Location & Access

Mount Aconcagua is situated in the Andes mountain range, approximately 180 kilometers northwest of Mendoza, Argentina. The nearest base for climbers and visitors is the small town of Puente del Inca, which serves as a gateway to the mountain.

Se rendre sur place

• From Mendoza: The most common route is by road via RN7 (Ruta Nacional 7), which takes approximately 3-4 hours by car or bus. Private transfers and guided tours are also available.
• Public Transport: Buses run from Mendoza to Puente del Inca, though schedules may vary seasonally.
• Climbing Permits: Access to the mountain’s trails requires a permit, obtainable through the Mendoza government’s official portal or at the park entrance.

Heures d'ouverture et billets

The climbing season for Mount Aconcagua typically runs from mid-November to late February. Outside this period, weather conditions make access hazardous. Permits are mandatory and vary in cost depending on the route and duration:

• Standard climbing permit (Normal Route): Approximately $800–$1,200 USD, depending on the season.
• Day visits to the park (without climbing): A smaller fee applies, but access is limited to lower areas.

Meilleur moment pour visiter

The ideal period for climbing is December to January, when temperatures are milder and weather conditions more stable. For those not attempting the summit, the surrounding landscapes are equally striking in late spring (November) or early autumn (March).

Durée de la visite

A full ascent of Mount Aconcagua typically takes 14–21 days, including acclimatization. Shorter visits to the base camps or nearby viewpoints can be done in a day trip from Mendoza.

Activités

• Summit climbing (for experienced mountaineers).
• Trekking to base camps (Confluencia or Plaza de Mulas).
• Photography and wildlife observation in Aconcagua Provincial Park.

Installations

• Basic amenities (toilets, emergency shelters) are available at major base camps.
• No restaurants or shops on the mountain; supplies must be brought from Mendoza or Puente del Inca.
• Limited accessibility for visitors with mobility challenges due to rugged terrain.

Ce qu'il faut apporter

• High-altitude mountaineering gear (if climbing).
• Layered clothing for extreme temperature shifts.
• Sun protection (sunglasses, sunscreen) due to intense UV radiation.
• Sufficient water and high-energy snacks.

Règles et règlements

• Permits are strictly enforced; climbing without one is prohibited.
• Leave-no-trace principles apply; all waste must be carried out.
• Drones and commercial photography may require additional permits.

Informations sur le contact

For permits and updates, consult the official Mendoza government tourism site or the Aconcagua Provincial Park office in Mendoza city.