Essential Information
Trip Profile
15-16 days point-to-point trekking/climbing (porterage to base camp) and up to 3 days available to attempt the summit. Altitude maximum 6962m, average 5000m.
Accommodation
7 nights full-service camping, 7/8 nights participatory camping, 4/5 nights hotels with en suite facilities.
Food
All breakfasts, 16 lunches and 15 dinners included.
Reality Check
As we state in the introduction to this trek, the ascent is not technically demanding, but the altitudes and extreme weather conditions make this a difficult climb, for which you will need to be physically and mentally prepared. The altitudes involved are particularly challenging, and although we have incorporated a lot of rest days to aid acclimatisation, it is quite likely that climbers will suffer some adverse effects, especially at the beginning of the trip. Please see the Altitude warning in the Trip Notes for further details.
It is not always necessary to use crampons and ice axes on the ascent, but you must take them with you and have experience of using them. If you do not have this experience, we strongly recommend that prior to attempting Aconcagua you take a trip where basic ice skills training is offered, such as the following: Mont Blanc Ascent (code: TWM), The Shadow of the Matterhorn (code: TWZ), Avenue of the Volcanoes (code: TPV) or, if you're looking for a shorter break, Mt Toubkal Winter Climb (TMW).
Some quite heavy loads will have to be carried to establish the high camps, and all group members will be expected to participate in this since we do not provide porters for personal equipment above base camp (although they can be hired locally). Conditions underfoot are not difficult, except in the rocky Canaleta gully.
The prolonged amount of time spent at high altitudes also means that there will be constant exposure to very low temperatures, as well as to very strong sunlight (especially if crossing snowfields), and you should be completely prepared for this.
Please see the Essential Equipment list in the Trip Notes for details of what you need to bring.
Due to the dangers inherent in such a high-altitude trek, and the necessity of ensuring the group stays together whilst on the mountain, the decision of the trek leader is final concerning allowing the entire group or any individual group member to continue with the climb at any stage.
Normal group size and age
Normally 5 to 12, plus leader, mountain guides and appropriate local staff. Minimum age 18.
Icons explained
The vast majority of Exodus adventures are adult group holidays. Groups are always small in size. We strongly believe that this adherence to small groups means a better experience for all; more time with your guide, less waiting around and a reduced impact on the communities and environments visited.
Each group is generally made up of like-minded travellers - with singles, couples and friends all joining in together.
All these trips are suitable for single travellers, but if you prefer to travel with clients booking individually, please
see our Solo Departures page.
An E grade tour combines all the elements of our D Grade, tough itineraries, but adds extra difficulties such as tricky river crossings, very high or difficult passes, glaciers or peaks that require basic climbing skills. Often specialist equipment, like ice axes and crampons will be needed and you must have experience of them.
Serious Adventure: These trips are what Exodus is all about. Join us!
Walking & Trekking: Trips are wholly trekking-focused or simply include a significant number of walking days during the itinerary.
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