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Mount El Plata climb: a one-week guided expedition

Mount El Plata climb: a one-week guided expedition
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Join Agustin in this guided ascent to the most representative mountaineering spot in Mendoza: Mount El Plata. With the best mountain guide, you'll discover this stunning sub-range of the Andes.

Andes

7 Days

Jan - May, Sep - Dec


Description

If you are looking for a good mountaineering trip with a local mountain guide, you are in the right place. And, what’s more, Mount El Plata is the perfect peak for you.

Mount El Plata is the highest peak of Cordon del Plata, a sub-range of the Andes. Besides, many climbers consider this mountain is probably the best mountaineering option in Mendoza.

Mount El Plata is also chosen by mountaineers who want an acclimatization climb before the biggest goal of South America: Mount Aconcagua.

That’s why I have prepared this climbing trip specially for those expecting their first challenge upper to 6.000 meters high or a warm up for future objectives.

Mount El Plata is really iconic in the mountaineering world. Moreover, a lot of worldwide athletes come to Argentina to live this ascent, as one of the greatest challenges of the Andes.

So, I want to invite you to a 7-day guided expedition to this summit. Besides El Plata, there are other interesting peaks to climb. For example, Pico Plata (a bit less high mountain) or Mount Vallecitos.

I also have to mention that once at Mount El Plata summit, you’ll admire one of the most perfect views of the Andean peaks:

  • Tupungato
  • Cerro Polleras
  • Cerro Negro
  • Cerro Pabellon
  • Ameghino Peak
  • Cerro Mercedario
  • And the star of the landscape: Mount Aconcagua

Difficulty: Moderate to High – Suitable for physically fit individuals with prior experience at altitude.Total Trek Duration: 6 days of trekking with an average of 4-9 hours per day.Summit Day Duration: 9-12 hours (depending on conditions).

Altitude: Maximum altitude of 19,685 ft (6,000 meters).

Weather Conditions: Prepare for various conditions, from warm days in Mendoza to cold, windy weather at higher altitudes.What to ExpectExpert Guides: Bilingual, experienced mountaineering guides will assist you at every step.

Full Support: Comfortable mountain refuges for overnight stays and camps equipped with high-quality tents and stoves.

Acclimatization Focus: The itinerary is designed to maximize acclimatization with rest days and gradual altitude gain.

Scenic Views: You’ll be rewarded with views of iconic Andean peaks such as Mount Aconcagua, Cerro Polleras, and Tupungato, as well as glimpses of local wildlife, including condors and guanacos.

The Mount Plata Guided Ascent is an unforgettable adventure for those looking to challenge themselves and experience the thrill of high-altitude mountaineering. Make sure to come prepared physically and mentally for this incredible journey through the rugged beauty of the Andes.

Price includes

  • Accommodation included
  • Guiding fee
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Transport during the trip

Meeting point


Itinerary

Day 0: Arrival in Mendoza & Equipment Check

Welcome meeting: Meet with your expert guide at your hotel in Mendoza for an initial briefing at 10am.Equipment Check: Your guide will assist you in reviewing and verifying all necessary equipment. If additional gear is required, there will be time to rent it locally.Overnight: in Mendoza (not included)

Day 1: Transfer to Cordon del Plata & Acclimatization Trek

Transfer: Departure from Mendoza towards Cordon del Plata; approx. 2-hour drive.Acclimatization Trek: Begin with a 5-hour trek to the summit of Mount Arenales (10,826 ft). This moderate ascent helps your body adjust to the altitude and offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks.Details: 5 hrs – 6.5 km | Max. altitude: Mount Arenales 10,827 piesOvernight in Refuge at 9,514 ft, where you will rest and enjoy a hearty meal in a comfortable, well-equipped mountain hut.

Day 2:

Trekking: After breakfast, embark on a 4-hour trek to Piedra Grande Camp I (11,546 ft). Along the way, you’ll traverse diverse terrain, surrounded by the imposing beauty of the Andes.Details: 4-5 hrs – 4 km | Max. altitude: Piedra Grande  Camp 11,800 piesOvernight: in tents at Camp I, beneath the stars, where your guides will set up camp and ensure your comfort.

Day 3:

Trekking: Begin a 3-4 hour trek to El Salto de Agua, located at 13,943 ft. The route gradually increases in difficulty as the altitude rises, but the views of the rugged peaks and valleys make it worth the effort.Details: 4-6 hrs – 4 km | Max. altitude: Salto de Agua Camp 13943 ftOvernight: in tents at Camp II, where you’ll rest and prepare for the next day’s acclimatization.

Day 4: Acclimatization & Rest Day at Camp II

Activities: A day dedicated to acclimatization and recovery at Camp II, El Salto de Agua (13,943 ft). You’ll have the option to explore the area with short hikes or simply rest, allowing your body to adapt to the altitude and prepare for the summit push.Overnight: in tents at Camp II

Day 5: Summit Day: Mount Plata (19,685 ft)

Trekking: Early Morning Start at 3:00 am. Begin your ascent to the summit of Mount Plata. The trek will take between 9-12 hours round trip. The climb is challenging but incredibly rewarding, with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Andes, including Mount Aconcagua and other notable peaks.Celebrate on the Summit (19,685 ft): Enjoy the incredible feeling of reaching the top, where you’ll have a chance to take in the vast, snowy landscapes and the unparalleled views of the Andes range.Descent to Camp II: After the summit, return to Camp II for a well-deserved rest.Details: 9-12 hrs – 14.5 km | Max. altitude: Mount Plata summit 19,685 ftOvernight: in tents at Camp II

Day 6: Descent to Base Camp & Return to Mendoza

Break camp and descent: After a night of rest, we will break camp and begin our descent from Camp II back to the Cordon del Plata base. After completing the trek, you’ll be transferred back to Mendoza, arriving in the evening around 7:00 pm.Transfer: 2 hrs – from Cordon del Plata State Park to MendozaEnd of Expedition: Celebrate your successful ascent of Mount Plata with your fellow climbers and guides.

Day 7: Contingency Day (Extra Day)

This extra day is built into the itinerary in case of bad weather, delayed acclimatization, or other unexpected conditions. If everything goes according to plan, this day can be used to relax or explore further before descending.

 

FAQs

What are some recommended accommodations near our adventure location?

We understand that finding the perfect place to stay is an essential part of your adventure experience. To help you with this, we’ve curated a list of three highly recommended hotels that offer comfort, convenience, and a touch of local charm. These accommodations are well-suited for adventurers looking to relax and rejuvenate after an exciting day of exploration
Hotel Ayres del Cuyo Uspallata Argentina
Hosteria Río Colorado Uspallata Argentina
Hotel Las Leñas Uspallata Argentina

About the guide

Guide profile image

Andes Vertical

5.0

(5)

Tour Operator

We are a family company of mountain guides and full-time local climbers founded in 2005.

Specialized in mountaineering adventures such as mountain expeditions, horseback riding, mountain biking, trekking and rock climbing in the Central Andes in Mendoza, Argentina.

Languages

English

Certificates

EPGAMT | AAGM


What people are saying about Andes Vertical

Susan

Walter

Marie-Helene

Bernardo was a great guide. Fluent in English, knowledgeable about the geological history, fauna, flora and climate of the area. He adapted the route to our pace. Great chat feature on the online platform to communicate with the guide for planning.

Sophie

Great experience and amazing trekking moment. A warm thanks to Pablo who was an amazing guide ! He made the whole trip even better thanks to his kindness and expertise! What a pro!

Emma

Matias was an excellent guide, it was an excellent day!


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