After years of climb Aconcagua, I have written about the tips you need to have a successful climbing Aconcagua. I have climbed Mount Everest and Aconcagua several times, so I am happy to chat with you directly as you begin to prepare for this adventure. I am a big fan of the transversal RouteRoute of the Vacas valley for an ascent to Aconcagua.
The Aconcagua Expeditions begins in Mendoza, Argentina, and we can get the best training and get started. If you are thinking of joining Aconcagua, we need to see you in action on one of our trips. Safety is my main concern.
Technically, it is an Aconcagua hike. The reality is that you will be exposed to some excellent mountain conditions that you should know about. Aconcagua is a seriously high-altitude expedition without technical mountaineering on the routes we use. Depending on the month, you can use crampons. The significant challenges are the high and extreme altitude, the freezing temperatures, and the strong winds. In terms of high altitude and extreme trekking and movement, Aconcagua is pretty straightforward. The steepest section of the expedition is up and down the Canaleta, the last 800 feet to the top.
The challenges of the Aconcagua climb are in the low oxygen level and the cargo transport on the base camp of Plaza Argentina. Indeed, the normal RouteRoute is a little bit easier than the Valle de Vacas cross route. The Vacas Valley route is feasible for solid climbers, and it is worth having fewer people around you on the mountain. The RouteRoute of the Valle de vacas is a more exciting and better way to make the most of your Aconcagua experience. First of all, going to extreme altitude above 5,500m / 18,044ft is life-threatening and requires prior knowledge and excellent conditioning. Second, the success rate on Aconcagua is approximately 30%. The weather is a critical factor in keeping people from reaching the top. Other factors are lack of acclimatization, lack of physical preparation, and days off for summit attempts.
Along with oxygen, water is the most important thing that our body needs to acclimatize. Water makes up 60% of our body weight, and blood is generally around 94% water when the body is fully hydrated. Now, I’m pretty sure this comes as no surprise to either of you. Anyway, I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been backpacking, hiking, or mountaineering with people who don’t give adequate hydration the attention it deserves. Learn more. Aconcagua is located in a high desert and is extremely dry and cold, especially at an altitude above 6,000 m / 19,685 feet. You will dehydrate faster at altitude, and when the air is dry, and your breathing is higher, hydration becomes critical. You should drink 4 to 5 liters a day on Aconcagua.
