ACONCAGUA IS THE HIGHEST MOUNTAIN IN THE WORLD OUTSIDE OF ASIA. ITS LOFTY SUMMIT WAS CONSIDERED UNATTAINABLE UNTIL 1897. ACONCAGUA IIS LOCATED IN THE ANDES MOUNTAIN RANGE IN ARGENTINA CLOSE TO THE BORDER WITH CHILE. THE MOUNTAIN AND ITS SURROUNDING TERRITORIES ARE ALL PART OF THE ACONCAGUA NATIONAL PARK, IN MENDOZA PROVINCE.
Mountain: Aconcagua
Elevation: 6961 m (22838 ft)
Location: Andes Mountains, Western Central Argentina
Type: Walking / Trekking / Climbing
More info: Adventure Consultants
Overview.
Aconcagua is one of the Seven Summits – the highest mountain on each of earth’s continents. It has a number of glaciers with the largest one about 10 km (6 mi) long. The route to the mountain usually starts in the city of Mendoza in the western central part of Argentina and continues into the Aconcagua National Park.
From there climbers begin their gradual ascent staying overnight in mountain huts at lower elevations. On the way back from the summit to Mendoza, it is possible to take an alternative route and visit other natural wonders of the region, such as Puenta del Inca – hot springs and a natural arch over the Vacas river.
The Best Bits.
- Climb the most scenic route to the peak of the highest mountain in Western and Southern Hemispheres.
- Enjoy 360° panoramas over the majestic mountains from the “top of the Andes”.
- Experience high-altitude mountaineering and prepare yourself for Himalaya climbs.
- Stay in delightful lodges in the camp sites overlooking Andean picturesque landscapes.
Experience Level.
Mount (or Cerro) Aconcagua is a popular climbing destination for those who want to test themselves at high altitudes and especially for those harbouring intentions of moving onto climbing the highest Himalayan peaks.
The best season to ascend Aconcagua is from December to March, however, weather conditions can be close to extreme throughout the year. The ascent itself is not too technical, especially, if approached from the north via the so called normal route, but a good aerobic shape is required. It is an upfront climb with a summit day of about 12 hours, thanks to several high base camps available.
As usual, slow acclimatization is the key at such altitudes, so it is advised to ascend gradually over the course of the week. Altitude sickness is a risk on a mountain which tops iut at just under 7000 metres.
Typical Aconcagua Itinerary
- Day 1: Transferring to Mendoza, Cuyo region, Argentina
- Day 2: Finalizing official climbing permits, transferring to Los Penitentes ski resort
- Day 3: Trekking in the Aconcagua National Park
- Day 4: Hiking to Pampa de Lenas at 2950 m (9678 ft)
- Day 5: Hiking to Casa de Piedra at 3250 m (10663 ft)
- Day 6: Hiking to the Baze Camp of Plaza Argentina
- Days 7-9: Resting, acclimatization and gear preparation
- Days 10-18: Summit window
- Day 19: Contingency day
- Day 20: Descending the mountain and entering the Baze Camp of Plaza de Mulas
- Day 21: Hiking to Puenta del Inca at 2740 m (8990 ft), and returning to Mendoza
Day 22: Transferring to the airport, followed by flight to the UK
For more information or to book this or many other adventures visit Adventure Consultants.