Tag: Aconcagua Argentina

Aconcagua Climbing – Statistical data on Aconcagua

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“And yet, while I was looking at her, the mountain took on another aspect, softening its fierce lines. There seemed to be something magical in that majestic presence. I was almost seduced by her. I was aware that not only a climber is fascinated, that anyone who get close enough to the mountain will continue, despite all obstacles, in pursuit of the holiest and highest place in the West”

It dawned with 30 centimeters of snow around the tents and luckily . The landscape is impressive, it is very difficult to express in words what I feel in this place and at this moment, I hope that photos help. Climbing Aconcagua

As the movements cost, putting on the double boots takes fifteen minutes, with several pauses due to the agitation, removing snow from the roof of the tent, or removing the stones from the base generates a great shortness of breath accompanied by tachycardia.

It’s sunny so we take out everything wet to dry, we melt snow to make water, calculating three liters for each.

We were able to communicate with the Directorate of Parks, who informed us that today the snowstorm is over, therefore tomorrow we would leave for Berlin. Plans are to camp there and attempt the summit on Friday.

It’s 3 pm, it started to snow again, before we had a brief snowball fight, without a doubt the spirit is still high. Today there were moments of radiant sunshine and others cloudy with snowfall. In the afternoon we slept two hours of siesta, from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., we read and talked about politics and ethics (compatible?) Aconcagua Argentina

Tonight we will have four cheese noodles for dinner in our tent, I don’t know what the others will eat, because in each tent the menu is decided according to tastes and provisions. Tomorrow around noon, weather permitting, we’re going to Berlin.

Leandro and Gladys will not be in the game, they are physically and mentally ill. I feel very well physically, I perfectly resist the great efforts to which we are subjected, not only because of the slopes, but also because of the great height, with its corresponding lack of oxygen, pressure and humidity. Mount Aconcagua

It is the third time that I am above 5500mts, the others were my attempts at Cerro El Plata (6000mts), the first time I did not reach the summit due to lack of training, but I exceeded 5500 (being 300mts from achieving the summit), and the second by a wind and snow storm at the summit. That beautiful mountain that I see every day from my house, is in debt to me, perhaps he will be able to climb it next year, Fernando says that he reached the summit of Plata on the fourth attempt.

Aconcagua Climbing – Ancient history on the Aconcagua hill

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The Deed of Saint Martin

The epic of the Army of the Andes was unique due to its logistical and human aspects, comparable to those of the Carthaginian Hannibal or Napoleon, who crossed the Alps (through lower passes and with a more benign climate).

A part of the Army, commanded by General Gregorio de Las Heras, crossed through Uspallata, at almost 3,000 meters, with their belongings, weapons, ammunition and pack animals. Arriving in Chile, they defeated the Royalists in Chacabuco. Sealing the independence of the Southern Cone.

Tourism in Mount Aconcagua Park

There are two levels of tourism in Aconcagua Park, the “conventional” and the “athletic” (trekking and mountaineering). Let’s look at the options for each category:

Conventional Tourism Aconcagua Argentina

The Valle de los Horcones sector has the necessary infrastructure to receive visitors and is the most used for leisure, recreation and observation within the Park.

It is located on the valley of the same name, north of National Route 7, up to the confluence of the El Durazno stream and the Horcones river. It has interpretive trails, panoramic views (with signposts). It is the ideal circuit to photograph the park and observe its flora and fauna.

Guidelines to keep in mind:

Only circulate by car in the enabled accesses and only to the parking lot.

Bicycle: use the marked paths and up to the Quebrada del Durazno.

Camping for climbers who enter or leave the Park: maximum 24 hours.

Picnic only in the vicinity of the parking lot or where the Park Ranger designates.

The right to enter the park is charged at its access on National Route No. 7. In the place there are bathrooms and a small, short and very simple circuit with views of Aconcagua.

Andinism and Trekking

See the Official Website of the park.

They move in the area designated for such sports activities, that of Cerro Aconcagua. Area where camping, recreation and sports are held. The “approach camp” is allowed for those who trek and/or climb the approach routes of the Quebradas de Horcones and the Vacas River. The “Base Camps” and “high camps” are the ones made by climbers on their climbs. In general, the followers of trekking do not go beyond the Mirador del Paredón Sur. There is a one day trek, between 1/Nov and 30/Apr. It does not allow camping and is suitable for people over 13 years of age. The current cost for Argentines (2019-2020) is $400 and for foreigners $1,500.

Lagoon Circuit

It is short and costs $150 for Argentines and $300 for foreigners.

It is a self-guided trail, 1 hour long, of an easy level that can be done throughout the year. Even for children under 13 years old. Bring a coat, suitable sports shoes, a hat, sunscreen and a snack. There are no services in the circuit.

Aconcagua Climbing – Do not forget to drink a lot of water to hydrate yourself

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In Plaza de Mulas I took a Reliveran and hydrated with a lot of liquids, at night I was fine. We ate polenta, (last night capelets prevailed) and natural peaches. I went to bed early, I read a little and fell asleep, I forgot to mention that I dropped my reading glasses and they broke, luckily I was able to fix them, only those who know me and know what reading means in my life, can measure this fact. Mount Aconcagua

Sunday 08 / 02 / 04

“You are a creature of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars, you have a right to be here, and whether it is evident to you or not, the universe is certainly unfolding as it should. So be at peace with God, in any case.” However you conceive it. Whatever your job and aspirations, in the noisy confusion keep peace with your soul. With all its farces, jobs and broken dreams, this is still a beautiful world. Be careful and strive to be happy.”

I was able to take a bath!! I shaved, spectacular!! Here this that seems so simple is quite a procedure, the bathroom is a very elementary place made of wood, with a plastic bag of 15 liters of warm water, with a small adjustable flower, therefore one gets wet, then soaps up and finally it is rinsed, regulating the water so that it reaches, everything is very primitive, but it has the virtue that you learn to value the simple and important things of common life such as a good shower, a good bath, a comfortable chair, a soft bed, I don’t miss television, we never really got along very well.

I feel good physically and mentally. I went to the doctor, oxygen saturation is up to 85% and heart rate is 90 beats per minute. I am satisfied with myself, I am 54 years old, and 90% of the people my age do not go beyond Cerro de la Gloria, and I am a native of Buenos Aires, I am going to make the necessary effort to climb Aconcagua, why is it that I like them so much the challenges, trying to improve myself day by day, constantly competing with myself… Climbing Aconcagua

Plaza de Mulas is like a small town, everyone walks slowly and carries bottles of water in their hands to hydrate themselves, apparently good hydration prevents altitude symptoms, it looks like a slow motion movie. There are around 150 tents and several languages ​​are spoken.

I have decided to pay homage to Miguel de Cervantes, since next year will be the , Aconcagua Argentina

fundamental book of universal literature and very dear to me, a photo at the summit with him would be original. Also a photo with the flag of the SATI (Argentine Society of Intensive Therapy) and that of the Municipality of Capital and Cimesa that supported us financially, a special memory for my friend Lili Vietti.

Aconcagua Climbing – A dream climb

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High mountain excursion through the Andes: visit to Uspallata, Puente del Inca and Cristo Redentor. It does not enter the Provincial Park, only Aconcagua Argentina can be seen from the outside.

Excursion to the Aconcagua Provincial Park: walk to the Laguna de Horcones within the Provincial Park. Low difficulty.

Trekking to Confluencia base camp: trek from the entrance of the Aconcagua Provincial Park to Confluencia, the first base camp. Medium difficulty.

How to get to Aconcagua from Santiago de Chile

If you live or are going to travel alone to Santiago de Chile and want to take an excursion to Aconcagua, you basically have two options: travel by car or join a full-day tour from the capital. In any case,remember that you have to cross the border with Argentina, both on the way out and on the way back, which can make you lose several hours. Argentina

If you dare to travel by car, you have to follow Route 57, which in Los Andes becomes Route 60. Once in Argentina, the road becomes Route 7 and you will only have a few kilometers left until the entrance of the Provincial Park. Aconcagua.

In case you do not have a car, I am sorry to tell you that it is not possible to go by public transport. You would have to go to Mendoza first, which is not feasible for one day. Therefore, the alternative is to take a full-day guided tour from Santiago de Chile. This tour will allow you to make a small trail inside the Provincial Park and get to know other places along the way. You can reserve it here.

What to see on Mount Aconcagua

When planning your visit to Aconcagua there are several places that you should be clear about. You should spend more or less time exploring the Provincial Park.

The main access is on Route 7 and is the Horcones Visitor Center. The main hiking trails start from there. Although there are other accessible places in the park, I am going to focus on the part that I know and that is the one that most people visit.

Horcones Lagoon

The route that most visitors to the Aconcagua Provincial Park follow is the one that takes you to Laguna de Horcones. It is a very simple route that will take you between 1 and 2 hours round trip, depending on how much you spend taking photos. In addition to seeing this small lagoon, there is a viewpoint to Cerro Aconcagua (the typical image of the park).

Aconcagua Argentina – Information needed to climb

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Personnel from the Mountain Rescue and Assistance Patrol Unit are already working in the recently inaugurated season of the Aconcagua Provincial Park.

As every year with the start of the 2019-2020 trekking season (and in December of ascent), the Plaza de Mulas Police Detachment at 4,370 meters above sea level and the Nido de Cóndores advance camp, at 5,535, are already operational.

For the installation and transfers, the personnel of the Police Aviation Corps collaborated, who on board the B3 helicopter were in charge of the task of transporting personnel, food, supplies and rescue equipment to face the season.

Aconcagua Argentina

The Rescue Patrol has 27 troops who work in two shifts of 15 for 15 days, operating along the normal route from Horcones to the summit. The team’s physical seat is at the Plaza de Mulas base camp, at 4,300 meters.

At the high altitude camp of Nido de Cóndores, at 5,300 meters, there is a permanent guard that will remain until the last climber leaves the Park at the end of the season.

Among the activities they carry out, it is noteworthy that of raising awareness among mountaineers, informing them about care and eventualities during the ascent. Of course that includes the protection of the environment in order to preserve hygiene in the Park.

Mount Aconcagua

Among the measures they recommend, it is worth noting to avoid going alone to the mountain, and prior to the excursion, notify the family of the return time, itinerary, alternatives and companions.

In addition, before embarking on the journey, it is necessary to find out about the weather and the evolution of the weather in the coming days.

Also have appropriate clothing, enough water, mobile phone or similar to give notice in case of emergency, flashlight, matches, lighter, penknife, coat, food, etc. Keep calm and help if there is an injured person

Immediately notify the nearest shelter

Avoid leaving the injured person alone. If there is no other option, put a coat on him and leave him enough food and liquid

Mark the spot so rescuers can easily locate it

Report to the authorities: description of the accident, number of injured, injuries and severity, when and where it happened

Report weather conditions

In case of loss Aconcagua

Avoid walking aimlessly or desperately over rough or dangerous terrain

If you don’t have a compass or GPS, there are references that indicate where North is located, for example: sunrise in the East and sunset in the West; rocks with more vegetation on its southern side (because of more humidity); snow and moisture disappear earlier on the northern slopes (because of the sun); etc.

Stand in a clear and elevated spot so that the rescue team can locate you more easily

Bring phone numbers of nearby police stations or shelters

Aconcagua Argentina – Some tips for climbing Aconcagua

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Aconcagua is the highest peak in the world outside the Himalayas.

Its 6,962 meters high and its incredible landscapes make it the goal of mountaineers from all over the world. The “Colossus of America” ​​is as longed for as it is wild and in order to reach its summit we must prepare ourselves physically and mentally since it is capable of taking us to the limit of our body and spirit.

Temperatures down to -30°C

This mystical mountain is capable of punishing us with temperatures that reach -30°C, unstoppable winds of more than 100 km and as if this were not enough, we must add the effect of height that modifies our body due to the lack of oxygen. But don’t be scared! The harder the challenge, the more we will enjoy the triumph. In order for your chances of reaching the top to be high, it will be important to have specific equipment that we are going to tell you about below.

WE WILL DIVIDE THE NECESSARY EQUIPMENT INTO

CLOTHING AND EQUIPMENT FOR TREKKING

CAMP

CLOTHING FOR EXPEDITION

The Horcones (2950 meters)

The first stage of our trip will find us in the Los Horcones valley (2950) where the entrance to the Aconcagua National Park is located. During the journey to base camp, we will generally find pleasant temperatures that can range between 20°C and 30°C, so the first stage of our trip does not require clothing as complex as we will see later. Mount Aconcagua

1: CLOTHING AND EQUIPMENT FOR TREKKING

  • Footwear: Waterproof trekking boots
  • Foot protection: Stockings made of synthetic material.
  • Pants: Removable quick-drying pants
  • Shirt: Long-sleeved thermal shirt made of synthetic material.
  • Superior Coat: Jacket or Windstopper diver
  • Eye protection: Sunglasses
  • Head protection: Hat or cap with UV filter if possible.

 

70 LITERS BACKPACK

It must be comfortable and of excellent quality, we are going to carry everything we will need throughout our adventure, so it must have an estimated capacity of 70L.

TREKKING STICKS

Like the backpack, the trekking poles will be our companions during the route, they will help our body to maintain balance, better distribute the weight and facilitate walking.

 

We can already see the base camp of Aconcagua…

PLAZA MULAS (4260 meters) Aconcagua Argentina

We reached our first big goal! We can already see the base camp of Aconcagua. Plaza de Mulas is located at an altitude of 4,260 meters and there we will find a park ranger and medical attention post.

Constantly reviewing our physical condition is essential since we are at a considerable height. Not all organisms react to the decrease in oxygen in the same way, not paying attention to the signals that the human body sends us can put our lives at risk.

The fatigue of the accumulated marches and the acclimatization to the altitude make it increasingly difficult to recover energy. Having the ideal team for the camp is going to make a difference in the stages ahead of us.

 

Aconcagua Climbing – Tips for a risk-free expedition

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If you are not convinced of the activity, I will not do it, but I will with the necessary confidence and inner security if I have decided to do it. Intense mountain activities such as climbing Mount Aconcagua demand this quality, which ultimately becomes the essential discipline needed to know oneself. Know my strengths, understand my weaknesses, know my intentions, know my enthusiasm, know my integrity, know my limits, and have the criteria and courage to make crucial decisions, such as turning around and returning on time.

Respect for the environment, mountains, and nature does not mean fear. The atmosphere, the weather in which we move, has unique and conditions. Fear can paralyze you and leave you without the strength to continue. Respect means that I can give myself an idea of ​​the dimensions, magic, and wisdom of Aconcagua. I will not show respect to anyone but myself. It would be best to respect the mountain you are ascending when I contemplate it in its immensity and imagine myself within it.

You must respect nature when you leave the place where you were better than how you found it. If I am going to pick up my waste, I can do it because someone imposes it on me or because I convince myself that it would be good if whoever passes through this place again gets excited in the same way. Who wants to hit a mighty waterfall and see shells scattered about? The equation is simple. Suppose you are someone who already has plenty of experience in mountain outings (surplus always adds several years in trekking, technical mountaineering, and high altitude mountaineering). In that case, you can calmly go to Aconcagua without assistance or by hiring the service of local providers that provide you with amenities such as mules, toilets, etc.

But suppose your situation is that of growth in the mountains, that you do not have such experience or that you need to prepare with professionals to arrive at the most significant number of possibilities. In that case, we will always recommend hiring professional guides or, to a better extent, experienced companies with enough prestige to provide you with the best service and security you need.

For beginners and those who dream of realizing the dream of coming to Aconcagua Argentina, some exciting companies and projects include a distance training system and progressive mountain excursions for ten months.

Suppose we take success as having a great experience and not reaching the top if or if and whatever, we will be on the right track. In short, the success of getting the top is never guaranteed since, in addition to everything you described in this text, it is not enough if other unmanageable issues occur up there, such as adverse climate or the simple refusal of our spirit, which has designated for that moment of our life another outcome and that, thus, will allow us to return to the same fantastic scene to be able to try again.

Aconcagua Climbing – Learn to trust yourself at 7000 meters

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With more than 6,962 meters high, Aconcagua Argentina is the most imposing mountain in the range. This does not go unnoticed since almost from anywhere in Mendoza; you can see its top. Climbing Aconcagua is an extreme sport and a challenge for professional athletes who spend years training. However, this is not an impediment for you to see it up close. You can visit the Aconcagua Provincial Park, reach its base, and enter one of its trails surrounded by nature. This is one of the activities in Mendoza that will leave you open-mouthed and wanting to take thousands of photos. Climbing this mountain can mean the magical entrance to this select group of Dreams to Fulfill.

Mount Aconcagua is the giant mountain in America, the Southern Hemisphere, and the Western Hemisphere. Beyond these mere numerical and statistical descriptions that also caress the 7000 meters above sea level, this prominent elevation keeps countless beautiful landscapes and stories that can become part of some of the most significant and extraordinary paragraphs of our life. Do you want to get closer to knowing her? Do you want to prepare to live it? Do you want to relight your enthusiasm? Do you want to get on a challenge that will mark you forever?

I present to your stages, moments, keys, or simply points that can collaborate and definitively clarify the path. In the previous one, to reach the day you find yourself delivering the ascent permit at the Horcones or Punta de Vacas section, there is the genesis of your expedition so dreamed of. It is always essential to have some experience in having ever been in the mountains, although the most important thing first is to walk on different terrains with loose stones such as hauling, rather than forcing yourself to go up.

First, the basics put on a backpack and trekking for two or more days, then move on to the altitude ascent. Perhaps some will be reached with a couple of outings, maybe others need a few more, and perhaps some privileged (never recommended) can ascend the Colossus of America without ever having done a trek to Sierra de la Ventana in their lives. One of the tips to success in the mountains always has to do with being physically well. We have just mentioned the technical in the previous point, which is trained by going out on the field and not at home, in the park, or the gym.

After several experiences in the preparation of large expeditions and, as my own experience, I can recommend a system that generally adapts well to anyone with a basic level of physical-mental training. The idea is to get to do a personalized follow-up on Aconcagua, with a table, where we can dump the process of each of the areas worked: aerobic, power or specific training in exercises, backpack work, the technician and the training carried out specifically in the field (outing to the mountain). The system is designed in a pyramid shape; it starts with a low demand until reaching the highest point and sustains for three months, finally descending again and ending with 10 to 12 days of complete rest, where it is prioritized to eat hydrate well.