Category: aconcagua climbing

What are the best routes to climb Aconcagua?

Posted on by Aconcagua

You are in the right place to know all the best routes to climb Aconcagua safely and easily. There are over thirty routes for climbing Aconcagua without many issues in reaching the peak. The most common route is the normal or north route for Aconcagua climb from the north starting from the provincial park. The best Aconcagua guided climb takes around 18 days to reach the peak, return to the base camp, and reach the magical Mendoza city. No technical expertise in mountaineering or equipment is needed for climbing Aconcagua through this route. The right opposite route is the Polish Glacier route which needs experience in climbing and equipment to go through this direct route through the glacier. Aconcagua 360 route is the intermediate route to have the best of both the normal and Polish Glacier route to enjoy the natural beauties like the five rivers and lavish landscape, and stunning views of Aconcagua.

So, check the three best routes to climb Aconcagua to choose the best as per your climbing experience and fitness levels to enjoy the natural beauty without any issues.

What is the Aconcagua normal route?

The most popular route for Aconcagua ascent is normal for most climbers to reach the peak safely and easily. It is also known as the northwest route to climb Aconcagua from the north to the west of the world’s second-highest of the seven summits. The 18-day Aconcagua expedition through the normal route starts from Mendoza city on the first day to reach around 2500 feet or 760 meters. The next three days will help to reach around 13,200 feet or 4,000 feet through Penitentes-Puente del Inca, Confluencia, and Plaza Francia. By day 10, you will reach 16,720 feet or 5,091 meters to cross Plaza De Mulas, Mt. Bonete Summit, and Camp 1 Canada. The next five days are challenging to reach the peak through Camp 2 Nido De Condores and Camp 3 Berlin-Colera. The next three days are to return to Mendoza city to complete the Aconcagua normal route to safely reach the summit.

What is the Polish Glacier route to climb Aconcagua?

The Polish Glacier route is the direct route to climb Aconcagua through the northeast face to be the most beautiful and toughest route. It is because of the huge Andean Glacier, like the Himalayan peaks. But the best Aconcagua guided climb with straightforward logistics and well-equipped camps makes climbing Aconcagua through this route safe.

What is the Aconcagua 360 route?

The name Aconcagua 360 route is because it is almost a complete loop around Aconcagua to have the best views of America. It surrounds the Polish Glacier 20% more than the normal route. It takes the Vacas Valley route to climb Aconcagua to reach the normal route around 1,000 meters before the summit. Hence, enjoying the spectacular views and nature of Aconcagua 360 is the best route.

The above facts about the Aconcagua routes will help you to choose the best among the to enjoy your adventurous vacation every foot with the help of the legally approved company offering the best Aconcagua guided climb.

How to climb Aconcagua easily and safely?

Posted on by Aconcagua

If you have doubts about how to climb Aconcagua easily and safely, it ends here. Aconcagua is, without a doubt, the best vacation destination for enjoying nature in an adventurous way. For seasoned to new climbers, it is a dream to become reality to reach Mount Aconcagua Peak, around 23,000 feet or 7,000-meter height above sea level. It gives a splendid 360-degree view of America above the Pacific Ocean, America’s highest mountain. And also, being one of the seven summits and the highest non-technical mountain worldwide; many like you want to know if it is safe and easy to climb.

So, check out how to climb Aconcagua easily and safely without having any issues with proper preparation for the best time of your life.

Why climb Aconcagua?

 Before knowing how to climb Aconcagua easily and safely, it is essential to know why to climb Aconcagua. The Himalayas is the highest mountain in the world but only higher by 6,000 feet or 1800 meters above Aconcagua. But reaching the many peaks in the Himalayas spread in many countries in Asia is far from America and Europe. Also, the Aconcagua climb could be the stepping stone to reaching the earth’s highest peaks in the Himalayas. Hence climbers with little or more or no experience must first climb Aconcagua to go up the Himalayas. Also, being the highest non-technical mountain, it is safe and easy on the normal route for new climbers but with proper preparation and fitness. So, it is important to climb Aconcagua to gain experience in climbing the Himalayas and enjoy nature at its best. And if new climbers do not have proper fitness or preparation or lack of time, they can go for Aconcagua treks. It is up to 16,000 feet or 4,000 meters to take only four to eight days to have the most adventurous and memorable time of your life.

 How to climb Aconcagua safely and easily?

Knowing why to climb Aconcagua, it is time to know how to climb Aconcagua easily and safely. Seasoned climbers with enough experience climbing mountains thousands of feet above sea level could go solo or with close friends. But for builders with little or no experience climbing mountains, having the best Aconcagua guided climb is the best way to do it safely and easily. It is because of their track record of having hundreds of successful expeditions and having the best guides with licenses and training from reputed organizations. Also, to have hundreds of porters, mules and take safety as the priority and provide the best customer support round the clock. And having excellent transport, lodging, camp, and other facilities for ensuring the safety of climbers does not have many issues.

Hence the best way to climb Aconcagua is to get the best Aconcagua guided climb from a legally authorized company with strong logistics at all camps with proper infrastructure and other facilities.

Also, it is the answer to knowing how to climb Aconcagua safely and easily with less or no issues but to enjoy nature at its best at every foot to reach the peak happily and safely.

 

 

 

A List Of Things You Should Take On An Aconcagua Hike

Posted on by Aconcagua

One of the main things that people dread after finalizing their Aconcagua climb is packing. It is one of the most vital parts of having an amazing experience because if you do not have the necessary items, you will be in trouble. This is the case since there are no shops, hospitals, restaurants, etc., on the hilly trails.

Although you may think it is a significantly hard process, you will be able to arrange your luggage quickly if you know what to take. In times like these, you can take the help of this blog to learn more about the numerous items you will need. Hence, let us now take a closer look at them for a better understanding:

  1. Cleaning Supplies

Since a hike is an experience where you will have to spend a lot of time outdoors, the first thing you should put in your luggage is a set of cleaning supplies. These are items that will help you stay fresh throughout your Aconcagua guided climb.

You should invest in travel-size packages of shampoos, body washes, toothpaste, etc. Not only that, but you must also bring detergent, sanitizers, hand wash, and other such things for a relaxing experience.

  1. Medical Kit

The second piece of necessity that you should focus on to improve the quality of your expedition is a medical kit. As you may already know, there are not any hospitals or emergency rooms on a climbing route.

Hence, you should be prepared at all times to take care of your medical problems when hiking. As a result, you must pack all types of pills, bandages, antiseptic lotions, etc., to attend to yourself and your fellow trekkers accordingly.

  1. Hiking Gear

Once you are done packing your medical kit, you should try to get your hands on some hiking gear. Although it is possible to hire these pieces of equipment from local trekking companies, their tools may not be top-notch.

As a result, it can be beneficial for you to invest in gear of your own. This way, you will also be able to acquire items that fit your necessities in the best possible ways. All this equipment will help you on your Aconcagua climb effortlessly.

  1. Trekking Boots

A hike is all about walking for several hours a day through rocky and challenging terrain. In situations like these, your feet will have to bear the most weight.

Hence, you should make sure they are comfortable and safe at all times. The best way you can achieve this target is by investing in a pair of reliable boots that can help you walk for numerous hours without any injuries or problems.

  1. Gloves

Believe it or not, most first-time trekkers make the mistake of not buying gloves before leaving for a hike. You should refrain from doing the same if you wish to protect your hands in the most relevant ways.

You should pack a comfortable pair of gloves with your luggage to take care of your palms. This item will help you avoid cuts, bruises, and other injuries without any difficulty on an Aconcagua guided climb.

Conclusion

No matter how many trips you have been on before, packing for a hike is completely different. As a result, it is normal for you to be confused and ask for tips. In circumstances like this, you can refer to the aforementioned list of gear for a thorough guide.

 

A Guide To Pick A Trustworthy Trekking Guide

Posted on by Aconcagua

One of the greatest pleasures of life is to go on trips once in a while and refresh yourself in a beautiful setting. There are numerous tourist destinations in the world that you may visit to have a gorgeous experience. However, if you are willing to break out of your comfort zone and choose an alternative option, you should opt for an Aconcagua guided climb as soon as possible.

It is a mountain range that you will find in the vibrant country of Argentina. This area can be visited by any of you throughout the year. Hence, you can choose your vacation timing according to your preferences and convenience.

However, if you wish to have a safe and enjoyable trip, you should hire a trekking guide to help you during your endeavors. There are a few factors you should consider when selecting the most relevant professional. Let us now take a look at them for a better understanding:

  1. Ensure Your Hiking Guide Is Passionate

The first characteristic that you should look for in your trekking tour professional is to ensure they are passionate about what they are doing. This aspect will allow you to improve the quality of your vacation by a wide margin. It can be quite easy for any individual to lose interest and feel defeated in the middle of a hike.

In times like these, your attendant should be able to motivate you and make you feel interested in completing your journey. As a result, it is quite necessary for you to speak to your chosen guide beforehand so that you can make sure you are in the right company.

  1. Pay Attention To The Staff Experience

The second quality that an efficient hiking guide should have is experience. An Aconcagua climb can be quite challenging because of its terrain and surroundings. In these situations, if you are visiting this area for the first time, it can be impossible for you to navigate the way.

Hence, you should try your best to choose somebody who has been in the tourism industry for a significant amount of time. This factor will allow you to ensure that you will be safe throughout the vacation while getting the best benefits without any further issues. Moreover, a seasoned professional will be able to attend to your requirements accordingly.

  1. The Professional Must Be Knowledgeable

Another characteristic that you should ensure your guiding professional must have is knowledge. You may think this aspect is irrelevant, but you are wrong. It is because it is quite normal for the attendant to tell you about the history, culture, and significance of the location you are visiting.

Argentina has a rich historical background that you will find interesting. Hence, you should keep in mind to opt for somebody who has lived in the area for a long time as they are more likely to have the most fascinating facts ready for you.

Conclusion

Are you thinking about taking a hiking vacation with your family in a few days? If your answer is yes, you do not have to worry too much since trekking guides are here to improve your success rate appropriately. This blog will make it convenient for you to select one out of the multiple professionals available in the tourism world these days.

A Guide To Climbing Aconcagua

Posted on by Aconcagua

Every individual on the planet is required to take a trip once in a while. It is a great way to unwind and connect with your loved ones in a beautiful setting. As a result, you should try your best to prepare for a trekking expedition once in a while to have a gorgeous experience.

A hike is a type of expedition where you will climb mountains and take a closer look at numerous sceneries without any difficulty. There are multiple mountain ranges in the world that you may visit if you wish to go on a vacation, such as learning how to climb Aconcagua. It is a mountain range in the country of Argentina that will allow you to have a great time accordingly.

However, after finalizing your trip, you should first figure out how to prepare for it to ensure your protection and comfort. There are a few tips you may utilize in these situations. Let us now take a look at them:

  1. Look For The Best Routes

The most relevant step to climbing Aconcagua on your next vacation is to look for the best routes in the area. It is a super important part of the preparation procedure because your experience will depend upon the type of trail you are opting for.

Hence, you should first conduct thorough research about the multiple hiking routes accessible, and choose one depending on your preferences, requirements, and health condition. Not only that, but you should also gain more information about the surroundings of the trail to make sure you can stay safe throughout the hike.

  1. Choose The Most Ideal Time

The second thing that you have to do to improve the quality of your climb Aconcagua plan is to choose the most ideal time. No matter how many preparation options you are paying attention to, if you do not select the best time of the year, it will be hard for you to have a great time.

Hence, you should look for this topic on a search engine and pick a season based on your convenience. However, it is necessary to keep in mind the best time for climbing Aconcagua is between November and March since this period has the optimal weather conditions.

  1. Train Yourself Accordingly

The next factor that you should be careful about if you want to have a great time on your Aconcagua expedition is to train yourself accordingly. Since hiking is a type of exercise that requires you to walk through challenging terrain for several hours a day, you will have to take care of your health and fitness beforehand.

It is best to hit the gym at least three times a day before leaving for your vacation. Not only that, but you can also enroll in a mountaineering class if you are thinking about gaining some additional experience for the best benefits.

  1. Learn About The Gear List

Another aspect that will allow you to have a successful and amazing Aconcagua tour is to learn more about the equipment you will require for a hike. It is a great way to ensure your safety and protection while going on a trekking expedition. In addition to that, you will also be able to purchase some gear of your own if you wish to continue hiking in the future.

Not only that, but you will also get to improve the quality of your conditions by a wide margin with the help of this factor. Hence, you should ask your trip organizer about the multiple tools you will need when on a hike for extra tips.

Conclusion

No matter who you are or how experienced you may be when it comes to hikes, every individual requires tips and suggestions. In times like these, you can take the help of this blog to boost your convenience as much as possible. You can also speak to your hiker acquaintance if you wish to have additional information.

A Few Suggestions For Picking A Hiking Route

Posted on by Aconcagua

No matter which country you want to visit or the mountain you wish to climb, if you do not pick the right hiking route, you won’t be able to have a great experience. Any individual who has never gone on Aconcagua treks before may find it challenging to make a choice. If you are one of them, you should refrain from giving up because when there is a will, there is a way.

There are a few suggestions that you can use to locate the most relevant trekking trail in the area with ease. Since the country of Argentina gets visitors throughout the year, selecting an appropriate path will also help you avoid unnecessary crowds. Let us now take a closer look at these tips for a better understanding:

  1. Gain More Information About The Terrain

The first piece of advice that you can utilize to choose the most efficient trail for your upcoming Aconcagua hike is to gain more information about the terrain. You should make sure you know everything about the trail so that you can find one that meets your preferences accordingly.

Moreover, since you will have to walk for numerous hours a day on a trek, make sure you can keep up with the changing terrain. This aspect will also enable you to pack and prepare for the journey in the best possible ways.

  1. Take A Look At The Statistics

Before you finalize your trip plans, you must try your best to take a look at the statistics of the location. This factor includes the elevation and distance to improve your overall quality of experience appropriately.

It is quite important for you to follow a route that is moderately high and long to make sure you can complete it without any difficulty. Different mountain ranges have separate paths, so you should learn about each of their statistics to get your hands on the best one.

  1. Consider The Required Time

Once you have assessed the statistics of Aconcagua treks, you should focus on considering the required time for finishing your adventure. It is a super necessary part of the selection procedure because you may only have a set number of days on your hands.

Hence, it is better for you to pick a route that you will be able to finish within your schedule. In this way, you will get the opportunity to enjoy yourself while avoiding the possibility of scheduling challenges accordingly.

  1. Check The Condition Of The Trail

Another element that you should take into consideration when deciding on an Aconcagua route is to check the condition of the trail. You must make sure the path is in an appropriate state for you to walk on it with your gear.

You should refrain from opting for routes that have been damaged in recent storms or landslides to remove the chances of accidents. You can also find out if the trail for your Aconcagua hike is marked with arrows and guides to help you find the right way if you are traveling alone.

Conclusion

When selecting a trekking trail for your trip, you must remember to be as careful as possible. It is because the beauty of a route can make or break your experience. Take the help of the above-mentioned suggestions for a smooth and easy path-selecting procedure.

Packing Tips and Techniques for Efficient Backpacking on Treks

Posted on by Aconcagua

A trekking trip is one of the most thrilling and exciting activities that you can ever opt for. This type of vacation will not only allow you to work on your physical well-being but will also make it convenient for you to enjoy the beauty of nature accordingly. There are various locations on the planet that you can visit for a hike, such as an Aconcagua climb.

It is a hilly area in the country of Argentina that you can visit throughout the year. However, before you plan your vacation and book your tickets, you should ensure you are ready for a trip as such. Since a hike requires you to be active most of the time, you will have to take a few measures to prepare yourself accordingly. Let us now take a detailed look at them:

  1. Try To Exercise Regularly

The first thing you can do to make yourself ready for a hiking expedition is to exercise regularly. You may think this aspect is silly, but you will be surprised to know how many people find it challenging to keep up without working out beforehand.

Try your best to take part in exercise routines at least three times a week to make your body used to rigorous activities when climbing Aconcagua. If you are not interested in exercising like usual, you may also opt for Zumba classes, Pilates, frequent walks, yoga, etc.

  1. Remember To Eat Appropriately

The second aspect that you can use to prepare yourself for your upcoming mountaineering vacation is to remember to eat appropriately. You should understand that if you do not fuel your body accordingly, it will fail to keep up with your activities on a trek.

The best thing you can do is eat small but frequent meals throughout the day to provide your immune system with all kinds of minerals easily. You must also remember to opt for snacks between meals to give your body the extra nutrients.

  1. Learn More About Your Trip Grade

The next thing you can do to get yourself ready for a hike is to learn more about your trip grade. This is a great way to ensure your safety and opt for routes that will be ideal for you.

If you are a hiking amateur, it is more likely that you won’t be able to complete an expedition with a high grade. As a result, you should avoid opting for one as such and instead pick one that will be perfect for your trip grade. The distance, timing, terrain, etc., are factors that are all part of your trip grade.

  1. Invest In Appropriate Footwear

Last but not least, you should remember to purchase appropriate and comfortable footwear when thinking about climbing Aconcagua. It is a super important part of the preparation process because you will be walking for several hours a day on a hiking vacation.

In times like these, you will have to ensure your feet are comfortable and protected at all times. There are multiple kinds of trekking boots accessible these days, and you may opt for any of them depending on your necessities, preferences, and budgetary limitations.

Conclusion

Preparing for a hiking tour for the first time can be significantly intimidating and challenging. It is because you will have to pay attention to various details and decisions. In circumstances like these, this blog will be able to ease your concerns by a wide margin.

Navigation Skills and Safety Protocols for Reliable Guiding

Posted on by Aconcagua

If you are one of the multiple people on the planet who enjoys going on tours and being in nature, we have the perfect job opportunity for you. Most of you may already know that a tour guide is the type of person who helps you during your vacation. These professionals help tourists navigate locations, visit unique areas, communicate with locals, etc., without any difficulty.

As a result, if you are looking for an appropriate career option to meet your necessities and preferences accordingly, you should opt to be a trekking tour guide immediately. Although there are various areas you can opt for, teaching people to learn how to climb Aconcagua will be your best choice. However, before you get into this industry, there are a few suggestions you can use to enhance your qualities. They are:

  1. Remember To Be Punctual

The first piece of advice that will be able to help you improve your qualities is to remember to be punctual. You must come up with an ideal schedule that matches your tourists, and try your best to adhere to it.

It is a necessary aspect because the daylight in the mountainous areas can go out quickly, so you have to complete your journey by then. Not only that, but when you visit your tourists earlier, you also get the chance to take care of their climbing Aconcagua necessities, doubts, and challenges in the best possible ways.

  1. Be An Interesting Storyteller

The second suggestion that you will be able to utilize to become a reliable hiking tour guide is to be an interesting storyteller. As you may already be aware, a hike is a type of vacation where you will be walking for several hours a day through serene regions.

It means that it can sometimes be super quiet and boring. In these situations, you should remember to speak to your guests and tell them all kinds of stories to keep them interested accordingly. This factor will also make it easy for you to bond with your tourists without any difficulty.

  1. Do Not Provide Unnecessary Information

The next thing you should remember if you wish to be a successful guide teaching people how to climb Aconcagua is to avoid providing unnecessary details. Although it is necessary to educate the trekkers in your care about the area they are visiting, its citizens, culture, etc., you must ensure they are relevant to the trip.

You must ensure you are steering clear of exaggerating in any way since it can make people bored. Additionally, only offering necessary details can also help you avoid the chances of misconceptions and issues thoroughly.

  1. Remember To Be Friendly And Approachable

Another piece of advice that you will be able to utilize if you wish to help tourists when climbing Aconcagua is to be friendly and approachable. It is a great way to improve your chances of creating a healthy bond with your team accordingly.

Not only that, but if you come off as somebody helpful and understanding, trekkers will find it easier to reach out to you for all kinds of purposes. Moreover, these qualities will also boost your popularity in the tourism industry by a wide margin.

Conclusion

Is this one of the first times you have thought about being a trekking tour guide? If your answer is yes, you may not be sure what to do or how to boost your qualities. In times like these, this blog will be able to make things better for you in the best possible ways.

The Social and Health Benefits of Trekking with a Company

Posted on by Aconcagua

Do you wish to have a great experience on your hiking trip involving Mount Aconcagua climbing but do not know how to ensure its success? If so, you have come to the right blog. Planning a trip can be a huge hassle because it includes multiple details, decisions, management, etc.

In times like these, you should remember to take the help of a trekking company to improve your convenience thoroughly. It is a type of organization that will guide you during your expedition and ensure you can have the best experience accordingly.

If you pick an appropriate hiking company, they will be able to provide you with multiple advantages without any difficulty. Let us now take a look at the several benefits of hiring a trekking organization:

  1. Make Your First Trek Memorable

Is this one of the first times you have debated going on an Aconcagua guided climb? If that is the case, it is quite normal for you to not know what to do or where to begin.

In these situations, a trusted hiking organization will be able to take care of your necessities in the best possible ways. Not only will these companies help you organize your schedule thoroughly, but they will also make it convenient for you to navigate the routes in the best possible ways.

  1. Enable You To Get Permits Easily

The second advantage that you will be able to get if you hire a trekking company for your upcoming vacation is that they will enable you to get permits easily. Since mountainous areas have several restrictions, you will need permission slips to visit them.

An efficient tourism firm has several connections that they can utilize to get their hands on the permits within a short time. As a result, if you wish to hike in locations with security measures, trekking agencies are your best option.

  1. Boost Your Security And Protection

The next benefit that you will be able to access if you hire an organization for your Mount Aconcagua climbing plan is that they will boost your security significantly. Since visiting an unfamiliar area can be significantly intimidating and worrisome, these firms can help you feel protected accordingly.

These agencies know the area and the type of people who live in it, so they will be able to guide you thoroughly. Not only that, but they will also help you be aware of possible dangers to safeguard your well-being in the best possible ways.

  1. Help You Learn More About The Location

Another advantage that you will get from hiring a trekking company is that they will make it easy for you to learn more about the location. Every destination has a history and story that makes it more interesting.

If you are somebody who enjoys these details, you will be able to gain more information about an Aconcagua guided climb when traveling under the guidance of a firm. They will provide you with multiple chances to understand the cultural significance of the area and its rich history without any difficulty.

Conclusion

If you are unaware of why you should hire a hike-guiding organization for your upcoming trip, you should take a look at the above-mentioned details thoroughly. These aspects will make it convenient for you to understand why people prefer trekking with the help of a reliable organization. You can also speak to your fellow hiking acquaintances to learn more about this topic.

Essential Items to Pack for a Successful Trek

Posted on by Aconcagua

A trekking trip is one of the most thrilling and exciting activities that you can ever opt for. This type of vacation will not only allow you to work on your physical well-being but will also make it convenient for you to enjoy the beauty of nature accordingly. There are various locations on the planet that you can visit for a hike, such as an Aconcagua climb.

It is a hilly area in the country of Argentina that you can visit throughout the year. However, before you plan your vacation and book your tickets, you should ensure you are ready for a trip as such. Since a hike requires you to be active most of the time, you will have to take a few measures to prepare yourself accordingly. Let us now take a detailed look at them:

  1. Try To Exercise Regularly

The first thing you can do to make yourself ready for a hiking expedition is to exercise regularly. You may think this aspect is silly, but you will be surprised to know how many people find it challenging to keep up without working out beforehand.

Try your best to take part in exercise routines at least three times a week to make your body used to rigorous activities when climbing Aconcagua. If you are not interested in exercising like usual, you may also opt for Zumba classes, Pilates, frequent walks, yoga, etc.

  1. Remember To Eat Appropriately

The second aspect that you can use to prepare yourself for your upcoming mountaineering vacation is to remember to eat appropriately. You should understand that if you do not fuel your body accordingly, it will fail to keep up with your activities on a trek.

The best thing you can do is eat small but frequent meals throughout the day to provide your immune system with all kinds of minerals easily. You must also remember to opt for snacks between meals to give your body the extra nutrients.

  1. Learn More About Your Trip Grade

The next thing you can do to get yourself ready for a hike is to learn more about your trip grade. This is a great way to ensure your safety and opt for routes that will be ideal for you.

If you are a hiking amateur, it is more likely that you won’t be able to complete an expedition with a high grade. As a result, you should avoid opting for one as such and instead pick one that will be perfect for your trip grade. The distance, timing, terrain, etc., are factors that are all part of your trip grade.

  1. Invest In Appropriate Footwear

Last but not least, you should remember to purchase appropriate and comfortable footwear when thinking about climbing Aconcagua. It is a super important part of the preparation process because you will be walking for several hours a day on a hiking vacation.

In times like these, you will have to ensure your feet are comfortable and protected at all times. There are multiple kinds of trekking boots accessible these days, and you may opt for any of them depending on your necessities, preferences, and budgetary limitations.

Conclusion

Preparing for a hiking tour for the first time can be significantly intimidating and challenging. It is because you will have to pay attention to various details and decisions. In circumstances like these, this blog will be able to ease your concerns by a wide margin.