Aconcagua Climb

Aconcagua Routes

The Normal Route

This Route up Aconcagua starts from the Lower Horcones Valley and takes the primary path leading all the way to Plaza del Mulas (4,260 metres). This is the first base camp, where the conditions are cold and arid and the vegetation is the thinnest.

Polish Traverse Route

This Mt Aconcagua Route takes roughly 18 days to complete and begins at the eastern section of the mountain. From there it gradually traverses around the mountain before joining the normal route near the summit. The Polish Traverse Route is slightly more challenging than the Normal Route and requires some minor technical climbing skills.

Polish Glacier Route

The Polish Glacier Route is the most challenging out of all the Aconcagua Climbing Routes and requires technical climbing skills. Based on the weather conditions at hand, the route generally takes around 18-20 days and takes the direct trail up the east face of the mountain over the Polish Glacier. Only expert climbers are advised to attempt this route as steep ice climbing is a necessity.

Aconcagua Climb Components

Best Time to Climb Aconcagua

The Climbing season on Mt. Aconcagua is from the 15^th of November to the 31^st of March every year and is regarded as the Best Time to Climb Aconcagua. Though remember that during this climbing season, there’s also the peak season that runs from mid-December to the end of January. Moreover, be aware of the fact that storms often hit the mountain and the weather can change dramatically over a short period of time.

Difficulty Level

Aconcagua is famously known as the tallest trekking peak on the globe and even though an Aconcagua Climb doesn’t require any technical climbing skills, you should never underestimate the mountain. And one major factor of the climb is the sheer altitude level of the mountain.

Training

To give you the best chance of ascending to the summit of Aconcagua, you need to have a good level of aerobic fitness and leg strength. The trek takes around 20 days and you will be walking for long hours uphill. Plus, the summit is extremely cold and takes a lot out of you. Setting up a training plan of at least 6 weeks prior to leaving is strongly recommended.

Cost and Permits

Visitors who climb Aconcagua need to obtain a climbing permit in Mendoza first. These vary in cost based on when you go and if you’re going to be climbing alone or with a guide. In the low season, the cost is around $345, while the peak season sees costs rise upwards of $1,180.