From: £5,250
From: $6,990
Join the tour in Mendoza, where you will be met at the airport.
From your arrival in Mendoza on day one until departing Mendoza on day 20, an English-speaking guide will be on hand to provide information and iron out any problems.
We drive you to your hotel in a private vehicle and after you rest, you can meet the guide that will check your equipment. You can rent any extra kit required in Mendoza if needs be. Either this evening or tomorrow morning, we’ll sort out our Aconcagua climbing permits.
You have the chance to taste the delicious argentine “asado” (barbecued meat) and wonderful wines from Mendoza. There are numerous alternatives for those who do not drink wine or eat red meats. Dinner in Argentina is usually around 9:00 P.M.
Afterwards, there is a group meal (not included, scheduled for about 21.00) where you can talk about the challenge ahead and get to know your trekking mates. (1 night hotel, no meals included)
Today it’s most likely that we’ll get the permits sorted.
Then, our van drives us and our kit to a small town on the way to the start of our expeditions, called Penitentes (2,700m/8,858ft).
Here we organise mule loads, and spend the night.
After a night in Penitentes, we are transported to the entrance of Aconcagua Park, Punta de Vacas.
Here the horsemen load the equipment on the mules and we set off for our walk to Base Camp, which takes three days.
The trek today is mainly flat as we enter the broad and colourful Vacas Valley. You’ll need a sunhat on, as the sun can be strong here.
Today we trek from four to five hours up to the camp Pampa de Leñas (2,950m/9,678ft).
At Pampa de Leñas,we present our permits to the park rangers, we meet up with our equipment and we assemble the tents for our first night camping under the stars.
After breakfast and breaking camp, we cross a bridge 500m upstream from the camp, heading up the east side of the Vacas Valley.
This is a good and easily followed path to Casa de Piedra (3,240m/10,630ft), our next camp.
It is here that the Relinchos valley joins the main Vacas Valley.
We also pass through the Quebrada de Vacas, catching our first sight of Aconcagua’s western face – stunning.
Six to seven hours’ walk today approx. then make camp.
From Casa de Piedra, we cross the Rio de las Vacas, which is sure to cool the feet and wake you up this morning!
We continue walking up the Relinchos valley on a good but steep path, with occasional glimpses of Aconcagua.
We cross the Relinchos river twice and following a wide valley to Plaza Argentina, six to seven hours’ walk approx. You’ll notice that we start to say goodbye to vegetation as we climb towards Aconcagua’s glaciers.
Plaza Argentina is our base camp, set amongst amongst the moraines of the Relinchos Glacier (4,200m/13,780ft).
Note: This is the highest point to which the mules go. From here we carry our own equipment with the help of porters (who carry the tents) as we proceed up the mountain.
At Plaza de Argentina we rest and use the day for acclimatisation.
This is a good opportunity to get to know the camp, take a shower and explore the area. We get together with the guide, do a medical check, reorganise and review our equipment, prepare the loads, the fuel and food for transportation for the next day.
Note: There are two buffer days available during this trek to allow for acclimatisation and poor weather.
This is an acclimatisation day, following the adage of walk high and sleep low so that we can get used to these higher altitudes.
It’s also a practical day, as we carry some of our food and fuel for later in the climb to camp 1.
We ferry our supplies up the mountain in a gradual way, so as to keep backpack weights as light as possible at all times. Having said that, you will carry a heavy pack today as take up food and fuel.
We return to Plaza Argentina for a good feed and to relax after a six hour walking day.
Rest day at base camp, relaxing and recharging energy. Eat a lot, drink a lot, relax.
We start the ascent to the summit today, leaving basecamp and heading to camp 1.
It will feel more like the start of the expedition to the summit today as we leave kit behind and take only what we need.
We know the route as we are repeating the first section of the Polish Route, to get to camp 1.
It’s five to six hour walking on easy terrain to camp 1, where this time we set up camp and stay to sleep (5,000m/16,404ft).
Here, we amalgamate today’s loads with those we carried up before, assemble the camp and divide the loads to carry tomorrow.
We continue with our gradual acclimatisation to the altitude.
During this carry of supplies to high camp 2, we reach a level of 5,500m.
This is a hard day for most trekkers, with about six hours of walking.
The terrain is easy, but you will probably feel the altitude at these heights. We return to camp 1 to recover from this first exposure to walking up high.
Note: The whole ascent is non-technical. The main difficulties are caused by altitude and, potentially, acute meteorological conditions. We will be very prudent in this regard. Certain signs (e.g. the presence of lenticular clouds, denoting strong winds and changing conditions) could mean abandoning ascent or turning back. There may be a variety of points of view within a group, but the guides’ decisions are always final.
Today we relax, conserving energy, eating and hydrating.
This is an extremely important rest day.
We ascend from camp 1 to camp 2 following the Ameghino Traverse Route.
Once again, we amalgamate today’s loads with those we carried the day before, assemble the camp and divide the loads to carry tomorrow.
We rest and have dinner, tonight we are sleeping at 5,500m / 18,045ft.
Today sees us climb for four hours to the next camp at around 6,000m/19,685ft.
Early morning, after breakfast and breaking camp, we start ascending. The climb is diagonal and towards the right hand side to start.
Camp 3 is at the same height as the Berlin refuge (on the Normal Route), strategically situated because it is so close to the Normal Route, and for its altitude and shelter from from the wind.
From there, we have superb views of the highest peaks around.
We place our last high altitude camp here, the guide individually reviews each member of the group and gives his final recommendations. We also plan the final strategy for the last day of ascent to assure success in reaching the summit.
Summit day. We begin our climb very early, aiming to reach the summit by noon approximately.
The summit (6,962m/22,841ft) is reached after some 8-10 hours ascent from camp, and this is the toughest day of the trek.
The south face (3,000m) is directly below us as we climb the North Ridge to Independencia Refuge.
Then we ascend through the “Portezuelo del Viento”, climb “La Canaleta”, and then the “Filo del Guanaco” that finally leads us to the summit. The prize is waiting for us, a 360° view.
The last 200 metres of the climb are extremely strenuous because of loose scree and strong winds. We carry crampons with us in case there is hard snow on this section.
Once we reach the summit, there is time to get the camera out and get the all important picture before we head back down to the Cólera camp with success in our back pocket.
Note 1: The whole ascent is non-technical. The main difficulties are caused by altitude and, potentially, acute meteorological conditions. We will be very prudent in this regard. Certain signs (e.g. the presence of lenticular clouds, denoting strong winds and changing conditions) could mean abandoning ascent or turning back. There may be a variety of points of view within a group, but the guides’ decisions are always final.
Note 2: Above 6,400 metres hard snow is sometimes encountered (varies from year to year). It is when you encounter these conditions that the crampons (both step-in or strap-on are OK, depending on boot type & personal preference) and ice axe (walking axe – 60-75 cm long) come into their own. Snow-covered areas tend to be short and intermittent (maybe 150 metres of crampon-wearing at a time) and gradients are typically around 30 degrees. Fixed ropes are not used, and you will rarely be roped up. If at any stage you are very tired or unsure of your footing, a guide may short-rope you (ropes are provided by us). The final 200m of ascent to the summit is on loose scree and is very tiring but not in itself dangerous. Crampons and ice axe may only be used for one day on Aconcagua.
Buffer days. These extra days are built in to provide the best possible conditions for summiting.
Note: Tour may end on Day 17 or 18 if no buffer days are used. Extra nights’ hotel and meals in Mendoza not included.
Descend to Plaza de Mulas base camp, the largest camp on Aconcagua!
With the summit in the bag, and your ‘extra’ that was left at first base camp transported to Plazas de Mulas, it’s time to celebrate.
Look back for new views to the summit of Aconcagua – especially the West Face – and look forward to a celebratory dinner for all back in the comforts of the basecamp.
We have breakfast and then start the descent from Plaza de Mulas to Penitentes.
Our private transport is waiting to take us back to the hotel in Mendoza.
The end of our tour – continue your travels or transfer out to the airport.
| Departure | Return | Duration (days) | Price from ($) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 29 Nov 2026 | 17 Dec 2026 | 19 | $6990 | Check availability |
| Departure | Return | Duration (days) | Price from ($) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 Dec 2026 | 23 Dec 2026 | 19 | $6990 | Check availability |
| 11 Dec 2026 | 29 Dec 2026 | 19 | $6990 | Check availability |
| 18 Dec 2026 | 5 Jan 2027 | 19 | $6990 | Check availability |
| 25 Dec 2026 | 12 Jan 2027 | 19 | $6990 | Check availability |
| Departure | Return | Duration (days) | Price from ($) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Jan 2027 | 19 Jan 2027 | 19 | $6990 | Check availability |
| 8 Jan 2027 | 26 Jan 2027 | 19 | $6990 | Check availability |
| 15 Jan 2027 | 2 Feb 2027 | 19 | $6990 | Check availability |
| 22 Jan 2027 | 9 Feb 2027 | 19 | $6990 | Check availability |
| 29 Jan 2027 | 16 Feb 2027 | 19 | $6990 | Check availability |
| Departure | Return | Duration (days) | Price from ($) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 Feb 2027 | 23 Feb 2027 | 19 | $6990 | Check availability |
In Mendoza, you spend two nights in a three star hotel in the city centre.
In Penitentes, you spend on night at the Ayelen Hotel, which is more like a hostal type establishment.
On the mountain, you use a top quality, high altitude mountain tent. The tent could be mixed gender basis, each trekker carrying 3kg (half) of the shared tent.
Price above based on shared room and tent (could be mixed gender) basis, each trekker carrying 3kg (half) of the shared tent.
If you choose a single room and single tent (extra cost), you carry all parts of your own tent, which could be up to 4-6kg. We have a limited supply of 4kg tents.
If you choose this single basis and want help carrying your tent, you need to hire a porter (will carry up to 20kg).
Psychologically and climatically, Aconcagua can be likened to a small 8,000m/26,247ft peak, and merits utmost respect.
To maximise the chance of summit success, we plan acclimatisation rigorously. Our guides are experienced mountaineers and we typically employ one mountain guide to every three clients. Extreme altitude and climate (upper slopes are often buffeted by 65mph/100kph + winds and temperatures can reach -30°C) make it physically very tough.
Good preparation and suitable high mountain clothing are essential. Any previous wild camping and winter experience are a plus, but experience in crampon and ice axe use is not essential; a grounding is provided in the use of equipment.
Mules are used to transport food and climbing equipment to (and rubbish out from) the base camps on all the routes.
Group members and guides carry just a day sack to Base Camps, with mules carrying everything else. However, above these Base Camps, you carry all of your own equipment in a large backpack (15-25kg) up and down the mountain. Porters above base camp are available at extra cost.
To get the most out of this expedition you should be in very good physical condition. Aconcagua is a long and tiring climb. Grading the fitness level required for this expedition is a subjective matter, but we can safely classify it as very strenuous. We suggest you talk to your doctor if you are in any doubt as to your physical capability.
We will walk approximately five to eight hours per day (occasionally more), at times carrying personal luggage, plus some camping equipment, at high altitudes. The two climbs involve several ascents and descents (often long and steep). They also involve short periods on snow and ice.
You typically walk 3-4 hours in the morning before lunch, with a short or break or two en route.
After an hour or so for lunch – depending on weather conditions – you will continue your walk, usually 3-4 hours more, although some days are shorter or longer than others, and then relax before dinner at Basecamp. If you approaching a new campsite higher than basecamp, you will put your tents up while your guide readies your meal.
Almost all meals are included in our Aconcagua tours. We can cater for almost all dietary requirements – please ask in advance.
At base camp, your meals are prepared and served to you in a fully-equipped dining tent.
Meals are prepared daily by cooks at basecamps and lower levels, where burning fuel and getting ingredients is much easier.
Breakfast will be a mix of hot drinks, cereals, fruits and toast with jams. Lunches will be either sandwiches or meat and cheese with crackers, with fruits etc. available on trips from basecamps.
Basecamp meals are large and feature bread, vegetables, meats and hot drinks. Offerings include fresh fruit, meat, chicken, vegetables, fresh eggs, bread and crackers.
Further up the mountain in camps 1-3, your guide and assistant bring you breakfast to your tent, usually a hot drink (this may not be possible at higher camps), crackers and cakes.
After breakfast, packs are prepared and your guide explains the day’s walk, and you typically walk 3-4 hours in the morning before lunch, with a short or break or two en route.
Lunch, while out walking, will be either sandwiches or meat and cheese with crackers.
At the higher camps, guides will cook rice and pasta dishes for evening meals. Extreme conditions mean meal choices, while plentiful and giving energy needed for the treks, are more limited.
We use professional, experienced and highly qualified bilingual, local guides.
They have all required with qualifications/training:
Some of the guides also have their licences from the IFMGA.
A beautifully organised Patagonian trekking adventure with excellent guiding, hearty camp meals, and unforgettable views of Fitz Roy, Cerro Torre, and the wild mountain landscapes around El Chaltén.
A beautifully organised Patagonia journey with exceptional guides, wonderful hotels and unforgettable experiences. Even when the weather caused challenges, everything was handled smoothly and professionally.
This expedition to the top of Aconcagua involves hiking up the beautiful Vacas Valley and descending the shorter normal route.
Fully supported, this challenging hike gives you a beautiful 360 degree journey around Aconcagua.
This is South America’s highest mountain, which stands at 6,962m/22,841ft, and the second highest of the Seven Summits.
Aconcagua is also known as the world’s highest hiking peak as it can be climbed without mountaineering experience.
This itinerary takes place within a narrow band of latitudes (32° to 34° south), but covers a very wide range of altitudes.
It also traverses many geographic and climatic zones, from the sun-baked streets of Santiago and Mendoza (both just a few hundred metres above sea level) to Cerro Aconcagua (6,959 metres), on whose upper slopes extreme cold and winds are the norm.
(N.B. All departures coincide with the southern hemisphere summer. Text below refers to this season.)
Temperatures vary greatly between day and night. This is a guideline:
| Zone | Night | Day |
|---|---|---|
| Approach | 0°C | 20 to 30°C |
| Base camp | -10°C | 10 to 20°C |
| High camps | -20°C | -10 to 10°C |
| Extreme temperatures | |
|---|---|
| Minimum | -30°C |
| Maximum | 42°C |
Be aware that Aconcagua is a windy mountain and wind chill should be considered.
Much of this itinerary takes place above 4,000 metres, and extended periods are spent above 5,000m.
Climatic conditions in the Central High Andes of Chile and Argentina usually originate in the Pacific Ocean anticyclone. The humid westerly air currents that it sends inland collide with the Andes and, from time to time, bring severe conditions. Cerro Aconcagua, due to its great altitude and bulk, is especially susceptible, and periodically its upper slopes (above 5,200m) get buffeted by 150kph winds.
Such conditions will often create a vast lenticular cloud above the summit. Even when conditions at Plaza de Mulas camp (4,200m) appear fine and windless, the presence of this cloud formation signifies strong winds, extreme cold and snowstorms high on the mountain. It is also a sign that the upper mountain should be abandoned.
Summer temperatures of -30°C high on Aconcagua are not unusual. Just before dawn at our high camps, in-tent temperatures commonly reach -15°C to -20°C, and near the summit, wind chill can lower temperatures to -40°C.
Very high up on Aconcagua, temperatures never get very high. Even at base camp (4,200m), rare southerly winds sometimes bring temperatures of -18°C. Severe electrical storms are another occasional summer phenomenon and should not be underestimated.
Nevertheless, summer days and nights on Aconcagua can also be relatively tame. On still days at noon, it might be possible to spend time at base camp in a bathing suit. On particularly benign, windless days, it is sometimes feasible to stand on Aconcagua’s summit at noon wearing only a few layers.
The fickle, and often localised, nature of Aconcagua’s climate means nothing should be taken for granted. Frostbite and hypothermia are risks for the under-equipped mountaineer, so it is important to pack for the worst conditions.
On the lower slopes of Aconcagua, conditions are less extreme and unpredictable, but still prone to rapid changes. Below 4,200m, afternoons are generally warm with plenty of sunshine. The sun is extremely strong and burns very quickly.
At lower camps on Aconcagua (around 3,300m) days are warm to hot and nights cool to cold. At base camp (around 4,200m) expect warm days and freezing nights. At altitude, temperatures vary sharply between sun and shade, sheltered and exposed ground, and with height gain and loss.
Argentina’s neighbours are Bolivia, Brazil, and Paraguay to the north, Uruguay to the north east and Chile to the west. In the east Argentina has a long South Atlantic Ocean coastline.
The central region of Argentina is the rich plain known as La Pampa.
There is jungle in the extreme northeast while the southern half of Argentina is dominated by the flat to rolling plateau of Patagonia.
The western border with Chile is along the rugged Andes mountains, including Aconcagua, the highest mountain outside the Himalayas. Close to Aconcagua lies Mendoza, an area famed for its fine wine production.
The western Cuyo regions at the base of the Andes are mostly rocky desert.
Most Antarctic cruises embark and disembark in Ushuaia, at the tip of South America, allowing access to the South Pole, South Georgia and also the Falkland Islands.
Argentina is a land of contrast.
Nothing states this better than the fact it features the highest point in the South America, Aconcagua, and the lowest, Salinas Chicas, 40m below sea level.
Its vastness – it is the eighth largest country in the world – and diversity are just part of the appeal. A fantastic culture of fine wine and dining sits alongside its adventurous and beautiful landscapes.
The local’s cheery disposition and fantastic word plays add to the enjoyment of being in this fascinating country.
The name Argentina derives from argentinos, the Ancient Greek diminutive (tinos) form for silver (argentos), which is what early Spanish explorers sought when they first reached the region in the sixteenth century.
There are distinct regions of Argentina, from the Andean culture of the North West to the rancho lifestyle of the plains of Patagonia to the eternally seductive Buenos Aires.
Good kit is vital for every trip.
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When planning for the extreme climatic conditions encountered on Aconcagua layering is the most practical and versatile clothing system. It’s worth remembering that our clothing keeps us warm by retaining and isolating the heat we ourselves create.
To best maintain body heat, several layers of lightweight, warm and quick-drying clothing are far more efficient than one or two thick layers. Layers should have the following qualities:
First (base) layer: This layer wicks the sweat away from our skin, thus helping keep the body dry and warm. To this end, synthetic fabrics such as polypropylene should be used.
Mid layers: These isolating layers should also be synthetic (e.g. the known polar linings such as polartec or windblock, which are light and insulate twice as well as wool). Very important layers for retaining body heat.
Outer layer / shell: Finally, the vital layer which protects us from climatic adversities. A breathable, wind-proof and waterproof anorak, such as Goretex.
Note that it’s our extremities that stand to suffer the most, and on Aconcagua the poorly-equipped mountaineer is at risk of becoming frostbitten. Hence, much thought should be given to deciding how best to protect hands, feet and head.
Give plenty of thought to kit selection, and try to keep weight down.
Below is a more detailed guide.
For the extreme cold of Aconcagua, we recommend a 3-layer scheme:
All other non-personal trekking and camping equipment is provided, but please bring plastic plate, cup and cutlery.
A beautifully organised Patagonian trekking adventure with excellent guiding, hearty camp meals, and unforgettable views of Fitz Roy, Cerro Torre, and the wild mountain landscapes around El Chaltén.
A beautifully organised Patagonia journey with exceptional guides, wonderful hotels and unforgettable experiences. Even when the weather caused challenges, everything was handled smoothly and professionally.
