Monte Pissis

With an elevation of 22,293 feet, Monte Pissis is the third highest mountain in the Western Hemisphere. It is an extinct volcano in the province of La Rioja, located north of Aconcagua. The mountain was named after Pedro Jose Amedeo Pissis, a French geologist. Due to its location in the Atacama Desert, Monte Pissis also experiences dry conditions. Although its peak is the most glaciated in the desert, the glacier is small in comparison to the mountain's size. Because of its height and remoteness, the mountain received little attention. However, the opening of mining in the area has brought more tourists to the area, who also come to see the Atacama Desert. The first ascent of Monte Pissis took place in 1985.

Mount Pissis is now considered one of Argentina's "must-do climbs". It may be remote, but it is well worth the effort required to reach it. The breathtaking scenery serves as a powerful reminder of the volcano's past eruptions.

Location: La Rioja and Catamarca provinces, Argentina
Height: 6,792 m (22,283 ft)
Parent Range: Andes