Aconcagua

Height: 6,959 m
Country:
Argentina flagArgentina

Towering at 6,962 meters, Mount Aconcagua is the highest mountain in South America and a dream destination for climbers worldwide. Known as the "Stone Sentinel," it offers an extraordinary mix of challenges and breathtaking scenery for those interested in climbing Aconcagua. The experience combines high-altitude adventure with the stunning landscapes of the Andes, making a hiking Aconcagua journey unforgettable.

Planning a climbing Aconcagua expedition requires preparation and careful consideration of the route, conditions, and support. Whether you’re tackling the Normal Route or the more technical Polish Glacier Traverse, climbers pass through iconic Aconcagua camps, such as Plaza de Mulas and Nido de Cóndores. These camps provide essential rest and acclimatization, crucial for a safe ascent. A well-organized Aconcagua trek can balance physical endurance with moments of awe, as the Andes unfold before you.

For those considering Aconcagua trekking, understanding the logistics, routes, and climbing Aconcagua cost is vital for a successful trip. The mountain draws adventurers seeking not only to stand on its summit but also to immerse themselves in the culture and natural beauty of the region. Whether you’re aiming for an independent hike or a guided Aconcagua expedition, the journey promises to test your limits while offering the reward of unparalleled views and personal achievement.

Prepare for an adventure climbing Aconcagua. This overview provides essential details on routes, difficulty, costs, and the best times to go, helping you plan a successful expedition.

Difficulty

  • F: Easy (alpine grade 1)

When to go

  • November to March

Permits

  • 1 permit is needed
  • costing around $210 total

These are pictures taken while climbing Aconcagua. They're shown here to give you an idea of what the route is like. You're welcome to share your own pictures of mountaineering Aconcagua, to help the community of climbers. Picture here are either uploaded by members (there own, or creative commons pictures), or guides.

Guide links

These guides offer organised mountaineering expeditions for Aconcagua. From here you can check each guides profile, or browse directly to their website to see the trip. You can separately view the guides directory to browse all guides in one place.
Below is a curated list of independent mountain guides offering expeditions for Aconcagua. Each guide provides their own experience, allowing climbers to select the approach that best suits their style, budget, and experience level. You can explore each guide’s dedicated trip page to review what they offer, from logistics and support to pricing details, with no additional influence from us.
Although it demands significant physical effort, ascending this peak is considered one of the more attainable challenges among the Seven Summits.

base-camp
Base Camp (Plaza de Mulas)

The starting point for Aconcagua climbers, Plaza de Mulas is a well-equipped base camp situated at 4350 meters above sea level. It serves as the launchpad for the ascent.
4,350 m

high-camp
Camp 1 (Canada)

Located at 5000 meters, Camp 1 (Canada) is the first acclimatization stop on the Normal Route. It offers some shelter and is a good place to adjust to higher altitudes.
5,000 m

high-camp
Camp 2 (Nido de Cóndores)

Camp 2, Nido de Cóndores, is situated at 5500 meters. It provides essential acclimatization and is known for its spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.
5,500 m

high-camp
Camp 3 (Colera or Berlin)

The final camp used for the summit push is set up at either Camp Colera (6,000m) or Camp Berlin (5,950m). Both at around 6000m. Berlin used to be typical, but now Colera is favoured. Colera is bigger and better equipped.
5,950 m

summit
Summit (Aconcagua's Highest Point)

The summit of Aconcagua stands at 6962 meters, making it the highest point in the Americas. Climbers experience extreme cold, low oxygen, and breathtaking vistas at this pinnacle of their journey.
6,962 m
Explore the 3D route map for a realistic view of the ascent to Aconcagua. This interactive map provides a close-up look at key points like base camp and high-altitude camps along the way. For those planning their own expeditions, it offers a helpful overview of the mountain's terrain and surroundings.

Aconcagua permits

What permits are needed for climbing Aconcagua

Climbing Aconcagua requires a mandatory climbing permit, the cost of which varies depending on the season.

1. Aconcagua Climbing Permit

  • $210 (~20,000 in the local currency)
  • This permit is mandatory for climbing Aconcagua and covers park entry and basic rescue services.
  • Can be purchased at the park entrance or in Mendoza city; it's advisable to get it in advance.
Get inspired by these incredible videos capturing the experience of climbing Aconcagua. From route highlights to summitsummit views, these clips showcase the mountain’s beauty and the challenges it presents. Have your own Aconcagua video? We'd love for you to share it with the community to inspire future climbers.
What you can see from the summit of Aconcagua. Click and pan around the map to explore, and zoom in/out to see the names of neighbouring mountains.

Aconcagua questions

What to know about climbing Aconcagua

Common questions people have about this trek, if yours isn’t here - add it to get an answer.

Aconcagua Links

useful websites, Groups and communities

Groups / links with more info on the Aconcagua route.

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