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.