CONNECT WITH THE ESSENCE AND VASTNESS OF THE ANDES ON AN UNFORGETTABLE JOURNEY.
PLAZA DE MULAS TREK
PRICE
1050 USD
SEASON
December to February
DURATION
5 days
DIFFICULTY
Medium / Hight
This trekking experience will take you to Plaza de Mulas, the base camp of the Aconcagua’s Normal Route, located at over 4,300 meters above sea level.
There, surrounded by the energy of mountaineers and adventurers from around the world, you’ll experience the true spirit of the mountain.
Our five-day itinerary offers a progressive ascent that favors good acclimatization, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Andes. Along the way, you’ll pass through iconic sites like Plaza Francia and witness breathtaking landscapes that will stay with you forever.
If you wish to enhance your adventure, we offer two optional experiences:
Spend a night before the trek at a comfortable mountain lodge (without a guide) to improve your acclimatization.
On a scheduled date, join the optional ascent of Cerro Bonete (5,000 masl) — a perfect opportunity for those seeking an extra high-altitude challenge.
Whether you dream of reaching new heights or simply enjoying the wild beauty of the Aconcagua Park, this journey promises to leave a lasting impression.
HIGHLIGHTS
Traverse stunning valleys and rugged trails to reach Plaza de Mulas, the largest base camp in the Americas at 4,300 masl.
Experience the unique atmosphere of the Andes: a meeting point for adventurers, mountaineers, and dreamers from around the world.
Add a special touch to your journey: stay an extra night at a mountain lodge or summit Cerro Bonete (5,000 masl) on select dates.
WHY DESTINO MONTAÑA
At Destino Montaña, we believe that the best adventures are born from a passion for sharing.
As professional guides with over 10 years of experience in the Andes, we have explored every detail of these mountains — and now we want to share their magic with you.
Our training, dedication, and love for high-altitude expeditions guarantee a safe, organized, and deeply personal experience:
More than just trails and landscapes, what truly sets us apart is the human connection we build on every journey: trust, motivation, and a true spirit of adventure.
We are with you every step of the way: from personalized advice to help you choose the right trek, to sharing stories, local knowledge, and mountaineering tips throughout the trip.
Your safety and comfort are our priority: we work with top-quality mountain equipment, trusted logistics, and a team prepared for every situation in the high Andes.
Enjoy the journey without worries: we prepare fresh, nutritious meals adapted to all diets (meat, vegetarian, vegan, etc.), so you can experience the Andes with energy and joy.
OUR RECOMMENDATION
If you want to experience firsthand the unique atmosphere and logistics of the Aconcagua Provincial Park, this trek is perfect for you.
While previous mountain trekking experience is recommended, it is not essential — but you must have excellent physical fitness to handle long hiking days (up to 10 hours) on rugged terrain, and to face the challenges of cold temperatures and high altitude.
For better acclimatization, you also have the option to spend the night before at a cozy mountain lodge near the trailhead.
- Day 0. Arrival in Mendoza
This day is for you to rest and prepare the necessary permits for entering the park. - Day 1. Toward Confluencia
The adventure begins! We meet early in Mendoza City and transfer to Aconcagua Provincial Park. We then hike to Confluencia, the first camp where we will spend the night.
Max altitude: 3450 masl | Distance: 7.5 km | Elevation gain: 400 m - Day 2. Plaza Francia Trek
After breakfast, we start hiking toward the stunning south face of Aconcagua. After 4 to 5 hours, we reach Plaza Francia. We then return to Confluencia to spend another night.
Max altitude: 4150 masl | Distance: 16 km | Elevation gain: 1000 m - Day 3. Our Big Day
Get ready for a challenging and rewarding day. We hike for about 8 to 9 hours from Confluencia to Plaza de Mulas, where we will stay overnight. Along the way, we will pass through Playa Ancha, Piedra Ibáñez, and Cuesta Brava.
Max altitude: 4300 masl | Distance: 18 km | Elevation gain: 1000 m - Day 4. Rest Day
A well-deserved day to recharge and enjoy the surroundings. Alternating between intense hiking and restful acclimatization is key for a safe and enjoyable high-altitude experience.
Max altitude: 4300 masl | Distance: 0 km | Elevation gain: 0 m - Day 5. Return
After breakfast, we begin our descent, hiking for about 7 hours back to the park entrance. There, transportation will be waiting to take us back to Mendoza City.
Max altitude: 4300 masl | Distance: 25 km | Elevation loss: 1300 m
While the standard expedition includes the full trekking to Plaza de Mulas, you can enhance your experience with these optional services:
- Extra Night at a Mountain Lodge
If you want to enjoy a relaxed day before entering the park, you can book an extra night at a mountain lodge. It includes accommodation, meals, and beautiful views — an excellent option for improving your acclimatization without additional physical effort.
Available without a guide. Must be booked in advance. - Summit of Cerro Bonete (5077 masl)
On selected dates, we offer the chance to extend your adventure with a guided ascent to Cerro Bonete. This rewarding 5000-meter summit offers spectacular panoramic views of the Andes and the Aconcagua area.
Available only on specific group dates — ask us for the schedule!
- December 2025: from the 6th to the 10th and from the 27th to the 31st.
- January 2026: from the 24th to the 29th (includes the optional ascent to Cerro Bonete).
- February 2026: from the 14th to the 18th.
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Professional trekking guide
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First aid kit
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General equipment (tents, stoves)
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Transportation to/from Mendoza City
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Full board (all meals included)
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Dinners in domes
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Staff trained in first aid
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Mules for general equipment transport
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Internet access at Confluencia and Plaza de Mulas camps
NOT INCLUDED
- Personal equipment
- Park entrance fee (paid separately)
- Accommodation in Mendoza
- Personal load transport
- Personal accident insurance
- Any other services not mentioned
Prepare every detail to ensure your comfort and safety in the mountains.
IMPORTANT
LIMITED SPOTS FOR A LIMITLESS EXPERIENCE
Don’t miss the chance to experience the magic of Plaza de Mulas and the Aconcagua.
Book now and start writing your own story among the mountains!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What does the full-board meal plan include?
- Breakfast, lunch, afternoon snacks, dinner, and trail snacks for all 5 days.
- Menus are adjusted according to the activity’s logistics but may include:
- Risotto with bacon
- Pasta with meat sauce
- Pasta with mushrooms
- Homemade bread sandwiches with cold cuts, tomato, and avocado
- Rice with sautéed vegetables
- Argentine barbecue
- Charcuterie platters
- Fajitas
- Fresh fruits, nuts, cereal bars, oatmeal cookies, and more
Important: If you are vegetarian or have any dietary preferences/restrictions, please let us know at the time of booking.
What if I’m missing some gear?
We can recommend reliable rental shops and assist you in selecting the most appropriate equipment for the activity.
How do I get the park entrance permit?
We will assist you throughout the process to make it simple and quick. However, you must appear in person the morning before the expedition to pay for the permit and sign the official entrance form.
How will we transport the loads?
The general expedition equipment will already be available at the camps, so you won’t need to transport it.
If you wish to have your personal gear transported by mule, you can hire this service separately. Please let us know in advance so we can arrange it for you.
Where will we sleep?
Accommodation will be in three-person tents (two people per tent) or in domes, depending on availability at the time of the activity.
Is previous mountain experience necessary?
It’s not a strict requirement, but we recommend it. In any case, excellent physical condition is essential to handle long trekking days with elevation gain and high-altitude exposure.
Can the itinerary change?
Yes. The itinerary is an ideal and approximate plan. However, it is subject to both weather and human factors. For safety reasons or to improve the expedition’s success chances, our professional guides may modify the planned itinerary at any time without prior notice.
What happens if I abandon the expedition or need to be rescued?
Abandonment or rescue costs are not included in our services. If you decide to leave the group, you will need to cover the expenses for a guide to accompany you out of the park, transport back to Mendoza, and any additional accommodation needed (either at Aconcagua or in Mendoza).
Can I create a personalized itinerary on other dates?
Yes! We can design a custom expedition tailored to your personal schedule and acclimatization needs. Just let us know your preferred dates and conditions so we can provide a personalized quote.
Can minors enter the park?
Yes, but participants under 17 years old must present a notarized authorization document. Please contact us beforehand to review all the specific requirements set by the park authorities.