08 Jun 2023

Argentina – Aconcagua Expedition

Discover Mendoza: Gateway to Aconcagua

Nestled in the heart of Argentina, Mendoza beckons adventurers with its stunning landscapes, world-renowned wine region, and the towering presence of Aconcagua, the highest peak in the Southern and Western Hemispheres.

Mendoza: Land of Contrasts

Mendoza is a province of contrasts, where lush vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see, framed by the backdrop of the Andes Mountains. Its capital, also named Mendoza, is a bustling city known for its tree-lined streets, vibrant plazas, and lively culture.

Aconcagua: The Roof of the Americas

At 6,960.8 meters (22,837 ft) above sea level, Aconcagua stands as a beacon for mountaineers worldwide, drawing adventurers seeking to test their limits and conquer one of the Seven Summits. Located within Aconcagua Provincial Park, this majestic peak dominates the skyline with its snow-capped summit and rugged slopes.

Aconcagua Provincial Park

Spanning over 71,000 hectares, Aconcagua Provincial Park is a pristine wilderness sanctuary, home to diverse flora and fauna adapted to the harsh mountain environment. The park offers a range of trekking and climbing opportunities, from gentle hikes along winding trails to challenging ascents of Aconcagua itself.

Elevations and Highlights

Plaza de Mulas Base Camp sits at an elevation of approximately 4,300 meters (14,107 ft), serving as the primary base camp for Aconcagua expeditions. Here, climbers acclimatize and prepare for their ascent while soaking in the awe-inspiring scenery.

Plaza Argentina Base Camp, situated at around 4,200 meters (13,779 ft) above sea level, offers an alternative starting point for Aconcagua expeditions. It provides access to the mountain’s less-traveled routes and a quieter atmosphere.

Confluencia, positioned at an elevation of approximately 3,400 meters (11,155 ft), serves as an intermediate camp along the popular Horcones Valley route. It offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.

Why Andes Eco Adventure?

Embark on a remarkable Aconcagua expedition with Andes Eco Adventure. Here’s why we’re your best choice:

Expert Guidance: Our experienced guides ensure your safety and enjoyment throughout the journey.

Tailored Adventures: We offer customizable expeditions for climbers of all levels.

Safety First: We prioritize your safety with top-notch equipment and protocols.

Environmental Stewardship: Our eco-conscious approach minimizes our impact on the Andean wilderness.

Unforgettable Memories: Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Aconcagua and create lasting memories with us.

Join Us Today: Ready for an adventure of a lifetime? Contact Andes Eco Adventure and start planning your Aconcagua expedition now!

Accomodation

Itinerary

Day 1 Journey from Mendoza to Penitentes

Your expedition kicks off in Mendoza, where our team will pick you up from your hotel in the comfort of private transportation. We'll embark on a scenic three-hour drive westward towards Penitentes, where we'll settle into the refuge nestled at an elevation of 3,194 meters above sea level.

Highlights:

  • Departure from Mendoza with private transportation.
  • Picturesque 3-hour drive to Penitentes.
  • Accommodation at the refuge at 3,194 meters above sea level.
  • Enjoy a hearty dinner at the refuge.
  • Elevation gain of +2,448 meters from 746 masl to 3,194 masl.

Day 2 Confluencia Camp

On the second day of our expedition, we'll depart from the refuge in Penitentes at 10 am. A bus transport will whisk us away to the entrance of the Aconcagua National Park Control, where we'll submit our permits. From there, our hike begins, lasting approximately 4 to 5 hours until we reach the Confluencia camp.

Highlights:

  • Departure from Penitentes refuge at 10 am.
  • Bus transport to the entrance of Aconcagua National Park Control.
  • Submission of permits.
  • Scenic hike lasting 4 to 5 hours to Confluencia camp.
  • Opportunity to rest, enjoy meals, and explore the camp.
  • Accommodation in 4-season mountain tents at an elevation of 3,400 meters above sea level.
  • Meals provided: Breakfast, box lunch, and dinner.

Estimated Hiking Time: 4 to 5 hours. Elevation Gain: +206 meters (3,194 masl to 3,400 masl).

Day 3 Plaza de Mulas

Prepare for a challenging yet rewarding day as we depart from Confluencia camp at 7 am. Our journey will lead us to Plaza de Mulas, a trek lasting between 6 to 8 hours through the rugged terrain of the Andes. Upon arrival at Plaza de Mulas camp, we'll present our permits to the Aconcagua Provincial Park control.

Highlights:

  • Departure from Confluencia camp at 7 am.
  • Long and strenuous hike to Plaza de Mulas, lasting 6 to 8 hours.
  • Submission of permits at Aconcagua Provincial Park control.
  • Accommodation in 4-season mountain tents at Plaza de Mulas camp.
  • Enjoy hearty meals including breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Estimated Hiking Time: 6 to 8 hours. Elevation Gain: +900 meters (3,400 masl to 4,300 masl).

Day 4 - Medical Control

Today is dedicated to rest and preparation for the challenges ahead. Take the opportunity to relax, explore the camp surroundings, and enjoy the stunning views of the Andes.

Medical Control: In addition to rest, all mountaineers are required to undergo a mandatory medical control to ensure their fitness to continue climbing. This test is essential for your safety and authorizes you to proceed with the expedition.

Highlights:

  • Relaxation day at Plaza de Mulas camp.
  • Opportunity to explore the camp area.
  • Mandatory medical control to ensure fitness for further climbing.
  • Enjoy three meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
  • Accommodation in mountain tents.

Day 5 Aclimatization Trek

Today, we push further into our acclimatization process by ascending above 5,000 meters. Our first objective is Bonete Peak, a relatively easy and short hike offering spectacular views of the Aconcagua massif.

Highlights:

  • Acclimatization hike above 5,000 meters.
  • Summiting Bonete Peak, an excellent viewpoint of the Aconcagua massif.
  • Enjoy panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape.
  • Opportunity for photography and exploration.
  • Meals provided: Breakfast, box lunch, and dinner.

Estimated Hiking Time: 5 hours ascent, 3 hours descent. Elevation Gain: +750 meters (4,300 masl to 5,050 masl).

Day 6 Condor Nest trek

Today's focus is on preparing for our ascent to higher altitudes. We'll pack food and equipment and trek to High Camp II at Nido de Cóndores. After leaving a deposit, we'll descend back to Plaza de Mulas to rest and replenish our energy.

Highlights:

  • Supply run to High Camp II at Nido de Cóndores.
  • Packing essential food and equipment for higher altitudes.
  • Leaving a deposit at High Camp II.
  • Descent to Plaza de Mulas for rest and relaxation.
  • Meals provided: Breakfast, box lunch, and dinner.

Estimated Hiking Time: 6 hours ascent, 2 hours descent. Elevation Gain: +1,250 meters (4,300 masl to 5,550 masl).

Day 7 Condor Nest Camp

Today marks the beginning of our ascent towards the summit as we hike to our first high altitude camp: Nido de Cóndores. After approximately 6 hours of hiking, we'll reach the campsite where we'll rest, refuel, and prepare for the challenges of the next day.

Highlights:

  • Commencement of the climb towards the summit.
  • Trekking to the Nido de Cóndores campsite.
  • Resting and refueling at the campsite.
  • Preparing for the next stage of the expedition.

Meals: Breakfast, box lunch, and dinner.

Estimated Hiking Time: 6 hours.

Elevation Gain: +1,250 meters (4,300 masl to 5,550 masl).

Day 8 Camp Colera

Today, we ascend to our last altitude camp, preparing for the summit push. From Colera, we'll embark on the final ascent to the summit of Aconcagua. Sleeping at 6,000 meters will be crucial for acclimatization, ensuring our readiness for the challenges ahead.

Highlights:

  • Ascend to the final altitude camp at Colera.
  • Preparation for the summit push.
  • Importance of sleeping at 6,000 meters for acclimatization.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Estimated Hiking Time: 2 hours.

Elevation Gain: +450 meters (5,550 masl to 6,000 masl).

Day 9 Summit day

Today is the most anticipated and challenging day of our expedition. We'll embark on the ascent of the North Ridge, reaching the Independencia Refuge at 6,500 meters. From there, our journey continues through the Portezuelo del Viento, ascending La Canaleta and the Filo del Guanaco to reach the summit. The reward? A breathtaking 360° view, a testament to our triumph over the mountain.

Highlights:

  • Ascend the North Ridge to Independencia Refuge.
  • Traverse Portezuelo del Viento and La Canaleta.
  • Summit Aconcagua for a panoramic 360° view.
  • Rest, hydrate, and savor the moment at the summit.
  • Descend to Colera High Camp.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Estimated Climbing Time: 8 hours ascent, 3 hours descent.

Elevation Gain/Loss: +962 meters ascent, -962 meters descent (5,550 masl to 6,000 masl and return).

Day 10 - Start Return

After breakfast, we'll dismantle our camp and begin our descent towards Plaza de Mulas, the base camp. The journey down allows us to reflect on our achievements and savor the memories of our expedition.

Highlights:

  • Dismantle camp and begin descent to Plaza de Mulas.
  • Reflect on our achievements during the descent.
  • Return to the base camp and the comforts it offers.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Estimated Climbing Time: 3 hours descent.

Elevation Loss: -962 meters (6,000 masl to 4,300 masl).

Day 11 Exit Aconcagua

Day 11: Departure from Aconcagua Provincial Park

Today marks our departure from Aconcagua Provincial Park. We'll embark on a long hike to the park's entrance and control point, where transportation will be waiting to take us back to Penitentes. After retrieving our luggage, we'll journey from Penitentes back to Mendoza.

Highlights:

  • Long hike from the camp to the park's entrance and control point.
  • Transportation waiting to return us to Penitentes.
  • Retrieval of luggage before departing for Mendoza.

Meals: Breakfast.

Estimated Climbing Time: 7 hours descent.

Transfer by Car: 3 hours.

Elevation Loss: -3,554 meters (4,300 masl to 746 masl).

Day 12 (extra day)

contingency day in our itinerary. This extra day allows us the flexibility to attempt the summit in case of unfavorable weather conditions or unforeseen circumstances during our expedition.

Highlights:

  • Flexibility to attempt the summit if conditions permit.
  • Ensures we have ample time to achieve our expedition goals.
  • Provides a safety buffer for unpredictable situations.

Meals: As per regular schedule.

Activities: Dependent on weather and expedition leader's decision.

Tour includes:

  • Mountain Guide
  • Transfer from Mendoza Airport IN – OUT
  • Lodging in Mendoza, 3 * hotel, 2 nights, breakfast included, double occupancy
  • Transportation Mendoza – Penitentes – Mendoza
  • Assistance to obtaining permits ascent
  • 5 meals per day (breakfast, lunch, box lunch, teatime and dinner)
  • Transfer Penitentes – Horcones
  • Transfer Horcones Penitentes
  • Mule services: Penitentes – Plaza de Mulas
  • Mule services: Plaza de Mulas – Penitentes
  • Food in Confluencia BC (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
  • Lodging in domo or tent (confluencia and plaza de mulas)
  • Food in Plaza de Mulas BC (breakfast, lunch or packed lunch dinner) lodging in domo in
  • Dining tent at base camp
  • Base camp toilets at base camp
  • Radial communication between base camp and high camps
  • Assistance to coordinate reservations, sending and receiving equipment.
  • Provision of weather forecast for all our expeditionary
  • Our camps have solar energy to charge your portable equipment.
  • Reserved in advance and can prepare food for vegetarians or celiacs

Not Included:

  • Airplane ticket to Mendoza and to the country of origin.
  • Personal porters (We can organice it for the best altitude movemments)
  • Ascent permit fee (USD $ 800 p/p) / (We will help with all the procedure without extra cost)
  • Individual gear (Discount in Mendoza with our rental partnership).
  • Extra costs as a result of abandoning of the expedition.
  • Evacuation and rescue insurance.
  • Costs as a result of an emergency rescue.
  • Accident and rescue insurance (you can ask us about the agreement we have with Global Rescue for a preferential price)
  • Personal expenses (drinks, laundry, mail, telephone calls)
  • All other services not listed as Included
  • Personal climbing equipment (Helmet, Crampons, Ice axe,Double Boots).

Confirmed Dates:

22nd December 2024

14th January 2025

12th February 2025

 

Prices:

$5900 p/p

Need more info? Contact us:

    Locations map