Expedition to Mount Aconcagua, America's Highest Mountain

The expedition kicks off in Mendoza, where the entire team meets for introductions and a detailed briefing covering logistics, safety, and the full itinerary.

A thorough gear check ensures every participant is properly equipped for high-altitude conditions. Any missing items can be rented or purchased in the city. This is also the ideal moment to resolve final questions and adjust pack weight before starting the self-managed expedition.

After breakfast, we transfer to the Aconcagua Provincial Park entrance in Horcones to register and hand over heavy loads to the mules heading to Plaza de Mulas. The approach trek begins through the scenic Horcones Valley, with rivers, wide plains, and impressive Andean views.

After roughly 4 hours, we arrive at Confluencia, set up camp, eat dinner, and continue acclimatizing.

Today is dedicated to altitude adaptation with a hike to the Plaza Francia lookout, offering spectacular views of Aconcagua’s legendary South Face.

After gaining altitude during the 6–7 hour round trip, we return to Confluencia to sleep lower and optimize acclimatization.

Afternoon rest and hydration at camp.

We prepare mule loads and begin the long trek toward Plaza de Mulas, the main base camp on the Normal Route. The path crosses the Upper Horcones Valley and the vast Playa Ancha plateau before climbing the demanding Cuesta Brava. Upon reaching base camp at 4,370 m, we settle in, organize equipment, and enjoy a warm dinner.

A full day to rest, hydrate, reorganize gear, and undergo basic medical checks. Optional short walks are available around base camp. This essential recovery day prepares the body for the days ahead at higher altitude.

We begin the carry rotation, a central part of a self-managed climb. Each participant transports gear and supplies to Camp 1, located at 5,000 m. After about 4 hours of steady ascent, we cache our equipment and descend to base camp for a more comfortable night at lower altitude.

We pack up and move permanently to Camp 1. Once settled at 5,000 m, we set up tents, melt snow for water, and prepare dinner together—marking the beginning of life at high altitude, where teamwork is essential.

We transport supplies to Camp 2 on a steeper and more demanding route. After dropping the load at Nido de Cóndores (5,400 m), we return to Camp 1 to reinforce acclimatization before moving higher.

We ascend to Nido de Cóndores with the remaining equipment. The camp offers stunning panoramic views of the Andes. The rest of the day is dedicated to hydration, rest, and preparing for the final high-altitude stages of the expedition.

A well-deserved rest day at Nido de Cóndores. We review crampon and ice axe techniques, practice safety procedures, and assess each climber's physical condition. This day is key before moving toward the summit.

We carry gear to Camp 3, our final camp before summit day. The ascent is slow and controlled to prioritize acclimatization. After dropping equipment at Berlín, we return to Camp 2 to sleep.

Another recovery day focused on hydration, nutrition, and monitoring the weather forecast. We finalize the summit plan and ensure everyone is in optimal condition for the final push.

We climb to Camp 3 (Berlín), settle in, melt snow for water, and organize summit gear. An early dinner and plenty of rest prepare us for the demanding day ahead.

Summit day begins between 4–5 a.m., depending on conditions. We ascend through key landmarks: Piedra Blanca, Refugio Independencia, Portezuelo del Viento, and the steep Canaleta leading to the summit. The ascent takes 8–10 hours, with a 3–5 hour descent back to Berlín for a well-earned rest.

We pack up and descend to Plaza de Mulas. Dropping to lower altitude brings immediate relief and faster recovery. A celebratory dinner awaits at base camp.

We break down base camp and hike back to Horcones (around 8 hours). A private transfer brings us back to Mendoza, where the expedition officially concludes.

These extra days provide flexibility in case of adverse weather or the need for further acclimatization—greatly increasing safety and summit success.