Aconcagua Summit Expedition through the Normal Route

To climb Aconcagua, you need prior mountaineering experience at high altitudes and a very good level of physical fitness. The ascent requires endurance, strength, and the ability to cope with extreme weather conditions, including strong winds and low oxygen levels. Training in multi-day hikes, carrying a heavy backpack, and exposure to high altitudes is highly recommended. This program is not suitable for children or elderly individuals, as it involves long days of trekking, extreme altitude (6,961 meters / 22,838 feet), and harsh conditions that require a strong physical and mental capacity. Participants should be in excellent health, with prior experience in high-altitude trekking or mountaineering being a significant advantage.

To prepare for climbing Aconcagua, it is recommended to start training at least 4 to 6 months in advance. The training should focus on endurance, strength, and altitude adaptation to ensure you are physically and mentally prepared for the extreme conditions.

Suggested Training Plan:

1. Cardiovascular Training:

o Long-distance hiking with a weighted backpack (gradually increasing to 15-20 kg).

o Running, cycling, or stair climbing for endurance (4-5 times per week).

2. Strength Training:

o Leg exercises (squats, lunges, step-ups) to build lower body strength.

o Core workouts to improve stability.

o Upper body exercises to support backpack carrying.

3. Altitude Acclimatization:

o If possible, train at high altitudes or use simulated altitude training.

o Multi-day hikes at increasing elevations before the expedition.

4. Mental Preparation:

o Practice long, strenuous hikes to simulate summit days.

o Get used to harsh conditions, cold temperatures, and extended exertion.

5. Technical Skills (Optional but Recommended):

o Basic mountaineering skills like using crampons and an ice axe, depending on the route conditions.

The key is consistency in training and gradually increasing intensity to ensure your body adapts well to the demands of Aconcagua.

For climbing Aconcagua, you will need technical mountaineering equipment, including:

• Mountaineering boots (double-layer or insulated)

• Crampons (depending on route conditions)

• Ice axe (if required)

• Helmet

• Harness and carabiners

• Trekking poles

• Down jacket and layering system

• Sleeping bag (-20°C/-4°F or lower)

• Backpack (70-90L)

Yes, it is possible to rent equipment in Mendoza or at the base camp. The rental costs vary, but here are approximate prices:

• Boots: $80–$150 USD approx

• Crampons: $50–$80 USD approx

• Ice Axe: $50–$80 USD approx

• Sleeping Bag: $100–$200 USD approx

• Down Jacket: $80–$150 USD approx

• Helmet and Harness: $40–$80 USD approx

It's recommended to bring your own well-fitted boots, personal clothing, and sleeping bag for comfort and hygiene. However, renting other equipment can be a good option to reduce costs and baggage weight. Let us know if you need assistance with rentals!

Yes, porters are available to help carry both group and personal equipment on Aconcagua, but their services are optional and must be hired separately.

Porter Services:

• Porters can assist in carrying personal gear, including sleeping bags, extra clothing, and mountaineering equipment.

• They also help transport group gear such as tents, food, and cooking equipment.

• Their services are typically available from base camp (Plaza de Mulas or Plaza Argentina) to higher camps.

Approximate Costs:

• From Base Camp to Camp 1: $200–$300 USD per load (20 kg)

• From Camp 1 to Camp 2: $250–$350 USD per load

• From Camp 2 to Camp 3: $300–$400 USD per load

• From High Camp to Base Camp: $400–$500 USD per load

Hiring a porter can significantly reduce physical strain, allowing climbers to focus on acclimatization and conserving energy for the summit push. However, many climbers choose to carry their own gear as part of the challenge.

Let us know if you would like to arrange porter assistance for your expedition!

This message is for reference only, everything may vary each year.

Accommodation and Meals on Aconcagua

During the Aconcagua expedition, accommodation and meals are carefully planned to ensure proper rest and nutrition at high altitude.

Accommodation:

• In Mendoza: You will stay in a comfortable hotel before and after the expedition.

• Base Camps (Plaza de Mulas or Plaza Argentina): Large expedition tents or dome shelters with dining areas.

• Higher Camps: Double or triple mountaineering tents shared with teammates.

Meals:

• At base camps, meals are freshly prepared by professional cooks, offering a variety of nutritious and energy-rich foods (pasta, rice, meat, vegetables, soups, and desserts).

• In the high camps, meals are usually freeze-dried or dehydrated, along with snacks, energy bars, soups, and hot drinks.

• We provide hot meals whenever possible and ensure adequate hydration, including hot tea and purified water.

Special dietary requests (vegetarian, gluten-free, etc.) can be accommodated if requested in advance.

Staying well-fed and hydrated is crucial for maintaining energy and acclimatization at high altitude. Let us know if you have any specific preferences!

What Happens in the Event of Bad Weather on Aconcagua?

Weather conditions on Aconcagua can be extreme and unpredictable, with strong winds, heavy snowfall, and freezing temperatures. Safety is always the top priority, and decisions are made based on the situation.

If Bad Weather Occurs:

• Delays and Adjustments: The itinerary includes extra days to allow flexibility in case of storms or high winds.

• Staying in Camps: If conditions are unsafe, we remain in base camp or high camps until it is safe to continue.

• Emergency Evacuation: If extreme weather poses a risk, we follow rescue and evacuation protocols using guides and park rangers.

• Summit Attempt Rescheduling: If weather conditions improve, we adjust the schedule to allow another summit attempt.

Our team closely monitors weather forecasts and will always prioritize your safety while maximizing the chances of a successful climb.

Special Requirements for Climbing Aconcagua

Before your Aconcagua expedition, there are several important requirements to consider:

1. Permit:

A climbing permit is mandatory and must be obtained through the Aconcagua Provincial Park authorities in Mendoza.

The cost varies depending on the season, route, and nationality.

The permit must be processed in person in Mendoza before starting the climb.

2. Travel & Medical Insurance:

It is required to have insurance that covers high-altitude mountaineering, medical expenses, evacuation, and repatriation.

Your insurance should include helicopter rescue, as this is the only evacuation method in case of emergency.

3. Vaccinations:

There are no mandatory vaccines, but it is recommended to be up to date on tetanus, hepatitis A & B, and influenza.

4. Medical Check-Up:

It is highly advised to have a medical evaluation before the expedition, especially for high-altitude exposure.

Some climbers may require a doctor’s clearance depending on pre-existing conditions.

Let us know if you need assistance with permit processing, insurance recommendations, or medical guidelines before your trip!

Guide-to-Client Ratio for Climbing Aconcagua

The guide-to-client ratio on Aconcagua depends on the size of the group and the chosen route. Safety and personalized attention are our top priorities.

Standard Ratios:

• Base Camp to High Camps: 1 guide for every 3-4 clients

• Summit Day: 1 guide for every 2-3 clients (for better safety and assistance at high altitude)

• Private Expeditions: 1:1 ratio available upon request for a fully personalized experience

For larger groups, we include assistant guides to ensure proper support and a safe ascent. Our professional guides are highly experienced in high-altitude mountaineering and rescue procedures.

Let us know if you prefer a smaller ratio for a more personalized climb!

Best Time of the Year to Climb Aconcagua

The climbing season for Aconcagua runs from mid-November to late February, during the Southern Hemisphere summer. This is when conditions are most stable for a successful ascent.

Best Months for Climbing:

• December to January → Peak season: Best weather, more climbers, and well-established routes.

• Mid-November & February → Shoulder season: Fewer climbers, slightly more unpredictable weather.

During this time, temperatures at higher altitudes can still drop to -20°C (-4°F) or lower, but the chances of extreme storms are reduced compared to other months.

Let us know your preferred dates, and we can help you plan accordingly!

Yes! You can join a group expedition, which is a great option for climbers looking for companionship, shared costs, and team support.

Benefits of Joining a Group:

• More affordable than private expeditions.

• Opportunity to meet and climb with other mountaineers from around the world.

• Guided support from experienced professionals.

• Pre-set itinerary with scheduled departure dates.

We offer scheduled group departures throughout the climbing season. If you prefer a private expedition, we can also arrange a customized experience.

Let us know your preferred dates, and we’ll find the best group for you!