Everest 2022 Underway
It's that time of year again! The Mountains of the Himalaya have been calling and we're delighted to answer the call. CTSS has teammates from all corners of the world flocking to Kathmandu to begin their journey up the Khumbu to Everest and the other peaks in the Himalaya.
This year we have climbers heading to Everest, Lhotse, Lobuche, Pokalde, Island Peak and trekkers heading up to Base Camp and over to Gokyo Lakes.
Their schedules are slightly staggered, with the Western Guided Everest Team Climbers taking off to Lukla early this morning and landing safely. They'll be on their way to Phakding where they will spend their first night on the Everest Base Camp trail. Tomorrow they'll have their first real 'stretch of the legs' up Namche Hill to Namche Bazaar. Casey Grom, seasoned Everest Guide and 5x summiteer is heading up that team.
Many of our Private Everest climbers and some EBC trekkers have also flown in today, they'll do their gear checks and briefings tomorrow before flying to Lukla early on the morning of the 3rd.
Finally we have our final wave of Everest climbers, 3 Peaks & Lobuche climbers and our trek team arriving on the 3rd and scheduled to head into the valley on the 5th April.
Kathmandu is all about shaking off the jetlag, making any last minute arrangements and just getting in the headspace of the expeditions ahead.
It was also a nice opportunity for Mike Hamill (owner of CTSS and Expedition Leader) who was invited to a special thank you dinner by the Vice President of the Nepal Mountain Guides Association to show their appreciation for CTSS' & Tiger of the Snows Fund (our not for profit arm) sponsorship of our recent medical and technical skills course and to thank us for hiring so many of their Guides.
We look forward to keeping you updated as the teams weave their way up the valley toward their goals.
Cheers
CTSS Team
Aconcagua Executive
$13,995 USD
December 21, 2025 - January 9, 2026
January 11 - 31, 2026
February 1 - 20, 2026
Our Executive option is designed for climbers who want to maximize their opportunity for success without the traditional heavy pack loads, skip the grueling 18-mile hike back to the road with a helicopter exit, and enjoy more time relaxing in Mendoza.
Included are:
- 5-star accommodation in Mendoza to rest and shake off the jet lag
- Single rooming in hotels & at Puente del Inca
- Single dome tent accommodation at Base Camp
- Personal porters on move days
- Scenic helicopter flight from base camp out of the Horcones Valley back to the Park Entrance.
Aconcagua 360 Executive follows our time-tested climb schedule. Meeting in Mendoza, Argentina, we conduct thorough gear checks, safety and strategy briefings before driving to Puente del Inca to begin our trek to Plaza Argentina Base Camp. We utilize three camps to work our way into summit position before descending the opposite side of the mountain to Plaza de Mulas Base Camp where we board our helicopter to whisk back down the valley, allowing Executive climbers to arrive much earlier than normal back to our luxury hotel in Mendoza!
Built to provide adequate acclimatization time and contingency days in order to maximize the team’s chance of success, this climb is well suited to climbers with excellent fitness and some prior expedition experience.
As always, CTSS provides guidance, leadership, and expedition oversight by renowned expedition leader Mike Hamill, local guides, logistics, team gear, food, and support for a summit attempt on Aconcagua.
All prices are in US Dollars.
CTSS requires clients to buy trip insurance for all expeditions. Please see our page on trip insurance and cancellation policy for more information.
All payments once submitted are non-refundable and non-transferable. If balances are not received by specified dates, the client forfeits their place on the program and any prior fees paid.
Aconcagua Executive Team Expedition Climb Schedule: Vacas Valley and Traverse
This itinerary is only a rough estimate and will be determined by weather and acclimatization. This is adventure travel, meaning things rarely go as planned and this schedule will likely change. Climbers need to be adaptable and positive.
We always recommend climbers arrive in Mendoza one day early to avoid travel delays or issues with lost baggage. Added expenses (e.g., hotel, food, or sightseeing) from this extra day are the client’s responsibility.
Daily meal inclusions are indicated in parentheses.
- Day 1: Arrive in Mendoza (- / - / -)
- Day 2: Gear checks, team meeting, team briefing (B / - / D)
- Day 3: Obtain permits and transit to Puente del Inca (B / - / -)
- Day 4: Mule-assisted day hike to first camp, Pampa de Leñas (B / - / D)
- Day 5: Mule-assisted day hike to second camp, Casa de Piedra (B / - / D)
- Day 6: Mule-assisted hike to Plaza Argentina Base Camp (B / - / D)
- Day 7: Rest and acclimatization day at base camp (B / - / D)
- Day 8: Load carry to Camp 1 and return to base camp (B / - / D)
- Day 9: Rest in base camp (B / - / D)
- Day 10: Move to Camp 1 with gear (porters assist) (B / - / D)
- Day 11: Carry to Camp 2 and return to Camp 1 (B / - / D)
- Day 12: Move to Camp 2 with gear (porters assist) (B / - / D)
- Day 13: Rest day in Camp 2 (B / - / D)
- Day 14: Move to Camp 3 (porters assist) (B / - / D)
- Day 15: 1st potential summit day (B / - / D)
- Day 16: Descend to Plaza de Mulas Base Camp, completing the traverse (porters assist) (B / - / D)
- Day 17: Helicopter flight out from Plaza de Mulas, road transport back to Mendoza (B / - / -)
- Day 18: Contingency day
- Day 19: Contingency day
- Day 20: Earliest date climbers can fly home
Our expeditions are designed to be fully inclusive, except for some services/items of a personal nature like flights, gear, insurance. Here’s a detailed list so you know what to expect
Included:
- Professional mountain guides
- Reliable, professional mule support from the best local outfitters
- One personal porter per move (each leg of the climb)
- Three nights (single occupancy) lodging in Mendoza on arrival, one night lodging at Puente del Inca (double occupancy), and one-night lodging (single occupancy) in Mendoza upon our return. *Accommodation on unused contingency days are your responsibility*
- All group transportation while on the expedition. If you depart early then the added expenses for transport, lodging, rescue, and evacuation is your own responsibility.
- Shared helicopter transfer from Plaza de Mulas Base Camp
- Food: Breakfast daily & all expedition (on mountain) food is covered including breakfast, dinner, snacks and hot drinks. Lunch and in-town restaurant meals are your own expense.
- All group gear, including four-season tents, cooking gear, group duffels, stoves, etc.
- First Aid equipment
- Satellite phone to update the CTSS blog and available to clientele at $3/min
Excluded:
- Climbing permit fee ($700-$1,000 USD depending on season)
- All in-town restaurant meals (breakfast is provided at hotel), Puente del Inca dinner, and mountain lunch food
- Transportation to and from the airport upon arrival/departure
- Flight costs to and from Mendoza
- All personal climbing gear is the responsibility of the client
- In the event of a rescue, evacuation, or early departure from the group, any rescue expenses incurred or excess expenses above and beyond our normal trip costs including transport, hotels, evacuation, flight changes, and gear shipping are the responsibility of the client.
- Unused contingency day hotel nights in Mendoza
- Guide and porter tips (customary but optional)
- Costs incurred as a result of events beyond the control of CTSS above and beyond the normal expedition costs
- Required trip insurance policy (for trip cancellation, interruption, rescue & evacuation, medical treatment, repatriation, etc.) trip insurance policy (for trip cancellation, interruption, rescue & evacuation, medical treatment, repatriation, etc.)
Executive Porters on Aconcagua
Porters on Aconcagua operate differently from most mountains. Rather than being attached directly to a particular expedition or individual climber, porters work for the on-mountain logistics companies and can carry loads for several people, or expeditions, day to day or even on the same day.
Porters live at base camp and ascend up to our camps whenever needed, carry their load to the next camp, and return back to basecamp 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). If you have additional weight to be carried you will be charged a pro-rated amount for all extra kilograms.
Our Executive program provides each climber with 1x 20kg porter load per move day. This is should be more than adequate to keep your personal pack weight low.
Please note, porters don’t carry loads on acclimatization days or travel with the team. Rather they assist on ‘move’ days. Most often they will grab their allocated loads shortly after we’ve departed to ascend to the next camp, passing us on the way, and depositing their load before we roll in! You may see the same faces each time, or you may get new porters each day.
Aconcagua Travel Guide
Getting to Mendoza:
Flights directly to Mendoza, Argentina (MDZ) are relatively easy to find through online search tools.
We recommend avoiding flights that route through Buenos Aires, if possible, as you have to exit the international airport, collect your baggage, grab a taxi for about 45 minutes, and re-enter security at the domestic airport located in another part of the city, which can be stressful.
Airport to the Hotel:
The easiest and cheapest way from the airport to our hotel is by taxi. These are readily available just in front of the MDZ terminal. Your pre-trip information will include the team’s hotel name and address. Most taxi rides to and from the airport are less than $25 USD. If you would prefer an airport pickup, you can arrange a shuttle directly through the hotel.
In Mendoza:
While our focus will always be on the climb itself, don’t forget to enjoy the wonderful city of Mendoza while you’re there. With a warm, Mediterranean climate and European feel Mendoza is best known for three things: steak, Malbec wine, and gelato. There are dozens of excellent restaurants, wine shops, and gelato ice creameries within walking distance of our hotel. After your climb it is easy to unwind with wine tours, bike tours, and a multitude of other activities so many people chose to stick around for a few extra days.
Getting Home:
Our hotel can arrange a taxi to the airport for your return flight. It takes less than 30 minutes to drive to the airport, so you’re able to enjoy Mendoza up until the very last minute of your stay.
Useful Extras:
- Travel wallet: Mendoza is a safe and tourist friendly city. However, keeping your valuables protected is simply the responsible course of action while traveling
- Warm weather clothing: Mendoza in the summer can be quite hot. Bring shorts, sandals, and comfortable clothing for around town during your stay. You will be able to securely leave these travel clothes while you are on the mountain.
- Power accessories: Argentina has a reliable electrical grid that provides 240 volt, 50hz electricity. The country uses European Style plugs, type “C” and type “I.”
- Space for souvenirs: Especially if you are a wine aficionado, try to set aside some extra weight and space in your checked luggage for a few take-home items.
- Extra cash: We recommend bringing at least $2,000 USD in extra cash beyond anticipated trip costs. While the Argentinian peso is the standard currency, the US dollar carries a more universal value than other foreign currencies. Your extra US cash can be used for porters if you’re not feeling well one day, tips for staff or guides who go above and beyond, a helicopter exit, souvenirs, and/or treating yourself while in Mendoza. Of course, if you don’t spend the money, it can simply fly back home with you!
Aconcagua Private Climb
Aconcagua Private and Custom Climbs
Having your own private guide climbing with you can be an indispensable advantage and allow you to customize your itinerary and program to fit your schedule.
A personal guide will give you unprecedented personal attention, total autonomy and control over your trip. As both your climbing companion and your private coach, they can help you through every element of the expedition, give you valuable feedback, increase safety and make your climbing experience more enjoyable overall.
We will traverse the mountain by ascending the Vacas and Relinchos Valleys, utilizing three camps to work our way into summit position, before descending the opposite side of the mountain to Plaza de Mulas Base Camp and completing our expedition by trekking out to Penitentes (or a helicopter exit) and returning to Mendoza.
Whether you’re a less experienced climber or have climbed at altitude many times before, our private climbs give you the most flexibility and arguably the best chance of standing on top of Aconcagua.
Argentinian Lead Guided Expedition Options
1 climber (one guide) $17,995 USD/person
2 climbers (one guide): $13,995 USD/person
3 climbers (two guides): $10,995 USD/person
4 or more climbers (two guides): $8,995 USD/person
International Lead Guided Expedition Options
1 climber (one guide): $25,995
2 climbers (one guide): $16,995 USD/person
3 climbers (one guide and Argentinian assistant guide): $14,995 USD/person
4 climbers (one guide and Argentinian assistant guide): $11,995 USD/person
5 climbers (one guide and Argentinian assistant guide): $10,995 USD/person
Contact our office for Executive private pricing.
All prices are in US Dollars.
CTSS requires clients to buy trip insurance for all expeditions. Please see our page on trip insurance and cancellation policy for more information.
All payments once submitted are non-refundable and non-transferable. If balances are not received by specified dates, the client forfeits their place on the program and any prior fees paid.
CTSS can work with our private climbers to create an ideal climb itinerary meeting their specific needs. Please contact us for more information.
The itinerary below is only an example and rough estimate, and it will be determined by weather and acclimatization. This is adventure travel, meaning things rarely go as planned and this schedule will likely change. Climbers need to be adaptable and positive.
We always recommend climbers arrive in Mendoza one day early to avoid travel delays or issues with lost baggage. Added expenses (e.g., hotel, food, or sightseeing) from this extra day are the client’s responsibility.
Daily meal inclusions are indicated in parentheses.
- Day 1: Meet in Mendoza (- / - / -)
- Day 2: Gear checks, team meeting, team dinner (B / - / D)
- Day 3: Permits and travel to Puente del Inca (B / - / -)
- Day 4: Mule-assisted day hike to first camp, Pampa de Leñas (B / - / D)
- Day 5: Mule-assisted day hike to second camp, Casa de Piedra (B / - / D)
- Day 6: Mule-assisted hike to Plaza Argentina Base Camp (B / - / D)
- Day 7: Rest and acclimatization day at base camp (B / - / D)
- Day 8: Load carry to Camp 1 and return to base camp (B / - / D)
- Day 9: Rest in base camp (B / - / D)
- Day 10: Move to Camp 1 with gear (B / - / D)
- Day 11: Carry to Camp 2 and return to Camp 1 (B / - / D)
- Day 12: Move to Camp 2 with gear (B / - / D)
- Day 13: Rest day in Camp 2 (B / - / D)
- Day 14: Move to Camp 3 (B / - / D)
- Day 15: 1st potential summit day (B / - / D)
- Day 16: Descend to Plaza de Mulas Base Camp, completing the traverse (B / - / D)
- Day 17: Trek out from base camp to park entrance and drive to Mendoza, arriving late (B / - / -)
- Day 18: Fly home or spend a day in Mendoza to relax, celebrate, and get together for dinner as a team (B / - / -)
- Day 19: Contingency day
- Day 20: Contingency day
CTSS can work to develop a customized price to include or exclude more amenities for our private and custom climbers. Our standard private 1:1 Aconcagua climb provides:
Included:
- Professional mountain guides
- Reliable, professional mule support from the best local outfitters
- One or two nights lodging (depending on your program) in Mendoza on arrival, one night lodging at Penitentes and one night lodging in Mendoza upon our return (Accommodation on unused contingency days are your responsibility.)
- All group transportation while on the expedition. If you depart early then the added expenses for transport, lodging, rescue, and evacuation is your own responsibility.
- Breakfast daily and all expedition (on-mountain) food is covered including breakfast, dinner, snacks, and hot drinks. Lunch and in-town restaurant meals are your own expense.
- All group gear, including four-season tents, cooking gear, group duffels, stoves, and first aid equipment, etc.
- Satellite phone used to update the CTSS blog and available to clientele at $3/min
Excluded:
- All porters
- Mountain climbing permit fee ($700-$1,000 depending on season)
- All in town restaurant meals (breakfast is provided), Penitentes dinner, and mountain lunch food
- Transportation to and from the airport upon arrival/departure
- Flight costs to and from Mendoza
- All personal climbing gear is the responsibility of the client
- In the event of a rescue, evacuation, or early departure from the group, any rescue expenses incurred or excess expenses above and beyond our normal trip costs including transport, hotels, evacuation, flight changes, and gear shipping are the responsibility of the client.
- Unused contingency day hotel nights in Mendoza
- Guide and porter tips (customary but optional)
- Costs incurred as a result of events beyond the control of CTSS above and beyond the normal expedition costs
- Required trip insurance policy (for trip cancellation, interruption, rescue & evacuation, medical treatment, repatriation, etc.)
Porters on Aconcagua
Porters on Aconcagua operate differently from most mountains. Rather than being attached directly to a particular expedition or climber, porters work for the on-mountain logistics companies and can carry loads for several people, or expeditions, day to day or even on the same day.
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. 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). If you have additional weight to be carried you will be charged a pro-rated amount for all extra kilograms.
Personal porters are not included in our private and custom climbs. If you would like a porter to assist in carrying your gear we highly recommend purchasing our Porter Add-On. Your guides can usually arrange a porter for the next day at any point along the trip above base camp via radio, as long as there are porters available for the last-minute carry. During peak season porters can be very busy so it is best to prepurchase the porter add-on in advance to lock in your porters and guarantee their availability.
Aconcagua Speed Ascent
Starts from $10,995 USD*
December 26, 2025 - January 9, 2026
January 16 - 31, 2026
February 6 - 20, 2026
CTSS offers select climbers our “Speed Ascent” option which employs separate, custom logistics and state-of-the-art technology to allow you to summit in less time.
Partnering with Hypoxico, you will use a portable hypoxic altitude chamber that fits over your bed at home in the weeks leading up to the expedition (usually 6-8 weeks) to acclimate your body to the rarefied air and cut valuable days from the standard climbing schedule.
Having pre-acclimatized, you are able to fly directly into Aconcagua Base Camp by helicopter (skipping the long trek in) to meet your guides and teammates.
This option is perfect for those who want to minimize time away from home.
This expedition provides separate speed ascent logistics and support, before folding into the team climb at base camp, specialized Aconcagua guides, food, team gear, transport and a summit attempt on Aconcagua.
* Please note: CTSS will help you book and facilitate your helicopter flight and Hypoxico tent rental, but these costs are excluded and paid directly.
This option is also available on a 1:1 Private Guide & or the Polish Glacier on custom dates. Contact us for further information.
All prices are in US Dollars.
CTSS requires clients to buy trip insurance for all expeditions. Please see our page on trip insurance and cancellation policy for more information.
All payments once submitted are non-refundable and non-transferable. If balances are not received by specified dates, the client forfeits their place on the program and any prior fees paid.
This itinerary is only a rough estimate and will be determined by weather and acclimatization. This is adventure travel, meaning things rarely go as planned and this schedule will likely change. Climbers need to be adaptable and positive.
We always recommend climbers arrive in Mendoza one day early to avoid travel delays or issues with lost baggage. Added expenses (e.g., hotel, food, or sightseeing) from this extra day are the client’s responsibility.
Daily meal inclusions are indicated in parentheses.
- Day 1: Arrive Mendoza (- / - / -)
- Day 2: Drive to Puente del Inca and fly to Plaza Argentina Base Camp (B / - / D)
- Day 3: Carry to Camp 1 and return to base camp (B / - / D)
- Day 4: Rest day in base camp (B / - / D)
- Day 5: Move to Camp 1 (B / - / D)
- Day 6: Carry to Camp 2 and return to Camp 1 (B / - / D)
- Day 7: Move to Camp 2 with gear (B / - / D)
- Day 8: Rest day in Camp 2 (B / - / D)
- Day 9: Move to Camp 3 (B / - / D)
- Day 10: Summit day! (B / - / D)
- Day 11: Descend to Plaza de Mulas (B / - / D)
- Day 12: Trek to park entrance and return to Mendoza (or helicopter exit) (B / - / -)
- Day 13: Flights home (B / - / -)
- Day 14: Contingency day
- Day 15: Contingency day
Our expeditions are designed to be fully inclusive, except for some services/items of a personal nature like flights, gear, insurance. Here’s a detailed list so you know what to expect.
Included:
- Professional mountain guides
- Reliable, professional mule support from the best local outfitters
- One or two nights lodging (depending on your program) in Mendoza on arrival, one night lodging at Penitentes and one night lodging in Mendoza upon our return (Accommodation on unused contingency days are your responsibility.)
- All group transportation while on the expedition. If you depart early then the added expenses for transport, lodging, rescue, and evacuation are your own responsibility.
- Breakfast daily and all expedition (on-mountain) food is covered including breakfast, dinner, snacks, and hot drinks. Lunch and in-town restaurant meals are your own expense.
- All group gear, including four-season tents, cooking gear, group duffels, stoves, first aid equipment, etc.
- Satellite phone used to update the CTSS blog and available to clientele at $3/min
Excluded:
- All personal porters
- Mountain climbing permit fee ($700-$1,000 depending on season)
- All in-town restaurant meals (breakfast is provided at the hotel), Penitentes dinner, and mountain lunch food
- Transportation to and from the airport upon arrival/departure
- Flight costs to and from Mendoza
- All personal climbing gear is the responsibility of the client
- In the event of a rescue, evacuation, or early departure from the group, any rescue expenses incurred or excess expenses above and beyond our normal trip costs including transport, hotels, evacuation, flight changes, and gear shipping are the responsibility of the client.
- Unused contingency day hotel nights in Mendoza
- Guide and porter tips (customary but optional)
- Costs incurred as a result of events beyond the control of CTSS above and beyond the normal expedition costs
- Required trip insurance policy (for trip cancellation, interruption, rescue & evacuation, medical treatment, repatriation, etc.)
Polish Glacier and Traverse
$9,995 USD
December 21, 2025 - January 9, 2026
January 11 - 31, 2026
February 1 - 20, 2026
For those looking for more of a technical challenge on Aconcagua, we offer an ascent of the advanced Polish Glacier route.
The Polish Glacier ascends the steep, glaciated, upper northeastern slopes of Aconcagua to the summit. Climbers use fixed lines (like those we use on Everest) to navigate the 35-55 degree snow and ice.
It offers not only stunning views on a large and arduous summit day, but is excellent prep for those aspiring to Everest or other big mountaineering objectives.
Clients must have strong ice and snow climbing ability to be considered for this program.
You will be paired up at either a 1:1 or 2:1 ratio with a guide on this program and have separated logistics from high camp.
Please note, this route is very weather- and condition- dependent, requires a slightly different permit, and is much more technically challenging and therefore has a lower summit rate than ascension via the 360 or normal route.
Aconcagua Team Expedition Climb Schedule: Vacas Valley and Traverse with Polish Glacier
This itinerary is only a rough estimate and will be determined by weather and acclimatization. This is adventure travel, meaning things rarely go as planned and this schedule will likely change. Climbers need to be adaptable and positive.
We always recommend climbers arrive in Mendoza one day early to avoid travel delays or issues with lost baggage. Added expenses (e.g., hotel, food, or sightseeing) from this extra day are the client’s responsibility.
Daily meal inclusions are indicated in parentheses.
- Day 1: Meet in Mendoza (760m) (- / - / -)
- Day 2: Gear checks, team meeting, team dinner (B / - / D)
- Day 3: Permits and travel to Puente del Inca (2,591m) (B / - / -)
- Day 4: Mule-assisted day hike to first camp, Pampa De Leñas (2,893m) (B / - / D)
- Day 5: Mule-assisted day hike to second camp Casa De Piedra (3,250m) (B / - / D)
- Day 6: Mule-assisted hike to Plaza Argentina Base Camp (4,218m) (B / - / D)
- Day 7: Rest and acclimatization day at base camp (B / - / D)
- Day 8: Load carry to Camp 1 (5,000m) and return to base camp, approximately 2.5 miles each way (B / - / D)
- Day 9: Rest in base camp (B / - / D)
- Day 10: Move to Camp 1 with gear (5,000m) (B / - / D)
- Day 11: Carry to Camp 2 (5,486m) and return to Camp 1, about 2 miles each way (B / - / D)
- Day 12: Move to Camp 2 with gear (5,486m) (B / - / D)
- Day 13: Rest day in Camp 2 (B / - / D)
- Day 14: Move to Camp 3 (6,016m), about 1.4 miles (B / - / D)
- Day 15: 1st potential summit day (6,962m). Depart Camp 3 and traverse to the base of the Polish Glacier. Ascend Polish Glacier in a single push, summit, and descend back to Camp 3, approximately 1.9 miles each way with elevation gain of 945m (B / - / D)
- Day 16: Descend to Plaza de Mulas Base Camp (4,389m) to complete the traverse of the mountain (B / - / D)
- Day 17: Big trek (18 miles) out from base camp to the park entrance and drive to Mendoza, arriving late (B / - / -)
- Day 18: Fly home or spend a day in Mendoza to relax, celebrate, and get together for dinner as a team (B / - / -)
- Day 19: Contingency day
- Day 20: Contingency day
Our expeditions are designed to be fully inclusive, except for some services/items of a personal nature like flights, gear, insurance. Here’s a detailed list so you know what to expect.
Included:
- Professional mountain guides
- Reliable, professional mule support from the best local outfitters
- One or two nights lodging (depending on your program) in Mendoza on arrival, one night lodging at Puente del Inca, and one night lodging in Mendoza upon our return. (Accommodation on unused contingency days are your responsibility.)
- All group transportation while on the expedition. If you depart early, the added expenses for transport, lodging, rescue, and evacuation is your own responsibility.
- Breakfast daily and all expedition (on-mountain) food is covered, including breakfast, dinner, snacks, and hot drinks. Lunch and in-town restaurant meals are your own expense.
- All group gear, including four-season tents, cooking gear, group duffels, stoves, first aid equipment, etc.
- Satellite phone used to update the CTSS blog and available to clientele at $3/min
Excluded:
- All personal porters
- Mountain climbing permit fee ($700-$1,000 depending on season)
- All in-town restaurant meals (breakfast is provided at the hotel), Puente del Inca dinner, and mountain lunch food
- Transportation to and from the airport upon arrival/departure
- Flight costs to and from Mendoza
- All personal climbing gear is the responsibility of the client
- In the event of a rescue, evacuation, or early departure from the group, any rescue expenses incurred or excess expenses above and beyond our normal trip costs including transport, hotels, evacuation, flight changes, and gear shipping are the responsibility of the client.
- Unused contingency day hotel nights in Mendoza
- Guide and porter tips (customary but optional)
- Costs incurred as a result of events beyond the control of CTSS above and beyond the normal expedition costs
- Required trip insurance policy (for trip cancellation, interruption, rescue & evacuation, medical treatment, repatriation, etc.)
Aconcagua Classic
$6,995 USD
- December 21, 2025 – January 9, 2026
- January 11 – 31, 2026
- February 1 – 20, 2026
Unlike many other guide agencies, we run the False Polish Traverse Route on Aconcagua, otherwise known as the 360 Route, which CTSS Owner Mike Hamill helped pioneer as a guided option over a decade ago.
We like the traverse, which ascends the Vacas and Relinchos Valleys, utilizing three camps to work our way into summit position, before descending the opposite side of the mountain to Plaza de Mulas Base Camp because we find the days more manageable, the scenery is better, and water sources more stable. Plus, it takes us away from some of the more crowded camps, and it’s pretty cool to go up one side and down the other and see the whole peak.
Built to provide proven, generous, and adequate acclimatization time and contingency days in order to maximize your chance of success, this climb is well suited to climbers with excellent fitness. While Aconcagua is not necessarily technically challenging, it is an extremely physically strenuous mountain because of the altitude, duration, heavy loads, and cold. Some prior expedition experience is an advantage. Feel free to chat with us about how best to prepare for this epic expedition.
Aconcagua Team Expedition Climb Schedule: Vacas Valley and Traverse Classic Team Expedition
This itinerary is only a rough estimate and will be determined by weather and acclimatization. This is adventure travel, meaning things rarely go as planned and this schedule will likely change. Climbers need to be adaptable and positive.
We always recommend climbers arrive in Mendoza one day early to avoid travel delays or issues with lost baggage. Added expenses (e.g., hotel, food, or sightseeing) from this extra day are the client’s responsibility.
Please let us know if you want us to arrange for a single rooming option. Daily meal inclusions are indicated in parentheses.
- Day 1: Meet in Mendoza (- / - / -)
- Day 2: Gear checks, team meeting, team dinner (B / - / D)
- Day 3: Permits and travel to Puente del Inca (B / - / -)
- Day 4: Mule-assisted day hike to first camp, Pampa de Leñas (B / - / D)
- Day 5: Mule-assisted day hike to second camp, Casa de Piedra (B / - / D)
- Day 6: Mule-assisted hike to Plaza Argentina Base Camp (B / - / D)
- Day 7: Rest and acclimatization day at base camp (B / - / D)
- Day 8: Load carry to Camp 1 and return to base camp (B / - / D)
- Day 9: Rest in base camp (B / - / D)
- Day 10: Move to Camp 1 with gear (B / - / D)
- Day 11: Carry to Camp 2 and return to Camp 1 (B / - / D)
- Day 12: Move to Camp 2 with gear (B / - / D)
- Day 13: Rest day in Camp 2 (B / - / D)
- Day 14: Move to Camp 3 (B / - / D)
- Day 15: 1st potential summit day (B / - / D)
- Day 16: Descend to Plaza de Mulas Base Camp, completing the traverse (B / - / D)
- Day 17: Trek out from base camp to park entrance and drive to Mendoza, arriving late (B / - / -)
- Day 18: Fly home or spend a day in Mendoza to relax, celebrate, and get together for dinner as a team (B / - / -)
- Day 19: Contingency day
- Day 20: Contingency day
Our expeditions are designed to be fully inclusive, except for some services and items of a personal nature like flights, gear, and insurance. Here’s a detailed list so you know what to expect.
Included:
- Guides: Professional mountain guides
- Mule Service: Reliable, professional mule support from the best local outfitters.
- Group Gear: 20kg of group gear portered for the team, including four-season tents, cooking gear, group duffels, stoves, first aid equipment, etc.
- Hotels: One or two nights lodging (depending on your program) in Mendoza on arrival, one night lodging at Penitentes and one night lodging in Mendoza upon our return. (Accommodation on unused contingency days are your responsibility.)
- Transportation: All group transportation while on the expedition. If you depart early, the added expenses for transport, lodging, rescue, and evacuation is your own responsibility.
- Food: Breakfast daily and all expedition (on-mountain) food is covered, including breakfast, dinner, snacks, and hot drinks. Lunch and in-town restaurant meals are at your own expense.
- Satellite Phone: Used to update the CTSS blog and available to clientele at $3/min.
Excluded:
- All personal porters (Note: You will be required to carry your own personal gear and your share of the group gear.)
- Mountain climbing permit fee ($700-$1000, depending on season)
- All in-town restaurant meals (breakfast is provided at hotel), Penitentes dinner, and mountain lunch food
- Transportation to and from the airport upon arrival/departure
- Flight costs to and from Mendoza
- Personal gear: All personal climbing gear is the responsibility of the client
- In the event of a rescue, evacuation, or early departure from the group, any rescue expenses incurred or excess expenses above and beyond our normal trip costs including transport, hotels, evacuation, flight changes, and gear shipping are the responsibility of the client.
- Unusued contingency day hotel nights in Mendoza
- Guide and porter tips (customary but optional)
- Costs incurred as a result of events beyond the control of CTSS above and beyond the normal expedition costs
- Required trip insurance policy (for trip cancellation, interruption, rescue & evacuation, medical treatment, repatriation, etc.)
All prices are in US Dollars.
CTSS requires clients to buy trip insurance for all expeditions. Please see our page on trip insurance and cancellation policy for more information.
All payments once submitted are non-refundable and non-transferable. If balances are not received by specified dates, the client forfeits their place on the program and any prior fees paid.
Aconcagua Advice from Mike Hamill
Personal advice on climbing Aconcagua from Mike Hamill
Aconcagua is a unique climb, bringing you into the realm of true high-altitude mountaineering. As the highest peak outside the Himalayas, it is bound to challenge and excite you.
Some people say that Aconcagua is an ‘ugly’ mountain because it is not your typical snow and ice-covered peak, but it is more of an arid, desert-like environment. Personally, I find it one of the most beautiful places because of its unusual character and the rare juxtaposition of high glaciers, rock, and earth. I liken it to the Southwestern United States when it still had glaciers. Its sunsets are phenomenal, with condors flying above you and the sky turning fiery red and orange.
To help you on your Aconcagua journey, here are just a handful of things I’ve imparted to my clients over the years (and used myself!) that have helped them be successful – tips that I hope will contribute to your summit, too.
Best wishes,
Mike
- Don’t underestimate the cold on summit day on Aconcagua. Combined with the thin air the ambient temperature will feel much lower, which makes the pace slower than you might expect. It’s likely your feet will feel the cold more than they otherwise would, so I recommend investing in a triple boot, especially if you are planning on doing other high altitude, 8000m peaks or cold weather climbs like Vinson or Denali in the future. Triple boots will ensure you aren’t fighting to keep your feet warm all summit day.
- Even on the best weather days on the summit bid, there is almost always a fierce wind crossing the Gran Acarero, so make sure you have a thick face mask on hand and ready to put on. In fact, having a good cover-up system of layers (buff, sun hoodie, goggles, etc.) is important everywhere on Aconcagua. If it is not the wind, it’s the sun and the dust that you need to ward off.
- Taking care of yourself is essential on Aconcagua, particularly making sure you don’t get dehydrated. Whenever you are at altitude you need to drink more water than at sea level because of the dry air, but this is even more so on Aconcagua as you move through the desert-like environment. Drink before you are thirsty, and keep sipping water throughout the day. Your urine should be clear. The same goes for calories. Being at 7000m means you need plenty of fuel and quick calories, so you don’t bonk. I like Shot Bloks or Gu packs in my pocket and down them as often as possible. Bring your favorite snack foods from home that you know will tempt you even when you don’t feel hungry.
- Commit early to Aconcagua. If you are able to plan 6 months to a year in advance and lock in your goal by booking a spot on a team, you will give yourself a greater opportunity for success. Being financially and mentally committed means you are more likely to stay physically committed, too. Having a good run up is very helpful in terms of making training a daily habit. Get fitter and stronger than you think you need to be. Aconcagua is an enormous physical undertaking. A strong foundation of specific ‘pack carrying climbing fitness’ will also ensure you enjoy the ‘type 2 fun’.
- Be a great teammate. Ruck in and do your part. Aconcagua is truly a team mountain. To be successful, you will need to shoulder your share of group gear, be organized, and be ready to build and break camp almost daily. Make an effort to help your guides wherever you can. Be eager. Remember, your guides are the ones who get you to the top, so helping them helps you, and on a mountain like Aconcagua, it won’t go unnoticed.
Climbing Aconcagua: Guide Tips
Aconcagua Training & Prerequisites
Experience Level
Aconcagua is a great progression mountain for climbers ready to move from lower elevation climbs into the true big mountains of the world like Denali, Manaslu, and Everest.
Climbers need solid cramponing skill, and knowledge of self-arrest technique and ice axe use are valuable but not a prerequisite. If you want to join this expedition but don’t have these skills, don’t worry! We can work with you to get you up to speed prior to the climb.
Frequently underestimated, Aconcagua should be viewed more as a final physical test before Denali than a easy step up after Kilimanjaro. Climbers should be comfortable with carrying a 40-50 pound (18-23kg) pack multiple days in a row on mountainous terrain at altitude.
Climbers coming from Kilimanjaro or Elbrus are still welcome but can really benefit from an intermediary expedition such as the Ecuador Volcanoes or 3 Peaks in Nepal or should be committed to training, consider porters, etc. to shore up their opportunity for success.
Polish Glacier (a more technical variation of the route not to be mistaken for the False Polish Traverse) and Speed Ascent itineraries are a more difficult challenge than the classic itinerary.
Climbers interested in the Speed Ascent itinerary should be ready to commit to 6-8 weeks of pre-acclimatization at home and ideally have previous high altitude experience, while Polish Glacier climbers need to have a strong snow, glacier, and ice climbing background prior to the expedition.
Physical Training
Climbing Aconcagua requires serious fitness, an ability to perform well at altitude, and a desire for rugged adventure travel.
We recommend that you:
- Start specific mountaineering training at least 6 months in advance;
- Train at least 5 days a week for an hour or more;
- Focus on high volume but low intensity training;
- Focus on carrying a weighted pack – start with about 20 pounds (9kg) and work up to the trip weight of about 50 pounds (23kg) over the course of a couple of months;
- Aim to be able to comfortably climb 1,200 feet per hour for 2-3 hours with a 40 pound (18kg) pack;
- Schedule a few weekends where you can do two or more full days back to back. Multiday hikes with good elevation gain are ideal.
Mindset
Mindset and preparation are integral to your success on any peak. You should be prepared to:
- Be away from home/work for 3 weeks with long periods outside of cell or internet coverage;
- Have a desire for rugged adventure travel and the flexibility it requires;
- Be open to receiving and deferring to guidance, support, and advice from your expedition leaders, even if you’re an experienced mountaineer;
- Be comfortable having open and honest conversations with your guides;
- Be able to work well in a team environment by being supportive and respectful of fellow teammates;
- Be humble, respectful, and considerate, even under pressure;
- Be comfortable with being uncomfortable.
The Andes are very remote and rugged. While we try to give our climbers all of the creature comforts we can, at the end of the day this is a true adventure and it’s best to expect that.
What Aconcagua Asks from You
As a guide service, we can do a ton to support our climbers and create a successful trip, but we can’t make the mountain any shorter, less steep, or change the weather.
Each team member shares the responsibility to arrive properly prepared. So what does Aconcagua ask from each climber?
- High physical fitness. Our most common feedback from climbers is, “That was the hardest thing I’ve ever done!” Aconcagua’s physical difficulty is a major step above Kilimanjaro or Elbrus both in intensity and duration. Be prepared to carry a 50 pound (22kg) pack each day above base camp (porters are available at added expense to help with heavy carry loads). With good packing skills, your pack can be lighter – but train as if it won’t be!
- Strong self-care skills. The second most common reason climbers miss the summit on Aconcagua is not taking care of themselves. Bringing everything on the gear list, having the discipline to treat your drinking water, staying hydrated, eating adequately through the day, and paying attention to your layering are all skills you need to master before Aconcagua.
- Flexibility and resilience. Very few expeditions to Aconcagua go completely according to plan. Weather is a common challenge but there are dozens of other factors beyond control that can change the itinerary or plan mid-climb. Our guides are highly experienced on Aconcagua and have a deep set of options, secondary plans, and tricks to draw upon when plans need to change, but as a participant you will need to be ready to ‘roll with the punches’, have patience and trust that our guides have your best interest in mind as we adjust to meet they differing reality of each day.
- Tolerance for dry and cold conditions. Aconcagua is a very arid mountain with extreme temperatures as you move higher. Summit day temperatures are often -15F to -20F (-26C to -29C) plus windchill. Bringing a proper parka and puffy pants along with the rest of the correct gear included on our gear list is critical to maintaining health and safety in these temperatures.
- Being comfortable sleeping in a tent. Our guides can coach you on strategies to be warm and comfortable in tents, but you should be mentally prepared to spend at least 8-10 nights in a row sleeping in a mountaineering tent with a tent-mate.
Aconcagua Beta & Route
Elevation: 6,962m or 22,8410ft
Duration: 15 to 21 Days
Continent: South America
Route: False Polish Traverse
Difficulty: Intermediate
Route Choice
We favour the 360 False Polish Traverse route, which traverses the mountain by going from Plaza Argentina up and over to Plaza de Mulas, and most of our team departures follow that route.
We find people really enjoy this option as the days are more manageable, the scenery is better, and water sources are more stable. It also avoids some of the more crowded camps and it’s pretty cool to go in one way and out the other and see the whole peak.
The descent is also easier as it cuts a day off the trek back to the trailhead. Last but not least, our Vacas Valley approach enjoys much earlier light, so it’s a bit warmer and more hospitable than the “Normal” Horcones Valley route.
CTSS teams gather in Mendoza to run through gear checks and briefings, acquire climbing permits, and go out to dinner as a team.
From Mendoza, we will travel to Penitentes, our last staging point by the trailhead, where we will organize mule loads to start our trek the following morning.
We spend three days trekking into base camp carrying only day packs as this leg of the expedition is supported by mules who help carry our trekking duffels to camp each day for us. Our base camp duffels are sent directly ahead and meet us at Plaza Argentina Base Camp for our climb.
Once we arrive at base camp, we will employ a double-carry acclimatization strategy, which involves carrying and caching our gear before sleeping low and moving up the next day. We use three camps above base camp and maintain our high camp as we go for the summit.
Summit day is long, cold, physical, and at a very high altitude. The summit route is not very technical but demands excellent fitness and solid cramponing technique on moderately steep terrain. The summit route can be snow right out of high camp or only a little snow just below the summit, depending on the year and snow accumulation.
From our high camp, we drop down the other side of the mountain, connecting via the ‘Normal Route’ to Plaza de Mulas Base Camp, thus completing the traverse.
We then pack up, wave goodbye to the mountain and trek back out to the trailhead for a late transport back to Mendoza the same evening.
How to Climb Aconcagua
Which Route is the Best?
Aconcagua Beta
Physical preparation is key for Aconcagua. Even if you plan on hiring porters you should be in the best mountaineering shape of your life for this expedition. No matter what you read on other websites about “trekking” this peak, make no mistake: Aconcagua is a mountaineering challenge that requires you to carry a heavy pack uphill at high altitudes day after day. Train as if you’re heading to Denali then enjoy the climb rather than suffer through it!
For an expedition as long and strenuous as Aconcagua we highly recommend purchasing your gear rather than renting. Properly fitting and breaking in your boots, pack and other big-ticket items is extremely important. Additionally, having every little item already secured and packed will make your time in Mendoza much more relaxed and ensure you’re fully ready for the trip.
If an airline loses bags or there is a major gear malfunction there are a few rental and mountaineering gear shops in Mendoza. During the busy Aconcagua season sizes and availability are not guaranteed. Your guide can help point you in the right direction if this situation arises.
Terms to know for Aconcagua
- Plaza Argentina - Our base camp for the ascent. Located on the east side of the mountain, we trek into Plaza Argentina before leaving the base camp to traverse the mountain, summit and descend into a different base camp.
- Plaza de Mulas - Base camp on the descent located on the west side of the mountain and also base camp for other climbing teams using the 'Normal Route' rather than the 360 Traverse route. We will descend to Plaza de Mulas after our summit bid and stay for one night before finishing the hike out to the road.
- Vacas Valley - Pronounced “Bacas Valley,” this is our route for the trek in. We start at the terminus of the Vacas and trek two days up the valley before taking a side corridor up to Plaza Argentina on the third day of the trek.
- Horcones Valley - Plaza de Mulas is located at the head of the Horcones Valley. On our descent and trek out we will follow the Horcones River through the valley from Plaza de Mulas down to the road, a distance of about 18 miles (29 kilometers).
- Double Carry - A technique for acclimatization and carrying the large amount of gear we need to support our expedition. Double carries mean two trips to each camp. For example, we will pack all our extra food and any gear we don’t need at the moment into our packs, ascend from Plaza Argentina to Camp 1, cache our gear at Camp 1, then return to base camp the same afternoon to sleep low. The next day all remaining gear goes in our packs and we re-ascend to Camp 1, staying there and leaving Plaza Argentina behind. Repeat for Camp 1 to Camp 2, and Camp 2 to Camp 3. We will do a single carry with all gear down from Camp 3 to Plaza de Mulas after summit day.
What is a Double Carry?
