Our Aconcagua climbs are run annually from mid-December through the end of February to take advantage of the best weather, favorable summit conditions, and strong on-mountain infrastructure. It is a fantastic expedition which is highly adaptable to fit your style and timeframe.

Choose from our ever popular “Aconcagua 360 Classic” for a time tested climb schedule, upgrade to the “Executive” option for increased support or look at our “Speed Ascent” options if time is a critical factor.

Many clients choose to use porters to facilitate their ascent of Aconcagua giving them a higher chance of success and making their climb much more enjoyable.

Porters on Aconcagua operate differently from most mountains. Rather than being attached directly to a particular expedition or climber, porters live at base camp and ascend up to our camps whenever needed, carry their load to the next camp, and return back to base camp the same day. They may even carry loads for several people, on different expeditions, on the same day! You will be amazed at how fast they move and how hard they work!

A standard porter load is strictly 20kg and charged at a flat rate up to 20kg (i.e. if you only have 17kg, you’ll still be charged the 20kg rate). Please note that if you have more than 20kg of personal effects along with your allocation of the group gear, you will be expected to either carry your additional weight or you will be charged a pro-rated amount for all extra kilograms.

During peak season porters can be very busy so it is best to pre-purchase the Porter Add-on in advance to lock in your porters and guarantee their availability. This add-on entitles you to 20kg* of porter-carried gear from camp to camp during the ascent and descent of the peak.

If you want to make your climb easier, or you simply want to enjoy the climb more, hiring porters may be the right decision.

We are happy to organize single rooming accommodations in our hotels in Mendoza and Puente del Inca for you.

Having a single room helps climbers stay healthy and adds a bit of comfort and personal space that can go a long way on an expedition. If you would like a single rooming option, please let us know.

Please note that all tent accommodations are double-occupancy for weight, safety, and warmth.

A helicopter exit from Plaza de Mulas to Horcones will save you the 18-mile hike back to the park entrance at the end of your climb. Because your date arriving into base camp can change and weather can prevent flights, helicopter exits will be scheduled upon your arrival, usually for later that same afternoon or the next morning. The helicopter operators accept only cash, in US dollars, on the mountain and require payment before departure from Plaza de Mulas. Pre-booking before your trip will help limit to amount of cash you need to carry throughout the expedition.

Will I be sharing a tent?
Yes, both at base camp and on the mountain. Tents are always shared on Aconcagua for safety at altitude, warmth, limited tent space on the mountain, and to reduce group gear weight for everyone. Please plan to share a tent with one of your fellow climbers and pack some ear plugs!

How heavy will my pack be?
In general, climbing packs on Aconcagua are moderately to quite heavy. You will likely be carrying 45lbs – 55lbs (20kg – 25kg) most of the time while climbing on the mountain and less on the trek into base camp, during which we are supported by mules. On the trek in, you only need to carry what you need for the trek that day which is generally only 15lbs (7kg).

If you are concerned about the heavy loads, please consider the option of hiring porters.

Will I need to purchase insurance?
Yes. Trip delay and cancellation, rescue, repatriation, medical insurance is mandatory for this program for your own benefit. We have seen too many times people need to cancel their trip either before, or during the expedition for reasons such as injury, health, family and business matters. With such a long trip and so much at stake, climbers need to be prepared for contingencies.

The Aconcagua Provincial Park authorities also requires each climber to carry insurance, which covers high-altitude activities, climbing, search and rescue, and evacuation. Please contact us if you need assistance finding an appropriate policy.

What is the food like on the climb?
In general, our food on and off the mountain is excellent. Mendoza is known for its food and wine. En route to base camp we will be eating “asado,” traditional Argentinean BBQ over an open fire that the muleteers make for us (vegetarian options are available). At base camp we have hired the services of first rate chefs. On the mountain, your guides will be cooking large, hearty meals that are tasty albeit a bit more rustic than in town. We can cater to most dietary requirements if given sufficient notice, so please let us know if you require accommodation.

What extra gear do I need for the traverse?
You will need light shoes that double as camp booties to bring up and over the mountain with you and for the long hike out of base camp the final day. Please also consider how you will carry your ‘day pack gear’ on the hike out. Many people use the top of their pack which is usually detachable and can turn into a hip belt which is ideal. If not, please bring a ultra-lightweight packable day pack.

How cold can it be on summit day?
Quite cold! Temperatures and weather on Aconcagua should not be underestimated. It would not be uncommon for summit day to include temperatures to -20F (-29C) or colder including windchill. You may get lucky and have mild temps, but each climber needs to be equipped with solid cold weather clothing.

Can I hire porters if I don’t buy the optional Porter Add-On?
Yes. Generally we can hire porters for the next day via radio if we know by dinner the day before. During busy times, availability may be limited so it is best to pre-book. Furthermore, porters are generally more expensive when booked at the time and charge incrementally higher prices the farther up the mountain you go. If you haven’t prebooked porters, be sure to bring extra funds in US dollars to hire them on the spot. Porters will charge a flat rate for up to 20Kg per carry. This is a good backup option for climbers who are getting over a stomach bug or aren’t feeling strong one day and need to conserve energy.

I heard that Aconcagua is like a bigger Kilimanjaro. Is that true?
Not really. While climbing Aconcagua doesn’t involve glaciers or technical climbing, it’s much more serious than a “taller Kilimanjaro.” The length of the expedition, the weight of your pack, extreme altitude, and self sufficient expedition-style climbing combine to make Aconcagua a true big mountain experience.

How should I prepare for Aconcagua?
First, contact us! We love helping climbers achieve their dreams, that’s what we’re here for.

To prepare for Aconcagua you should have already climbed a few mountains and be familiar with crampon and ice axe skills. Physical training is very important for success on Aconcagua. Start training at least 6 months before your expedition and focus on building endurance carrying a loaded pack up hill using trails or a Stairmaster.