Question 1

1. Where is Aconcagua located?

Accepted Answer

Aconcagua is in the Andes of Argentina, near the border with Chile. At 6,961m, it is the highest mountain outside Asia.

Question 2

2. Why is Aconcagua part of the 7 Summits?

Accepted Answer

Aconcagua is the tallest peak in South America, making it one of the 7 Summits — the highest mountain on each continent.

Question 3

3. How difficult is it to climb Aconcagua?

Accepted Answer

Aconcagua is a non-technical climb via the Normal Route, but the extreme altitude, cold temperatures,  high winds and long summit day make it physically demanding.

Question 4

4. Why choose Everest One for my Aconcagua climb?

Accepted Answer

We offer small teams, expert high-altitude guides, proven acclimatisation strategies, and the professionalism of an Australian company with global experience.

Question 5

5. What is the team size for the expedition?

Accepted Answer

Everest One limits team size to a maximum of 8 climbers, ensuring personalised guidance and a strong support ratio.

Question 6

6. Who are the guides?

Accepted Answer

Our expeditions are led by highly experienced Everest One leaders, supported by local Argentine guides and porters.

Question 7

7. What safety systems are in place?

Accepted Answer

We provide daily health monitoring, satellite communications, acclimatisation schedules, and emergency protocols including oxygen and helicopter rescue services to keep climbers safe.

Question 8

8. Do I need previous climbing experience?

Accepted Answer

You do not need technical climbing experience, but you must have strong trekking and endurance fitness. Previous high-altitude experience is an advantage. There are generally no ropes but you will be using crampons, which we will train you in the use of if required.

Question 9

9. How fit do I need to be?

Accepted Answer

You should be capable of long trekking days while carrying a backpack at altitude. Training should include endurance, strength, and uphill conditioning. There are some long distances to cover, walking from the Park entrance to our Base Camp at Plaza De Mulas (24km). This walk is broken up into 2 sections on the walk in and a single push on the way out. You will be required to carry heavier loads to stock our upper camps. The summit push is long, requiring up to 8-10 hours from Camp 3 and returning to Camp 3.

Question 10

10. What is the best way to prepare for Aconcagua?

Accepted Answer

Structured endurance training, pack carries, stair climbs, and altitude preparation are recommended. Everest One provides a training guide to help you prepare.

Question 11

11. How long is the Aconcagua expedition?

Accepted Answer

Our expedition runs for 19 days, including acclimatisation and summit attempt. There are also a number of contingency days built into the schedule to allow for any bad weather.

Question 12

12. Which route does Everest One use?

Accepted Answer

We climb via the Normal Route, which offers the best infrastructure, rescue support, and a proven track record of success.

Question 13

13. Where does the expedition start and finish?

Accepted Answer

The expedition begins in Mendoza, Argentina, and finishes there after the climb. We drive from Mendoza to Penitentes where we spend a night before entering the National Park. We spend 3 days trekking to our Base Camp at Plaza De Mulas where we rest, undertake an acclimatisation trek of a nearby peak and dod a load carry to Camp 1, returning to Base Camp before commencing our summit bid.

Question 14

14. Do I need a permit to climb Aconcagua?

Accepted Answer

Yes, all climbers require a climbing permit issued by the Mendoza authorities to hike and climb within Aconcagua Provincial Park. Everest One arranges this for you as part of your expedition package. Please note that these prices change annually but they usually range from $600 to $800 USD.

Question 15

15. What kind of gear do I need for Aconcagua?

Accepted Answer

You will need high-altitude trekking and mountaineering gear, including double boots, a four-season sleeping bag, down clothing, and a mountaineering backpack. Everest One provides a detailed gear list and will give you the best advice and assist with gear preparation.

Question 16

16. What is the accommodation like?

Accepted Answer

In Mendoza, you will stay in a comfortable 4 star hotel at the beginning and end of the trip. On the mountain, you will camp in high-quality tents with communal dining setups at Base Camp and expedition tents on the mountain. There are also toilets and shower facilities in Base Camp.

Question 17

17. Are porters available to carry loads?

Accepted Answer

Yes, personal porter support is available at additional cost. Our team also arranges group porter services for expedition equipment and our personal gear is transported to Plaza De Mulas by mules.

Question 18

18. What are the risks of climbing Aconcagua?

Accepted Answer

The main risks are altitude sickness, cold weather, and fatigue. Our guides are trained in wilderness medicine and altitude management.

Question 19

19. Is travel insurance required?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you must have insurance that covers high-altitude mountaineering, emergency evacuation, and medical treatment.

Question 20

20. How does Everest One maximise summit success?

Accepted Answer

Through small teams, expert leadership, structured acclimatisation, and a proven strategy, we consistently give our climbers the best chance of reaching the summit safely.

ACONCAGUA EXPEDITION FAQ's