ACONCAGUA EXPEDITION
Difficulty
Duration
19 Days
Season
3–21 January 2025
24 January- 11 February 2025
PRICE $7,150 US
Aconcagua, “The Sentinel of Stone” is the highest peak outside of the Himalayas. Located in Western Argentina - the heart of the Central Andes, it is South America’s highest peak and one of the much sought-after Seven Summits.
While it is a very physical climb, it is one of the more achievable Seven Summits. An ascent of this eminent Andean Peak is a perfect choice for those wishing to experience high-altitude expedition mountaineering and is often undertaken as a preparation climb for the big mountains in the Himalayas. The lessons gained about how you perform, and the skills taught by the guides will establish robust guidelines for future aspirations you have at high altitude.
We climb Aconcagua via the 360° traverse route as it is less visited and features the best campsites. By traversing Aconcagua you will also get to see both sides of the mountain and complete a circular journey.
Trip description
Overview
Our trip begins and finishes in Mendoza, the third-largest city in Argentina. It is one of the most beautiful cities in the world with top-class restaurants, vineyards and museums/galleries. The climate is warm and sunny.
Once we have finalised our equipment and permits in Mendoza, we travel by coach to our camp at Puente del Inca, the ‘Inca Bridge’. This impressive natural rock bridge and associated hot sulphur springs offer an opportunity to bathe in thermal pools while experiencing the ambience of the Andes.
Approaching the Vacas Valley Route involves a 3-day trek along the desert-like Vacas and Relinchos Valleys, which are distinguished by striking colourful rock formations and spectacular glaciers contrasting with the interspersed greenery.
Upon arriving at Plaza Argentina Base Camp, our sleeping tents will be established in rock windbreaks on the moraine of the Relinchos Glacier.
The exact climbing itinerary is not fixed to allow for the optimal acclimatisation program, and any inclement cold temperatures and storms that sweep in from the Pacific Ocean 160 km/100 miles to the west. Hence, your guide will be working around any forecasted weather systems to plan for the best summit program.
Itinerary:
Day 1 Arrive in Mendoza this morning or the day prior, sort and check equipment
Day 2 Complete the permitting process and drive to Puente del Inca (2,744m)
Day 3 Trek to Pampa de Leñas (2,950m)
Day 4 Trek to Casa de Piedra (3,250m)
Day 5 Trek to Plaza Argentina (4,200m)
Day 6 Rest day/trek to Cerro Colorado (4,724m)
Day 7 Carry to Camp 1 (4,950m)
Day 8 Rest day
Day 9 Climb to Camp 1
Day 10 Carry to Camp 2 (5,500m)
Day 11 Climb to Camp 2
Day 12 Carry to Camp 3 ‘Colera Camp’ (6,000m)
Day 13 Climb to Camp 3 ‘Colera Camp’
Day 14 Summit day (6,962m)
Day 15-16 Contingency days
Day 17 Descend to Plaza de Mulas (4,300m)
Day 18 Trek to Puente del Inca, drive back to Mendoza
Day 19 Depart for home
Experience Required
To climb Aconcagua, you need to be physically fit, have strong mental stamina and be capable of strenuous exercise for several days’ duration. Expedition members can expect to exert themselves for about 6 hours per day and be capable of carrying a 15–20kg pack.
This expedition is suitable for people with general mountaineering skills. Comprehensive instruction in high-altitude camping and climbing techniques will be passed on to you by your guides during the expedition.
For those wishing to attempt the Polish Glacier, a higher base skill is required. Please contact us to see if you have the appropriate experience. The route requires technical snow/ice climbing above 6,000m/19,500ft. Importantly, participants should be in a positive frame of mind and be willing to operate as part of a team.
Schedule and Specifics
Price: $7,150 US
What’s included:
Guides fees and expedition organization
All land transport ex-Mendoza
2 nights accommodation in Mendoza
Dome tent accommodation and meals at Puente del Inca on day 2
All trek and expedition food ex Puente del Inca
Group Equipment: ropes, tents, stoves, cookware, etc., and all supplies for a safe and strong summit bid
Mule-supported trek to Base Camp (maximum 30kg per person)
Porter support for all group equipment and waste
Regular written and photo internet dispatches for families and friends to follow your progress
What’s not included:
Personal clothing and equipment
Additional night’s accommodation in Mendoza at the start and end of the expedition (arrive earlier than Day 1 if you need more time to purchase/rent equipment)
Climbing permit fees. Permit fees are subject to change.
Personal travel insurance/trip cancellation insurance/medical evacuation insurance
Meals and personal expenses in Mendoza
Return flights to Mendoza
Airport transfers
Excess equipment over 30kg per person
Any costs associated with an early departure from the expedition
Accommodation in Mendoza should the expedition return before the scheduled date
Gratuities to guides and local staff
Expedition Dates 2025/2026
3–21 January 2025
24 January - 11 February 2025
29 November - 17 December 2025
3–21 January 2026
24 January - 11 February 2026
Maximum Bookings
The team will have a maximum size of 12 members and 3 guides.
The number of guides is determined by the team size but the normal ratio of guides to members is 1:4 for the Vacas Valley route.
How To Book
If you are interested in joining an expedition please contact us directly or use the form below.
Price: $7,150 USD
All prices are quoted and paid for in US Dollars, per person.
We need a completed expedition application form and a non-refundable deposit of US$500 to confirm your place.
Balance of payment is required by 90 days before the start of the trip.
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