Group Aconcagua Expedition via the Normal route, from Mendoza
Follow an IFMGA certified mountain guide in the Andean Raju Expedition team and conquer the roof of the Andes on this 11-day expedition to Aconcagua from Mendoza.
Group
Andes
11 Days
Jan, Feb, Mar, Dec
Extremely Fit
Advanced
Highlights
- Climb the tallest mountain in the American Continent.
- Spend 11 days exploring the Andes, in Mendoza.
- Admire dazzling views of the range from the summit.
Description
With its 6,962 meters of altitude, Aconcagua is the tallest mountain in the Andean Range and the American Continent. That is why it is one of the main goals for climbers from all over the world.
Situated in the Argentinean province of Mendoza, very near the border with Chile, this impressive peak belongs to the Aconcagua Provincial Park, in the Arid Andes.
The big massif presents two main summits, north and south. At the base of the mountain, there are various valleys, such as Quebrada de los Horcones and Quebrada de las Vacas.
On this 11-day expedition, we will take the normal route to the top. Although this route is not very difficult technically, keep in mind that the climb is demanding and requires and excellent physical condition. Below, you can take a look at our itinerary.
Are you ready to conquer the top of the Andes? Get in touch with us by sending your request now.
Looking for more 6,000-meter peaks in the Andes? Check out this program that I lead to Huascaran, in Peru.
Price includes
- Guiding fee
- Accommodation included
- Transportation start and back
- Transport during the trip
- Mules and horses
- Clean drinkable water
- Mountain guide expenses
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Snacks
- Camping equipment tents
- Camping equipment cooking utensils
Price details
A minimum of 6 participants is required. Also included: baths in base camp, communication devices, wifi in Plaza de Mulas, help with permits, first aid kit, hot water, last day dinner, taxes. Not included: flights, permits (about USD 800-900), personal equipment, personal porters, personal insurance, cancellation insurance, last lunch, personal expenses, sleeping bag, extra accommodation, meals and drinks not listed, extra transfers.
OPTIONAL: 3-Day acclimatization plan, USD 300 + 5% service fee:
We will meet 3 days before the tour starts in Mendoza, then we will travel to Penitentes. In the next 2 days, we are going to acclimatize in 2 peaks of 4 thousand that are in the area of Penitentes (Cruz de Caña and Cerro Leñas). On the next day the tour itself begins.
Itinerary
Day 1: Mendoza
Our expedition will begin at the Mendoza Airport, from where we will transfer you to your hotel. Here, we will have a brief and check the equipment. Accommodation in a 3 stars hotel.
Day 2: Mendoza - Penitentes
Transfer from Mendoza to Penitentes.
Day 3: Penitentes - Confluencia Camp
In Penitentes, we will register to enter the park. From the entrance, we will hike to the Confluencia Camp (3,400 meters). The mules will carry our equipment and we will only have a light backpack. Night in domes.
Hiking time: 2-3 hours.
Driving time: 4 hours.
Elevation gain: 2,640 meters.
Distance: 7 kilometers.
Day 4: Confluencia - Plaza Francia - Confluencia
Trekking to Plaza Francia (4,126 meters) to acclimatize and see the Aconcagua south wall. Head back to Confluencia to rest and have dinner (B, L, D).
Hiking time: 5-6 hours.
Elevation gain: 726 meters.
Distance: 8 kilometers.
Day 5: Confluencia - Plaza de Mulas
Long ascent to the Plaza de Mulas Base Camp (4,300 meters), at the foot of Aconcagua. We will go across beautiful spots such as Playa Ancha and Cuesta Brava, and contemplate great views. At the camp, we will set up our tents and relax (B, L, D).
Hiking time: 6-7 hours.
Elevation gain: 900 meters.
Distance: 18-20 kilometers.
Day 6: Plaza de Mulas - Cerro Bonete
To improve our acclimatization, we will reach the summit of Cerro Bonete (5,100 meters). From the top, we will get to see stunning views of the big mountain (B, L, D).
Hiking time: 5 hours.
Elevation gain: 800 meters.
Distance: 5 kilometers.
Day 7: Plaza de Mulas - Nido de Cóndores
After breakfast, we will depart to our Camp 2, Nido de Cóndores (5,570 meters), and set up our tents (B, L, D).
Hiking time: 5 hours.
Elevation gain: 1,270 meters.
Distance: 6 kilometers.
Day 8: Nido de Cóndores - Campo Cólera
On this day, we will head to our last camp, Campo Cólera (5,900 meters) and prepare for the big day (B, L, D).
Hiking time: 4 hours.
Elevation gain: 330 meters.
Distance: 2,5 kilometers.
Day 9: Aconcagua Summit
The big day has come. We will start early in the morning with a light backpack. The ascent will be very demanding mentally and physically and we will face cold and strong winds. It will be a slow climb with many stops to rest. Finally, our effort will be rewarded with the unique sights of the Andes that we can contemplate from the summit. Descent back to Cólera Camp (L, D).
Hiking time: 8-10 hours.
Elevation gain: 1,062 meters.
Distance: 3 kilometers.
Day 10: Campo Cólera - Plaza de Mulas
After breakfast, we will descend to Plaza de Mulas (B, L, D).
Hiking time: 4-5 hours.
Day 11: Plaza de Mulas - Penitentes
Descent to Penitentes (B, L, D).
Hiking time: 6-7 hours.
Day 12: End of the program
Transfer to the city o Mendoza. End of the program (B). Accommodation in hotel.
Driving time: 4 hours.
Day 12: Extra day in case of bad weather
Details
Meeting point Mendoza Airport. |
Equipment you will need to bring
Poles
Helmet
Ice axe
Harness
Backpack
Sunglasses
Watter bottle
Other gear: Boots, trekking pants and shoes, socks, hat, sleeping bag, jacket, warming and waterproof clothes, flashlight, personal first aid kit, towel.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I start training and what kind of training do you suggest?
What experience and how fit do I need to be to climb this mountain? Is this program suitable for children or older people?
What is included in the price?
Can I join a group?
What is the guide-to-client ratio to climb this mountain?
Will I need to bring any technical equipment of my own? Is it possible to rent equipment, and if so, what would be the approximate cost of that?
What is the best time of the year to climb this mountain?
Where will we meet at the start of this trip?
What is NOT included?
About the guide
We are a team of young IFMGA and UIMLA-certified mountain guides and leaders, with extensive experience. We offer hiking and mountain expeditions in the Cordillera Blanca and Huayhuash in Perú, our main adventure destinations. We also offer ascent expeditions to the most emblematic mountains of Argentina, Ecuador and Bolivia.
In Andean Raju Expeditions we are proud of our work. Our priority is always the satisfaction and safety of our customers, always taking care of the conservation and protection of the environment. Our mission goes beyond adventure, we offer our clients a personalized experience and our friendship, sharing our culture, knowledge and love for nature and mountains to ensure every visitor an unforgettable experience.
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