Description
Ascent of the highest peak in the Andes
The Cerro Aconcagua or “Centinela de Piedra” at 6962 metres is the summit of the Americas and the highest mountain outside Asia. This “giant” dominates all the 5,000 metre summits which surround it.
The difficulties encountered on the climb to the summit are diverse: fog, altitude, cold and wind. The “Viento Blanco” (white wind) is a cold, strong wind that can blow violently for days. Temperatures can suddenly drop down to very low sub-zero conditions, so it is essential to come extremely well equipped against the cold.
The ascent of Aconcagua by the normal route does not present major technical difficulties. The only tricky section lies just below the summit – the “Canaleta” is a corridor of rocks ascending more than 350 vertical meters with a 50 % gradient.
Depending on the season you can encounter firm hard-packed snow which can make climbing more difficult; crampons, ice axes and ropes are therefore indispensable.
The highlights :
– Ascent of the highest peak in the Andes
– A very good acclimatisation to the altitude will guarantee the success of this program
– The quality of the organisation in collaboration with our local partners specialists for the ascent of this peak
Extra details
Local transport
Minibuses or 4-wheel-drive vehicles are used for all transfers during the trip.
Equipment to be carried
All the climbs can be completed with a day pack. Travel bags are transported by vehicles or porters.
Passport
You need a passport that is valid for more than 6 months. No visas.
Accomodation
In Santiago, Mendoza and Penintentes the accommodation is in comfortable hotels. During the trek accommodation is in tents + mess tent.
Guide
A French IFMGA guide accompanied by a local English-speaking guide + kitchen team, porters and muleteers
level
Fitness – you need to be very fit. Technical ability – this is a tour that is achievable by all as long as you have been training for it – 5 to 7 hours steady/gentle walking per day with a vertical ascent of 1000m. The two most important things to help you avoid the undesirable effects of altitude and give you the maximum chance of reaching the summit are: – walking at a very slow pace, even exaggeratedly slow so that you never get tired. – Drinking lots of fluids even if you do not feel thirsty.
Spots of interest
Some pics of previous trips there
Price per person
