Climbing Aconcagua: Routes, Permits & Everything You Need to Know

Aconcagua is not just Argentina’s tallest mountain — it’s the highest peak in the Southern and Western Hemispheres, rising to 6,961 meters (22,838 feet) above sea level. Located in Mendoza Province, within the Andes mountain range, it’s one of the Seven Summits — the highest mountains on each continent.
 

Whether you’re a mountaineer aiming to summit or a traveler drawn to its massive beauty, Aconcagua offers world-class trekking, panoramic views, and high-altitude adventure. It’s a bucket-list destination for climbers and nature lovers alike.

🧭 Quick Facts About Aconcagua

🗺️ Location: Mendoza Province, Argentina (Aconcagua Provincial Park)

🏔️ Elevation: 6,961 m (22,838 ft)

📍 Range: Andes Mountains

🧗‍♂️ Climbing Season: December–March (summer in the Southern Hemisphere)

🧾 Permit Required: Yes — for all trekkers and climbers

🛬 Nearest City: Mendoza (~3.5-hour drive)

🌟 Why Visit Aconcagua?

🏞️ Witness or climb the highest mountain in the Americas

🥾 Experience unforgettable high-altitude trekking

🌄 Photograph epic Andean landscapes

🏕️ Camp in remote wilderness with clear night skies

🧘 Disconnect and find solitude in a dramatic alpine setting

Even if you don’t plan to summit, visiting Aconcagua Provincial Park is an incredible experience offering short hikes and multiday treks.

🏔️ Climbing and Trekking Options at Aconcagua

There are several ways to experience Aconcagua — from full-scale mountaineering expeditions to scenic day hikes. Here's a breakdown:

1. 🥾 Day Hikes (No Technical Climbing)

Perfect for those who want to see Aconcagua up close without committing to high-altitude trekking.

🧭 Most Popular Trail:

Laguna de Horcones Trail

🕒 Duration: ~2–3 hours round-trip

🚶‍♂️ Difficulty: Easy

📸 Highlight: Stunning views of Aconcagua’s south face

🎟️ Entry: Park entrance ticket only (no climbing permit required)

🧊 Tip: Bring sun protection and layers — weather changes fast!

2. ⛺ Confluencia Trek (Overnight)

Ideal for moderate hikers looking for a deeper experience. This 2-day hike reaches Confluencia Base Camp at 3,400 m (11,155 ft).

🛏️ Overnight camping with mule support (available via tour)

🕒 Time: 6–8 hours round trip

🌌 Night under the stars in the Andes

🎟️ Requires a short trekking permit

🥾 Good acclimatization for future summit attempts.

3. 🏕️ Plaza de Mulas Trek (Multi-Day)

This challenging 4- to 5-day trek leads to Plaza de Mulas Base Camp at 4,300 m (14,100 ft), one of the highest and most remote base camps in the world.

Distance: ~35 km (one way)

Elevation gain: 1,000+ meters

You can camp or stay in shelters

Requires long trekking permit

🩺 Acclimatization is crucial. Altitude sickness can occur.

4. 🧗‍♂️ Full Aconcagua Summit Expedition

This is one of the world’s highest non-technical climbs, but don’t underestimate it — Aconcagua is a serious mountain that demands preparation and conditioning.

Duration: 15–20 days

Two main routes:

Normal Route (North Face) – No technical climbing, but requires endurance

Polish Glacier Traverse – More technical and remote

High camps used (Camp I, II, III)

Porters and guides recommended

Permit cost: $$$ (varies by season and nationality)

🏥 Emergency rescue services are available but limited — travel insurance with evacuation is mandatory for climbers.

🛂 Aconcagua Permit System

All visitors must register and obtain a permit before entering Aconcagua Provincial Park.

🎫 Permits are issued in Mendoza city only — online registration required before pickup.

🗓️ Best Time to Visit Aconcagua

🏞️ How to Get to Aconcagua

✈️ By Air:

Fly into Mendoza International Airport (MDZ) from Buenos Aires, Santiago, or Córdoba

From Mendoza, rent a car or take a tour shuttle (~180 km to park entrance)

🚗 By Road:

Drive west along Ruta Nacional 7 toward the Chilean border

Park entrance is near Puente del Inca, close to Los Penitentes ski area

Distance: ~3.5–4 hours from Mendoza

🚌 Bus options are available, but limited flexibility. Tours often provide transportation.

🧳 What to Pack

Essentials for Day Treks:

🧢 Hat & sunscreen

🧥 Windbreaker or light jacket

🥾 Hiking shoes

💧 Water bottle or hydration pack

📸 Camera

🥪 Snacks

For Multi-Day Treks or Summit:

🥶 Cold weather layers (down jacket, thermal wear)

⛺ Tent and sleeping bag (or book shelters)

🔦 Headlamp

🗺️ Map or GPS

💊 Altitude medication (consult doctor)

🧗 Trekking poles & boots

🍲 High-calorie food

💳 Permit papers and ID

🛌 Where to Stay

In Mendoza City:

Diplomatic Hotel – 5-star with Andes views

Park Hyatt Mendoza – Luxury in the heart of town

NH Cordillera – Central, reliable mid-range option

Hostel Internacional Mendoza – Budget-friendly, social atmosphere

Near the Park:

Los Penitentes – Ski resort with basic lodging (best for climbers)

Puente del Inca Guesthouses – Rustic, limited amenities

Uspallata – Small town ~1.5 hrs away with more options

📆 Suggested 5-Day Itinerary (Non-Climbers)

🗓️ Day 1 – Mendoza Arrival

Wine tasting and permit pickup

Prep gear and acclimatize

Overnight in Mendoza

🗓️ Day 2 – Drive to Aconcagua Park

Stop at Potrerillos Lake and Puente del Inca

Short Laguna de Horcones hike

Overnight in Los Penitentes

🗓️ Day 3 – Confluencia Trek

3–4 hour hike to Confluencia Base Camp

Optional overnight or return

Explore Andean flora and fauna

🗓️ Day 4 – Return to Mendoza

Enjoy thermal baths at Termas de Cacheuta

Dinner and local wine

🗓️ Day 5 – Explore Mendoza

Visit Luján de Cuyo wineries

Fly onward or continue Patagonian journey

🌍 Sustainable Travel Tips

🚯 Pack out all waste — no trash left behind

💧 Refill bottles — water sources are often glacial and pure

🦙 Respect local wildlife — guanacos, condors, and foxes roam here

🏕️ Camp only in designated areas

🏞️ Stay on trails — alpine environments are fragile

✅ Final Thoughts: Why Aconcagua Belongs on Your Bucket List

Whether you’re dreaming of conquering a Seven Summit or simply want to witness one of the world’s most majestic mountains, Aconcagua delivers awe-inspiring adventure. It combines extreme natural beauty, world-class trekking, and cultural richness — all within reach of Mendoza’s comforts and wines.

From the high Andes to cozy mountain shelters and remote valleys, Aconcagua offers something profound for every type of traveler — from day hikers to summit seekers.