The Normal Route, sometimes mistakenly called "The North Route", is the more popular choice due to its shorter distances between camps (3-4 hours) allowing for more direct ascents. The low technical difficulty of this route means short-shaft ice axes and ropes are not necessary. However, for your own safety, you may need to use crampons and fixed ropes. This will be decided by the mountaineering guides based on route conditions. Most climbers prefer the Normal Route as it does not require previous rock or ice climbing experience. It's mostly just a trekking route.
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START DATES (20-DAY):
2021/2022 Coming soon |
START DATES (15-DAY):
2021/2022 Coming soon |
NOTE:
The 15-day Normal Route Aconcagua summit includes less resting days. |
* NOTE: This itinerary may change due to weather conditions and other circumstances, in which case, 2 days will be added to the trip in order to reach the summit without any additional cost to you, the client. This means the trip will end on Day 20 (departure day) instead of Day 18.
**Travelers should be in good health and comfortable hiking and climbing for extended periods of time. Daily activities include ascents/descents on mountainous terrain, with some exposed sections.
**Travelers should be in good health and comfortable hiking and climbing for extended periods of time. Daily activities include ascents/descents on mountainous terrain, with some exposed sections.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Explore Mendoza City including a scenic drive through the Andes
- Hike through the National Park Aconcagua
- Trek to Plaza Francia, the base of Aconcagua Mountain (4,000m/13,123ft)
- Trek to Plaza de Mulas Basecamp (4,260m/14,058ft)
- Hike in crampons on Horcones Glacier
- Trek to Mt. Bonete Summit (5,091m/16,702ft)
- Trek to Campamento 1 Canada (4,910m/16,108ft)
- Hike towards Camp 2 Nido de Cóndores (5250m/17,224ft)
- Trek to Camp 3 Berlín - Cólera (5,900m/19,356ft)
- Summit Aconcagua (6,962m/22,841ft)
ITINERARY
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Mendoza, Arrival Day (760m/2,508ft)
Day 1: Upon arrival, make your way to the group hotel. If time allows, spend the day exploring Mendoza or relaxing in the comfort of your hotel. An afternoon briefing will be held by the expedition guide in your hotel to answer all questions and to check your equipment. If you're planning to rent/buy equipment, please do so today. In the evening, head out to a local steakhouse ("parrillas") to enjoy your first meal of Argentina's famously delicious beef. Vegetarian options also available. |
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Mendoza, Penitentes, Puente del Inca (2,725m/8992ft)
Day 2 Today, we take a scenic drive to Penitentes through the mighty Andes. At Penitentes, you'll check into the mountain refuge and finalize climbing permits. The afternoon is spent getting the mules ready for the next day. NOTE: You need to purchase a permit in cash (USD $800) at the entrance of the park to grant you access to climb Aconcagua Mountain. |
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Penitentes, Confluencia (3,300m/10,890ft)
Day 3 After breakfast in the refuge, a transfer will take you to the entrance of National Park Aconcagua. From there, begin your hike towards Confluencia Campsite. Remember to pack lightly and hike with your daypack only since the mules will carry the rest of your belongings. |
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Confluencia, Plaza Francia, Confluencia (4,000m/13,200ft)
Day 4 Today, we continue acclimatizing to the high altitude by trekking to Plaza Francia, the base of Aconcagua Mountain located 4,000 meters above sea level. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch while taking in spectacular views. Return to Confluencia Basecamp. |
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Confluencia, Plaza de Mulas (4,260m/14,058ft)
Day 5 Begin a long trek ascending 260m/853ft up to Plaza de Mulas Camp. Enjoy views of the imposing Andes Mountains. Remember to pack lightly as the mules will carry the rest of your belongings. |
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Plaza de Mulas (4260 m/14,058ft)
Day 6 Today you have an easy day of hiking towards the Horcones Glacier where you'll practice using crampons on ice. |
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Plaza de Mulas, Mt. Bonete Summit (5,091m/16,702ft)
Day 7 Prepare to reach the peak of Mt. Bonete Summit today, located over 5,000 meters above sea level. Return to Plaza de Mulas afterwards. Today's trek will help turn on all acclimatization mechanisms in the body. |
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Plaza de Mulas, Camp 1 Canadá (4,910m/16,203ft), Plaza de Mulas
Day 8 Today is another acclimatization trek up to Camp 1 Canadá where you'll lunch and return back to basecamp. |
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Plaza de Mulas (4,260m/14,058ft)
Day 9 Take the day to rest, acclimatize and prepare equipment for your ascent tomorrow to Camp 1 Canadá. |
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Plaza de Mulas, Camp 1 Canadá (4,910m/16,203ft)
Day 10 Follow the "Normal Route" which is shorter than the other climbing routes in Aconcagua, although some sections can be steeper. Gain 650 meters when reaching Camp 1 Canadá. From here on out, your itinerary remains flexible due to high altitude climbing and weather conditions. |
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Camp 1 Canadá, Camp 2 Nido de Condores (5,250m/17,325ft)
Day 11 Your hike today takes you along a gradually inclining trail reaching Cambio de Pendiente (Change of Slope) first and then, onto your final destination of Nido de Cóndores. Enjoy beautiful views of the Andes Mountains along the way. |
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Camp 2 Nido de Cóndores (5,250m/17,325ft)
Day 12 Take today to rest and acclimatize to the altitude. |
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Camp 2 Nido de Cóndores, Camp 3 Berlín, Cólera (5,900m/19,470ft), Nido de Cóndores
Day 13 Make a short trek to Camp 3 Berlín - Cólera. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch and then return back to Camp 2. |
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Camp 2 Nido de Cóndores (5,250m/17,325ft), Camp 3 Berlín - Cólera (5,900m/19,470ft)
Day 14 Make a short trek to Camp 3 Berlín - Cólera again. Upon arrival, set up tents and have a good rest to prepare for tomorrow's ascent to the summit. |
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Camp 3 Berlín - Cólera, Aconcagua Summit (6,962m/22,834ft), Camp 3, Summit Day
Day 15 Today is Summit Day! Begin your hike at a very slow but steady pace in order to conserve energy as the route will take you through very high altitudes. Once you reach the summit, spend a good amount of time at the top taking in amazing views and resting for the trip down. The mountaineering guide will help you make your descent down to Camp 3 Berlín - Cólera to spend the night. |
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Camp 3 Berlín - Cólera, Plaza de Mulas Basecamp (4,260m/13,976.38 ft)
Day 16 Today, you'll make your descent down to Plaza de Mulas Basecamp where you'll spend the night. |
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Plaza de Mulas, Puente del Inca, Mendoza
Day 17 Today will be your longest trekking day, hiking over 20km back to Puente del Inca town. From there, a vehicle will be waiting to transfer you back to Mendoza City, arriving in the early evening. Enjoy a final farewell dinner tonight to celebrate your achievement. |
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Mendoza, Departure Day
Day 18 Enjoy breakfast in the comfort of your hotel, concluding your Aconcagua Summit Tour. We hope you'll join us again to explore another part of South America! If you wish to arrange a transfer back to the airport, please let us know. |
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Mendoza, Extra day
Day 19 If weather conditions prevent to follow the normal itinerary, an extra day will be added to the planned route. |
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Mendoza, Extra day
Day 20 If weather conditions prevent to follow the normal itinerary, another extra day will be added to the planned route. |
Our itineraries are guidelines to follow day-by-day. However, some changes may occur prior to departure or during the tour due to weather conditions, seasonal changes that can alter timetables, flight schedules and transport routes. These changes can happen with little notice so please be prepared for alterations along the route. Bear in mind on occasion, the timing of included activities in each location may also differ from the timetable written on your itinerary.
We always work hard to make sure you have the best holiday experience. Nevertheless, things can and do go wrong occasionally due to the nature of travel. Please take it as part of the travel experience. Should any issue occur while on tour, please discuss with your local guide first. If the issues go beyond his/her control, feel free to reach out to us. We're here to help.
For any emergency, contact us at our WhatsApp number, available 24/7 (+54.911.4434.6643), or send us an email at pepeconciergeservice@gmail.com.
We always work hard to make sure you have the best holiday experience. Nevertheless, things can and do go wrong occasionally due to the nature of travel. Please take it as part of the travel experience. Should any issue occur while on tour, please discuss with your local guide first. If the issues go beyond his/her control, feel free to reach out to us. We're here to help.
For any emergency, contact us at our WhatsApp number, available 24/7 (+54.911.4434.6643), or send us an email at pepeconciergeservice@gmail.com.
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Inquire about this trip.
Our friendly advisors are ready to work with you to understand your preferences and build them into an itinerary that matches your taste, schedule and budget. Get started today! |
ACCOMMODATIONS
| Day | Itinerary | Hotel | Room Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mendoza | **** Hotel | Shared Twin |
| 2 | Penitentes | Mountain Refuge | Shared Room |
| 3 | Confluencia | Camping | Shared Tent |
| 4 | Confluencia | Camping | Shared Tent |
| 5 | Plaza de Mulas | Camping | Shared Tent |
| 6 | Plaza de Mulas | Camping | Shared Tent |
| 7 | Plaza de Mulas | Camping | Shared Tent |
| 8 | Plaza de Mulas | Camping | Shared Tent |
| 9 | Plaza de Mulas | Camping | Shared Tent |
| 10 | Camp 1 Canadá | Camping | Shared Tent |
| 11 | Camp 2 Nido de Cóndores | Camping | Shared Tent |
| 12 | Camp 2 Nido de Cóndores | Camping | Shared Tent |
| 13 | Camp 2 Nido de Cóndores | Camping | Shared Tent |
| 14 | Camp 3 Berlín – Cólera | Camping | Shared Tent |
| 15 | Camp 3 Berlín – Cólera | Camping | Shared Tent |
| 16 | Plaza de Mulas | Camping | Shared Tent |
| 17 | Mendoza | **** Hotel | Shared Twin |
| 18 | Depart Mendoza | ||
WHAT'S INCLUDED
Accommodation
- 2 nights in a shared double/twin room (**** hotel)
- 1 night in a shared room (mountain refuge)
- 14 nights in a shared tent (camping)
- Shared transfer: Hotel - Penitentes - Puente del Inca - Mendoza
- Mules to carry 30kg extra from each trekker up to Day 5 only
- 17 breakfasts
- 4 lunches
- 12 lunches (boxed)
- 15 dinners
- Mountaineering guide from Day 2 to Day18
WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED
- Flights in and out of Mendoza
- Transfer in and out of Mendoza
- Mountaineering gear and sleeping bag (can be rented in Mendoza)
- Alcoholic drinks/soft drinks
- Meals on Day 1 and Day 16 except those described above
- Tips
- Climbing permit (required)
This permit grants you entrance to the National Park to climb Aconcagua Mountain. It must be purchased in person in cash at the entrance of the National Park. It costs USD $800 per person. - Travel Insurance (required)
It is mandatory for travelers to purchase travel insurance before joining a tour with us.
Please read our Booking Conditions.
TRAVELER TIPS
MULES
Mules will carry your belongings and supplies to Plaza de Mulas Basecamp until Day 5, after which you'll carry everything on your own (this includes: backpack, sleeping bag, boots and personal belongings plus your share of meals and cooking elements). You can also hire a porter to transport your belongings from Plaza de Mulas Basecamp up to Camp 3 Berlin-Colera and back to Plaza de Mulas Basecamp. From Plaza de Mulas, mules will be used again to help carry everything back to Puente del Inca town. Mules can carry a maximum of 30 kg. Contact us to request pricing information for porter hires.
PORTERS
Porters carry a great amount of equipment to multiple altitude camps. They've reached the Aconcagua summit many times and their bodies are well acclimatized to work in high altitude environments. Porters are responsible for carrying tents, team garbage (including toilet garbage that must be transported by each expedition according to regulations of the Aconcagua National Park) and first aid kit from Plaza de Mulas Basecamp to Camp 1 Plaza Canada, from Camp 1 Plaza Canada to Camp 2 Nido de Condores, from Camp 2 Nido de Condores to Camp 3 Berlin-Colera and on the return from Camp 3 Berlin-Colera to Plaza de Mulas Basecamp.
ACCLIMATIZATION
Acclimatization is very important in order to successfully and safely reach the Aconcagua summit. As this is a factor on any of the Aconcagua expeditions, we recommend following an acclimatization training program as well as maintaining a balanced diet a few months before joining the expedition.
MOUNTAINEERING GUIDES
All guides leading the Aconcagua expeditions are professional mountaineering guides who have obtained their mountaineering qualifications at AAGM or EPGAMT (2 and 3 year courses). We believe the key to a successful expedition is to incorporate qualified leaders with at least 5 years of experience in leading Aconcagua expeditions to ensure they can provide the proper safety and leadership along the Aconcagua routes.
One mountaineering guide will be included for every three climbers beginning at basecamp. The guide’s equipments include a VHF radio, first aid kit with specific medications for altitude sickness, ropes, altimeter, digital oxymeter and professional clothing and equipment. Medication will be provided with the approval of Aconcagua National Park doctors to ensure your safety and wellbeing.
TENTS
Normally, during high-season in the summer, Aconcagua experiences favorable weather conditions. However, during the few stormy days that occur, high quality bedroom tents are provided. Our preference is for brands such as, North Face and Mountain Hardwear, that have proven records of excellent performance in Aconcagua camps over the years. We normally arrange to have 2 climbers per tent.
SAFETY
Your safety and health is our priority. If you need to be evacuated from Aconcagua for medical reasons or if you finish the expedition with any kind of medical condition, our team will provide personal bilingual support for all medical activities (i.e. medical tests, lung x-rays, medicine purchase and hospitalization) that might be needed to arrange while in Mendoza. All expenses arising from those medical activities are not included.
In addition, if you need to stay in Mendoza for an extended period in order to fully recover, you have the option to hire a bilingual assistant. He/she will be at your side to assist with any needs you might have and will be good company before your return trip back home.
Mendoza is a safe city. However, always be aware of strangers trying to get close to you. In restaurants, cafes and bars, don't hang your bag on the armchair without keeping an eye on it. In crowded places, always keep an eye on your pockets, bags and other belongings.
COVID-19 (Coronavirus)
The Covid-19 has had a major impact in all South American countries, with more cases being found every day. We at Pepe Concierge Service have taken all necessary precautions to protect our customers integrity and health, and helped everyone to find their way back to their home countries. Our heart and good thoughts are with everyone who have been affected by this virus. We are deeply thankful to all those who are out there working to contain this fatal virus. We'll stay alert and on top to any changes on this subject to keep our customers updated.
For more information, visit our blog.
TRANSPORTATION
Transfer in/out of Mendoza is not included in your expedition. However, if you wish to hire transportation from/to your hotel in Mendoza, please let us know and we'll arrange one for you. You can also arrange a taxi service upon arrival in Mendoza.
RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL
We strongly promote responsible travel. You can minimize the impact on local cultures, the environment and turn the negative aspects of tourism into positive aspects. We believe you can make a difference.
read more
Mules will carry your belongings and supplies to Plaza de Mulas Basecamp until Day 5, after which you'll carry everything on your own (this includes: backpack, sleeping bag, boots and personal belongings plus your share of meals and cooking elements). You can also hire a porter to transport your belongings from Plaza de Mulas Basecamp up to Camp 3 Berlin-Colera and back to Plaza de Mulas Basecamp. From Plaza de Mulas, mules will be used again to help carry everything back to Puente del Inca town. Mules can carry a maximum of 30 kg. Contact us to request pricing information for porter hires.
PORTERS
Porters carry a great amount of equipment to multiple altitude camps. They've reached the Aconcagua summit many times and their bodies are well acclimatized to work in high altitude environments. Porters are responsible for carrying tents, team garbage (including toilet garbage that must be transported by each expedition according to regulations of the Aconcagua National Park) and first aid kit from Plaza de Mulas Basecamp to Camp 1 Plaza Canada, from Camp 1 Plaza Canada to Camp 2 Nido de Condores, from Camp 2 Nido de Condores to Camp 3 Berlin-Colera and on the return from Camp 3 Berlin-Colera to Plaza de Mulas Basecamp.
ACCLIMATIZATION
Acclimatization is very important in order to successfully and safely reach the Aconcagua summit. As this is a factor on any of the Aconcagua expeditions, we recommend following an acclimatization training program as well as maintaining a balanced diet a few months before joining the expedition.
MOUNTAINEERING GUIDES
All guides leading the Aconcagua expeditions are professional mountaineering guides who have obtained their mountaineering qualifications at AAGM or EPGAMT (2 and 3 year courses). We believe the key to a successful expedition is to incorporate qualified leaders with at least 5 years of experience in leading Aconcagua expeditions to ensure they can provide the proper safety and leadership along the Aconcagua routes.
One mountaineering guide will be included for every three climbers beginning at basecamp. The guide’s equipments include a VHF radio, first aid kit with specific medications for altitude sickness, ropes, altimeter, digital oxymeter and professional clothing and equipment. Medication will be provided with the approval of Aconcagua National Park doctors to ensure your safety and wellbeing.
TENTS
Normally, during high-season in the summer, Aconcagua experiences favorable weather conditions. However, during the few stormy days that occur, high quality bedroom tents are provided. Our preference is for brands such as, North Face and Mountain Hardwear, that have proven records of excellent performance in Aconcagua camps over the years. We normally arrange to have 2 climbers per tent.
SAFETY
Your safety and health is our priority. If you need to be evacuated from Aconcagua for medical reasons or if you finish the expedition with any kind of medical condition, our team will provide personal bilingual support for all medical activities (i.e. medical tests, lung x-rays, medicine purchase and hospitalization) that might be needed to arrange while in Mendoza. All expenses arising from those medical activities are not included.
In addition, if you need to stay in Mendoza for an extended period in order to fully recover, you have the option to hire a bilingual assistant. He/she will be at your side to assist with any needs you might have and will be good company before your return trip back home.
Mendoza is a safe city. However, always be aware of strangers trying to get close to you. In restaurants, cafes and bars, don't hang your bag on the armchair without keeping an eye on it. In crowded places, always keep an eye on your pockets, bags and other belongings.
COVID-19 (Coronavirus)
The Covid-19 has had a major impact in all South American countries, with more cases being found every day. We at Pepe Concierge Service have taken all necessary precautions to protect our customers integrity and health, and helped everyone to find their way back to their home countries. Our heart and good thoughts are with everyone who have been affected by this virus. We are deeply thankful to all those who are out there working to contain this fatal virus. We'll stay alert and on top to any changes on this subject to keep our customers updated.
For more information, visit our blog.
TRANSPORTATION
Transfer in/out of Mendoza is not included in your expedition. However, if you wish to hire transportation from/to your hotel in Mendoza, please let us know and we'll arrange one for you. You can also arrange a taxi service upon arrival in Mendoza.
RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL
We strongly promote responsible travel. You can minimize the impact on local cultures, the environment and turn the negative aspects of tourism into positive aspects. We believe you can make a difference.
read more
|
Inquire about this trip.
Our friendly advisors are ready to work with you to understand your preferences and build them into an itinerary that matches your taste, schedule and budget. Get started today! |
Copyright © 2020 Pepe Concierge Service. All Rights Reserved.
Booking Conditions | Privacy Policy | Terms of Use | Responsible Travel
Booking Conditions | Privacy Policy | Terms of Use | Responsible Travel
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