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Climbers celebrate on Aconcagua's summit - Aconcagua Expedition, Argentina
Climbers celebrate on Aconcagua's summit  | Angel Armesto
Spectacular views over the Andes from Aconcagua - Aconcagua Expedition, Argentina
Spectacular views over the Andes from Aconcagua  | Angel Armesto
Climbers ascending Aconcagua - Aconcagua Expedition, Argentina
Climbers ascending Aconcagua  | Angel Armesto
Beginning of the trail towards Aconcagua - Aconcagua Expedition, Argentina
Beginning of the trail towards Aconcagua  | Angel Armesto
Aconcagua Expedition - Aconcagua Expedition, Argentina
Aconcagua Expedition
En-route to Aconcagua, the highest peak in South America - Aconcagua Expedition, Argentina
En-route to Aconcagua, the highest peak in South America  | Angel Armesto
Aconcagua Expedition - Aconcagua Expedition, Argentina
Aconcagua Expedition
At 6960m, Argentina's Aconcagua is the highest peak in the Southern Hemisphere - Aconcagua Expedition, Argentina
At 6960m, Argentina's Aconcagua is the highest peak in the Southern Hemisphere  | Angel Armesto
Amazing scenery as we ascend Aconcagua - Aconcagua Expedition, Argentina
Amazing scenery as we ascend Aconcagua  | Angel Armesto
Updated

Aconcagua Expedition

Climb Aconcagua, South America’s highest peak and a legendary Seven Summit, via the Normal Route on the Northwest Ridge.

Argentina
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 3 reviews

19 Days from

$ 

Trip Code: ACE
View dates to Book
Essential Information
Duration
  • 19 Days
Activities
  • 16 day mountaineering expedition
Style
  • Classic Adventures  
Accommodation
  • 3 nights hotel
  • 15 nights refugio/camping
Meals
  • 15 Dinners
  • 16 Lunches
  • 18 Breakfasts
Difficulty Grading  
9 / 10

Intermediate Mountaineering Expedition

Technical Grading  

Basic

Carbon Footprint  

85kg of CO2-e PP per day

Trip highlights

  • Climb Aconcagua (6,962m / 22,841ft), South America’s highest peak and one of the Seven Summits, via the Normal Route on the Northwest Ridge
  • Follow a carefully paced 19-day itinerary with ample acclimatisation, rest days and mountain rotations to prepare your body for the high-altitude summit attempt
  • Climb with comprehensive expedition support, including well-equipped mountain camps, group safety equipment, comprehensive group first aid kit, radio communications and oxygen for emergency use
  • Focus on your climb with key logistics organised, including permit assistance, transfers, mountain meals, mule transport and specified porter services
  • Benefit from personalised mountain support with a maximum ratio of three climbers to one qualified mountain guide throughout the expedition

Overview

Ready to take on South America's highest peak? Aconcagua (6,962 m / 22,841 ft), one of the Seven Summits, is a serious high-altitude challenge, and this 19-day guided expedition follows the Normal Route on the Northwest Ridge with experienced local mountain guides. The itinerary provides ample time for progressive acclimatisation, with dedicated rest days and rotations on the mountain designed to help your body adapt before moving higher towards the summit. With a maximum ratio of three climbers to one mountain guide and two reserve days for weather and conditions, you'll have experienced support throughout this demanding high-altitude expedition.

Itinerary

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Join Mendoza, where you are met by a World Expeditions representative and transferred to your hotel in the city. Here you meet your fellow group members and mountain guide and begin preparations for the expedition ahead. Depending on arrival times, an equipment check may be completed this afternoon; otherwise, it takes place the following morning. This evening, there is the option to join the group for dinner at a local restaurant at your own expense. Accommodation: 5-star hotel, Mendoza

Meals: Nil

Today is dedicated to final preparations for your Aconcagua expedition. Any required rental equipment can be organised before you meet with your mountain guide for a comprehensive expedition briefing and final equipment check. You will then pack and organise your gear ready for departure into the mountains the following day. This evening, there is the option to join the group for dinner at a local restaurant at your own expense. Accommodation: 3-star hotel, Mendoza

Meals: B

After breakfast, you leave Mendoza for the four-hour drive into the Andes towards Puente del Inca, where expedition luggage is organised for onward transport. You then continue to the Horcones entrance of Aconcagua Provincial Park (2,900m / 9,514ft) to complete the necessary park formalities. From Horcones, you begin the trek towards Confluencia Camp (3,150m / 10,335ft). This first day on the trail introduces you to the mountain environment and begins gradual acclimatisation before settling in for the first night camping on Aconcagua. Total ascent: 250m / 820ft Accommodation: Wilderness Camping, Confluencia

Meals: B,L,D

After breakfast, you set out on a steady acclimatisation hike towards Plaza Francia (4,000m / 13,123ft). The trail leads to a viewpoint beneath the South Face of Aconcagua, a wall rising around 3,000m / 9,843ft above the valley. You pause here as your body adjusts to the increasing altitude, taking in the scale of the surrounding peaks. The return route retraces the same trail back to Confluencia Camp (3,150m / 10,335ft) for a second night. Total ascent: 800m / 2,625ft Total descent: 800m / 2,625ft Accommodation: Wilderness Camping, Confluencia

Meals: B,L,D

Today is set aside for rest and acclimatisation at Confluencia Camp (3,150m / 10,335ft). After yesterday's longer hike, you take time to recover, hydrate and allow your body to continue adjusting to the altitude before moving higher towards base camp tomorrow. The morning passes quietly around camp, watching the surrounding peaks and glaciers come into clearer view as the cloud lifts. The remainder of the day is at leisure, giving you time to relax and prepare your equipment for the next stage of the expedition, before settling in for another night at altitude. Altitude: 3,150m / 10,335ft Accommodation: Wilderness Camping

Meals: B,L,D

We make an early start today, preparing our luggage for mule transport before setting out on the long trek to Plaza de Mulas Base Camp (4,300m / 14,108ft). The trail climbs gradually through the broad Horcones Valley as we move deeper into the high Andes. We maintain a slow and steady pace throughout the day to support acclimatisation as the altitude increases. On arrival at Plaza de Mulas, we enjoy a well-earned snack before settling into base camp, which will be our home for the coming days. The remainder of the afternoon is spent resting and organising our equipment before dinner. Altitude: 4,300m / 14,108ft Total ascent: 1,000m / 3,281ft Accommodation: Wilderness Camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today is a well-earned rest day at Plaza de Mulas Base Camp (4,300m / 14,108ft). We take time to recover, eat well and continue adapting to the altitude before moving higher on the mountain. During the day, we organise our equipment and prepare the loads that will be carried to the high camps, ensuring everything is ready for the next stage of the expedition and our eventual summit attempt. Surrounded by the peaks of the Central Andes, the camp is a hive of quiet activity as expeditions from around the world make their own preparations. As evening falls we settle back into camp at Plaza de Mulas, resting for the days of climbing ahead. Accommodation: Wilderness Camping, Plaza de Mulas

Meals: B,L,D

Today marks your first ascent above base camp. You climb steadily from Plaza de Mulas (4,300m / 14,108ft) to Camp Canada (4,950m / 16,240ft), carrying part of the expedition supplies, including food and fuel, for the higher camps. The ascent takes around 3–5 hours, allowing you to move slowly and continue acclimatising. After depositing your loads at Camp Canada, you descend back to Plaza de Mulas in around two hours for dinner and a well-earned rest. Altitude: 4,950m / 16,240ft Total ascent: 700m / 2,297ft Total descent: 700m / 2,297ft Walking time: 3–5 hrs Accommodation: Wilderness Camping, Plaza de Mulas

Meals: B,L,D

Today is another important rest and acclimatisation day at Plaza de Mulas (4,300m / 14,108ft). The morning is free to relax, recover and continue adapting to the altitude after yesterday's load carry to Camp Canada. Plaza de Mulas sits at the base of Aconcagua's western slopes, the last major staging point before the higher camps, and extra time here gives the body a genuine chance to adjust before the harder days ahead. In the afternoon, you meet with your mountain guide to review the weather forecast, assess how everyone is acclimatising and discuss the strategy for the coming days on the mountain. The day ends back at camp, with the group settling in for another night at altitude. Accommodation: Wilderness Camping, Plaza de Mulas

Meals: B,L,D

Today you leave Plaza de Mulas (4,300m / 14,108ft) and begin the move to the higher camps, each climber carrying personal equipment together with a share of the group's food and supplies. The steady ascent to Camp Canada (4,950m / 16,240ft) takes around 2–4 hours. On arrival, you set up tents and settle into camp while the mountain guide prepares food and water for the group. Tonight is the first night sleeping above base camp as the gradual acclimatisation continues. Altitude: 4,950m / 16,240ft Total ascent: 700m / 2,297ft Walking time: 2–4 hrs Accommodation: Wilderness Camping

Meals: B,L,D

We make an early start today, with breakfast prepared by our mountain guide before we take down camp and pack our equipment at Camp Canada (4,950m / 16,240ft). Once everything is organised, we begin the steady ascent to Nido de Cóndores (5,500m / 18,045ft). The climb takes around 4–5 hours, with the higher altitude requiring a measured and consistent pace. On arrival, we set up our tents, organise the camp and settle in for the night, with views across the high Andes. Altitude: 5,500m / 18,045ft Total ascent: 500m / 1,640ft Accommodation: Wilderness Camping, Nido de Cóndores

Meals: B,L,D

Today is an important rest and acclimatisation day at Nido de Cóndores (5,500m / 18,045ft), our first full day sleeping above 5,000 metres. We take time to recover, hydrate and allow our bodies to adapt to the thinner air before moving higher on the mountain. Depending on conditions and how the group is feeling, there may be an opportunity for a short acclimatisation walk around camp. From Nido de Cóndores, the views extend across the Andes, and the evening light over the range marks the close of the day. Altitude: 5,500m / 18,045ft Accommodation: Wilderness Camping

Meals: B,L,D

We make another early start today, with breakfast prepared by our mountain guide before we take down our tents and pack our equipment at Nido de Cóndores. We then begin our ascent towards Camp Berlin (5,930 m / 19,455 ft), our final high camp before the summit attempt. Moving at a slow and steady pace, we carry our personal equipment along with the tents, food and fuel required for our stay at Camp Berlin. On arrival, we set up our tents and organise camp while our mountain guide prepares food and water for the group. With summit day ahead, we have an early dinner and settle into our tents for an early night and as much rest as possible. Elevation gain: +400 m / +1,312 ft Accommodation: Wilderness Camping, Camp Berlin

Meals: B,L,D

The day begins in the early hours with a slow and steady ascent, as the group carefully manages energy for the most demanding day of the expedition. The climb to the summit of Aconcagua (6,962m / 22,841ft) can take 9–11 hours depending on weather, mountain conditions and the pace of the group, with guides positioned throughout to support different climbing speeds. From the summit, the highest point in South America, views extend across the Andes. The descent to Camp Berlin (5,930m / 19,455ft) follows, generally taking a further 4–5 hours, with the schedule kept flexible according to weather, mountain conditions and the wellbeing of the group. Total ascent: 1,000m / 3,281ft Total descent: 1,000m / 3,281ft Accommodation: Wilderness Camping, Camp Berlin

Meals: B,L,D

After breakfast, we take down our tents and pack our equipment before beginning the descent from Camp Berlin (5,930m / 19,455ft) to Plaza de Mulas Base Camp (4,300m / 14,108ft). After our time high on Aconcagua and the considerable effort of the summit attempt, we descend at a steady pace towards the welcome comforts of base camp. Porters will assist with carrying some group equipment, rubbish and human waste down the mountain as part of responsible expedition practices. On arrival at Plaza de Mulas, we can rest and make the most of the amenities at base camp as we recover from our time at altitude. Total descent: 1,600m / 5,249ft Accommodation: Wilderness Camping, Plaza de Mulas

Meals: B,L,D

These two reserve days provide valuable flexibility for our time on Aconcagua, including the summit attempt. Weather at these elevations can be highly unpredictable, and having additional days available significantly improves our ability to wait for a suitable weather window rather than being tied to a single summit day. Our experienced mountain guides will closely monitor conditions and forecasts, keeping the group informed as the situation develops. Drawing on their extensive experience on Aconcagua, they will carefully assess the weather, wind, mountain conditions and the wellbeing of the group to determine the best opportunity for a summit attempt. Having two additional reserve days is an important part of the expedition itinerary, giving us greater flexibility to make considered decisions and maximise our opportunity for a safe and successful summit attempt.

Meals: B,L,D

After breakfast, we begin our final day on the mountain, leaving Plaza de Mulas and making the long descent through the Horcones Valley. We retrace our route past Playa Ancha and Confluencia Camp, continuing towards the park entrance at Horcones, where our vehicle will be waiting after 7–8 hours of walking. We then travel to Puente del Inca to collect our luggage from the mule depot before continuing by road to Mendoza, with 3–4 hours of driving in total. After many days on Aconcagua, we look forward to a comfortable night at our hotel and time to celebrate the conclusion of our expedition. Total descent: 1,500m / 4,921ft Walking time: 7–8 hrs Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel, Mendoza

Meals: B,L

After breakfast at the hotel, there is time to return any rental equipment and organise your belongings before your onward journey. Depending on departure times, there may be an opportunity to enjoy a final lunch with your fellow expedition members (own expense), reflect on your time together in the Andes and farewell your fellow climbers after your journey on Aconcagua. Trip concludes in Mendoza.

Meals: B

Ready to start your adventure?

3 scheduled departures between 27 Dec 2026 and 25 Jan 2027.

  • Departs 27 Dec 2026 – ends 14 Jan 2027 (19 days)
  • Departs 16 Jan 2027 – ends 3 Feb 2027 (19 days)
  • Departs 25 Jan 2027 – ends 12 Feb 2027 (19 days)
View dates to Book

What's included?

Included

  • Outstanding English-speaking professional mountain guides, with a maximum ratio of 3 climbers to 1 guide.
  • 18 breakfasts, 16 lunches and 15 dinners
  • Three nights in a 5-star hotel in Mendoza with breakfast, twin-share
  • 5 kg / 11 lb of porter services per person for shared group equipment between Base Camp and the high camps, including the descent from C3 to Base Camp.
  • Group camping equipment, shared expedition tents, kitchen and dining tents, cooking equipment, stoves, gas and toilet tents.
  • Mule transport of up to 10 kg / 22 lb of personal equipment per person to and from Aconcagua Base Camp
  • Group safety equipment including ropes, expedition first aid kit, radio communications and oxygen for emergency use
  • Airport transfers for travellers arriving on Day 1
  • Equipment storage facilities at base camp for personal gear during your ascent to the high camps.
  • Waste management throughout the expedition, including the collection, removal, disposal and recycling of rubbish and human waste from the high camps and base camp.

Not included

  • Aconcagua Provincial Park climbing permit fee, US$1000–$1,500 per person, subject to change. We will advise the confirmed fee once permits are released.
  • Personal trekking and climbing equipment
  • Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
  • Additional nights in Mendoza beyond those listed
  • Personal porter services are not included but can be arranged at an additional cost. Please enquire for details and availability.
  • All costs associated with an early departure or withdrawal from the expedition are the responsibility of the participant. No refunds are provided for unused services.
  • Items of a personal nature, including excess baggage charges, beverages, laundry, phone calls, medical expenses, additional camp or hotel nights, additional transfers and tips.
  • Travel insurance and all emergency evacuation costs.
  • Visa costs and arrangements.
  • Transfer from Hotel to Mendoza Airport

About your guide

Your expedition leader will be highly experienced, suitably qualified and well versed in supporting climbers in high-altitude environments as they work towards their goals safely.

Reviews (3)

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The trip was amazing and the team were brilliant. I was really impressed by Angel, Gorge, Matteus & the whole team. They were great fun, knowledgeable and made us all feel that we were in good hands. The whole team made us all feel really welcome and worked hard to make sure that we were all catered for. I'd definitely recommend the trip and would certainly go on another with any of the three guides.

M. Mullally|Middlesex, UK
10 Apr 2017
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Great trip. Great group. Great leader, Angle was always in a good mood. Great crew.

B. Aller|Copenhagen, Denmark
8 Mar 2017
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Wild Women on Top had the most extra ordinary expedition to Mt Aconcagua with World Expeditions! Angel Armesto's passion, experience, commitment and ability to guide safely on a challenging high altitude expedition was superb. Thanks for connecting us with such a remarkable man on such a fantastic adventure.

Di Westaway|WWOT, Australia

Extra trip info

Will My Trip Run?

Every departure date advises whether the date is confirmed, and roughly how full it is. Here is what each one means.

Is the departure confirmed?

Guaranteed to go This departure has reached its minimum number and will run.
It is the point travellers should wait for before booking any non-refundable flights.
Close to guaranteed This appears only when a date is close to reaching minimum numbers. If it shows 1 or 2 to guaranteed, book as a pair on a date needing two and it reaches its minimum. Your booking confirms the date for everybody already booked.

How full is the date I am looking at?

Space is filling or Space is filling fast This date has bookings and places are still open. Filling fast means limited spots available, so don't leave your decision too late.
Closing soon Down to its last few places, or close enough to departure that we are finalising numbers. Still bookable online.
Closed Not bookable online - either full, or inside the notice we need to arrange permits, flights and logistics. Ask us anyway, you never know!

Availability questions answered

Will this trip actually go ahead, or could it be cancelled?

If a date shows Guaranteed to go, it runs regardless of further bookings.

What does 2 to guarantee mean?

It means two travellers are enough to confirm the departure. It could be 2 more to add to the group, or the date only needs 2 people to run. Either way, if you book for two people, the date will become guaranteed to run.

What happens if my departure does not reach minimum numbers?

You will know the status before you book. Every date on this page is labelled, and dates marked “Guaranteed to go” are running regardless of further bookings. Where a date has not reached its minimum we either offer a surcharge to operate for a smaller group size so it can still run, or we cancel it. We contact you directly either way.

Will I get my money back if you cancel a departure?

If we cancel a departure due to not meeting minimum trip numbers, you receive a full refund of everything you have paid us less any non recoverable costs, where insurance may cover you. We cannot refund money committed elsewhere – additional non refundable deposits advised at the time of booking, flights, visas, vaccinations, gear - which is why it is worth waiting for “Guaranteed to go” before booking other arrangements around this trip date. Please read our Booking Terms and Conditions before you book.

Why can't I book some dates online?

Each trip closes online a set time before departure. Permits, internal flights and hut or campsite bookings all have to be arranged before we take payment. Call or enquire as it might still be possible to organise last minute places.

The date I want is closed. What are my options and why does it say to enquire?

Cancellations happen and places do open up on closed dates, so it is worth being on our list. We can also tell you which nearby date on the same trip has space, which is usually the faster route.

None of these dates suit me. Can you run this trip on another date?

Yes, as a private departure. We can run this trip on a date you choose, for your own group - family, friends, a club, or in many cases, just for the two of you. Tell us when you want to travel and who is coming, and we will build it around that.

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