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Monte San Lorenzo
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Mountain
Monte San Lorenzo, also known as Mount Cochrane, is the second highest peak in the Patagonian Andes, reaching 3,706 meters. Located on the border between the province of Santa Cruz and Chile, this massive mountain is surrounded by imposing glaciers that descend into deep valleys. San Lorenzo is considered the 'Everest of Patagonia' by climbers, due to the extreme technical difficulty of its ascent, brutal weather, and geographical isolation. The massif consists of three main peaks and is surrounded by a landscape of wild beauty, with hardy deciduous forests and rivers of glacial milk. The first ascent was made by the legendary priest and explorer Alberto De Agostini in 1943, and the mountain remains a symbol of elite mountaineering and pure adventure to this day.
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 12 | 12 | 9 | 6 | 2 | -1 | -2 | 0 | 3 | 6 | 8 | 11 |
| Rain mm | 14 | 19 | 20 | 26 | 36 | 35 | 28 | 29 | 19 | 27 | 23 | 18 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Reaching this remote Patagonian giant typically requires arranging specialized transport from nearby towns like Perito Moreno or Cochrane on the Chilean side.
Best season
The best time for an expedition is during the short Southern Hemisphere summer, usually from late December to February, to avoid extreme winter conditions.
Terrain & paths
Expect highly challenging alpine terrain dominated by extensive glaciers, deep crevasses, and extremely steep, rocky ridges suitable only for trained experts.
What to bring
Specialized mountaineering equipment is absolutely essential, including ropes, crampons, ice axes, and severe-weather cold-rated survival gear for the trip.
Parking
Expedition vehicles are typically left at designated base camps or remote estancias at the end of unpaved access roads before continuing the journey on foot.
Safety
This is a hazardous glaciated environment with extreme and unpredictable Patagonian winds; guided expeditions or vast high-altitude alpine experience are mandatory.
Time needed
A full summit expedition to this remote peak usually takes several weeks of careful acclimatization and waiting patiently for narrow, favorable weather windows.
Geography
Facts
- The official height is 3,706 meters.
- It is the highest mountain in the province of Santa Cruz.
- Its glaciers feed Lake Pueyrredón and the Oro River.
- The first successful ascent was led by Alberto Maria De Agostini.
- Located in a very sparsely populated border area.
- The massif is composed of volcanic and granitic rocks.
- The name was given in honor of Saint Lawrence.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is Monte San Lorenzo developed for tourism?
No, it is a very remote and wild area for experienced mountaineers.
Do I need a permit?
Yes, permits from local authorities are often required for expeditions in this area.
What equipment do I need?
Professional climbing equipment and high-quality expedition clothing are mandatory.
What is the weather like there?
Very changeable, with sudden storms and heavy snowfall, even in summer.
Are there rescue services?
Rescue options are extremely limited; self-reliance is absolutely vital.
Monte San Lorenzo: where is it located?
Monte San Lorenzo is located in Argentina.
Monte San Lorenzo: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Monte San Lorenzo: why is it worth visiting?
Monte San Lorenzo, also known as Mount Cochrane, is the second highest peak in the Patagonian Andes, reaching 3,706 meters.
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