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Cerro Mercedario
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Cerro Mercedario is one of the giants of the Andes, ranking as the eighth-highest mountain in South America with an altitude of 6,720 meters. Located in the Ramada massif in the province of San Juan, this imposing mountain is often overshadowed by the fame of Aconcagua, though its ascent is considered by many climbers to be more technical and spectacular. Mercedario hosts massive glaciers, such as the Ollada Glacier, which feed vital watersheds for agriculture in the Cuyo region. The mountain's history is linked to the Inca civilization, with evidence of their presence found at high altitudes. The first modern ascent was accomplished by a Polish expedition in 1934, marking the beginning of systematic alpine exploration in the area.
- Location: Argentina
- Top sights: Cerro Wanda · Fin sendero Arroyo Turquesa · Cerro Mercedario
- Nearby: Barreal (72 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 9 | 8 | 6 | 2 | -2 | -5 | -7 | -5 | -2 | 1 | 4 | 7 |
| Rain mm | 14 | 16 | 12 | 10 | 29 | 37 | 30 | 25 | 10 | 8 | 11 | 11 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Reaching the base camp generally entails driving from Barreal over harsh, unpaved Andean dirt tracks that nearly always necessitate a rugged four-wheel-drive vehicle.
Best season
The peak summer months of December through February typically offer the most stable, slightly less freezing weather required for serious high-altitude mountaineering.
Terrain & paths
Climbers are immediately confronted with an intensely demanding, high-alpine environment encompassing vast scree slopes, deep glacial crevasses, and steep snowfields.
What to bring
Comprehensive, professional-grade high-altitude expedition gear, firmly including crampons, ice axes, extreme insulating layers, and four-season tents, is mandatory.
Parking
Vehicles are normally left parked at designated mule-trail staging points or directly at the rustic lower base camps, often under the casual watch of locals.
Safety
The combination of extreme altitude, sudden violent weather shifts, and severe physical exertion dictates that excellent acclimatization and immense experience are vital.
Time needed
A full and proper expedition to summit this towering Andean giant typically requires an intense commitment of around fifteen to twenty days round-trip from base camp.
Geography
Facts
- Its maximum altitude is 6,720 meters above sea level.
- It is located in the San Juan province, in the Ramada massif.
- Ranks among the top 10 highest peaks in the Andes.
- The first successful ascent was on January 18, 1934.
- Hosts high-altitude archaeological sites of Inca origin.
- Its glaciers are essential water sources for the San Juan River.
- Visible from great distances due to its relative isolation.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Cerro Mercedario (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is the Cerro Mercedario a difficult mountain?
Yes, it is a demanding expedition that requires very good acclimatization.
How high is the Cerro Mercedario?
The peak is at an altitude of over 6,700 meters.
Do you need a permit for the peak?
Yes, official permits are required to enter the area.
What equipment is essential?
High-alpine clothing, crampons, and ice axes are mandatory for the summit.
When is the best time for climbing?
The best time is from late spring to early autumn (November to March).
Cerro Mercedario: where is it located?
Cerro Mercedario is located in Argentina.
Cerro Mercedario: what is there to see?
Highlights include Cerro Wanda, Fin sendero Arroyo Turquesa, Cerro Mercedario.
Cerro Mercedario: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Cerro Mercedario: why is it worth visiting?
Cerro Mercedario is one of the giants of the Andes, ranking as the eighth-highest mountain in South America with an altitude of 6,720 meters.
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