If you plan to explore Chile’s Atacama Desert at any elevation or time of year, you’ll need extreme cold weather gear. This is triply true if you wish to climb the 22,615-foot Ojos del Salado — earth’s tallest volcano — and descend on a mountain bike. Below, you’ll find a bicycle light enough to carry up and tough enough to careen down, plus a burly helmet, necessary should you go over the handlebars. Also: the warmest bag and tent I’ve slept inside, paired with the most comfy (and insulating) sleeping pad. Just as crucial: a kit to keep your body warm for a full week and all manner of useful, desert-resistant (though not desert-proof!) accessories. After you’ve stocked up, completing the trek is up to you.
Hiking
From High-Altitude Desert to 22,000-Foot Summit
The Gear:
Patagonia Grade VII Down Parka $899
Patagonia M10 Anorak $379
Patagonia Galvanized Pant $299
Outdoor Research Alti Mitts $199
La Sportiva G2 SM Boots $825
Osprey Atmos AG 65 Backpack $260
Leki Cristallo Trekking Poles $120
Biking
Speed and Protection
The Gear
Specialized Stumpjumper FSR Pro Carbon 6Fattie $6,500
Specialized Dissident Helmet $350
Julbo Aerospace Goggles $240
Farm to Feet Damascus 1/4 Crew Socks $19
Camping
A Base Camp at Sub-Zero Temperatures
The Gear
Mountain Hardwear Trango 3 Tent $750
The North Face Inferno -40f/-40c Sleeping Bag $729
Big Agness Insulated Double Z Sleeping Pad $110+
Black Diamond Storm Headlamp $37
MSR Whisperlite International Stove $100
GSI Outdoors Halulite Pot $40
