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:
- In the off-season, you can visit between the dates of November 15 and November 13 and between February 21 and March 15.
- For the middle of the season, consider the dates of December 1st–14th and February 1st–20th.
- 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.