Climbing Aconcagua: Top Outdoor Adventures Awaiting You

Located in the Argentine province of Mendoza near the Chilean border, Aconcagua is a towering mountain that draws climbers from all around the world. At 6,961 meters, it is the highest mountain outside of Asia, and the tallest peak in both the Southern and Western hemispheres. The Normal Route and the Polish Traverse are the most popular routes to the summit. Both are non-technical climbs that are nevertheless extremely challenging due to their cold temperatures and the incredibly high altitude involved. Most climbing trips are completed expedition style and last approximately 3 weeks.

Although its ascent involves a strenuous physical and mental effort, reaching its summit is not as technical as many people think. Bear in mind, however, that altitude and rough weather conditions pose a very important challenge. An excellent fitness level, good acclimatization and the company of a certified and experienced guide are key to a safe experience. Choose between shorter-than-average programs and longer expeditions that include acclimatization and extra weather days.

An Aconcagua climb is a once-in-a-lifetime challenge. Are you ready? Explore-Share only promotes mountain trips led by certified guides.

Train for a remarkable achievement

Due to the extreme altitude and high elevations involved, Aconcagua requires extensive training and preparation. However, knowing the work you put in will make the summit push all the more rewarding.

Non-Technical Challenge

Although it rises to an incredible 6,962 meters, the most popular routes are strenuous hikes rather than technical climbs, making this peak accessible to fit climbers without advanced mountaineering skills.

Seven Summit

As the tallest mountain in South America, Aconcagua is one of the iconic Seven Summits that many mountaineers aspire to conquer. As an added bonus, the summit of Aconcagua is the highest point of two hemispheres - the Southern and the Western.

During the peak climbing season, the weather on Aconcagua is typically dry. However, the mountain is so tall that weather can be unpredictable, with extreme cold and wind being common, especially at higher elevations. Above 5000m, the temperature usually hits -30 degrees celsius at night.

Spanish, although many guides also speak English

Argentine Peso, although US dollars are sometimes accepted

Expeditions typically last about 17 - 20 days. Not only will your team need time to move gear up the mountain, you also need plenty of time to acclimatize to the extreme altitude

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It is possible to climb Aconcagua from November - March, although conditions are usually best in December and January.