Aconcagua - The Sentinel of Stone

Aconcagua

Aconcagua, “The Sentinel of Stone” is the highest peak outside of the Himalaya. Located in Western Argentina - the heart of the Central Andes, it is South America’s highest peak and one of the much sought after Seven Summits.

While it is a very physical climb, it is one of the more achievable Seven Summits. An ascent of this eminent Andean Peak is a perfect choice for those wishing to experience high-altitude expedition mountaineering and is often undertaken as a preparation climb for the big mountains in the Himalaya.

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Difficulty Level Medium ?
Fitness Level High ?
Duration 19 days
Elevation 6,962M / 22,841FT
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Accilmatisation hike at Penitentes - Pablo Kuntz

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Aconcagua sunset from Plaza de Mulas - Suze Kelly

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A superb day to summit South America's highest peak - Roy Wells

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Gauchos transport equipment and supplies to Base Camp - Suze Kelly

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Celebrations on the summit of Aconcagua

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All smiles high on Aconcagua

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Camp Three on Aconcagua

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Successful summitteers on descent

From Nov 29 to Dec 17, 2023
Departs from Mendoza, Argentina (19 days)
$6,350 USD $
From Jan 03 to Jan 21, 2024
Departs from Mendoza, Argentina (19 days)
$6,350 USD $
From Jan 24 to Feb 18, 2024
Departs from Mendoza, Argentina (26 days) *Please see Dates & Prices below for more information
$6,990 USD $
  • Overview

    • The scenic 360° route traverses the mountain
    • Ideal preparation for Himalayan high-altitude climbing
    • Porter support included
    • Realistic proven timeframe for the ascent and acclimatisation through better leadership and logistics


    Aconcagua is the highest peak outside of the Himalaya and highest in South America. It is located in Western Argentina in the heart of the Central Andes. While it is a very physical climb, it is one of the more achievable Seven Summits. The lessons gained about how you perform and the skills taught by the guides will establish robust guidelines for any future aspirations you have at high altitude.

    Adventure Consultants offers high-quality expeditions to Aconcagua and we achieve a superior success rate due to our logistical approach and our understanding of acclimatisation techniques for climbing at high altitude. We have factored in the ideal number of days for the trip to encourage adequate acclimatisation and a realistic timeframe to achieve summit success. Our guides are seasoned veterans who are focused on encouraging you to achieve the maximum satisfaction and learning from this ascent.

    We climb Aconcagua via the 360° traverse route as it is less visited and features the best camp sites. By traversing Aconcagua you will also get to see both sides of the mountain and complete a circular journey.

    *Please also see our 25-day Aconcagua Course and Ascent programme (Trip 3 departure) which allows more time to learn high altitude climbing skills and for acclimatisation before the summit attempt.

  • Why AC?

    The Adventure Consultants Aconcagua expedition provides the very best opportunity for you to climb this lofty mountain in an environment that is properly managed to give you the best chance to succeed in safety and relative comfort.

    You will benefit from our many years of experience on this and other high mountains across the globe and our very qualified guides will offer you an experience that is not being offered by any other expedition provider on Aconcagua.

    We have refined our program over the years developing what we believe is the best acclimatisation strategy and the most appropriate climbing route with the least people on it. We have more days available than most programs that often fail due to bad weather on the only available summit day. Our climbing route traverses over the mountain making best use of the time available and allowing for a faster exit via the shorter Horcones Valley whilst giving us the opportunity to appreciate the relative remoteness of the Vacas Valley on the approach.

    Unlike the majority of the operators on Aconcagua, we provide a client-focused expedition that is geared towards giving you the maximum opportunity at succeeding on this peak. Our success rate is an indication of the emphasis we place on your wellbeing and a successful outcome for you.

    We believe the ascent should be made in the best style possible, a philosophy that has seen us help our expedition members achieve many successful ascents and promoted our reputation in the arena of high altitude expedition guiding.

  • Dates & Prices

    Trips 1 and 2 are our standard 19-day ascent program, as described on this webpage.
    *Trip 3 is our longer 25-day programme including additional instruction and acclimatisation, please see our separate Aconcagua Course & Ascent webpage for more information.


    ACONCAGUA EXPEDITION

    Dates 2023/2024

    Trip 1: November 29 - December 17, 2023
     
    Trip 2: January 3 - 21, 2024  

    Pricing Schedule 2023/2024

    The expedition fee ex Mendoza, Argentina is US$6,350 per person.

    *ACONCAGUA COURSE & ASCENT PROGRAM

    Dates 2024

    Trip 3: January 24 - February 17, 2024  

    Pricing Schedule 2024

    The Aconcagua Course & Ascent expedition fee ex Mendoza, Argentina is US$6,990 per person. 

  • Payment Conditions

    Inclusions

    The price of your trip includes the following:

    • Adventure Consultants mountain guides
    • All expedition organisational requirements
    • All land transport within Argentina ex Mendoza
    • 2 nights accommodation in Mendoza (twin-share) on days 1, 19
    • Hotel and meals at Penitentes (shared occupancy) on days 2, 3
    • All trek and expedition food ex Penitentes
    • Group Equipment: ropes, tents, stoves, cookware etc. and all supplies necessary to make a safe and strong bid for the summit
    • Mule supported trek to Base Camp (maximum 23kg per person)
    • Porter support for all group equipment and waste
    • Regular written and photo internet dispatches for families and friends to follow your progress


    Exclusions

    The price of your trip does not include:

    • Personal clothing and equipment
    • Additional nights accommodation in Mendoza at the start and end of the expedition (arrive earlier than day 1 if you need more time to purchase/rent equipment)
    • Hotel and meals at Penitentes at end of trip if the team elect to stay here rather than return to Mendoza
    • Climbing permit fees. Permit fees are subject to change and the peso equivalent varies depending on the official exchange rate on the day.
    • Personal travel insurance / trip cancellation insurance / medical evacuation insurance
    • Meals and personal expenses in Mendoza
    • Return flights to Mendoza
    • Airport transfers
    • Excess equipment over the 23kg per person
    • Any costs associated with an early departure from the expedition
    • Accommodation in Mendoza should the expedition return prior to the scheduled date
    • Gratuities to guides and local staff

    Account Information

    All payments should be made by bank transfer to the following bank and account:

    Bank of New Zealand
    Offshore Branch
    42 Willis Street
    Spark Central
    Wellington
    New Zealand

    for the account of Adventure Consultants Limited

    Account # 1000-594771-0000
    Account Type: US Dollars
    Swift Address: BKNZNZ22

    Note: All bank transfer charges are for the remitter's account.

    We can also accept your deposit and balance payment by credit card (Visa, Mastercard, Amex) plus a 3% credit card payment fee.

    Deposit

    A non-refundable deposit of US$500 is payable to secure a place on the expedition.

    Balance

    The balance is payable 90 days prior to the expedition start date.

    Cancellation & Refund Policy

    • Cancellations outside of 90 days will result in the loss of trip deposit.
    • For cancellations made within 90 days of the trip commencement date we reserve the right to retain 50% of the balance payment fee.
    • For cancellations within 60 days of the departure date a cancellation fee of 100% of the full fee applies.


    Trip Cancellation Insurance

    We strongly recommend you take out trip cancellation insurance via your travel agent if you wish to be covered against cancellation due to medical or personal reasons.

    Climbing permit fees - US$730 for Trip #1 and the Course and Ascent. Trip #2 which falls in the high season is US$950. Permit fees are payable in US dollars upon arrival in Mendoza. Permit fees are subject to change.

  • Trip Notes

    Aconcagua Trip Notes 2023 24 CoverThe Expedition Trip Notes provide detailed information and background for Adventure Consultants' Aconcagua Expeditions. You can view the trip notes online by clicking the image or download a pdf by clicking the following link:

    Aconcagua Expedition Trip Notes 2023/24

    The Membership

    The team will have a maximum size of 12 members and 3 guides.

    You will find the Adventure Consultants’ mountain guides companionable and strong expedition leaders with considerable power and willingness to see you achieve your goals. The number of guides is determined by the team size but the normal ratio of guides to members is 1:4 for the Vacas Valley route.

    Our Guides

    Your expedition leader is scheduled approximately six months out from the trip start. All of our Seven Summits trip leaders have extensive experience at high altitude and a proven record of safety, success and compatibility.

    Ang Dorjee Ev09 webAng Dorjee Sherpa
    Trip 1 & Trip 2 Expedition Leader 2022

    Summiting Everest initially with Adventure Consultants in 1992, Ang Dorjee has moved on to achieve 20 summits of Everest and 29 ascents of 8,000m peaks! His skills as a climber are legendary. Frequently we consult his mountain acumen to ensure the smooth operation of an expedition. 

    Head Office Support Team

    Running successful journeys and expeditions is more about experience, knowledge and strategic management than any other factors. As an organisation, we place a substantial amount of time and resources into ensuring our trips are well planned and supported. You can be assured that the AC staff will provide you with friendly advice and knowledgeable support throughout the planning stages of your trip and we will be there to provide backup while the trip is running.

    Hayley Furze Profile April 17Hayley Furze, Client Liaison

    Hayley joins the AC team with a wealth of experience working in the tourism and hospitality industry along with a love of travel. She works as Client Liaison on a number of our European and international ascents, treks and expeditions.

     

    Staff Photo

    Your Health

    Expedition members will be provided with pre-trip medical advice and a medical questionnaire and asked to visit their family physician and receive a full medical examination. This information will be sighted only by the expedition leader and our medical adviser and treated with full confidentiality.

    Level of Experience Required

    Climbing to a summit that is almost 7,000m in elevation is an extreme undertaking. The ascent of Aconcagua is a very physically demanding objective that is frequently underestimated due to the incorrect assumption that because the climb is not technically difficult it is not extremely physically challenging. Climbers on Aconcagua must be prepared to endure an environment that can be potentially life-threatening; you may encounter extreme weather conditions including cold temperatures and very high winds, as well as the effects of extreme altitude. We suggest you prepare yourself physically and mentally for the Aconcagua expedition through a physical training program and mountain skills training.

    To climb Aconcagua you need to be physically fit, have strong mental stamina and be capable of strenuous exercise for several days duration. Expedition members can expect to be exerting themselves for about six hours per day and be capable of carrying a 15-20 kg pack. (although porter support is available – see Add Ons). To be successful you must train by carrying a heavy pack in mountainous terrain.

    Climbing at altitude affects people differently, most climbers notice a lower performance rate than normal. Our climbing days are mostly short to accommodate this and vital rest days are usually welcomed! Our graduated acclimatisation program allows you to progressively consolidate your fitness but you must arrive on the expedition in good health and with a good level of fitness. Summit day is the most physically demanding of the days and entails an 1,100m or 3,500 ft ascent at altitude. This rewarding and photogenic day typically takes between twelve and fourteen hours.

    This expedition is suitable for people with general mountaineering skills. Comprehensive instruction in high altitude camping and climbing techniques will be passed on to you by your guides during the expedition.

    For those wishing to attempt the Polish Glacier a higher base skill is required. Please contact us to see if you have the appropriate experience. The route requires technical snow/ice climbing above 6,000m.

    Importantly, participants should be in a positive frame of mind and be willing to operate as part of a team.

    Difficulty Rating

    Each of our trips is individually rated according to its physical and technical difficulty, displayed in the icons towards the top of each trip page. You can click on the accompanying question mark for additional descriptions and the full run-down of our grading system is available on our Difficulty Ratings page.

    Pre-Acclimatisation

    For those with extra time and/or the requirement to acclimatise prior to the Aconcagua climb we offer a pre-acclimatisation climb on Cerro el Plomo. This is an achievable 10-day trip, ex Santiago, which is led by one of our South American guides. A great way to acclimatise and enjoy the South American culture all in one go.

    Specific Training for Aconcagua

    In order for your Aconcagua expedition to be both more enjoyable and to increase your chance of summit success you should train for at least 3-4 months prior to your climb. Focus on pack carrying on steep and varied terrain, aiming to carry 5-10% more than the required pack weight of 25kg; so up to 28kg. If you do not live close to any significant elevation gain, train on a Stairmaster or treadmill, while wearing a pack, but also on varied terrain such as grass, gravel or hilly sand dunes for a more complete training outcome. You should also incorporate downhill training to increase your quad strength for the descent.

    Endurance training is also important as you will have to be able to climb, carrying a heavy pack for up to 6 hours on most days, and 10-14 hours on summit day.

    Add back-to-back pack carrying days in the 4-6 weeks prior to departure; either in the form of overnight backpacking or with the first day on stairs or in the gym, building up to the 1,000m ascent required on summit day, and a second day of flatter, outdoor walking with a lighter pack.

    Interval training can help prepare your body for exertion at altitude –  please also see Fitness Training Programs.

    History

    The earliest historical link to Aconcagua comes from the discovery of fifteenth century Inca remains found at the altitude of 5300m. It is believed that the Incas climbed significantly higher than this on Aconcagua. In 1887 the lone Swiss guide Matthias Zurbriggen climbed the long scree slopes on the northwestern side of Aconcagua and was credited as the first person to summit. His companions had turned back because of high altitude sickness.

    Zurbriggen was already famous in Switzerland and New Zealand, where he had made numerous first ascents as well as the second ascent of Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest mountain. The Polish Glacier was the second route to be pioneered on Aconcagua. The 1934 Polish Andes Expedition accomplished this first ascent in alpine style, a climb far ahead of its time.

    Food

    Our food on the expedition when trekking in and on the mountain is prepared by the guides and when in Base Camp is provided by the well trained Argentine cooks at Plaza Argentina and Plaza du Mulas. Please indicate any specific dietary requirements you may have on your application form. For special diets such as vegan and gluten/dairy free we will call you to discuss your needs and how this will work in the group cooking situation. If your dietary requirements are especially strict you are advised to bring a sufficient supply of your required food types with you to ensure you are provided for.

    Clothing & Equipment

    Expedition members will be sent a list detailing all necessary individual clothing and equipment to be provided. We will correspond with you prior to the trip to answer your queries and ensure you have met all the equipment requirements. Having the correct equipment is key to your performance on summit day and achieving success.

  • Itinerary

    Day   
    1 Arrive into Mendoza this morning or the day prior
    2 Complete permitting process and drive to Puente del Inca (2,720m/8,920ft)
    3 Trek to Pampa de Leñas (2,950m/9,680ft)
    4 Trek to Casa de Piedra (3,250m/10,650ft)
    5 Trek to Plaza Argentina Base Camp (4,200m/13,800ft)
    6 Rest day / Trek to Cerro Colorado (4,724m/15,499ft)
    7 Carry to Camp 1 (4,950m/16,250ft)
    8 Rest day
    9 Climb to Camp 1
    10 Carry to Camp 2 (5,500m/18,000ft)
    11 Climb to Camp 2
    12 Carry to Camp 3 'Colera Camp' (6,000m/19,700ft)
    13 Climb to Camp 3 'Colera Camp'
    14 Summit day (6,962m/22,841ft)
    15 Contingency day
    16 Contingency day
    17 Descend to Plaza de Mulas Base Camp (4,300m/14,100ft)
    18 Trek to Puente del Inca (2,740m/8,990ft) and drive to Mendoza
    19 Depart for home

    Around Mendoza

    We encourage you to arrive a day or two early if you need time to purchase or rent equipment, as well as to take the time to explore the charming city of Mendoza. Pavement cafés on the tree-lined streets create a pleasing environment to sample the region's fine wines and experience the vibrant city atmosphere. Most people eat late and restaurants are full around midnight. Consider bringing some 'smart casual' clothes for dining out.

    If you find yourself lucky enough to have a few spare days in Mendoza, this vibrant city offers many activities allowing you to explore and enjoy the area. We suggest:

    • Travel around the surrounding wine growing area by bike or a classic Citroen 3CV
    • Visit the infamous 'Hill Of Glory', the national monument at the entry to the San Martin Park
    • Raft the Mendoza River
    • Visit the town of Villavicencio and luxuriate in the natural hot springs.


    Trekking to Aconcagua Base Camp

    On Day 2 of the trip, after we have completed the permitting process, we will depart Mendoza and drive to Puente del Inca which takes about 4 hours. In Puente del Inca, we camp in shared dome tents and enjoy the luxury of a large heated dining tent and hot showers. A single supplement is available at an additional cost.

    The following day, we will drive a short distance to Punta de Vacas, where the trek begins. We plan to arrive at Aconcagua Base Camp (known as Plaza Argentina) 3 days later. Each day we will walk 4-7 hours at a casual pace. From this point, we will be staying in tents and eating meals mostly prepared by our guides.

    This is when expedition life starts to take shape. Camp needs to be set up; loads moved around and water collected, while friendships and personal characters start to emerge. The hustle and bustle of normal life are replaced by simple living and exciting new adventures each day.

    Once Base Camp (4,200m/13,800ft) is reached, there will be time set aside to organise the camp, get settled in, relax and acclimatise.

    After a day at Base Camp, it is time to embark on our climbing plan on the mountain. The exact plan for making the ascent will vary depending on factors such as conditions and weather, members' health, acclimatisation and general logistics on the mountain, but below is an example:

    • Carry to Camp 1 (4,950m/16,250ft), return to Base Camp
    • Rest day
    • Climb and overnight at Camp 1
    • Carry to Camp 2 (Guanacos Camp, 5,500m/18,000ft), return to Camp 1
    • Climb and stay the night at Camp 2
    • Carry to Camp 3 (Camp Colera, 6,000m/19,700ft)
    • Climb and stay the night at Camp 3
    • Aconcagua summit attempt (6,962m/22,841ft), descend to Camp Colera
    • Descend to Plaza de Mulas Base Camp (4,300m/14,100ft)
    • Trek to Puente del Inca and drive to Mendoza


    PLEASE NOTE: There is room for contingency days not shown above.

  • Add Ons

    Mendoza has a wealth of accommodation options and on our standard Aconcagua departure, we stay a mid-range hotel but if you feel you would like to upgrade, we can assist with booking alternative hotels. Please contact us for further information.

    PorterAlthough Porter support for group equipment is included in the expedition fee, many of our climbers elect to use porter support to assist in the carrying of their personal gear. There is the option to use porter support for only certain phases of the expedition, or just rid yourself of a few kilos to make your own pack weight more reasonable throughout

    Porters can usually be organised from Base Camp but if you would like to organise this service in advance please contact us.

    The Polish Glacier climb is a long and committing ascent at high altitude which is much coveted but rarely climbed! Adventure Consultants have established a strategy for focused and qualified climbers who are serious about the ascent allowing for the best possible opportunity to climb the route. If this sounds like you, please enquire with our office.

    Cerro el Plomo Trip Notes Dateless CoverFor those with extra time and/or the requirement to acclimatise prior to the Aconcagua climb, Cerro el Plomo is an achievable 10-day trip, ex Santiago, which is led by one of our South American guides. A great way to acclimatise and enjoy South American culture all in one go.

    Dates 2023/2024

    Trip 1: November 19 to 28, 2023
    Trip 2: December 24, 2023 to January 2, 2024
    Trip 3: January 14 to 23, 2024

    Pricing Schedule 2023/2024

    The cost of the expedition ex Santiago, Chile is:

    US$4,100 per person for groups of 2–3
    US$6,600 1:1 guide to climber ratio

    Please click on the image to view the trip notes online, visit our Cerro el Plomo page or contact us for more information.

     

    Aconcagua Add On to Vinson 2022 23 CoverCombine ascents of two Seven Summit peaks, Mount Vinson and Aconcagua in one trip.

    Our Aconcagua Add-On Expeditions are private departures scheduled to directly follow any of our Mount Vinson expeditions.

    Duration: 19 days
    Departure: ex Mendoza, Argentina

    The cost is US$15,400 for a single climber. Please contact us for pricing for larger groups. This fee is in addition to the Vinson Massif fee but includes Aconcagua helicopter access and egress.

    Mount Vinson Dates

    Aconcagua Add On Dates

    Trip 1: November 23 to December 8, 2022

    December 1028, 2022

    Trip 2: December 4–19, 2022

    December 21, 2022 to January 8, 2023

    Trip 3: December 1530, 2022

    January 119, 2023

    Trip 4: December 26, 2022 to January 10, 2023

    January 12–30, 2023

    Trip 5: January 621, 2023

    January 23 to February 10, 2023

    Please click on the image to view the trip notes online.

    Amy Hall Machu Picchu 1From the teeming rivers of the Amazon to the spectacular Incan ruins at Machu Picchu, your South American expedition needn't finish at the bottom of the mountain.

    Check out our dedicated South America Add Ons page for a whole host of ways to maximize your experience on the continent.

  • Travel & Rescue Insurance

    Finding the right travel and rescue insurance for your mountaineering adventure can be tricky! Rest assured when you book with the expedition specialists here at Adventure Consultants we'll help by sending through advice on what you'll need, including:

    • Travel insurance including trip interruption and cancellation cover
    • Medical Evacuation and Rescue Insurance


    For further information check out our Travel and Rescue Insurance page or contact us.

  • FAQ

    • Expedition Documentation

      Please note you will be emailed out a set of Team Reference Notes upon registration. This extensive booklet includes detailed information to assist in the planning of your trip, from travel and medical advice to equipment lists and photography tips. The following is to serve as a helpful guideline but please feel free to contact us if you have any further questions as our team are here to help!

      info@adventure.co.nz
      NZ: +64 3 443 8711 (Monday - Friday, 8:30am - 5:00pm PST + 19 hours)

    • The Climb

      What are the skills/prior experience required for this climb?
      We usually ask that members have had prior exposure to altitude and expedition life, i.e. trekking, camping and carrying a pack. Aconcagua is a challenging mountain and even more so if it is your first mountain experience. Check in with us regarding your previous experience and we can advise from there.

      Which program is best for me; the standard climb, or the Course & Ascent?
      If you have good general mountaineering skills, have spent nights camping above the snowline and have not had problems acclimatising to high altitude then you are well suited to the standard expedition program.

      If your expedition experience extends to only Kilimanjaro or Elbrus, your experience of ice axe and crampon use is limited, or you find that you take longer than others to acclimatise, then we highly recommend the Course & Ascent program.

      How difficult is the climb?
      Climbing to a summit that is almost 7,000 metres in elevation is an extreme undertaking. The ascent of Aconcagua is a very physically demanding objective that is frequently underestimated due to the incorrect assumption that because the climb is not technically difficult, it is not extremely physically challenging. Climbers on Aconcagua must be prepared to endure an environment that can be potentially life-threatening; you may encounter extreme weather conditions including cold temperatures and very high winds, as well as the effects of extreme altitude. We suggest you prepare yourself physically and mentally for the Aconcagua expedition through a physical training program and mountain skills training. Please contact us for advice on how to arrive prepared for an enjoyable experience throughout this rewarding ascent.

      How long is a typical day on the mountain?
      The days can vary from a few hours on the “acclimatisation” days, to 7-9 hours to move to camps and 10-14 hours on summit day.

      What is summit day like?
      Typically summit day is 10-14 hours long, covering a lot of non-technical ground. Unless it has recently stormed, the terrain will be rocky and mostly snow free, which is quite amazing given the altitude! Weather conditions can be surprisingly windy and cold as well, which is why Aconcagua is such a demanding peak to summit.

    • Food, Accommodation & Facilities

      What sort of hotels do we stay at in the city?
      We use as our base a great hotel near the heart of Mendoza called the NH Mendoza Cordillera Hotel. Room facilities include free Wi-Fi, safety deposit boxes, air-conditioning, ensuite bathrooms and the hotel even has an outdoor pool.

      Will I be sharing a tent or room with other climbers?
      Typically, we reserve you a single hotel room in Mendoza and then in twin-share rooms, once you leave Mendoza and start the expedition. We have a policy to book separate rooms for males and females, where twin-share hotel accommodation is included in your trip. On the mountain, you share a tent with another member or two. A single supplement is available and please contact our office for details.

      What kind of food do you have on the mountain?
      We work hard to make sure that our meal selections are tasty and varied. In addition to the good food that we supply and when at Base Camp, you can actually buy a hamburger and fries and a coke at some of the dining halls which are set up for the season. Once on the mountain, we typically focus on MREs (Meals, Ready-to-Eat) which is real food vacuum sealed and ready to eat and freeze-dried.

    • Travel

      What time should I arrive and where do I meet my guides?
      Before your expedition, you will receive a final details letter from us here in the office outlining where and when you will be meeting your guides. We encourage you to arrive a day or two earlier if you need time to purchase or rent equipment, as well as to take the time to explore the charming city of Mendoza. We endeavour to meet every climber off their flight, by either our guides or our local agency staff.

      Can I ride a mule out after the expedition? Can I ride one into Base Camp?
      We do not recommend riding a mule into Base Camp at the beginning of the expedition. The body needs to acclimatise and walking into Base Camp with a light daypack is the best way to achieve this. At the end of the expedition, there is an option to ride out. As fun as riding a mule may sound, it can be a somewhat uncomfortable experience with upwards of 5-7 hours in the saddle.

      Is it possible to tour the vineyards around Mendoza?
      Not only is it possible, it is recommended to make time to enjoy this Argentinean city! We suggest either arriving early or staying after your trip for this, don’t plan on doing a visit within the trip dates as you will be busy!

      What if I arrive early or depart late?
      We will be happy to assist you with additional hotel reservations if you arrive early or leave late.

      Are there any entry or visa requirements?
      It all depends on where you are from and we recommend that you check this with your travel agent, prior to departure.

    • Clothing & Equipment

      How heavy will my pack be?
      As porter support for group equipment is included in the expedition fee, you only need to carry your personal clothing and equipment. Depending on how efficient you are when selecting your gear, this will equate to a maximum of 15-20kg. On summit day, your pack weight will be significantly lighter at around 8kg.

    • Guides, Porters & Team Members

      I hear that you can hire porters at Base Camp to help with your pack, is this true and if so how does it work?
      Yes, you can, however, if you anticipate needing a porter we suggest that you contact our office for the current prices. We can then inform your guide who will assist with making the necessary arrangements. Rates vary from year to year and porters are strictly regulated by the park service. Please be beware that it gets more expensive the higher that they go and there is no guarantee that there will be one available for you, the day that you discover you want them.

      How many climbers will be on this expedition?
      Usually 6-8 members per expedition and occasionally, we have full expeditions with 12 people and 3 guides.

      Can I contact other climbers or guides for this expedition?
      Of course! Before the trip, please contact our office and we would be happy to pass on your contact details to the other team members.

      How much should I tip my guide staff?
      Tipping is a very personal thing so there is no right or wrong way to do it. It all depends on how much personal interaction and help you have received from your guide. If you feel that they have done a good job, give accordingly.

    • Health & Fitness

      This will be my first big altitude climb, how can I best prepare?
      Excellent question! Arriving fit and prepared for your climb is an essential key to a successful expedition. Here at Adventure Consultants, we have partnered with the experts at Uphill Athlete to create scientifically sound training plans designed by two professional coaches and leading mountaineers. Together we provide a range of training programs designed specifically for mountaineering at altitude, as well as one on one online coaching options. Check out our programs at Training Peaks or see our Fitness Training Programs page for more information.

      What is the conditioning level needed for this climb?
      You will enjoy your expedition more if you arrive in the best shape possible. Being able to go at a slow steady pace all day is important. How do you prepare for that? Please again refer above. Be sure to focus on cardio work and strength training for carrying a pack.

      How do I know this is the right trip for me?
      We offer trips to suit all levels of ability and ambition, from your first mountain experience to extreme ascents and everything in between. To help you navigate the choices available, our trips are graded by both the level of physical exertion and the level of skill required, allowing you to find your perfect expedition match. These ratings are displayed in the icons at the top of each expedition page, with a further explanation available by clicking on the accompanying question mark. A full run-down of the categories can be found on our Difficulty Ratings page and our team is more than happy to discuss your experience to find the right trip for you.

    • Communication & Electronic Devices

      What type of communication is available on the climb?
      Your guides will have satellite phones with them on the trip that you are welcome to use for a nominal fee. At Base Camp, there is also an email/internet service available so please contact the AC office for details.

    • Fees & Payments

      How much should I budget for this expedition? How much cash should I plan to bring?
      This can vary depending on how many gifts you plan on buying and wine tours that you plan to go on! Credit cards are widely accepted throughout Mendoza, however, once we leave the city cash only is usually the way it goes. So it depends on how many cheeseburgers you want at Base Camp! Typically you can get by with US$200-500. However, if you plan to use porters you will require significantly more than this, please contact our office for further details. The permit fee is also extra at around US$700 - US$1,000 depending on the timing of your trip and is payable at the National Park Service office in Mendoza prior to departing for Penitentes. The exact permit fees are set in the late September/early October ahead of your expedition and we will confirm the price with you prior to your departure.

    • Photography

      I love the photographs in your brochure and on your website, are they for sale?
      Yes, our images are available for licensing or purchase. Please contact our office for more information.

      What is the best equipment for photography in Alpine environments?
      There is an extensive section in our reference notes, which are sent out on receipt of your trip registration form and deposit, explaining about photography in the mountains.

      Remember photos are wonderful records of your expedition but keep camera gear simple and light to best enjoy the trip you are on. Disposable and digital cameras are the lightest weight, but all cameras have maintenance issues that need to be carefully considered before bringing them to high elevations.

    • Employment

      I want to become a mountain guide, where do I start?
      Those with limited experience generally start by taking an alpine climbing course and then go out and climb for a few years. You generally should have at least 5 years of climbing and/or teaching/guiding experience. You need avalanche and medical training and then you can apply to do an NZ Mountain Guides Course or the equivalent in your country, aligned with the IFMGA.

      Please see Adventure Consultants Mountain Guide Scholarships on our Career Opportunities page and check the New Zealand Mountain Guides Association for more information.

  • Dispatches

Book Now

Acon cloudy

Except for getting us to the summit in a splendid way, the most important thing for me was the way I learned to live in the moment. I will carry that with me for a long time. I learned so much about life and about myself, it went far beyond just reaching the summit. I am very grateful to our guides for that!
Aconcagua Expedition

Mattias Larsson
Sweden
Trent Thorne

Very good and very experienced guides – made the trip an absolute pleasure to be on!
Aconcagua, 2018

Trent Thorne
Australia
C1 hotel view

The guides were a lot of fun but totally dedicated, professional, passionate about the mountains and highly skilled. When things got difficult and hard they provided all the help needed and were totally devoted to our welfare and safety. I cannot speak highly enough of them.
Aconcagua Expedition

Greg Glossop
New Zealand
13 12

Our guides were absolutely amazing. Not only did they have great experience. They also had great understanding of group dynamics and how to take care and form a team. Our guides worked very well together making this trip a fantastic adventure.
Aconcagua, 2017

Emma Svensson
Sweden


Latest News

May 29, 2023
We are thrilled to report that the AC Everest team topped out on Mount Everest on 23 May 2023!  Congratulations to the team....
May 24, 2023
We've just heard news from Base Camp that Anna and Pemba Chewang are on the summit of Lhotse at 8.40am, Nepal time. Congratulations!......
May 17, 2023
We left Chhukung, swiftly walking down the valley, and reached the village of Dingboche. At Dingboche our paths split, with Todd Woodhouse and Karl heading away with Tshering for the next seven days.....
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