As of today, out of season, returns ~August. Earth Exhibit tracks the live conditions and flags it the moment it is on.
Penitentes are tall, thin blades of hardened snow and ice that form on high-altitude snowfields through differential sublimation under intense solar radiation and low humidity.
They are characteristic of the central Andes and can reach several meters in height, creating a surreal field of serrated ridges and troughs.
Where to see it
A taste of where to see it. The full map, exact coordinates and the best timing for each spot live in the app.
| Viewing spots |
|---|
| Los Penitentes roadside fields |
| Horcones Valley approach (trail to Plaza de Mulas) |
| + 1 more spot, with exact coordinates and timing, in the app → |
This is the short version
This page shows a taste. The app has the full list of where to see this, the exact timing, and live conditions for 1,000+ natural phenomena worldwide, so you know the moment one is genuinely worth the trip.