in Mendoza Province, Argentina
Aconcagua
The highest peak in the Americas at 6,961 meters, Aconcagua attracts mountaineers worldwide. Even non-climbers can trek to base camps for stunning views of this massive mountain dominating the Andes.
Aconcagua, rising to 6,961 meters above sea level in the Andes along the Argentine-Chilean border in Mendoza Province, is the highest peak in both the Western and Southern Hemispheres and the highest point outside Asia. The mountain dominates Aconcagua Provincial Park, a 71,000-hectare protected area accessed via the Río Aconcagua valley on Ruta Nacional 7, approximately 180 kilometers west of Mendoza city near the international border crossing at Las Cuevas.
The mountain was first ascended in 1897 by Swiss guide Matthias Zurbriggen via the Normal Route on the northwest face, and today attracts approximately 3,000 permitted climbers each season. The mountain's appeal lies partly in its relative accessibility at altitude — the standard routes involve no technical rock or ice climbing — and in the distinction of standing at the highest point in the Americas. The climbing season runs December through February.
For non-climbers, the park offers a series of trekking routes to lower-elevation viewpoints and base camps that bring the mountain's immense scale into full perspective without requiring mountaineering equipment or high-altitude training. The most popular trekking objective is Plaza de Mulas base camp at 4,370 meters, a two to three day approach from the park entrance at Horcones. The route follows the Río Horcones valley, gaining altitude through high desert terrain of ochre rock and sparse high-Andean vegetation. Plaza de Mulas is a functioning settlement during climbing season, with ranger stations, basic accommodation, and medical services.
A shorter and more accessible option leads to Confluencia camp at 3,390 meters — a single long day's walk from Horcones — providing exceptional views of the mountain's south face and access to the Laguna Los Horcones viewpoint, which can be reached in approximately two hours from the park gate.
All park entry, including day treks to the Laguna Los Horcones viewpoint, requires a permit purchased through the Mendoza provincial government system. Climbing permits are substantially more expensive and sell out early; they must be obtained months before the intended ascent. The park entrance at Horcones, 176 kilometers from Mendoza, is typically reached by bus to Puente del Inca or by hired remis taxi.
Hours: Park open November-March
Best for: mountaineers, adventure travelers, experienced hikers, photography enthusiasts
Location
Parque Provincial Aconcagua, Ruta 7, Mendoza
-32.6532, -70.0109 — View on map
Highlights
- Highest peak in the Americas at 6,961 meters — the defining summit objective for high-altitude mountaineers from around the world
- Plaza de Mulas base camp (4,370m) accessible via a two to three day non-technical trek through high Andean desert scenery
- Laguna Los Horcones viewpoint reachable on a one-day walk from the park entrance, with dramatic south face panoramas
- Normal Route summit accessible without technical climbing — the most accessible 7,000-meter ascent globally for experienced high-altitude trekkers
- High desert park landscape of ochre valleys, glacial moraines, and sparse Andean cushion plants surrounding the mountain
Tips
- Permits required for all treks - book months ahead
- December-February best weather for trekking
- Altitude sickness is serious - acclimatize properly
- Hire experienced guides for safety
FAQ
Can non-climbers visit Aconcagua Provincial Park?
Yes — the Laguna Los Horcones trail is a short day walk requiring only a trekking permit. The trek to Confluencia camp requires an overnight permit but no mountaineering experience. Trekking to Plaza de Mulas base camp is a multi-day route suitable for fit hikers, also without technical climbing.
How much does an Aconcagua climbing permit cost?
Climbing permit prices are set in Argentine pesos, adjusted annually, and vary by route and season. As a guide, full summit permits in peak season have cost the equivalent of USD 700–900. Trekking permits for base camp access without summiting are considerably cheaper. Current prices are published on the Mendoza provincial government permit portal.
How dangerous is climbing Aconcagua?
Despite the accessible route profile, altitude sickness, rapid weather changes, and extreme cold at higher elevations present serious risk. A thorough acclimatization schedule spanning multiple weeks, experienced mountain guides, and quality equipment are essential. Medical evacuation by helicopter is not uncommon.
Accessibility
The Laguna Los Horcones viewpoint trail is a flat, unpaved path accessible to most moderately fit visitors but not to wheelchairs. All higher trekking and climbing routes require good physical fitness and altitude tolerance. No adapted facilities exist above the park entrance at Horcones.
When to visit
The climbing and high-altitude trekking season runs December to February, offering the most stable weather and fully operational base camp services. The park entrance and Laguna Los Horcones trail are accessible year-round, but snow and severe cold make upper routes hazardous outside the summer window.