The most accessible of the seven summits. Mt Aconcagua at just under 7000m is a great introduction to expedition climbing.
Starting from the pleasant city of Mendoza situated in Argentina’s wine country climbing Aconcagua is a mountain expedition of many contrasts. The trek in is through a wide arid valley and features a visit to the mighty South Face of the mountain. Base camp (Plaza de Mulas) has all the facilities of home and is a great place to prepare for the hard work on the mountain above. This itinerary includes an ascent of the nearby Bonette peak to aid acclimatization and incorporates many rest days to maximize your strength and to enhance re-hydration and acclimatization. Even though climbing Aconcagua remains a tough adventure with the help of our experienced Aconcagua guides you greatly optimize your chances of success.
At 22,841 Aconcagua is the highest peak in the Andes mountain range, and the highest mountain outside the Himalaya. Although not technically difficult, the high altitude and ice conditions can make this a very challenging climb. In this program you will have several weeks from arriving at the base camp to make the summit. This time is essential to allow you to not only acclimatize to the high altitude but provides you with an opportunity to see some impressive views of Aconcagua before attempting to reach the summit yourself..
Starting from the pleasant city of Mendoza situated in Argentina’s wine country climbing Aconcagua is a mountain expedition of many contrasts. The trek in is through a wide arid valley and features a visit to the mighty South Face of the mountain. Base camp (Plaza de Mulas) has all the facilities of home and is a great place to prepare for the hard work on the mountain above. This itinerary includes an ascent of the nearby Bonette peak to aid acclimatization and incorporates many rest days to maximize your strength and to enhance re-hydration and acclimatization. Even though climbing Aconcagua remains a tough adventure with the help of our experienced Aconcagua guides you greatly optimize your chances of success.
At 22,841 Aconcagua is the highest peak in the Andes mountain range, and the highest mountain outside the Himalaya. Although not technically difficult, the high altitude and ice conditions can make this a very challenging climb. In this program you will have several weeks from arriving at the base camp to make the summit. This time is essential to allow you to not only acclimatize to the high altitude but provides you with an opportunity to see some impressive views of Aconcagua before attempting to reach the summit yourself..
We guide the (1) Normal and (2) 360° Polish Traverse routes. Use the following information to select which route best fits as you work your way to the summit!
- Normal Route (picture below): MOST POPULAR, Starts at Horcones Valley, Most Straight Forward, Base Camp at Plaza de Mulas, Finishes at Horcones Valley Trailhead, 18 Day Itinerary.
- 360° Polish Traverse: MOST SCENIC, Starts at Vacas Valley Trailhead, Combines Polish Traverse and Normal Route, Base Camp at Plaza Argentina, Best chance to see the guanacos, Finishes at Horcones Valley Trailhead, Expedition travels both Aconcagua valleys, 360° view of the mountain, 18 Day Itinerary.
The weather on Aconcagua is unpredictable, but you we can guarantee that you will see some cold blowing days mixed with sunny refreshing days. We may encounter a variety of weather conditions and we want you to be prepared for rain, wind, snow, sleet and extreme heat. Skimping on equipment can jeopardize your safety and success. Most of the required equipment is available for rent or purchase in Mendoza, but don’t rely on all the gear being available, prepare before hand.
Pack & Bags
Upper Body
We recommend a minimum of five upper body layers, all of which can be used in conjunction with each other. Two of these should be insulating layers, one light and one medium, that fit well together. Today there are many different layering systems to choose from, including fleece, soft-shell, down and synthetic options.
Lower Body
We recommend a system of four layers, all of which can be used in conjunction with each other. Products which combine several layers into one garment, such as traditional ski pants, don’t work well as they don’t offer the versatility of a layering system.
Feet
Miscellaneous
Toilet
Personal Medications
Utensils
Optional Items
Travel Documents
Pre-Trip Checklist
Pack & Bags
- 2 DUFFEL BAG(S): A 120+ liter bag made of tough material.
- BACKPACK: A 90+ liter pack is the recommended size for this climb. Your pack must be large enough for your layers, climbing gear, and food, as well as a portion of your tent and group load (kitchen equipment).
- DAY PACK: A 25+ liter day pack to use as carry-on, while traveling or sightseeing.
- SLEEPING BAG: A bag rated to 0° to -20° F. Either goose down or synthetic, with ample room for movement. Most guides prefer down, because it is lightweight and compactable. A waterproof bag is preferred, but not mandatory.
- COMPRESSION STUFF SACK FOR SLEEPING BAG
- SLEEPING PAD - INFLATABLE: A full-length inflatable pad.
- SLEEPING PAD - CLOSED FOAM: A second full-length or 3/4 length closed cell foam pad. This pad is used in combination with the first sleeping pad. You will be happy to have both!
- ICE AXE/PICK: The length of your axe depends on your height. Use the following general mountaineering formula: up to 5'8", use a 65 cm axe; 5'8" to 6'2", use a 70 cm axe; and taller, use a 75 cm axe. If you hold the axe so that it hangs comfortably at your side, the spike of the axe should still be a few inches above the ground.
- CLIMBING HARNESS: HARNESS IS NOT REQUIRED FOR THIS TRIP
- HELMET: Should be a climbing certified helmet.
- CRAMPONS: The 10 to 12 point adjustable crampons designed for general mountaineering are ideal.
- TENT: four season
- TREKKING POLES: Lightweight and collapsible poles are preferred. Larger baskets work well with deep snow. Ski poles will also work.
- Head: Keep your Cabeza warm
- Wool or synthetic. It should provide warmth but also be thin enough to fit underneath a climbing helmet.
- BUFF / NECK GAITER / BALACLAVA: One item for face protection is required. Our primary recommendation is the Buff. A neck gaiter or balaclava is also acceptable.
- BALL CAP OR SUN HAT
- Box GLACIER GLASSES: A pair of dark-lensed sunglasses with side shields or full wrap-type sunglasses.
- GOGGLES: Amber or rose-tinted goggles for adverse weather.
- HEADLAMP: Be sure to begin the program with fresh batteries.
- Hands: Each glove layer is worn separately as conditions change during the climb.
- LIGHT WEIGHT GLOVE: One pair of fleece, soft-shell or wind-stopper gloves.
- MEDIUM WEIGHT GLOVE: Wind/water resistant, insulated mountain gloves.
- HEAVY WEIGHT INSULATED GLOVE OR MITTEN: Wind/water resistant, insulated gloves or mittens. These also serve as emergency back-ups if you drop or lose a glove.
Upper Body
We recommend a minimum of five upper body layers, all of which can be used in conjunction with each other. Two of these should be insulating layers, one light and one medium, that fit well together. Today there are many different layering systems to choose from, including fleece, soft-shell, down and synthetic options.
- 2 LIGHT TO MEDIUM WEIGHT BASELAYER: Long-sleeve wool or synthetic top. Quarter zip styles will allow for better temperature regulation. We recommend light colors, which best reflect the intense sun on hot days.
- INSULATING LAYER - LIGHTWEIGHT
- INSULATING LAYER - MEDIUM WEIGHT
- HARD SHELL JACKET: A jacket made of rain/wind-proof material with an attached hood.
- INSULATED PARKA with HOOD:
- HIKING SHIRT (OPTIONAL): For hot days in mid-summer, we recommend a lightweight, synthetic shirt, either long or short sleeves. Long sleeves are preferred for sun protection.
Lower Body
We recommend a system of four layers, all of which can be used in conjunction with each other. Products which combine several layers into one garment, such as traditional ski pants, don’t work well as they don’t offer the versatility of a layering system.
- 2 - 3 UNDERWEAR: Non-cotton briefs or boxers.
- LIGHT TO MEDIUM WEIGHT BASELAYER: Synthetic or wool.
- CLIMBING PANT: Soft-shell climbing pants offer a wide range of versatility. You can wear them in combination with the base layer on colder days, or alone on warmer days. No cotton!!
- RAIN PANT (HARD SHELL): A waterproof pant with 3/4 side zippers (sometimes called 7/8 or full side zips) are required for facilitating quick clothing adjustments over boots and crampons.
- SYNTHETIC INSULATED PANT: A synthetic primaloft pant.
- LIGHT WEIGHT TREKKING PANT: A lightweight, synthetic pair of pants is a good option for the approach trek when hiking at lower altitudes and in warm conditions.
Feet
- MOUNTAINEERING BOOTS: Hybrid boots are the preferred choice on Aconcagua. They provide the best insulation as well as a more rigid sole for kicking steps and holding crampons. Leather-only mountaineering boots are not recommended.
- HIKING BOOTS: A pair of lightweight boots for approaches and hiking on rugged terrain.
- LIGHTWEIGHT HIKING SHOES: Great for travel, day hikes, and camp.
- SANDALS: These are used during river crossings and should hold securely to the foot. There is also a shower at Basecamp.
- 2 PAIR OF TREKKING SOCKS: Lightweight hiking socks for the trek to Basecamp.
- 3 PAIR OF CLIMBING SOCKS: Either wool or synthetic. Some people find liner socks useful for reducing friction. Keep a clean pair for summit day, you will be happy you did!
- GAITERS: large enough to fit over your mountaineering boots.
Miscellaneous
- LIP BALM: We recommend SPF 15 or higher.
- SUNSCREEN: We recommend small tubes of SPF 15 or higher, which can be carried in pockets for easy access and to prevent freezing.
- MEALS: See the Food tab for suggestions and quantities.
- CHEMICAL HAND and TOE WARMERS
- 2 - 3 WATER BOTTLES: Hard-sided, screw-top, one-liter water bottles with wide mouths are required.
- INSULATED WATER BOTTLE COVERS: These help prevent liquids from freezing. It should completely cover the bottle.
- WATER PURIFICATION SYSTEM
- GARBAGE BAGS (LARGE): We recommend lining your backpack with garbage bags to keep items in your backpack completely dry.
- EAR PLUGS
- 2 SETS ALKALINE BATTERIES
- 2 LUGGAGE LOCKS: For your duffel bags. Must be TSA approved.
- STUFF SACKS
- CAMERA: Don't forget your camera!
- THERMOS: High quality, lightweight, unbreakable 1/2 to 1 quart.
- COUGH DROPS
- DUCT TAPE: A small roll of duct tape always comes in handy for repairs.
Toilet
- TOOTHBRUSH AND TOOTHPASTE
- BABY WIPES
- HAND SANITIZER(S): Personal size (2 oz.) bottle.
- 2 ROLLS OF TOILET PAPER
- PEE BOTTLE (PEE FUNNEL FOR WOMEN): You are not going to want to get out of your tent at night. . .
- BAND-AIDS
- ASPRIN / IBUPROFEN / TYLENOL
- BLISTER TREATMENT
- ANTACIDS
- IMODIUM (ANTI-DIARRHEA)
- PEPTO-BISMOL (STOMACH RELIEF)
- SMALL ROLL OF ADHESIVE TAPE
Personal Medications
- ANTIBIOTICS: Broad spectrum antibiotics for Traveler's Diarrhea.
- TYLENOL #3: Tylenol 3 for pain
- ACETAZOLAMIDE: For Altitiude Illness
- DEXAMETHAZONE: For HACE.
Utensils
- BOWL
- INSULATED MUG
- SPOON or SPORK
- POCKETKNIFE
Optional Items
- HIKING SHORTS: Good for lower elevations and warm, sunny days.
- READING MATERIAL / JOURNAL
- MUSIC PLAYER
Travel Documents
- PASSPORT: Valid for six months beyond your return date.
- COPY OF PASSPORT: The first two pages of your passport.
- COPY OF FLIGHT ITINERARY
- EXTRA PASSPORT PHOTOS
Pre-Trip Checklist
- Purchase travel insurance.
- Return the Registration Packet
- Purchase airplane tickets.
- Reserve rental equipment.
- Be in the Best Shape of Your Life!
Information coming soon.
At 22,841 Aconcagua is the highest peak in the Andes mountain range, and the highest mountain outside the Himalaya. Although not technically difficult, the high altitude and ice conditions can make this a very challenging climb.
In this program you will have several weeks from arriving at the base camp to make the summit. This time is essential to allow you to not only acclimatize to the high altitude but provides you with an opportunity to see some impressive views of Aconcagua before attempting to reach the summit yourself.
In this program you will have several weeks from arriving at the base camp to make the summit. This time is essential to allow you to not only acclimatize to the high altitude but provides you with an opportunity to see some impressive views of Aconcagua before attempting to reach the summit yourself.
Plan on arriving in Mendoza, Argentina (MDZ). The flight typically takes 18 – 27 hours from the U.S. depending on your departure city, available connections, and flight times.
Travel Insurance
We strongly encourage everyone to purchase Travel Insurance which may cover trip cancellation, interruption, delay, baggage loss or delay, medical expenses, medical evacuation, repatriation and more. Many of the insurance options can be purchased under one policy but some coverage may only be available if purchased within 14 days of making your trip deposit or if purchased as an upgrade to an existing policy rather than as a stand-alone option.
Due to the remote nature of this program, we strongly encourage participants to consider both cancellation insurance and a separate medical evacuation policy.
Medical Evacuation: An illness or injury in a remote area could require a medical evacuation costing well over $100,000. Travel insurance providers typically offer reimbursement for medical evacuations. Additionally, crisis response companies can orchestrate an actual field rescue as necessary in medical, security or other evacuation situations, even from extremely remote areas. Check with the insurance providers listed below for specific coverage details and options, including details of what constitutes a medical vs. a non-medical emergency.
Security Evacuation: This policy offers crisis evacuation services in non-medical situations. Examples include evacuations from areas affected by natural disasters, war or conflict zones, terrorism, and other areas in which participant security is threatened.
Please confirm any current travel advisories/warnings as well as entry requirements with the U.S. Department of State.
Entry Information
A valid passport is required when traveling to Argentina. Your passport must be valid for 6 months beyond the expected return date. U.S. passport holders may stay up to 90 days without a visa.
We suggest making a copy of the first two pages of your passport and keeping them in a separate bag as a backup. A copy should also be left with your emergency contact.
The Argentinean Government requires that Americans, Canadians and Australians visiting the country for tourism or business pay a “Reciprocity fee”. This is a requirement for admission to visit the country and the cost is $160. This reciprocity fee is valid for 10 years.
We recommend you register and pay the fee online as closely as possible to the date of your trip. The payment can be made at the following website:www.migraciones.gov.ar.
Airport Arrival
Upon arrival at the Mendoza airport, proceed to the Immigrations desk for foreign travelers. They will provide you with an entrance permit adequate for your stay. Please check the date to ensure it covers your complete stay in Argentina.
Once you receive your bags from Baggage Claim, you will proceed to Customs. There will be a random selection of bags for inspection. Be sure to keep all your bags together.
In-Country Transportation
The provided transportation as stated in the itinerary is via private vehicle.
Immunizations & Travel Medicine
For the most current information on inoculation requirements and recommendations, please refer to the Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention.
Traveler’s Health
Travelers may suffer from upset stomachs when in foreign countries. There are some basic rules, however, that can help keep you healthy.
Hygiene – It is important that you wash your hands thoroughly before meals and after using the restroom. If water is not available for washing, we recommend using a hand sanitizer.
Water – The number one rule is: don’t drink the water, and that includes shower water and ice! Brush your teeth with purified water rather than tap water. You should check bottled water for a good seal and use a napkin to wipe excess moisture in drinking glasses. Take care with fruit juice, particularly if it has been diluted with water. Carefully clean the tops of bottled beverages before opening.
Food – If it is cooked, boiled, or can be peeled, you can usually eat it. Salads and fruits should be washed with purified water or peeled where possible. Be wary of ice cream and shellfish. Always avoid any undercooked meat.
Medical Emergencies
Aconcagua is a remote mountain without easy access to definitive medical care. We are our own rescue team. A rescue team headed by the Mendoza Police operates on the Ruta Normal, which joins our route above 20,500′.
The medical facilities in Buenos Aires and other urban areas in Argentina are very professional. We will work with our tour operator to access an appropriate level of care should the need arise.
Argentinians
The people of Argentina are generally very warm and friendly to tourists. Although it is not expected that we dress formally, we should dress modestly. Casual and comfortable clothing is suggested along with comfortable shoes. Showing expensive cameras, watches, jewelry, etc. is considered unseemly and may attract unwanted attention.
A handshake and nod show respect when greeting someone. When entering a shop or home, politely use a greeting such as buenos días (good day), buenas tardes (good afternoon), buenas noches (good night). Similarly, upon leaving, even if you’ve had only minimal contact, say adios (goodbye) or hasta luego(see you later).
Argentines are typically proud of their country and culture. They are well-educated and tend to be cosmopolitan and progressive. Because a majority of Argentina’s population originated from Europe, Russia, and the Middle East, travelers typically have little trouble fitting in.
One interesting area of etiquette is the very Argentine custom of drinking mate, a South American infused drink, which comes with its own set of rules. Foreigners will be given lots of leeway here and breaches are likely to cause amusement rather than offence.
Porter Assistance
Porters are available to help carry gear above Base Camp. They can be arranged at your request through your guide. Porters carry loads of 20 kg and prices depend on where on the mountain they are needed, varying from $180 to $350 dollars for a one-way trip. Payment is due in cash at the time of service. Porter fees are not included in the trip or permit fees and are in addition to the amount we suggest you bring as spending money.
Electricity
Electricity in Argentina is different than in the United States. Argentina has standardized type I sockets and plugs. Type C plugs and power points are still commonly found in older buildings. Both are used for 220-240 volt, 50 hertz appliances. U.S. appliances will require plug adaptors, convertors or transformers. Please visit http://www.worldstandards.eu/electricity.htm for more detailed information.
Money
The current currency of Argentina is the Peso. Check a financial newspaper or www.xe.com for the current exchange rate prior to departure.
You should find that $950-$1,300 for spending money is adequate for your permit, restaurant meals, drinks, tips and pocket money. You may choose to bring more depending on your shopping plans and length of stay.
Cash machines are readily available in Mendoza, but become increasingly difficult to find outside of the main urban areas.
Credit cards are accepted in most, but not all, areas.
Everyone has a preferred way to carry money. Some use money belts, others have hidden pockets. Whatever you do, be aware of pickpockets and thieves in any area which caters to tourists.
Tipping
Local waiters, drivers, and other service personnel expect to be tipped. Ten to fifteen percent is standard.
Our guides work hard to ensure your well being and success on the mountain. If you have a positive experience, gratuities are an excellent way to show your appreciation. Amounts are at your discretion and should be based on your level of enjoyment. Tips for excellent service normally average 10 – 15% of the cost of the program.
Travel Insurance
We strongly encourage everyone to purchase Travel Insurance which may cover trip cancellation, interruption, delay, baggage loss or delay, medical expenses, medical evacuation, repatriation and more. Many of the insurance options can be purchased under one policy but some coverage may only be available if purchased within 14 days of making your trip deposit or if purchased as an upgrade to an existing policy rather than as a stand-alone option.
Due to the remote nature of this program, we strongly encourage participants to consider both cancellation insurance and a separate medical evacuation policy.
Medical Evacuation: An illness or injury in a remote area could require a medical evacuation costing well over $100,000. Travel insurance providers typically offer reimbursement for medical evacuations. Additionally, crisis response companies can orchestrate an actual field rescue as necessary in medical, security or other evacuation situations, even from extremely remote areas. Check with the insurance providers listed below for specific coverage details and options, including details of what constitutes a medical vs. a non-medical emergency.
Security Evacuation: This policy offers crisis evacuation services in non-medical situations. Examples include evacuations from areas affected by natural disasters, war or conflict zones, terrorism, and other areas in which participant security is threatened.
Please confirm any current travel advisories/warnings as well as entry requirements with the U.S. Department of State.
Entry Information
A valid passport is required when traveling to Argentina. Your passport must be valid for 6 months beyond the expected return date. U.S. passport holders may stay up to 90 days without a visa.
We suggest making a copy of the first two pages of your passport and keeping them in a separate bag as a backup. A copy should also be left with your emergency contact.
The Argentinean Government requires that Americans, Canadians and Australians visiting the country for tourism or business pay a “Reciprocity fee”. This is a requirement for admission to visit the country and the cost is $160. This reciprocity fee is valid for 10 years.
We recommend you register and pay the fee online as closely as possible to the date of your trip. The payment can be made at the following website:www.migraciones.gov.ar.
Airport Arrival
Upon arrival at the Mendoza airport, proceed to the Immigrations desk for foreign travelers. They will provide you with an entrance permit adequate for your stay. Please check the date to ensure it covers your complete stay in Argentina.
Once you receive your bags from Baggage Claim, you will proceed to Customs. There will be a random selection of bags for inspection. Be sure to keep all your bags together.
In-Country Transportation
The provided transportation as stated in the itinerary is via private vehicle.
Immunizations & Travel Medicine
For the most current information on inoculation requirements and recommendations, please refer to the Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention.
Traveler’s Health
Travelers may suffer from upset stomachs when in foreign countries. There are some basic rules, however, that can help keep you healthy.
Hygiene – It is important that you wash your hands thoroughly before meals and after using the restroom. If water is not available for washing, we recommend using a hand sanitizer.
Water – The number one rule is: don’t drink the water, and that includes shower water and ice! Brush your teeth with purified water rather than tap water. You should check bottled water for a good seal and use a napkin to wipe excess moisture in drinking glasses. Take care with fruit juice, particularly if it has been diluted with water. Carefully clean the tops of bottled beverages before opening.
Food – If it is cooked, boiled, or can be peeled, you can usually eat it. Salads and fruits should be washed with purified water or peeled where possible. Be wary of ice cream and shellfish. Always avoid any undercooked meat.
Medical Emergencies
Aconcagua is a remote mountain without easy access to definitive medical care. We are our own rescue team. A rescue team headed by the Mendoza Police operates on the Ruta Normal, which joins our route above 20,500′.
The medical facilities in Buenos Aires and other urban areas in Argentina are very professional. We will work with our tour operator to access an appropriate level of care should the need arise.
Argentinians
The people of Argentina are generally very warm and friendly to tourists. Although it is not expected that we dress formally, we should dress modestly. Casual and comfortable clothing is suggested along with comfortable shoes. Showing expensive cameras, watches, jewelry, etc. is considered unseemly and may attract unwanted attention.
A handshake and nod show respect when greeting someone. When entering a shop or home, politely use a greeting such as buenos días (good day), buenas tardes (good afternoon), buenas noches (good night). Similarly, upon leaving, even if you’ve had only minimal contact, say adios (goodbye) or hasta luego(see you later).
Argentines are typically proud of their country and culture. They are well-educated and tend to be cosmopolitan and progressive. Because a majority of Argentina’s population originated from Europe, Russia, and the Middle East, travelers typically have little trouble fitting in.
One interesting area of etiquette is the very Argentine custom of drinking mate, a South American infused drink, which comes with its own set of rules. Foreigners will be given lots of leeway here and breaches are likely to cause amusement rather than offence.
Porter Assistance
Porters are available to help carry gear above Base Camp. They can be arranged at your request through your guide. Porters carry loads of 20 kg and prices depend on where on the mountain they are needed, varying from $180 to $350 dollars for a one-way trip. Payment is due in cash at the time of service. Porter fees are not included in the trip or permit fees and are in addition to the amount we suggest you bring as spending money.
Electricity
Electricity in Argentina is different than in the United States. Argentina has standardized type I sockets and plugs. Type C plugs and power points are still commonly found in older buildings. Both are used for 220-240 volt, 50 hertz appliances. U.S. appliances will require plug adaptors, convertors or transformers. Please visit http://www.worldstandards.eu/electricity.htm for more detailed information.
Money
The current currency of Argentina is the Peso. Check a financial newspaper or www.xe.com for the current exchange rate prior to departure.
You should find that $950-$1,300 for spending money is adequate for your permit, restaurant meals, drinks, tips and pocket money. You may choose to bring more depending on your shopping plans and length of stay.
Cash machines are readily available in Mendoza, but become increasingly difficult to find outside of the main urban areas.
Credit cards are accepted in most, but not all, areas.
Everyone has a preferred way to carry money. Some use money belts, others have hidden pockets. Whatever you do, be aware of pickpockets and thieves in any area which caters to tourists.
Tipping
Local waiters, drivers, and other service personnel expect to be tipped. Ten to fifteen percent is standard.
Our guides work hard to ensure your well being and success on the mountain. If you have a positive experience, gratuities are an excellent way to show your appreciation. Amounts are at your discretion and should be based on your level of enjoyment. Tips for excellent service normally average 10 – 15% of the cost of the program.
Information coming soon.
Information coming soon.