don’t misunderstand Precordillera as low; here the regular route reaches the highest point with 3300 m. To an altitude of approximate 1500 m to 2000 m you find a semi-desert-like vegetation; above this altitude vegetation is scare. In summer expect a generally hot and dry climate but be prepared for chilly nights higher up. When starting early in the hiking season expect large snow fields in higher areas; when getting there late heavy blizzards become a hazard.