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Mendoza

ACONCAGUA SUMMIT: TREK THE AMERICAS' HIGHEST PEAK


Mountaineering

Category

18 Days

Duration

Advanced

Experience

Intense

Fitness

From 1 to 6

Participants


What you'll do

This is an adventure of a lifetime! The Aconcagua Normal Route Expedition is an 18-day journey to the highest peak in the Americas. This carefully crafted trek begins in Mendoza, Argentina, before heading to Plaza de Mulas, the base camp at 4,350 m. You’ll traverse stunning Andean landscapes, ascend the North Ridge, and reach the summit at 6,962 m (22,841 ft) — the highest point in the Western and Southern Hemispheres. The journey is challenging but rewarding, with acclimatization days at base camp and high camps like Nido de Cóndores at 5,560 m, designed to help your body adjust to the altitude. Along the way, you’ll experience the beauty of the Andes, from glacial valleys to rugged cliffs, as well as the camaraderie of a well-supported team. The trek includes comfortable lodging at base camp, fully supported logistics, and expert guides. With spare days built in to adjust for weather, this expedition ensures the success and safety of climbers, making it an unforgettable adventure for mountaineering enthusiasts and those seeking to conquer one of the Seven Summits.


Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Mendoza and Preparation

You’ll arrive in Mendoza where you’ll meet your guide and the rest of the group. This day is dedicated to finalizing logistics, checking gear, and acclimatizing slightly to altitude. The evening will be spent having a group briefing, preparing your trekking gear, and resting. You’ll also have a chance to explore Mendoza’s rich local culture. Get a good night’s rest because tomorrow the adventure begins!

Day 2 – Permits and Transfer to Puente del Inca (2,730 m / 8,956 ft)

Today, we obtain our trekking permits and begin the journey toward Puente del Inca, a village located at 2,730 m. Here, we’ll organize the mule loads for the journey to Plaza de Mulas base camp. Afterward, we’ll relax and begin the process of acclimatization, allowing our bodies to adjust to the high altitudes we’ll be encountering. You’ll enjoy a peaceful evening with dinner and the quiet of the mountains.

Day 3 – Trekking to Confluencia Camp (3,390 m / 11,300 ft)

This morning we’ll head to the Ranger Station, where we’ll get our permits checked and enjoy our first views of Aconcagua. From here, we begin the trek to Confluencia Camp at 3,390 m. Along the way, enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes as you ascend toward your camp. Once we arrive, we’ll set up camp, enjoy some tea, and prepare for the days ahead. You’ll only need to carry your sleeping bag and personal gear for the next two nights. We’ll finish the day with a hot dinner under the stars, feeling the adventure unfold. Distance: 11.3 km (7.0 mi) | Elevation gain: +700 m (2,297 ft) – 0 m (0 ft) | Time: 4.5 hours

Day 4 – Trekking to South Face Viewpoint (4,050 m / 13,287 ft)

Today is focused on acclimatization as we trek towards the South Face Viewpoint of Aconcagua. We’ll hike for approximately 5 hours to reach Plaza Francia, the best viewpoint to admire the impressive South Face of the mountain. The objective is to allow our bodies to adjust to higher altitudes while enjoying panoramic views of the rugged landscape. After a well-deserved break, we’ll return to Confluencia Camp, completing a 7-hour trek in total. Distance: 20 km (12.4 mi) | Elevation gain: +860 m (2,822 ft) – 860 m (2,822 ft) | Time: 7 hours

Day 5 – Confluencia to Plaza de Mulas (4,350 m / 14,500 ft)

An early start takes us through the Playa Ancha, a wide, desert-like valley known for its constant winds. We’ll steadily ascend along the Horcones Superior Valley, enjoying sweeping views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers. After a long 8–9 hour hike, we’ll tackle the Cuesta Brava, a steep and challenging climb to Plaza de Mulas at 4,350 m. This is Base Camp for the Normal Route, and the day's efforts are crucial for acclimatization, as we’ll feel the effects of the altitude. You’ll have a restful evening, enjoying hot meals and time to unwind. Distance: 18 km (11.2 mi) | Elevation gain: +1,050 m (3,445 ft) – 60 m (197 ft) | Time: 7-8 hours

Day 6 – Rest Day at Plaza de Mulas

Today is a rest day at Plaza de Mulas. We’ll spend the day recovering our energy, enjoying the stunning mountain views, and doing a mandatory medical check-up to monitor our acclimatization progress. You’ll have time to relax, hydrate, and prepare mentally for the summit push ahead. This day is essential for your body to adjust fully to the high altitude before continuing the trek.

Day 7 – Gear Carry to High Camp 1 (Canada) and Back to Base Camp (5,050 m / 16,568 ft)

Today is a challenging day where you’ll carry part of your gear up to High Camp 1 (Canada) at 5,050 m. The terrain is relatively easy, but it’s a good test of your endurance at higher altitudes. After reaching Canada Camp, you’ll descend back to Base Camp to rest and recover. This is an important acclimatization day that allows you to adjust to higher altitudes and gives your body a chance to recover in the comfort of Base Camp. Distance: 6 km (3.7 mi) | Elevation gain: +700 m (2,297 ft) – 700 m (2,297 ft) | Time: 5 hours

Day 8 – Rest Day at Plaza de Mulas

Enjoy a rest day at Plaza de Mulas Base Camp. This day is designed to allow your body to fully recover, ensuring you're ready for the more demanding sections of the trek. The stunning Andean landscapes surround you as you relax, hydrate, and rest. Take advantage of the peaceful environment, and if you feel up to it, take a short walk around the camp or spend the day organizing your gear.

Day 9 – Hike to Canada Camp and Sleep (5,050 m / 16,568 ft)

Today, you’ll begin the ascent to Canada Camp (5,050 m / 16,568 ft), where you’ll spend the night at High Camp 1. The hike involves a steady uphill climb, testing your acclimatization and endurance. Once at camp, you’ll set up your tents and enjoy a well-deserved dinner while taking in spectacular views of the surrounding peaks. This camp will be a great launching point for the summit push. Distance: 3 km (1.9 mi) | Elevation gain: +700 m (2,297 ft) – 0 m (0 ft) | Time: 3.5 hours

Day 10 – Move to Nido de Cóndores (5,560 m / 18,241 ft)

Today, the trek continues toward Nido de Cóndores, the second high camp at 5,560 m. You’ll carry a 18-22 kg backpack for this section, which involves more steep climbing. As you ascend, the views become even more dramatic, with the surrounding glaciers and snow-capped peaks looming. Reaching Nido de Cóndores, you’ll settle into the camp, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the mountain range. Distance: 2 km (1.2 mi) | Elevation gain: +500 m (1,640 ft) – 0 m (0 ft) | Time: 3-4 hours

Day 11 – Rest Day at Camp II Nido de Cóndores (5,560 m / 18,241 ft)

Another rest day is scheduled at Nido de Cóndores. This is a great opportunity to allow your body to continue adjusting to the high altitude before pushing further toward the summit. You can enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and, if you’re feeling strong, carry some gear toward the next camp, Cólera, to help with the final push. This day is key to preparing for the summit attempt, both physically and mentally.

Day 12 – Nido de Cóndores to Cólera (Last Camp, 5,970 m / 19,586 ft)

Today, we’ll hike to Cólera — the final high camp located at 5,970 m on the North Ridge. This is a challenging and high-altitude section, but the views from Cólera are nothing short of breathtaking, offering panoramic scenes of many of the highest peaks in the Andes. After setting up camp, you’ll have a chance to relax and take in the incredible landscape, preparing mentally and physically for the summit push tomorrow. This is the last night before the most demanding part of the expedition. Distance: 2 km (1.2 mi) | Elevation gain: +430 m (1,411 ft) – 0 m (0 ft) | Time: 3-4 hours

Day 13 – Summit Day (6,962 m / 22,837 ft)

Summit Day begins before 4:00 AM, marking the longest and most intense day of the entire trek. After an early breakfast, we begin the climb up the North Ridge to the Independencia Refuge at 6,500 m. The next section, El Portezuelo del Viento (Door of the Wind), is often windy, even on calm days, adding to the challenge. From here, we traverse the West Face and ascend into the Canaleta, a 300-meter couloir leading to the summit ridge. The last stretch, along the Guanaco Ridge, is the final section before reaching the summit. Once on the summit, you’ll be rewarded with a 360-degree view of the Andes, looking down at the 3,000-meter South Face of Aconcagua—a magnificent sight. This section typically takes up to an hour and is one of the most emotional moments of the expedition. At the summit, you’ll experience personal feelings and emotions that words can hardly describe. This is your chance to feel the triumph of standing at the highest point in the Western and Southern Hemispheres. Distance: 6 km (3.7 mi) | Elevation gain: +900 m (2,953 ft) – 900 m (2,953 ft) | Time: 10-12 hours

Day 14-15 – Spare Days in Case of Bad Weather Conditions

These spare days are built into the itinerary to ensure the success of the expedition, allowing flexibility in case of adverse weather conditions. If needed, we’ll use these additional days for the summit push. The goal is to ensure the safety and success of the climb, so if weather or unforeseen factors cause delays, you’ll have time to adapt. These days will be spent resting in camp, taking care of any issues, and preparing for the summit attempt when conditions improve.

Day 16 – Return to Plaza de Mulas Basecamp

After summiting, we begin the descent back to Plaza de Mulas Base Camp. The journey down is less physically demanding, but it’s still important to remain cautious as we retrace our steps. Once back at base camp, we’ll enjoy a celebration dinner, sharing stories and reflecting on the experience of reaching the summit of Aconcagua. This night is a chance to relax, bond with the team, and savor the accomplishment. Distance: 6 km (3.7 mi) | Elevation gain: +0 m (0 ft) – 1,560 m (5,118 ft) | Time: 5 hours

Day 17 – Plaza de Mulas to Mendoza City

After a restful night at Plaza de Mulas, we begin the descent to the entrance of the park. The hike back down offers views of the valley and surrounding peaks, giving you one last opportunity to take in the grandeur of the Andes. Once we reach the entrance, we’ll drive back to Mendoza City for a night in a hotel, where you’ll be able to enjoy a good night’s rest and reflect on the journey. Distance: 29 km (18.0 mi) | Elevation gain: +100 m (328 ft) – 1,730 m (5,676 ft) | Time: 7-9 hours

Day 18 – Fly Out from Mendoza

After breakfast, you're free to get to Mendoza Airport for your flight back home. This marks the end of the expedition, but you’ll carry the memories of an unforgettable adventure at the highest peak in the Americas.

Important stuff

From the highest peaks to the hidden trails, we've got your back

100% Guaranteed Departures

Once you book, your trip is guaranteed to run, allowing you to book your flights with confidence.

Flexible Changes

Want to change your departure date or trip? No problem—enjoy maximum flexibility to make changes up to 60 days before departure.

Comprehensive Insurance & Assistance

Travel with peace of mind. Our insurance package covers accidents and rescue during outdoor activities, medical expenses, and luggage protection, as well as trip cancellations and 24/7 medical assistance from our insurance partner.

  • 100% Guaranteed Departures: Once you book, your trip is guaranteed to run, allowing you to book your flights with confidence.
  • Flexible Changes: Want to change your departure date or trip? No problem—enjoy maximum flexibility to make changes up to 60 days before departure.
  • Comprehensive Insurance & Assistance: Travel with peace of mind. Our insurance package covers accidents and rescue during outdoor activities, medical expenses, and luggage protection, as well as trip cancellations and 24/7 medical assistance from our insurance partner.
see more on How it works

What's included

Accident insurance
Medical and luggage insurance
Travel cancellation insurance
Transfer from the airport
Certified guide
2 nights lodging in Mendoza. Double room w/breakfast
1-night lodging in Puente del Inca/ Penitentes (Breakfast and Dinner)
Assistance in getting the Aconcagua Park Permit and in Mendoza city
Tame mules to carry the equipment (30 kg/pax) in-out Penitentes-Base Camp
Tame mules to carry the equipment (30 kg/pax) out Base Camp - Penitentes
Fully equipped dining-room and kitchen and WC shared tents and BC
2 Nights lodging and full board at Confluencia Base Camp
Up to 6 nights lodging and full board at Plaza de Mulas Base Camp
Up to 5 nights lodging and full board at high Camps. Double Tents
Free Wi-Fi at base and altitude camps. (depending on electricity)
Showers
All group gear for the expedition (sleeping tents, stoves and cooking gear, radio, etc)
Transfer to/from the trailhead
Flight
Transport to airport
Everything not mentioned in the “What’s included”
Expenditure of personal nature
Aconcagua Park climbing fee
Meals in Mendoza and lunch while driving to Puente del Inca (day 2)

Accommodations

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3-Star Hotel (Mendoza)


Your adventure begins and ends in Mendoza, where you'll stay in a comfortable 3-star hotel. Located in the heart of Mendoza, the hotel is conveniently close to local restaurants and shops, giving you the opportunity to explore the city and relax.

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Camps


During the trek, you’ll stay in classic camps strategically located to support your acclimatization and comfort. The camps offer shared tents with enough space for a restful night under the stars. After a challenging day of trekking, relax and enjoy hot meals prepared by the trekking chefs. The camps provide essential amenities and are positioned at key points along the route, offering stunning views of the Andean mountains.

Guides

Mijel & Andes Infinito

Mijel & Andes Infinito

Mijel is IFMGA and AAGM Mountain Guide in Argentina. Aconcagua has become a second home for him, since he’s summited it 50 times (and counting), and it is the place where he also works as a doctor. He guides people in Latin America and Europe, giving technical courses in mountain medicine, climbing, mountaineering, ice climbing, etc.

Maga & Andes Infinito

Maga & Andes Infinito

Maga is a passionate outdoor lover and tour guide, founder of Andes Infinito. She combines her travel experience and technical knowledge with her respectful way of enjoying nature in order to design life-changing and bespoke experiences.

Andes Infinito

Andes Infinito


Meeting point

-32.8278254-68.8017995
Mendoza

Aeropuerto Internacional Gabrielli F. J., Las Heras, Mendoza, Argentina, Mendoza, Cuyo


Frequently asked questions


Departures

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