Tag: Mount Aconcagua

Aconcagua Climbing – Expedition or climbing alone?

Posted on by Aconcagua

Some small sinkholes in the distal part of the deposit and very few depressions with lagoons, which indicates the presence of an impermeable substrate. The mounds are rounded and smooth on the surface and soils have developed in the depressions. In a profile product of a road cut, a soil has been observed in these depressions, covered by detrital material from the mounds that surround the hollow, as converging microslopes. This remobilization of material from the top of the mounds into the surrounding depressions has considerably smoothed the original surface of the deposit. In addition to gravity, periglacial processes, Aconcagua Argentina surface weathering and wind deposition have contributed to it. Towards the distal zone, at the Confluence with the Cuevas valley, the deposit is divided into two lobes; one penetrates perpendicularly to the valley of the Cuevas river, in the same direction that it brought in the Horcones, while the second lobe extends downstream in the valley of the Cuevas river, advancing approximately 2,000 m in it. The cross-sectional profile of the Horcones deposit indicates that it is higher in the center than towards the flanks. The distal edge of the Horcones deposit is therefore located at the Confluence of the Horcones and Cuevas river valleys. This distal edge of the Horcones deposit is perfectly defined and has a variable height between 5 and 10 meters, which allows the deposit in question to be separated from the surrounding land. The latter correspond to a lithologically similar deposit located just below, and Mount Aconcagua also has an irregular morphology, although smoother than that of the Horcones deposit. In accordance with what was mentioned above, the study of the filling material of the valleys of the area made it possible to distinguish essentially two types of deposits, also well distinguishable by their field (megascopic) and morphological characteristics, previously considered as till by other authors.

Numerous mineralogical, granulometric and roundness analyzes were carried out on the matrix of both deposits present in the different valleys, in order to capture the complete lithological characterization of Aconcagua and precisely define their genesis. Sampling was carried out in the Horcones Inferior, Horcones Superior and Horcones valleys (both proximal and distal, already at the intersection with the Cuevas River). The underlying deposit exposed by the deepening of the Cuevas River, only had a microscopic study of the loose grain of the sandy-silty material in order to determine its mineralogical composition. A synthesis of the lithological characteristics of the Quebrada de Horcones deposit was presented by Lagorio et al.

Aconcagua Climbing – Statistical data on Aconcagua

Posted on by Aconcagua

“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 – A dream climb

Posted on by Aconcagua

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

Posted on by Aconcagua

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

Posted on by Aconcagua

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 – Interesting Facts About Aconcagua

Posted on by Aconcagua

The Aconcagua hill is located at the southern end of the chain called Los Penitentes and with its 6,959 meters above sea level. It carries the attribute of being the highest elevation in the American continent and its great height, like that of other nearby hills. It does not correspond to active volcanic structures such as Tupungato, but instead, its current altitude results from the tectonic uplift of the mountain range. It is guarded by high-rise colossi such as Cerro Catedral to the northwest with 5,200 meters above sea level, El Cuerno (5,450), Bonete (5,100), and others located in the Valle de Los Horcones Superior. In the so-called Valle de los Horcones Inferior are the Ibáñez hills (5,200), the Mirador hill (5,800) among the highest. Between 27º and 33º 30 ‘, no quaternary volcanism is observed, and seismic activity is concentrated in a thin strip along the western edge, which coincides with the most active geotectonic zone where significant earthquakes occur.

A remarkable characteristic is that only the very high peaks are covered by glaciers, which occurred during a series of advances during the Quaternary since the lower limit of eternal snow is very high due to aridity and intense insolation. This gives rise to the erection of the penitents, a very characteristic formation of this area of ​​the Andes, consisting of mounds of snow about 3 meters high with the appearance of monks. Caused by the melting of the superficial layers of the snow due to the intense insolation that by forming furrows that deepen over time, the area is covered with those sharply aligned mounds. These formations, due to their appearance, give their name to the Los Penitentes chain of elevations. Drainage occurs in high peaks such as Aconcagua by a vast network to which the melting of ice and snow is added, which forms a very dense material that favors rubble slopes frequently.

The “stone sentinel,” meaning the origin of the word Aconcagua Argentina in the Quichua language, is about 12 kilometers from the border with the sister Republic of Chile. Its coordinates are 32º 39′ Lat.S and 70º 01′ Long. O. (Atlas I.G.M., 1998). They are 71,000 hectares of mountainous terrain’s dry, arid environment with little vegetation on the slopes. The foothills are from extensive ranges separated by huge valleys whose height sometimes drops to 2,000 meters above sea level. On the south wall and also on the one that faces east, Mount Aconcagua has impressive glaciers such as the so-called Polaco that runs along this slope between approximately 6,900 and 5,900 meters above sea level, with an area close to 700 hectares and the Güssfeld, with much more extension than above. One of the largest in the area is the La Vacas glacier, with  ​​almost 2,000 hectares.

Aconcagua Climbing – Glorious Mount Aconcagua

Posted on by Aconcagua

Aconcagua Argentina is the highest peak in South America and the Highest Mountain in the world outside of Asia. With these parameters, it is included in the circuit called “Siete Cumbres” or “Seven Summits” (which consists of climbing the highest peaks of each continent).

We understood that if the physical state allows an expedition to Aconcagua, it cannot remain pending; here is one of our references. It is located in Argentina in the Province of Mendoza at a longitude of 69º 59′ West and a latitude of 32º 39′ South. The origin of the name Aconcagua derives from the Aymará, Kon-Kawa (Mount Nevado).

The Araucanas, in Chile, gave it the same name as the river they called Aconca-Hue (it comes from the other side). The Aconcagua meaning “Stone Sentinel” comes from the Quechua Akon-Kahuak. Ascending this beautiful Mountain, you can appreciate the neighboring peaks, and it is an excellent way to experience a dazzling view of the spectacular Mountains of the Andes Mountains.

It is a mountain that offers a diversity of exciting routes for climbers of all abilities.

The normal or northern route physically presents a reasonably demanding ascent that incorporates mountaineering logistics on a large mountain. The Aconcagua route through the Los Polacos Glacier is a climb with altitude and of moderate difficulty for the intermediate climber. This climb requires knowledge of ice techniques and, at the same time, provides good training and experience in height for those who want to try themselves in the Himalayas. Regardless of the route option, the high altitude and potentially extreme weather challenge the climber on the challenging ascent of Aconcagua.

Excellent physical condition, proper acclimatization, good logistical service, and the excellence and reliability of experienced guides increase everyone’s chances for success.

Indeed, Mount Aconcagua is the “Roof of America” ​​and measures 6962 meters, a height that corrects the previous mark of 6959 that persists as an indicative sign on National Route 7 at the point of the viewpoint.

In Argentina, Aconcagua also holds the record for being the highest Mountain outside the Asian continent where the Himalayan giants are.

It borders the Valle de las Vacas and the West and South with the Valle de Los Horcones Inferior to the north and east. The Mountain has several glaciers, the most important are the northeastern or Polish glacier and the eastern or English glacier. The view of these photographs are towards precisely the first of these, these being one of the most fearsome and difficult routes to climb along with the south wall.

It is located within the Aconcagua Provincial Park, and it is a mountain much frequented by mountaineers from all over the world, this year again, the influx of visitors has set a new record: more than 8000 permits to ascend.

Geological studies place the elevation of Aconcagua 200-280 million years ago. It is debated whether it comes from the Araucano Aconca-Hue or the Quechua Ackon Cahuak. This last name means “Stone Sentinel”.

Aconcagua Climbing – Tips for a risk-free expedition

Posted on by Aconcagua

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

Posted on by Aconcagua

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.