Climb Aconcagua: Summit the Highest Peak in the Americas
PRICE
From 6,500 USD
We also offer custom dates for private groups.
DATES 25/26
- December 02 to 19
- January 05 to 22
- February 02 to 19
DURATION
- 18 days
- 17 nights
EFFORT
- High
- Altitude: 6,962 m
- Distance: 85 km
- Elevation: 4,500 m
-
Non-technical
Climb Aconcagua: Your Dream, Our Mission
This is not just about reaching the top.
It’s about the dream that brought you here — the effort, the altitude, the inner fire that pushes you forward.
For 18 days, you’ll test your limits on the highest mountain in the Americas:
6,962 meters of challenge, silence, and raw, breathtaking beauty.
You’ll face the cold, the wind, the doubts — and find strength in your team, in your guide, and in yourself.
We run small-group expeditions with a maximum of 6 people — guided by professionals who have summited Aconcagua over 20 times and know exactly how to get you there safely.
With a 1:3 guide-to-client ratio, you’ll receive personal attention every step of the way.
Our itinerary is designed with one goal: to maximize your chances of a safe and successful summit.
It includes two nights of base acclimatization at 3,150 meters in the quiet mountain village of Las Cuevas — a gentle but essential start for your body.
Later, you’ll spend three nights at Nido de Cóndores (5,570 m), a key high-altitude camp that gives your body the crucial time it needs to adapt before summit day.
You bring the dream.
We take care of the rest: permits, logistics, transport, meals, safety systems, satellite communication, support — everything’s included so you can focus on one thing only: the climb.
No technical skills are required, but you’ll need excellent physical shape, altitude experience, and the right mindset.
This is a demanding expedition.
And that’s exactly what makes it unforgettable.
Your summit. Your story.
Let us help you write it — step by step.
HIGHLIGHTS
Summit Aconcagua (6,962 m) — the highest peak in the Americas and one of the world’s most iconic altitude challenges.
Follow a proven acclimatization plan designed to help your body adapt step by step — increasing your chances of success.
Trek through dramatic Andean terrain: valleys, glaciers, high-altitude deserts, and wild, wind-swept ridges.
Test your limits with long trekking days, high camps, and unpredictable weather — and discover strength you didn’t know you had.
Stand above it all on the roof of the Americas — and take in a 360° view that will stay with you for life.
More than a summit, this is a personal achievement.
It’s a chance to step outside your comfort zone, experience the power of the Andes, and return changed — stronger, prouder, and with a story that’s truly yours.
DESTINO MONTAÑA
At Destino Montaña, we believe the greatest climbs are built on trust, passion, and human connection.
We’re a small team of professional mountain guides with over 10 years of experience in the Andes. We’ve spent years on this mountain — and we know what each climber needs to face it with confidence.
We’re not a big operator. We don’t run dozens of simultaneous groups. We focus on a few select expeditions each season — so that every person who climbs with us receives real, personalized support.
What our clients value most isn’t just the logistics — it’s our attention to detail, calm guidance, and the human bond that forms on the way to the top.
From your first questions to your final steps on the summit, we’ll be there.
Not just as guides — but as teammates who care.
OUR RECOMMENDATION
This expedition is ideal for physically fit adventurers with previous experience at altitude.
If you’ve climbed one or two 5,000-meter peaks — or completed demanding multi-day treks above 3,500 m — you’re likely ready for the challenge of Aconcagua.
We’ll take the Normal Route — the most popular non-technical route to the top.
It doesn’t require rock or ice climbing skills, but it does demand strong physical and mental preparation.
Altitude, cold, and unpredictable weather will test your resilience over many days in high camps.
This experience is often chosen by people who value connection over scale — those who prefer smaller groups, a steady pace, and guides who are present every step of the way.
Expert Leadership
-
2 professional guides: one certified mountain guide + one trekking guide for support
-
Staff trained in high-altitude first aid available at all times
-
Coordination with park rangers and rescue patrols when required
Accommodation
-
3 nights in a 3-star hotel in Mendoza City (shared rooms)
-
2 nights in a mountain lodge at Villa Las Cuevas for base acclimatization
Transport & Logistics
-
Private airport transfer to Mendoza City (one-way)
-
Private transportation from Mendoza City to Aconcagua Park and back
-
Mule transport of up to 20 kg of your personal gear to Plaza de Mulas Base Camp
-
Transportation of all group equipment (tents, stoves, cooking gear)
-
Waste management and environmentally responsible logistic
Meals & Camps
-
Full board starting from Day 3 (breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks)
-
1 full-service night at Confluencia Camp (meals + dome access)
-
5 full-service nights at Plaza de Mulas Base Camp (meals + shower + toilet access)
-
Domes at high camps for shared meals and rest
-
Toilets available at high-altitude camps
-
Internet access at base and high camps (ask for availability and conditions)
Equipment & Support
-
Use of base and high camp facilities
-
Satellite communication devices for emergencies and live expedition tracking
-
Expedition first aid kit for team use
-
Step-by-step support to obtain your mandatory Aconcagua Park entrance permit
Small Group Advantage
-
Maximum of 6 participants per expedition
-
1:3 guide-to-client ratio for personalized guidance and safety
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED
-
Personal gear (clothing, backpack, boots, sleeping bag, etc.)
-
Rental or return logistics for personal gear
-
Meals in Mendoza City
-
Personal expenses (tips, souvenirs, phone calls, etc.)
-
Tent setup and breakdown at high-altitude camps
-
Personal accident insurance (required by Aconcagua Provincial Park)
-
Aconcagua entrance permit (support provided to obtain it)
-
Transportation of personal gear beyond Plaza de Mulas Base Camp
-
Rescue costs and/or early expedition withdrawal fees
-
Any services not explicitly mentioned as included
OPTIONAL SERVICES
- Personal Porters
Hire a porter to carry your gear between high camps (recommended for summit day comfort). - Hotel Upgrades
Choose 4★ or 5★ hotel accommodation in Mendoza upon request.
Available Dates – 2025/2026 Season
We currently offer 3 fixed-group departures:
-
December 25 to January 12
-
January 26 to February 12
-
February 26 to March 15
Maximum: 6 participants per group.
Spots fill up quickly — early booking is highly recommended.
[Contact us to reserve your spot]
What you’ll experience over 18 unforgettable days
- Days 1–2: Arrival and preparation in Mendoza
Rest from your trip, meet your guides, check your gear, and get ready to begin the climb. - Days 3–4: Base acclimatization in Las Cuevas (3,150 m)
Spend two nights in the mountains, with gentle hiking to start adjusting to altitude in comfort. - Day 5: Entry into Aconcagua Park – Confluencia Camp (3,450 m)
Enter the park and trek to Confluencia for your first night inside Aconcagua. - Days 6–10: Plaza de Mulas Base Camp (4,300 m)
Acclimatize, rest, and prepare for the higher stages. Portering hikes and recovery time are key here. - Days 11–15: High camps and summit push (up to 6,962 m)
Move through Camp Canadá, Nido de Cóndores, and Cólera. When the mountain says yes — summit. - Days 16–17: Descent and return to Mendoza
Descend to Plaza de Mulas, celebrate with your team, and travel back to the city with a full heart. - Day 18: Spare day for flexibility
An extra day to increase your chances of summiting or adjust the expedition pace based on weather or group needs.
What does the full board include?
All breakfasts, lunches, dinners and trail snacks during the 16 days on the mountain. Meals are designed to be nutritious and energy-rich, including risotto with bacon, pasta with meat sauce, sandwiches with homemade bread, rice with vegetables, barbecue, charcuterie plates, fajitas, cereal bars, and fresh fruit. Meals in Las Cuevas are served restaurant-style (one set menu). In Confluencia and Plaza de Mulas, meals are served in domes. At the high camps, lunches and dinners are served in tents or domes. If you’re vegetarian or have dietary restrictions, let us know when booking — we’ll adapt the menu with no problem.
What if I’m missing gear?
We provide a complete gear list and personalized advice. If you’re missing something, we’ll help you rent it in Mendoza before departure. Your guide will review your equipment and accompany you to the rental shop to ensure you’re fully prepared.
How is the gear transported?
From Mendoza to Las Cuevas, all gear travels by vehicle. From Horcones to Plaza de Mulas, mules will carry general expedition gear and up to 15 kg of your personal equipment. Beyond Plaza de Mulas, you must carry your own load unless you hire a porter — which we highly recommend.
Can I hire a porter for my gear?
Yes, and we recommend it. Hiring a porter for your full expedition load (round trip) costs USD 1,930 for up to 20 kg. It reduces fatigue and improves your summit chances. If you’re undecided, bring extra cash to possibly hire one mid-expedition.
What kind of tents do we use?
We use 3-person North Face VE25 expedition tents, but only 2 people sleep in each for added comfort.
Do I need high-altitude experience?
Yes. Climbing Aconcagua safely requires previous exposure to altitude. You should have climbed at least one 5,000 m peak and ideally a 6,000 m summit. Physical training is important, but experience acclimatizing at altitude is essential for your success and safety.
What will I carry in my backpack?
During the approach, you’ll carry only what’s needed for the day: warm clothing, food, and water — around 6–8 kg. At high camps, if you don’t use a porter, your load will increase to 15–20 kg. If you do hire a porter, your backpack weight stays around 6–8 kg throughout.
How do I get the Aconcagua permit?
We’ll help you through the process. Once in Mendoza, we’ll coordinate the payment and deliver your permit through the expedition guide. Costs usually range from USD 800 to 1,000 depending on season, with possible early-bird rates around USD 600.
What happens if I have to abandon the expedition or need rescue?
Evacuation and rescue costs are not included. If a doctor at Aconcagua authorizes helicopter rescue, your insurance (e.g., Global Rescue) may cover it. If you leave voluntarily, you’ll need to pay for an extra guide, transfer, and accommodation — costs can reach USD 1,500 or more. We strongly recommend trip cancellation and evacuation insurance.
Can I climb Aconcagua if I’m very fit but lack altitude experience?
No. Fitness helps, but prior high-altitude experience is critical. Your body’s ability to adapt improves with exposure. Without it, risks increase significantly — even with excellent fitness.
Why don’t we go to Plaza Francia?
We’ve chosen to begin the acclimatization process in a more comfortable setting. Staying at Las Cuevas allows your body to adjust gradually to the altitude without added physical stress. Skipping the trek to Plaza Francia also helps preserve energy before the long and demanding hike to Plaza de Mulas — one of the toughest days of the expedition.
Can the itinerary change?
Yes. The proposed itinerary is flexible and may be adjusted at any time by our guides due to weather, group condition, or safety. These decisions are always made to prioritize your well-being and increase summit chances.
Will I have internet access on the mountain?
Yes, internet is available at all camps, including the high camps, via Starlink. However, it depends on battery systems and weather conditions, so outages can happen. You’ll likely stay connected most of the time — but this is the mountains, not the city.
Will there be access to water at the high camps?
Water availability depends on the season. At most camps, we’ll provide and melt water as needed. In rare cases, like the first high camp, you may need to carry 2 liters yourself or ask your porter to help. If water is scarce elsewhere, we’ll share the responsibility as a group.
Can I request a private expedition on different dates?
Absolutely. We offer tailor-made itineraries to suit your preferred dates, group size, and acclimatization plan. Contact us and we’ll build a custom experience.
How do I book?
You can book your expedition by filling out a short form and paying a deposit online. We’re here to help if you have questions — but we strongly recommend getting in touch first to receive personalized advice and our full info pack (PDFs with itinerary, gear, and more). Spaces are limited, especially during high season (Dec–Feb).
Acclimatization that works — day by day, meter by meter
Reaching 6,962 meters takes more than willpower. It takes patience, strategy, and a plan that respects how the body truly adapts.
Our itinerary follows proven high-altitude principles: slow ascent, active acclimatization, and smart recovery windows.
We build your strength gradually, so when the summit push comes — you’re ready.
Here’s how we do it:
- Mendoza City (750 masl) – 2 nights
Rest, recover, and prepare for the mountain ahead. - Villa Las Cuevas (3,200 masl) – 2 nights
A quiet mountain lodge where your acclimatization begins — gently, but effectively. - Plaza de Mulas Base Camp (4,300 masl) – 4 nights
High-altitude exposure with time to rest, eat, and adapt. A key turning point in your preparation. - Nido de Cóndores High Camp (5,500 masl) – 3 nights
Extended stay at extreme altitude to fine-tune your body before summit day. No shortcuts.
We move with intention, not urgency.
Each stage is carefully paced to give your body what it needs most: time.
So when the final climb arrives, you’re not just fit — you’re strong, focused, and fully adapted.
Why Climb Aconcagua With Us?
We don’t just offer a service — we guide your dream.
Small groups, more care.
Our expeditions are limited to 6 participants, with a 1:3 guide-to-client ratio. This allows for real attention, better pacing, and more flexibility during key decisions on the mountain.
Personalized support from day one.
We’ll guide you long before the climb begins. From training tips and gear recommendations to pre-expedition calls with your guide, we help you prepare thoroughly — physically and mentally.
A safe, human experience.
This isn’t about volume or speed. We prioritize connection and care. You’ll feel part of a close-knit group, supported not just by professionals, but by people who truly care about your journey.
Smart acclimatization, built into the plan.
We include two nights of base acclimatization in a cozy mountain hut in Las Cuevas (3,150 m), helping your body adjust gradually before entering Aconcagua Park.
Two certified mountain guides per group.
You’ll be accompanied by experienced professionals trained for high-altitude expeditions. With two guides, we increase your safety and can adapt to the pace of each participant.
Full logistics, covered.
We take care of permits, transportation, meals, communications, and safety systems — so you can focus on the climb.
Nourishing food, every day.
Breakfast, lunch, snacks, dinner — all provided with a balanced mix of carbs, proteins, vegetables, and energy-boosting foods. Fuel matters at altitude.
Stay connected, even in the wild.
Wi-Fi available at all camps + InReach satellite system for real-time updates and safety.