Aconcagua is 6,961 meters (22,838 ft), the highest point in the Americas. There’s no technical climbing on our route, just one short glaciated section that usually doesn’t need a rope, which is why people call it a walk-up. It isn’t one. Cold, wind and altitude make it one of the hardest things you can ask of your legs and lungs.
We take the 360 Route. It starts at the Punta de Vacas gate and follows the Vacas Valley for three days to base camp at Plaza Argentina, 4,200 meters (13,800 ft). It’s longer and emptier than the Normal Route, and mules carry the heavy gear as far as base camp.
From there it’s about eleven days of carrying loads up, coming back down to sleep, and moving camp. Rest days are built in. Day 16 is summit day and Day 17 is held back for weather. We descend the far side through Plaza de Mulas, so by the end you’ve walked most of the way around the mountain.
You don’t need mountaineering experience. You do need serious fitness, backpacking experience and a tolerance for cold. Time above 4,200 meters (13,800 ft) helps. Between the upper camps you’ll carry 35 to 40 pounds.
AWE’s founder, Sunny Stroeer, guides on Aconcagua. National Geographic wrote about her run of the full 360 Route.
Is this trip for you?
- No mountaineering experience needed.
- You've done multi-day backpacking trips and know how you handle a heavy pack.
- You're very fit: six to eight hours with a heavy pack, then the same again the next day.
- Time above 14,000 ft (4,300 m) helps a lot, but it isn't required.
- You can be away for three weeks.
Not sure? Ask us. We'll tell you honestly whether it's the right next step, and what would get you ready.
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