Climb Aconcagua with Berg Adventures – Trip Description
Aconcagua - The Rooftop of the Western Hemisphere
Join Berg Adventures International for a magnificent journey to the lofty
summit of Aconcagua,
the rooftop of the Western Hemisphere.
The highest peak in the world outside the mountains of Asia,
Aconcagua is just 80 miles (128 Kilometres) from the Pacific Ocean, yet
it rises 22,841feet (6961 meters) into the sky, a massive, dominating presence
towering high over Argentina and all of South America.
Travel with us from the lovely city of Mendoza in the heart of Argentina’s wine country to the mountain resort town of Punta Del Inca near the border of Argentina and Chile. We’ll set out from there to the mountain itself, taking plenty of time to enjoy the countryside and to allow ourselves to adjust to the increasing elevation.
Aconcagua is perhaps the most underestimated mountain in the world. Many who set out to climb to the summit never come close to the top. On the other hand, our BAI teams consistently succeed in reaching the goal of climbing Aconcagua with style, and satisfaction. Our expertise in planning, outfitting, supporting, and leading trips to Aconcagua places it among the world’s most beautiful and rewarding expedition climbs.
Years of experience on Aconcagua have convinced us that the best way up
the mountain is the “normal route” ascending from the Harcones
Valley. With stunning views of Aconcagua’s immense South Face, we will climb
to Plaza de Mulas—Plaza of Mules—the international climbing camp at 13,800
feet (4206 meters). True to its name, our camp will be supplied by pack
mules carrying provisions and gear for our expedition.
With Plaza de Mulas as our base camp, we will make several trips higher up the mountain to continue our acclimatization and to leave supplies at our upper camps. Your guides will help you make good decisions that will help you adjust to extreme elevations. When all is in readiness, our team will ascend to Berlin Camp at 19,000 feet (5790 meters) and then make our way to Aconcagua’s spectacular summit.
Training
Climbing Aconcagua is physically demanding. Begin training for the expedition as early as possible before departure to ensure that you are in top condition. Overall fitness, with a focus on increasing endurance, is important to your success. Running, fast walking, swimming, cycling, soccer, basketball, and other sports can be ideal for aerobic training.
If possible, do a few practice hikes with a weighted pack (approximately 40lbs.), going uphill as much as possible. Weight your pack with jugs of water during training ascents. By dumping out the water before coming down, you can reduce the strain on your knees.
Porters
Berg Adventures International has a close working relationship with the porters who will transport group gear and supplies for the expedition to Aconcagua’s higher camps.
Team members will be responsible for carrying their own gear and clothing. For an additional cost, BAI climbers also have the option engaging porters to help pack personal gear up the mountain. Contact BAI for details.
Conditions
A Berg Adventures climb of Aconcagua is a classic expedition-style ascent. Expect weather conditions to range from snow and high winds to the intense heat of sunlight at high altitude.
Team members will work together to establish secure camps as they make their way up the mountain. Everyone will gain valuable experience in living well on a mountain and dealing with strenuous challenges.
Internet Broadcast
Your adventure in Argentina will be cybercast to the Internet via satellite phone. Daily dispatches will be posted on the Web on BergAdventures.com. It will be a great way for your group to share stories and photographs of your adventures while “on the scene” during the climb. In the past, our dispatches have been used by family, friends and supporters to track the progress of our groups, by classrooms to learn about the wild places we visit, and by local newspapers to report stories of interest.
