Climb Aconcagua (Normal Route)
An epic journey up the highest mountain in South America
Reaching the summit of Aconcagua (6,960m) is an epic challenge for outdoor adventurers and mountain enthusiasts.
Weather can be unpredictable which is why we have added contingency days to give you the best chance at reaching the summit. Endurance and determination will get you to the top and the reward is well worth the effort. You'll have views over the Andes that are simply incomparable.
Join this tour to add one of the incredible 'Seven Summits' to your accomplishments, second to Everest!
Summary
DURATION
20 days
LOCATION
Argentina
START & ENDS
Mendoza, Mendoza
DIFFICULTY
Easy Moderate Challenge Hard
Highlights
Itinerary
FOOD
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
ACCOMMODATION
Hotel
ACTIVITY
Drive to Penitentes
ELEVATION GAIN
Mendoza (760m) to Penitentes (2,725m)

We begin the day with registration for Aconcagua Provincial Park and then drive to Penitentes where we begin our acclimatization process.
In Penitentes we check in to our hotel at the base of the mountain and have some lunch.
During the afternoon, the staff will start with preparing the mule’s loads at our depot at Los Puquios. Getting us all ready for the following day.
FOOD
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
ACCOMMODATION
Tented
ACTIVITY
Drive 1 hour, Hiking 3 - 4 hours
ELEVATION
Penitentes (2,725m) to Confluencia Base Camp (3,300m)

We have some breakfast and then take a short drive to the park entrance. Here we grab our permits and begin trekking to Confluencia Camp.
The path is well worn and picturesque. AMG staff will be ready to meet you at the camp with refreshments and a camp tour.
Staff will get tents set up while you take some time to rest and explore the area. We spend two nights in this lovely camp surrounded by amazing rock formations.
FOOD
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
ACCOMMODATION
Tented
ACTIVITY
Hiking 6 - 7 hours
ELEVATION
Confluencia Base Camp (3,300m) to Plaza Francia (4,000m)
We trek to Plaza Francia and back to Confluencia Base Camp today in preparation for the high altitudes ahead.
We will stop at Plaza Francia for lunch. From here you have spectacular views of the South Face of Aconcagua, famous for its difficult ascents.
After some exploration, we descend to Confluencia camp for dinner and sleep.
FOOD
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
ACCOMMODATION
Tented
ACTIVITY
Hiking 7 - 9 hours
ELEVATION
Confluencia Base Camp (3,300m) to Plaza de Mulas (4,260m)

Today we will be moving from Confluencia to Plaza de Mulas Base Camp.
We follow the Horcones Superior River and then rise up onto a lateral moraine next to the Horcones Glacier.
Upon arrival at Plaza de Mulas you can relax, grab a hot beverage and a snack. The camp at Plaza de Mulas is a full-service camp, meaning you have access to hot showers and WiFi!
FOOD
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
ACCOMMODATION
Tented
ACTIVITY
Rest and acclimatization
ELEVATION
Plaza de Mulas (4,260m)
Today is a leisurely day starting with a good meal and some exploration of the surrounding area.
We have orientation in the afternoon in preparation for tomorrow's climb of Mt. Bonete.
FOOD
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
ACCOMMODATION
Teahouse Lodge
ACTIVITY
Hiking 6 - 7 hours
ELEVATION
Plaza de Mulas (4,260m) to Mt. Bonete (5,100m)

We have an exciting day ahead as we climb Mt Bonete.
The views from over 5,000m are incredible as you can see for miles. A great day of learning and preparation for the summit!
We then return to base camp for a nice evening relaxing and socializing.
FOOD
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
ACCOMMODATION
Tented
ACTIVITY
Hiking 3 - 4 hours
ELEVATION
Plaza De Mulas (4,260m) to Camp 1 (4,910m)

We head out on an acclimatization trek to Camp 1 (Canadá). We will be bringing food, fuel, and other supplies for the higher camps.
The trek begins through a field in Penitentes, with two- to five-foot tall pinnacles of ice, and then we follow switchbacks that lead us to Camp Canadá.
Here we store our gear, have some lunch, and return to Base Camp.
FOOD
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
ACCOMMODATION
Tented
ACTIVITY
Rest and acclimatization
ELEVATION
Plaza de Mulas (4,260m)
Today we prepare our equipment, rest and get ready for our move to Camp 1 tomorrow.
FOOD
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
ACCOMMODATION
Tented
ACTIVITY
Hiking 3 - 4 hours
ELEVATION
Plaza de Mulas (4,260m) to Camp 1 (4,910m)
We move up to Camp Canadá today! Equipment and gear will be carried by team members and porters.
Once we reach camp we have some lunch, set up our tents and settle in for our overnight stay.
FOOD
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
ACCOMMODATION
Tented
ACTIVITY
Hiking 3 - 4 hours
ELEVATION
Camp 1 (4,910m) to Camp 2 (5,250m)

We move on to Camp 2, or “Nido de Cóndores” where we will be spending the next three nights for rest and acclimatization.
Today, climbers will carry personal equipment and porters carry expedition equipment, food and tents.
When we reach camp, we get set up and settle down for the night. Dinner is served in your tents!
FOOD
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
ACCOMMODATION
Tented
ACTIVITY
Rest and acclimatization
ELEVATION
Camp 2 (5,250m)
Today we rest and acclimatize.
Enjoy the comforts of camp and relax. Today is about improving your chances for reaching the summit.
FOOD
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
ACCOMMODATION
Tented
ACTIVITY
Hiking 4 - 5 hours
ELEVATION
Camp 2 (5,250m) to Camp 3 (6,000m)
We will be moving equipment and supplies to Camp 3, “Camp Cólera”, today.
The hike is short and we will be moving slowly to help with acclimatization.
We have some lunch at Camp 3 before heading back down to Camp Nido de Cóndores.
FOOD
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
ACCOMMODATION
Tented
ACTIVITY
Hiking 3 - 4 hours
ELEVATION
Camp 2 (5,250m) to Camp 3 (6,000m)
We climb to Camp 3 with all our personal equipment and any extra gear needed for the summit attempt.
At Cólera Camp, staff strategically position the campsite for protection against possible high winds.
Guides will check each team members summit gear for the next day and they'll give an orientation on the summit climb.
We have an early dinner and early night in preparation for the early morning start.
FOOD
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
ACCOMMODATION
Tented
ACTIVITY
Hiking 8 - 12 hours
ELEVATION
Camp 3 (6,000m) to Aconcagua Summit (6,962m)

The day has arrived as we head up to the summit of Aconcagua. The day begins very early as we have a quick breakfast and head out.
The climb is gradual, we follow switchbacks for two hours until we reach a small A-frame hut called “Independencia.”
From here we traverse across the North Face of Aconcagua until we reach Canaleta, a low-angle gully that leads us towards the summit ridge.
As we ascend the Canaleta, you'll be surrounded by mountains which begin to drop away as we get higher.
A few hundred meters below the summit, the route traverses east and leads us directly to the top!
There is plenty of room and opportunity for photos and celebration. Congratulations on reaching the summit!
After some time spent at the summit we head back down to Cólera Camp.
FOOD
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
ACCOMMODATION
Tented
ACTIVITY
Hiking 4 - 5 hours
ELEVATION
Camp 3 (6,000m) to Plaza de Mulas (4,260m)
We make our way down to Plaza de Mulas camp today, taking our time and absorbing the views.
We have the rest of the day to relax and take in this experience. A delicious dinner will be served before settling in for the night.
FOOD
Breakfast, Lunch
ACCOMMODATION
Hotel
ACTIVITY
Hiking 6 - 7 hours
ELEVATION
Plaza de Mulas (4,260m) to Mendoza (760m)
We move on to Horcones, the entrance to the Park, as this is our last trekking day of the expedition.
Once reaching the entrance you will be transferred to Mendoza City where you can settle into the hotel.
Guides and climbers will often get together for dinner to celebrate the successful climb.
FOOD
Breakfast
ACCOMMODATION
Hotel
ACTIVITY
Rest and explore the city
ELEVATION
Mendoza (760m)
We have reached the end of our trekking expedition!
You can spend the day relaxing and recuperating, as well as explore the city of Mendoza.
Congratulations and we hope to see you back again.
This is a contingency day.
This is a contingency day.
Dates & Prices
Below are our open group dates for climbing Aconcagua. Single supplements apply.
Please note: March to October are off-season climbing months. We don't operate treks during this period.
If the dates below don't suit, please get in touch as we can open a new group on any day as long as you have at least 2 people in your party.
What's Included
Included
Not Included
FAQ
When is the best time to complete this adventure?
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Do I need a visa for Argentina?
What immunisations should I get?
What currency is used in Argentina?
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Is there a minimum age requirement?
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Got a question?
Our expert travel consultants can help you plan the perfect adventure!
Email: [email protected]
Packing List
Clothing
- 4-5 x hiking shirts + 2-3 x long-sleeve hiking shirts
- 2 x hiking shorts and 4 x hiking trousers (Softshell, hardshell and trekking pants)
- 1-2 x Base-layer bottoms
- Mid-weight fleece jacket
- Lightweight insulated jacket
- Warm insulating down or synthetic jacket / gilet
- Hardshell jacket
- 2 x lightweight liner gloves
- Insulated gloves
- Expedition mittens
Headwear
- 2 x buffs
- Sun hat + Glacier glasses
- Ski goggles
- 2 x full balaclava
- Beanie for the nights
- Neck warmer
Footwear
- Light-weight hiking boots / trekking shoes
- High altitude double boot
- Gaiters
- Sports sandals / water shoes
- 6-7 x hiking socks
- Trainers for camp
Bags
- 75-105L Climbing pack
- 35-40L daypack (optional)
- 150L Duffel Bag
- 40-45L Small duffel bag (travel)
- Plastic bags to protect sleeping bag and other gear from rain
Other Essentials
- Down sleeping bag
- Inflatable sleeping pad
- Foam pad
- Insulated outdoor-style mug
- Trekking Poles
- Headlamp and spare batteries
- Snacks (at least 12 energy food items)
- Bowl, fork, spoon
- Knife
- Water bottle / hydration bladder
- Thermos
- Water treatment tablets
- Camera
- Sun cream & lip cream
- Crampons (general mountaineering)
- Climbing helmet
- Toiletry bag (bring toilet paper stored in plastic bag)
- Small personal first aid kit
- 3 x sets of hand and toe warmers
Rental Gear
There are a number of good rental gear shops in Mendoza where one can rent / buy most items listed above.
Accommodation
Hotel Accommodation
In Mendoza and Penitentes, you will be staying in hotel accommodation with complimentary breakfast.

Tented Accommodation
The base camps on the trek are well equipped with dining tents, light and chefs.

Reviews
We loved it!
I went with my family to visit Everest basecamp. I cannot thank Himalaya Leisure enough for this! Truly something you have to experience for yourself!
Breathtaking Experience!
Every person on the planet has to experience this for themselves, It’s honestly one of the most breath taking experiences you will ever have. I honestly trekked many places but this was among my top 20 treks. I highly recommend them! You can also check out my blog at: https://outsideorigin.com
Pretty good
I loved it, really cool experience
Best Adventure Yet
Thanks Mountain IQ and Altezza for arranging our climb. It is by far the best adventure holiday I have ever experienced, the toughest too! Our guides and the entire support were truly amazing – I don’t think I would have made it without their support and encouragement! Thanks again!
Tip top trekking experience
Visiting the Annapurna Sanctuary has been one of the highlights of my life. I was very nervous joining this trek as I was a solo female and had never trekked at altitude. The team at Mountain IQ were fantastic at answering all my questions and putting my concerns to rest. Once in Nepal, Upendra and the Himalayan Leisure team were just amazing. Our guide, Dorchi, was an absolute hoot and very caring. The whole experience from beginning to end was awesome. Thanks again!
Simply magnificent!
We joined this trek with short notice. Upendra was very responsive and accommodating to our needs. The tour from pick up to drop off was professional and fun. Would highly recommend joining this tour!
An once in a lifetime experience!
This was by far the most amazing adventure we’ve ever had. We can’t thank the team at Himalayan Leisure and at Mountain IQ enough for arranging such an incredible trek for myself and my girlfriend. From the very get go, the support from Mountain IQ and Upendra was top notch. All our questions were answered quickly and in detail. Once we arrived in Kathmandu we were warmly welcomed. The pre-trek briefing was excellent and we immediately liked our guide Dawa, and felt confident putting our safety in his hands. The trek itself is truly amazing – the views throughout were spectacular. The high pass was a big challenge but the whole group managed it without too much strain. We can’t wait to return to Nepal to complete the EBC trek via Gokyo and will definitely be going with HL again!
Epic experience with Dawa and his team
Just a quick note to say thank you to Himalayan Leisure for an amazing trekking experience to EBC. We felt well looked after throughout and really enjoyed the company of our guide Dawa. I highly recommend booking this adventure!
A superb trekking experience
We had an absolutely amazing experience with Himalayan Leisure on this trek in the Langtang region. The Langtang is a lot quieter than the popular trails to Everest. If you are looking to get off the beaten path then I highly recommend this trek and HL!
Superb Tour!
This tour company is excellent. From the time they met us at Cusco airport, their interaction with us was first class. They were able to accommodate the tour changes we requested. Our guide, Percy, was excellent, very knowledgeable and took the time to explain and answer questions. I highly recommend Inkayni. I would advise anyone who wants to see Cusco and Choquequirao to select this tour company.
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BOOKING TERMS
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LOCAL TOUR OPERATOR
ACONCAGUA MOUNTAIN GUIDES

This tour is operated by AMG. Their goal is to provide the best opportunities to experience this high-mountain environment and reach the tallest summit in the Americas! AMG has many years of experience guiding Aconcagua tours and they look forward to experiencing Aconcagua with you.