Category: Sin categoría

The “Seven Summits” are a collection of the world’s seven highest mountains, including South America’s own Aconcagua. It’s also the most elevated trekking peak, though just because it’s called a “trekking peak” doesn’t make it any less of a challenge. This Aconcagua expedition is hard because of the high altitude and the fact that the weather is hard to predict.

Tough but not technically challenging under ideal conditions. Climbing is challenging under ideal conditions but nearly impossible under adverse ones. Because of this, we schedule a lot of downtime and extra days in case something goes wrong. It is the best way to get to the top of the mountain and see the amazing views of the Andes.

Here are a few interesting facts

• As the second-highest peak in the world after Mount Everest, Aconcagua is the highest point in both hemispheres.
• The seven summits include Aconcagua, the highest mountain on every continent. Of the seven, it is second only to Mount Everest in Asia in terms of altitude.
• Adrienne Bance, a Frenchwoman, became the first female to summit the mountain on March 7, 1940.
• An early attempt at climbing Aconcagua was made in 1833 by German explorer Paul Gussfeldt, who got within 500 meters of the peak.
• Aconcagua’s distance from the equator contributes to the mountain’s already notoriously fickle climate. Increasing distance from the equator reduces the density of the atmosphere. Because of this, the effects of altitude and the weather are amplified.
• Swiss mountaineer Matthias Zurbriggen achieved this feat first. He accomplished this Aconcagua guided climb all on his own in 1897.
• About 160 kilometers separate Mount Aconcagua from the Pacific. On sunny days, there are clear views of the Pacific Ocean from the peak.

 Geographical Information

You may have become interested in this mountain because of the exciting stories and background you’ve heard about it. Let’s learn more about its location, like how high Aconcagua is.

• Mountain ranges are divided into seven continents with the seven highest peaks.
• It’s the second-most remote mountain on the planet.
• Aconcagua’s treks are so far from the equator that its weather is infamously fickle. Moving away from the equator reduces the atmosphere’s density, which causes deteriorating weather conditions. The weather in Aconcagua is very hard to predict, and the altitude has profound effects.

 Life in Aconcagua

If you’ve read up on Aconcagua’s background and geography, you might be curious about the variety of flora and fauna found there. Aconcagua Mountain is a stunning example of Mother Nature, so let’s discuss it.

• The average time to reach the summit is 21 days.
• Open pastures are made up of grasses like ichu and huecu, and there are many low bushes, such as yellow firewood, goat horn, and yareta.
• Purple eagles, condors, and a snipe species called agachonas are just a few of the birds that call this area home.
• Spotted sandpipers and torrents, a duck species, can be found in limited wetland areas. Typical mammals such as raccoons, skunks, and foxes are also present.

Aconcagua, the highest peak in South America, is also one of the world’s most climbed peaks because of its low entry barrier. High winds and freezing temperatures make it hard to get used to the high altitude, which makes the climb dangerous. Because of this, you should schedule your journey for the best possible conditions. If you’re interested in taking on the challenge but aren’t sure when to climb, the Aconcagua Mountain guide will fill you in.

Determining the best time to climb requires balancing favorable weather, available gear at a reasonable cost, and a lack of other climbers.

Climbing Aconcagua is best between November and March. However, due to the difficulty in accurately predicting the weather in Aconcagua, reaching the peak can sometimes be impossible.

The exact seasonal durations are as follows:

1. In the off-season, you can visit between the dates of November 15 and November 13 and between February 21 and March 15.
2. For the middle of the season, consider the dates of December 1st–14th and February 1st–20th.
3. Peak travel times are from December 15 to January 31.

●        Climbing December and January

Many people will tell you that the best time to go hiking is between the middle of December and the middle of January, but this is not true. More people are on the mountain than usual, which increases the risk of an accident. It is at this time that many people go to the hill to make the most of their vacation time. Because of this, December and January are two of the best times to try to climb Aconcagua. It would help if you went up when there were fewer people there.

●        Climbing Aconcagua in February

There have been years when it has been impossible to reach the peak between December and January on specific excursions. I’ve spent a few Februarys up there, standing at the height in liner gloves and fleece. On February 28 this year, one of our expeditions made it to the peak. Up top was a balmy 37 degrees Fahrenheit (3 degrees Celsius) with no wind.

●        When is Aconcagua less crowded?

Giving some thought to the month you choose to embark on your Aconcagua expedition is essential. It would help if you thought about how many people will be on the mountain and how much the permit will cost. Between December and January, the mountain sees the most significant influx of climbers. Most mountaineers will follow the classic route from Plaza de Mulas Base Camp. Avoid traveling between the middle of December and the middle of January if you’d instead not climb in a crowd of other people.

Conclusion

It would be best if you climbed Aconcagua between November and February for the best weather. On February 28, visitors can enter Aconcagua Provincial Park on the last day of the month. Around Earth’s Edge, our expeditions tend to start in the new year.

For example, daytime highs could reach 30 degrees Fahrenheit, while overnight lows could dip to minus 30. Prepare for wind chill or a change in the weather that could bring cooler temperatures. Days are typically warm, while nights are chilly.

The Aconcagua treks are divided into two distinct seasons. Seasons are defined by a change in the length of daylight; summer begins in October and ends in March, while winter begins in April.

Peak season occurs during the warmer months since the top sections of Aconcagua remain exceedingly cold even in the summer due to its high height. Even though the summer is the wet season, you shouldn’t expect more than five or six days of rain a month, even in the wettest period. The air on the mountain is dry and dusty quite regularly. Most people’s schedules also peak at this time of year.

LIST

·         Trekking Backpack

Use this on your way to Base Camp of Aconcagua. You’ll need to swap to your Aconcagua Expedition pack once you leave Base Camp and make your way higher up the mountain. We’ll transfer your daypack to your duffel and take you to Base Camp on the other side of the hill.

·         Sleeping Bag

A high-quality, all-season down sleeping bag is what you need. It’s recommended that this has a temperature rating of at least -22°C/-10F and contains at least 800g of 800 Fill Power Down. Consider using a quality compression sack to store your belongings.

·         Wool or Synthetic Socks

Bring three pairs of socks, at least one of which should be thick enough to use when trekking. If you plan on wearing liner socks, these will need to fit over them.

·         Trekking Poles

Helpful in minimizing the impact on your muscles and joints while walking on flat surfaces. We advise using flick lock poles instead of twist lock ones.

·         Double Boots

The mountaineering needs a pair of double boots. Even while plastic-shelled boots will do the trick, the more recent alternatives are far superior in comfort. Any form of single boots (boots without a replaceable liner) won’t cut it. It is unnecessary to wear separate gaiters if you are wearing boots that already have one built in.

·         Gloves – General/ Trekking

Liner gloves are worn under mitts or thick gloves so that the wearer’s hands are never exposed. Ensure that you can wear your liners easily under your mitts and gloves. Please ensure that this configuration has been thoroughly tested.

·         Pee Bottle

A Wide-necked one-liter Nalgene bottle designed with the male form in mind. Women should use a plastic jug or Tupperware container for measurement.

You should wrap duct tape around the bottle several times. Handle, heat, and the ability to tell your bottles apart in the dark. Running repairs are another viable application for duct tape.

·         Toilet Roll/ Tissues

Carry a single roll in your daypack when you need it. Even mini packs of tissues can come in handy. Each day’s main event includes toilet paper, provided on the trek and back at base camp.

·         Thermos

A vacuum-sealed stainless steel thermos with a matching thermal cup lid keeps it in heat or cold. If you prefer hot water to help you stay hydrated on those chilly mountain days, we advise you to bring a thermos.

·         Hard Shell Jacket

You should bring a hard shell jacket that is water and wind resistant in addition to your fleece or hoody. The jacket must be lightweight, compressible, and long-lasting. This coat you’ll need if you’re hiking in the wind and rain.

There is no peak higher than Aconcagua outside Asia, the highest peak in the Western and Southern hemispheres. More than that, it’s one of the “Seven Summits.” On top of all that, it’s one of the most breathtaking landscapes on the planet.

Before Climbing Aconcagua

If you’ve done past high-altitude hikes, you should have a good idea of the training you’ll need to make the ascent to Aconcagua’s hike. However, if you’re new to this, we recommend aiming slightly lower; Aconcagua is a bit too challenging for novices.

Is Aconcagua hard to climb?

• We mentioned before that this is the world’s tallest peak outside of Asia, right? Yes. You have to put forth some effort to reach those heights! In total, our Aconcagua expedition lasted 21 days, with 16 of those spent on foot. We’ll be able to acclimate to the high altitude if we stick to this plan. That gives us some flexibility about the summit day if the weather is bad. Because of this, they believed the summit would go off without a hitch.
• Moving about at high and extreme altitudes on the Aconcagua hike is relatively simple. Above Plaza Argentina Base Camp, the low oxygen levels and heavy loads make things very hard. The standard path is unquestionably less challenging than the alternate route across Vacas Valley. If you’re an experienced climber and want to avoid crowds, the Vacas valley route is possible and well worth it. The Vacas path is the most exciting and rewarding way to reach the summit of Aconcagua.
• First, the excessive altitude is 5,500 m (18,044 ft is life-threatening and requires experience and conditioning). Aconcagua’s trek success rate is 30%. Yes, weather prevents many from reaching the summit. Lack of acclimatization, physical preparedness, and extra days are also factors.

How fit do you have to be to climb Aconcagua?

We give each of our Aconcagua treks a level of difficulty so that you can know what to expect. Level 8 peaks like Aconcagua are among our strictest. Six to eight hours daily, at elevations typically not higher than 7,000 meters. If you want to complete an Aconcagua hike, you should plan on spending at least one very lengthy and challenging day doing so.

You need to tolerate the rigors of the mountains day after day. We might have to change our plans if the forecast calls for bad weather. You should be able to walk for 8 hours straight while carrying a 20-kilogram backpack.

Is it a technical climb?

It is not necessary to have any specific mountaineering expertise to summit Aconcagua. However, it’s not a manageable mountain to conquer. You’ll need to acclimate to the area’s fierce winds and freezing temperatures.

The Aconcagua trek requires an ice axe and plastic boots, and there are a few technical challenges on the way up. In this case, any prior exposure is highly desirable.

Conclusion

Now you get the gist of it. How challenging is it to summit Aconcagua? The answer is yes, but it is not impossible. Perhaps not as a first high-altitude trip, but if you have some experience under your belt, are physically fit, and appreciate a solid challenge, you’re on our wavelength. You’ll be in for tough slogs, frigid nights, and jaw-dropping views. Preparing to climb the highest peak outside of Asia will be one of the most exciting, exhilarating, and memorable events of your life.

“The Sentinel of Stone,” Aconcagua, towers higher than any mountain range except the Himalayas. It is South America’s tallest peak and one of the Seven Summits, and it can be found in the western part of Argentina, right in the middle of the Central Andes.

In order of increasing difficulty, some paths lead up to the peak. Tour groups typically choose one of two simple paths for their Aconcagua expeditions.

·         Normal route

During the busy season, the normal way is rarely affected by ice. From Plaza de Mulas, climbers take a path that crosses Nido de Cóndores and Camp Berlin before facing the difficult Canaleta scree (33° slope, 400 m long) to reach the saddle between the northern and southern peaks. To reach the peak, climbers typically set up two or three high-altitude camps. From the starting point, one can see much of the path leading to the saddle.

·         False Polish route

1. The Plaza Argentina camp on the mountain’s eastern flank is the starting point for the FalsePolish route up the peak. It takes three days to get from Punta de Vacas to Plaza Argentina via the Rio de las Vacas valley due to the city’s high altitude (4,200 meters). The glacier climb of the Polish route is avoided by taking the fake Polish way, which connects to the polar course at an altitude of 6,200 meters. The standard method of descending, the so-called Polish traverse, is doable.
2. In 1935, a Polish team was the first to summit using the Polish route successfully. It follows the mountain’s eastern flank, which features a wall 800 meters high, slopes as steep as 55 degrees, and glacial climbing, and is considered the second most challenging way to reach the peak.

·         Pared Sur

The Pared Sur climbs the mountain’s southern face. At an altitude of 3050 meters, on the mountain’s least sunny side, the north face in the Northern Hemisphere, you can find ice and broken rocks in the Southern Hemisphere. One of the world’s most challenging climbs, it was first accomplished by a French team in 1954 after eight days of effort. You’ll also need extra paperwork to get permission to climb this route.

Camps On Mount Aconcagua

Vacas Valley route camps

• Base Camp at Plaza Argentina

The Plaza Argentina base camp is a safe and comfortable place to stay. There are communal eating shelters, medical clinics where visitors must get their permits stamped to prove they are physically ready to continue climbing, and a thriving social scene.

• Camp 1

You may find plenty of tent sites in Camp 1, which is spread over a vast, frequently snowy area. It is a clear path with potentially heavy winds. A water source is available.

• Camp 2

Camp 2, called Guanacos Camp, is on the other side of the Ameghino Col at an altitude of 5,400 meters. It has running water, and other teams are setting up camp nearby to help.

• Colera Camp

The highest point, at 5970m, is reached from Colera Camp. However, some Aconcagua expeditions also try to climb from Guanacos Camp, depending on the weather and the group’s strength.

Horcones Route camps

• Base camp at Plaza del Mulas

At the height of the season, Plaza del Mulas (4600m) transforms into a vast tent city with all kinds of amenities like bars, showers, and souvenir shops.

• Canada Camp

Located at 5,000 meters, Canada Camp is a rocky outcrop offering a panoramic view of the entire valley.

• Nido de Condores

There is a park ranger service and ice pools you can break for water at Nido de Condores, located at an altitude of 5,500 meters.

Aconcagua is situated in the province of Mendoza, Argentina, and belongs to Aconcagua Provincial Park. The Park protects the ecosystem of this mountain. Aconcagua is home to many different types of species of plants and animals. Most people plan to visit Argentina to see those animals.

If you are wondering what type of mammal you can see when you climb Aconcagua Treks, this blog contains all the information on wildlife on Aconcagua.

Plants and Surroundings

Aconcagua is filled with colorful rocks, white snow, and short plants. This mountain used to be an active stratovolcano. The rocks on Acocagua’s flanks consist of lavas and are all volcanic. This mountain has low biodiversity among the plants because of its rocky land covered in snow. However, you can find some interesting plants and low trees.

The lower area of the park consists of these trees, including Yareta, yellow leña, and goat horn. You can also find plants adapting to poor soils, wind storms, and low temperatures. This mountain is also rich in many minerals, as you can find colorful blueish, greenish, and gray rocks, which consist of limestone, carbonates, and turbidites.

Birds

The most common types of birds you can find near this mountain are cherry, charadriidae, and torrent ducks. Cherries are small passerine birds; they make domed nests out of lichens, moss, and root fiber. Torrente is a long-bodied duck, but they are members of the goose, duck, and swan family, Anatidae. These birds usually fly around the lower area of the mountain. You can ask your guide about the best location to see these birds.

Eagles and condors are also found near Aconcagua. Both are dangerous since an eagle is a predator while a condor is a scavenger. The condor has a maximum wingspan of 10 feet, which is more than an eagle. It is also bigger and heavier than an eagle. It would be best if you did not approach these birds when you are alone.

Animals

This mountain is home to many exciting animals, such as the red fox and mountain mice. You can also find a group of frog species. The large herd of llamas is also visible on this mountain. However, you should stay away from them because the pumas follow them.

Most animals are adapted to the cold weather of Aconcagua. Many animals possess soft and thick fur, which keeps them warm. However, some species move to lower mountain areas when the weather becomes too cold.

It is common to see a European hare in the mountain region. The mice stay in their caves during winter. You should protect your tent and luggage from mice.

Wrapping Up

It is unsafe to approach any wild animal you find on the mountain without your guide’s permission. Most animals live in the low area of the mountain away from the main Route. With Aconcagua Guided Climb, you can experience the best trip and get a chance to see these interesting animals.

During the Trekking to Plaza Francia, I took real magnitude of what was Mount Aconcagua. Unfortunately, I began to feel some headaches. I confess that I was a little scared because I thought the worst; (I remember thinking that time; I should not climb Aconcagua; I should have just done the Aconcagua trek).

Imagine that feeling headaches at the junction is like your car breaking 10 kilometers after leaving home. I immediately discussed it with the guide, and he advised me to coordinate my breathing better and think about the day without going beyond where we were at that Aconcagua Guided Climb

moment. I admit it was a bit difficult at first, but then it worked perfectly. My acclimatization gradually improved, and looking back, I think the guide’s words and advice were a hinge on my Aconcagua climb so that I could continue. When we started the trip from Confluencia to Aconcagua Hike

Do you put in excessive hours at work or lack the time to take breaks? If your answer is yes, you should learn more about how crucial it is to take a holiday once in a while. There are several reasons why you should take an Aconcagua Guided Climb, but the main one is that it can raise your level of happiness by a wide margin. As a result, you should try your best to take at least one vacation per year.

This aspect will benefit you in more ways than you think. Even if you are unable to find a companion, look into traveling groups or take a solo trip. This global exploration will help you change your views and ethics without difficulty. Let us now take a look at the multiple positive effects of trekking in detail:

• Traveling Can Make You Happy

You may opt to travel for different reasons, one of which is that it can make you happier within a short period. Almost every individual on the planet nowadays is working constantly, or they are coping with various issues that make it challenging for them to live freely. In situations like these, if you climb Aconcagua, it will enable you to unwind and relax rapidly and effectively.

This element will assist you in reducing your concerns and unfavorable thoughts. In addition to that, going on a hike will give you time to reflect on your future and what you can do to achieve your goals. As a result, trekking can make it efficient for you to be optimistic.

• Traveling Introduces You To New Things And Opportunities

Trekking can open your mind to new thoughts and present you with different kinds of opportunities, which is another reason why you should do it frequently. You have the chance to get exposed to multiple things when you meet new people and travel to different areas. You will notice a significant improvement in your view of life because of this element.

Not only that, but it will also make it clear to you what matters and what does not. Going on an Aconcagua Guided Climb will make it convenient for you to experience new things efficiently by forcing you to step outside of your comfort zone. As a result, this component will make it comfortable for you to quickly and effortlessly enhance yourself and your life.

• Traveling Can Improve Your Health

Are you somebody who has been sick for a while, either physically or mentally? If your answer is yes, you should book a trip immediately to increase your happiness and positivity. You can efficiently boost your health by traveling to new locations, meeting other people, trying different things, etc. As a result, you should begin planning your trip as soon as possible.

• Traveling Can Improve Your Creativity

You should climb Aconcagua immediately if you are having trouble coming up with fresh ideas for your book, art, job, etc. It is because trekking significantly improves your integrity, depth, flexibility, and perception. You may get multiple beneficial ideas while on a vacation.

Conclusion

You may not understand why you should go on treks if you have never been on one before. In situations like these, you may take the help of this blog to learn more about the advantages of a vacation. You should thoroughly read this blog to get more information on this aspect.

If you have ever considered climbing the Aconcagua Ascents, you should proceed with caution and educate yourself thoroughly on the multiple items you may need to bring. It is an essential part of the vacation because it will assist you in ensuring you are secure and at ease while trekking. Not only that, but this aspect will also make it convenient for you to safeguard the people who are traveling with you.

If you have never hiked before, it will be efficient for you to establish a concept if you speak to other trekkers or join one of the hiking groups. Nowadays there are different types of trekking gear available, and you can select any of them based on your tastes, needs, and budgetary limitations. Let us now take a closer look at a few necessary equipments you will need on a hiking trip:

• Hiking Shoes

A pair of reliable trekking shoes is one of the first items you should pack for an Aconcagua hike. When buying, you should pay close attention and ensure the boots have spikes so you can walk on any surface without any difficulty. These days, businesses of different sizes sell these shoes, and you may pick any of them after careful consideration.

• Medical Kits

One of the most crucial items you should carry in your luggage when going on a hiking trip is a medical kit. To make it efficient for you to take care of yourself and the ones around you, keep different types of medications available for any kind of illness that may affect you. You may also take vitamin supplements to provide you with a necessary boost during your trekking activities.

• Dry Foods

Another thing you should try to always have with you is dry food. They are a vital component of your Aconcagua Ascenso journey because they will provide you with the energy you need to hike. To gain the best benefits while minimizing hazards by a wide margin, you should consume foods that are high in vitamins, minerals, and carbohydrates.

• Water Containers

To avoid dehydration while walking for several hours, you should keep in mind that you need to get multiple water containers beforehand. Lightweight and portable water bottles are your best choice because they make it convenient for you to carry them wherever you go. You may purchase plastic bottles to reduce breakage by a wide margin.

• Additional Clothes

Another item you should pay close attention to is extra clothing. Regardless of what you may believe, you will need them significantly. You never know when you may require dry garments to keep yourself safe and healthy during an Aconcagua hike. Additionally, it never hurts to be prepared beforehand. As a result, you should take as many clothes as possible to beat the volatile weather.

• Waterproof Pouches

Last but not least, waterproof pouches are yet another pieces of equipment that may help you effortlessly and effectively protect your items and documents. You won’t have to worry about them getting wet or damaged while carrying any type of thing in them. You can purchase any of the many kinds of pouches that are offered today.

Conclusion

If you pay attention to the items mentioned above, you will be able to understand why they are crucial for your trekking plans. These goods will make everything comfortable for you by a wide margin. You will get more information on them from this blog.

Do you intend to climb Aconcagua soon? If your answer is yes, you need to understand how cautious and well-prepared you need to be if you want to have the best experience while reducing risks by a wide margin. It is common for you to be unaware of several essential facts if this is your first journey. You should consult an individual who has taken multiple trips in the past in situations like these.

On the other hand, there are a few things you need to be aware of beforehand to protect your safety and security. As a result, we will discuss a few recommendations in this blog that will make it convenient for you to enjoy your trip. Without further ado, let us get into it:

• Learn About Altitude Sickness

Before considering hiking the Aconcagua Ascents, you must learn about altitude sickness. Because it is one of the highest peaks on the planet, you need to be as careful about your health as possible.

You may find it quite challenging to enjoy your trip if you have altitude sickness. As a result, you should first check with your general physician to ensure you are healthy enough to travel. Not just that, but if you want to stay fit, you should also give your body adequate time to adapt to the surroundings. This aspect will make it convenient for you to have fun.

• Carry Adequate Medications

The medication collection is the second aspect that requires close attention if you want to climb Aconcagua safely and securely. You should keep in mind that there are no pharmacies from where you may buy pills while on the trekking route. As a result, you should prepare yourself beforehand to make it convenient to address any circumstances that may come along.

You should schedule a visit with your doctor and update your dosage before the trip to get the best results. Not only that, but you should also pack additional prescriptions for different issues to ensure you can recuperate rapidly and keep enjoying your hike.

• Give Your Body Time To Adjust

Giving your body enough time to acclimate is another recommendation that will help you have the best experience while climbing the Aconcagua Ascension.

You should try not to push yourself too hard in the early stages of the trip because the weather and oxygen levels are quite different in mountainous regions. You can effectively conserve energy and maintain your health throughout the trek with the help of this factor. Keep in mind to walk comfortably and take frequent breaks to ensure your safety and security.

• Buy Proper Equipment

Before embarking on your journey, do not forget to get the necessary gear if you want to have a fun and safe trip. To ensure that you will be comfortable when walking for several hours a day, you should buy products that are lightweight and long-lasting. Furthermore, reliable gear will make it efficient to be secure and protected in any weather.

Conclusion

Every individual who has been on a trek previously will be able to tell you that it is a life-changing experience. However, if you do not follow the appropriate measures, you may find yourself in several changing circumstances. In times like these, you may take the help of this blog to get the necessary tips.