Aconcagua Hiking & Trekking Tour Packages | Adventure Tripr

Aconcagua Tour Overview

Standing at an impressive height of 22,838 feet (6,960 mt), Aconcagua in Argentina is the tallest peak outside the Himalayas and one of the Seven Summits. It's also one of the most popular hiking destinations in the Americas. A multi-day trek to this astounding peak offers a unique view of the rich biodiversity and varying climates of the Andes. 

While the Aconcagua hike is challenging, with proper acclimatization and preparation, it can be one of the most rewarding journeys for any adventurer. Book the Aconcagua hike for an unforgettable experience, perfect for both experienced mountaineers and thrill-seekers. It’s a great stepping stone for those dreaming of climbing Everest—the world's highest peak!

Aconcagua Location

Aconcagua is located in the Mendoza Province of Argentina near the Chilean border. The mountain is part of the Principal Cordillera in the Andes range. There are three main routes to hike to the Aconcagua summit: the Normal Route (Northwest), the Polish Traverse Route, and the Polish Glacier Route. Out of these, the Normal Route is the most popular. This challenging non-technical Aconcagua trail starts at Plaza de Mulas.

Currency Accepted in Aconcagua

In Aconcagua, the primary currency accepted is the Argentine Peso (ARS). However, in popular tourist areas, US dollars are also widely accepted. It’s advisable to carry some local currency for smaller purchases, as not all places will accept foreign currency or credit cards.

Top Attractions on Aconcagua Hike

Plaza de Mulas: This is the main base camp for the Aconcagua trek. Located at 14,110 feet (4,280 mt), this hut village serves as the resting spot for climbers, offering them the perfect acclimatizing opportunity before the actual ascent. Plaza de Mulas has stunning views of the surrounding peaks.

Horcones Valley: This beautiful valley at the base of Aconcagua offers breathtaking views of the mountain and its neighboring peaks. Climbers can hike along the Horcones Tiver and Horcones Lagoon, known for its clear waters.

Confluencia Camp: This is another popular acclimatization camp located at 11,155 feet (3,370 mt) on the Aconcagua Normal Route. The camp is surrounded by stunning landscapes, offering plenty of photography opportunities. For those looking for short treks to nearby viewpoints, Confluencia Camp acts as the perfect trailhead.

Plaza Francia: At 13.800 ft (4,200 mt), this towering viewpoint offers one of the best vistas of Aconcagua’s South Face—an imposing wall of ice and rock. The trek to Plaza Francia is a moderate hike without the need for technical climbing skills.

Puente del Inca: Located in Puente del Inca village, this natural rock arch resembles a bridge over the Las Cuevas River. This unique geological formation boasts a rich historical significance. The nearby hot springs also share the same name and are also popular attractions.

Best Time to Climb Aconcagua

The best time to climb Aconcagua is during the summer season in the Southern Hemisphere, from late November to early March. During this period, the weather is warmer and the climate is more stable, making it ideal for the Aconcagua hike. Outside of this season, although it's still possible to climb, it becomes much more challenging due to extremely cold conditions and limited logistic services around the mountain.

Best Things to Do on the Aconcagua Tour

• Hiking

• Sightseeing

• Nature Walks

• Photography

• Camping

Essential Tips for the Aconcagua Tour

• Physical Fitness: Hiking the Aconcagua can be strenuous. Make sure you’re physically fit before booking this trip. It helps to have prior hiking experience on treks like Kilimanjaro and Elbrus.

• Acclimatize: Hiking the Aconcagua is quite challenging due to its height. It’s important to spend a few days in Mendoza or at lower camps like Confluencia to acclimatize before attempting the actual ascent to avoid altitude sickness.

• Pack Proper Gear: The weather can vary on the mountain. While the lower altitude can be warmer, the trail gets colder as you ascend so, bring layered clothing, for both climates.

• Hire a Guide: Even if you’re an experienced hiker, hire a professional guide who’ll help you navigate the trail safely and provide local knowledge.

• Stay Hydrated and Eat Well: The dry, cold air on the Aconcagua trek can lead to dehydration. Drink plenty of water and consume high-energy foods to maintain your stamina.

• Pace Yourself: This multi-day trek offers enough time to rest and acclimatize. However, it's important to know your limits and pace yourself according to your stamina. Don't push yourself too hard; many climbers may not reach the summit, and that's perfectly okay.

• Permits are Required: All visitors to Aconcagua Provincial Park need a permit, which can be obtained in Mendoza. Ensure you have the necessary documents before starting your trek.

• Check Weather Forecasts: Weather conditions can change rapidly. It’s advisable to always check the latest weather reports before setting out on your Aconcagua hike.

Aconcagua Hiking Tour Package Cost

Aconcagua hiking tours can cost around $4,700 to $5,800, depending on the type of accommodation and service included. AdventureTripr has a range of affordable packages designed to fit different budgets and preferences, ensuring you get the best experience for your trip.

Aconcagua Tour Accommodation

The best accommodation option on an Aconcagua trip is camping at base camp tents or other designated points along the trail. Your accommodation type will depend on the package you choose. For budget-friendly stays, you can find dormitory-style rooms in Penitentes. You can even find a wide range of economy to luxury hotels in Mendoza and Puente de Inca.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1. How long does it take to climb Aconcagua? Answer 1. Climbing Aconcagua typically takes about 18 to 21 days. But depending on the trail you choose and your acclimatization needs, you can climb the mountain in as little as 12 days or as long as 26 days. For a shorter trip, you can even opt for a 3 to 7-day Aconcagua base camp trek.

Question 2. How to reach Aconcagua?

Answer 2. To reach Aconcagua, you’ll need to take a flight to Mendoza. From Mendoza, you can take a bus or arrange for a private transfer to the Aconcagua Provincial Park entrance, which is located about 2.5 hours away. Once at the park, you’ll need to hike to the base camp to start your ascent.

Question 3. Can I climb Aconcagua without a guide?

Answer 3. It’s possible to climb Aconcagua without a guide, especially if you are experienced and familiar with high-altitude trekking. However, it’s highly recommended to hire a guide, as they provide valuable knowledge about the terrain, weather conditions, and safety protocols. Guides can also help with navigation and emergencies, making your climb safer and more enjoyable.

Question 4. Can I climb Aconcagua in the off-peak season?

Answer 4. Only the Horcones Lagoon Trail is accessible year-round. The rest of Aconcagua Provincial Park is open from November 1 to April 30. Climbing outside these months is quite challenging due to extreme weather conditions.

Question 5. What should I pack for the Aconcagua hike?

Answer 5: The packing list for the Aconcagua hike should include layered clothing, a sturdy backpack, a waterproof jacket, trekking poles, a sleeping bag, sun protection, and sufficient food and water supplies.