Climbing Aconcagua: Normal Route
Climbing Aconcagua: Normal Route
$6290
Climbing Aconcagua: Normal Route
18 Days Starting and ending in Mendoza, Argentina
Visiting: Mendoza, Penitentes, Aconcagua Provincial Park, Aconcagua, Plaza de Mulas, Nido de Cóndores
Tour operator:
Tour code:
447
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 12
Trip Styles:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an exhilarating adventure with the "Climbing Aconcagua: Normal Route" tour, a thrilling expedition through the majestic Andes in Argentina. Begin your journey in Mendoza, the heart of Argentina's wine country, before heading to the stunning landscapes of Los Penitentes and the Aconcagua Provincial Park. This challenging trek takes you through diverse terrains, from the windy valleys of Playa Ancha to the breathtaking heights of Plaza de Mulas Base Camp. Acclimatize at various camps, including Plaza Canada and Nido de Cóndores, as you prepare for the ultimate ascent to the North Summit of Aconcagua, standing at 6,962 meters. Experience the awe-inspiring views of the Andes and the satisfaction of conquering one of the world's highest peaks. With expert guides and contingency days for weather and acclimatization, this tour ensures a safe and unforgettable mountaineering experience.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Mendoza
Location: Mendoza
Accommodation Name: Accommodation in Mendoza
Arrive at the international airport in Mendoza and meet our local representative for a transfer to your hotel. Group meeting in the afternoon with your guides and other team members. Spend the evening exploring Mendoza, the centre of wine-making in Argentina.
Day 2 : Mendoza (760M) – Penitentes (2,700M)
Location: Penitentes
Accommodation Name: Accommodation in Penitentes
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
After breakfast, pay the entrance fee at the Aconcagua Park Office (if not already paid). Organise your luggage and transfer with the guides to our local representative’s office to meet the staff and finalise arrangements. From here, it is a 3h drive to the mountain hotel in Los Penitentes. In the afternoon, prepare equipment for transportation by mules to the base camp.
Day 3 : Penitentes (2,700M) – Horcones (2,950M) – Confluencia (3,390M)
Location: Aconcagua Provincial Park
Accommodation Name: Accommodation near Confluencia
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Start the day with a transfer to the Aconcagua Provincial Park entrance (10mins) in Horcones, and take in the first view of the mountain. After permits are checked at the Ranger Station, start trekking to Confluencia. Once there, organise your personal gear, and enjoy dinner. Gear is divided into two loads: one for high altitude and one to remain with you in Confluencia. High-altitude gear is transported by mules to base camp and consists of your crampons, ice axe, high-altitude boots, etc.
Day 4 : Confluencia (3,390M) – Plaza Francia (4,000M) – Confluencia (3,390M)
Location: Aconcagua
Accommodation Name: Accommodation near Plaza Francia
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today is an acclimatisation day and is included in order to help you adjust to the elevations which can greatly increase your chances of reaching the summit. Trek to Plaza Francia viewpoint, with a superb view of Aconcagua. Plaza Francia is also the base camp for expeditions undertaking climbs on the highly technical south face.
Walking for the day: 7-8h, ↑610m, ↓610m
Day 5 : Confluencia (3,390M) – Plaza De Mulas Base Camp (4,300M)
Location: Plaza de Mulas
Accommodation Name: Accommodation in Plaza de Mulas Base Camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Early in the morning, start by walking across Playa Ancha, a deserted and windy valley. Slowly gain altitude while walking up to Horcones Superior Valley. After 8-9h hiking across Playa Ancha and climbing up through a very steep path, arrive at Plaza de Mulas. By the end of the day, you should start to feel the altitude. At base camp, meet the ascent team. A mess tent is set up for all meals, briefings and general use.
Walking for the day: 8-9h, ↑910m
Day 6 : Plaza De Mulas Base Camp (4,300M) Acclimatisation Day
Location: Plaza de Mulas
Accommodation Name: Accommodation in Plaza de Mulas Base Camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The first day in base camp is always a rest day, time to drink plenty of water and eat well. This is a good opportunity to familiarise yourself with the camp, take a shower and explore the area. Get together with the guides, do a medical check-up, reorganise and review the equipment, prepare the loads and organise food for transportation for the next day.
Day 7 : Plaza De Mulas Base Camp (4,300M) – Camp 1 Plaza Canada (5,050M) – Plaza De Mulas Base Camp (4,300M)
Location: Aconcagua
Accommodation Name: Accommodation in Plaza de Mulas Base Camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Begin the day by carrying some of the equipment and food to Camp 1, Plaza Canada. Keep your backpack light and carry as little as possible in order to be able to gradually adapt to the altitude.. Finally, return to Plaza de Mulas for the night.
Walking for the day: 5-6h, ↑750m, ↓750m
Day 8 : Plaza De Mulas Base Camp (4,300M) Acclimatisation Day
Location: Plaza de Mulas
Accommodation Name: Accommodation in Plaza de Mulas Base Camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Second acclimatisation day.
Day 9 : Plaza De Mulas Base Camp (4,300M) – Camp 1 Plaza Canada (5,050M)
Location: Aconcagua
Accommodation Name: Accommodation Plaza Canada
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, start the ascent to Camp 1. After walking 5-6h on easy terrain, arrive at Camp 1. Meet with the supplies brought the day before, assemble camp and then divide the load for the following days walking.
Day 10 : Camp 1 Plaza Canada (5,050M) – Camp 2 Nido De Condores (5,560M)
Location: Nido de Cóndores
Accommodation Name: Accommodation in Camp 2 Nido de Cóndores
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today, move from Plaza Canada to Camp 2, named Nido de Cóndores (Condors’ Nest) at 5,550m. The trek heads towards what looks like a saddle, quickly gaining altitude before reaching Cambio de Pendiente. From here, the inclination of the trail decreases considerably. Finally, take a gradual traverse towards Nido de Cóndores, offering some of the most incredible views in the Andes.
Day 11 : Camp 2 Nido De Cóndores (5,560M) Acclimatisation Day
Location: Nido de Cóndores
Accommodation Name: Accommodation in Camp 2 Nido de Cóndores
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today is another acclimatisation day.
Day 12 : Camp 2 Nido De Cóndores (5,560M) – Camp 3 Plaza Cólera (5,970M)
Location: Aconcagua
Accommodation Name: Accommodation: tents
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Early in the morning, after breakfast and striking camp, begin the ascent to Camp 3, where camp is set up prior to the summit attempt. From here you get a chance to take in views of the highest peaks of the Central Andes. Cólera is strategically located and well protected from strong winds. Generally this is just a one night stay prior to attempting the summit, but you may stay one or two additional days here if required. The guide individually reviews each member of the group and gives his final recommendations, working together to plan the final strategies for the last day of ascent to reach the summit.
Day 13 : Summit Day Camp 3 Plaza Cólera (5,970M) – North Summit (6,962M) – Camp 3 Plaza Cólera (5,970M)
Location: Aconcagua
Accommodation Name: Accommodation Camp 3 Plaza Cólera
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The day begins at 05.00. This is the most demanding day of the expedition. Continue on the Normal Route up to Independence Refuge (6,380m), before ascending the Portezuelo del Viento, where strong winds can be experienced even on calm days. Pass by the superior part of the Western Face and climb La Canaleta, a 300m col that reaches the edge of the summit. From here, head across Filo del Guanaco, the ridge joining the South Summit (6,930m) to the North Summit (6,962m). Here, the Southern Wall of Aconcagua is directly under your feet, considered one of the largest faces in the world. Reach the summit at 6,962m, taking time to enjoy the view, and celebrate your achievement then return to Camp 3.
Day 14 : Contingency Day
Location: Aconcagua
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
These spare two days included in case of bad weather or acclimatisation issues. Your guides assess all these factors and make decisions regarding timing and route as best suits this particular expedition. Any attempt is made under optimum conditions but it’s important to accept that weather on Aconcagua is volatile and decisions are made accordingly and entirely at the discretion of the guides. If these days are not used, you can stay at base camp to rest and enjoy the mountain landscapes.
Day 15 : Contingency Day
Location: Aconcagua
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
These spare two days included in case of bad weather or acclimatisation issues. Your guides assess all these factors and make decisions regarding timing and route as best suits this particular expedition. Any attempt is made under optimum conditions but it’s important to accept that weather on Aconcagua is volatile and decisions are made accordingly and entirely at the discretion of the guides. If these days are not used, you can stay at base camp to rest and enjoy the mountain landscapes.
Day 16 : Camp 3 Plaza Cólera (5,970M) – Plaza De Mulas Base Camp (4,300M)
Location: Aconcagua
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Return from Camp 3 to base camp for a special reception and celebration dinner.
Day 17 : Plaza De Mulas Base Camp (4,300M) – Penitentes (2,700M)/Mendoza (760M)
Location: Mendoza
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
After breakfast, start the descent from Plaza de Mulas to Penitentes. You are then transferred to the hotel in Mendoza.
Day 18 : Departure
Meals Included: Breakfast
Departure after breakfast.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Accommodation is provided in Mendoza, Penitentes, Confluencia, Plaza de Mulas Base Camp, Camp 1 Plaza Canada, Camp 2 Nido de Cóndores, and Camp 3 Plaza Cólera.
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Meals
Meals are included throughout the expedition, including breakfast, lunch, lunch boxes, and dinner.
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Guides
Guides are provided for the duration of the expedition, including group meetings and briefings.
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Transportation
Transfers are included from Mendoza to Penitentes and back, as well as transportation to the Aconcagua Provincial Park entrance.
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Mule Transport
Mules are used to transport high-altitude gear to the base camp.
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Medical Check-up
A medical check-up is provided at Plaza de Mulas Base Camp.
What's Not Included
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Aconcagua Park Entrance Fee
The entrance fee to Aconcagua Park is not included and must be paid separately.
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Personal Gear
Personal gear such as crampons, ice axe, and high-altitude boots are not included and must be provided by the participant.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all participants.
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International Flights
International flights to and from Mendoza are not included.
Mode of Transport
Transportation includes a transfer from Mendoza airport to your hotel, a 3-hour drive to Los Penitentes, and a short transfer to the Aconcagua Provincial Park entrance. Mules transport high-altitude gear to base camps.
Accommodation
Experience a variety of accommodations throughout your journey, including hotels in Mendoza and Los Penitentes, as well as camping in tents at various base camps and high-altitude camps along the Aconcagua climb.
Check out our Q&As
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What is the purpose of the acclimatisation days during the Aconcagua climb?
The acclimatisation days are included to help climbers adjust to the high elevations, which can greatly increase the chances of successfully reaching the summit. These days allow climbers to adapt to the altitude gradually, reducing the risk of altitude sickness.
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How is the gear transported to the base camp during the Aconcagua climb?
High-altitude gear, such as crampons, ice axes, and high-altitude boots, is transported by mules to the base camp. This allows climbers to carry only their personal gear during the trek to Confluencia.
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What happens if the weather conditions are not suitable for the summit attempt on Aconcagua?
There are two contingency days included in the itinerary to account for bad weather or acclimatisation issues. The guides assess the conditions and make decisions regarding timing and route to ensure the best chance of a successful summit attempt under optimum conditions.
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What is the significance of the Plaza Francia viewpoint during the Aconcagua climb?
The Plaza Francia viewpoint offers a superb view of Aconcagua and is also the base camp for expeditions undertaking climbs on the highly technical south face of the mountain.
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What is the most challenging day of the Aconcagua expedition?
The summit day is the most demanding day of the expedition. It involves an early start at 05:00 and a long trek to the North Summit at 6,962m, passing through challenging sections like the Independence Refuge and La Canaleta.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
The Natural Adventure was founded by people who love hiking and cycling in wild and wonderful places. Places that we want to keep that way. Responsible tourism has, therefore, been at the heart of what we do since the get go.
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Am I contributing to any charity by booking the tour?
In April 2020 as a response to the COVID-19 crisis, we launched the Support Local Communities Initiative. We have enabled an option when booking a tour for customers to make a donation to support our local partners. 100% of the donations go directly to our local suppliers.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Whether you’re travelling on your own, as a couple, a group of friends, or a family, our self-guided holidays allow you the freedom to choose your own holiday companions.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Our self guided walking and cycling holidays typically include: Accommodation, Breakfasts, Luggage transfers, Detailed holiday information pack including GPS-checked and regularly updated route descriptions, road notes and maps, 24/7 phone assistance by our local representative and/or our central office
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
We are part of the 'Safe Travels' initiative.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
Yes, as long as you can reach the next location.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Accommodations in double or twin rooms (solo travellers are usually accommodated in single rooms at an extra cost; we never mix and match)
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
If possible, and entirely at the discretion of the Tour Operator, a change of the dates may be possible without charging an amendment fee, provided that it is requested at least 30 days before the departure date. In some cases, we will still have to pass to you any non-refundable charges imposed by our suppliers. In all other cases, change of dates will normally be treated as a cancellation.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
All places have been carefully checked by us and their quality is regularly monitored. We have selected accommodations that offer friendly service, clean and comfortable rooms and local flavour.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
The Natural Adventure was founded in the UK in 2009, by Peter Duncan, former UK Chief Scout and BBC Blue Peter presenter, and Alex Pazderski, an avid hiker and acclaimed expedition kayaker. Both natural adventurers and keen explorers of wild places and trails, remote communities and responsible tourism partners, Peter and Alex founded our company inspired by the responsible travel values t
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Low Deposit
The Natural Adventure requires a minimum deposit of 20% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 42 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of the natural adventure charges.
Up to 42 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.