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Aconcagua
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Mountain
Mount Aconcagua, located in the Mendoza Province of Argentina, is the highest peak in the Western and Southern Hemispheres, reaching an altitude of 6,960.8 meters. As a member of the Seven Summits, it serves as a premier destination for high-altitude mountaineers from across the globe. Although technically accessible via the Normal Route without specialized climbing gear, the mountain presents extreme challenges due to its thin air, low temperatures, and frequent high-velocity winds. It is situated within the Aconcagua Provincial Park, a protected area spanning approximately 71,000 hectares that preserves high-altitude glaciers and fragile alpine ecosystems. The mountain's first recorded ascent was achieved by Matthias Zurbriggen in 1897. Its proximity to the Chilean border and its commanding presence make it a central landmark of the Central Andes range.
- Location: Argentina
- Top sights: Aconcagua · Cerro Ameghino · Cerro Catedral
- Nearby: Barreal (71 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 | 8 | 7 | 5 | 1 | -3 | -7 | -8 | -6 | -3 | 0 | 2 | 5 |
| Rain mm | 12 | 13 | 11 | 11 | 37 | 50 | 39 | 31 | 12 | 10 | 11 | 9 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The main gateway is the Aconcagua Provincial Park entrance at Horcones, located off the international highway connecting Mendoza, Argentina, with Santiago, Chile. The trek to base camp begins directly from this easily accessible checkpoint.
Best season
The brief summer climbing season, stretching from December to February, gives the most stable weather and highest success rates. Outside of this window, extreme cold, deep snow, and violent storms make ascents excessively dangerous.
Terrain & paths
While the 'Normal Route' is physically a high-altitude hike without major technical climbing, the terrain consists of unforgiving, loose scree, barren rocky slopes, and harsh glacial moraines. Conditions become increasingly arctic near the summit.
What to bring
Specialized extreme cold-weather expedition gear is strictly mandatory, including double boots, high-quality down suits, and four-season tents. Proper climbing permits must be secured well in advance of the trip.
Parking
Day visitors and climbers usually park at the visitor center lots near Horcones, or they rely on private transfers arranged from Mendoza. Long-term parking for the duration of an expedition is typically coordinated with outfitter services.
Safety
The altitude poses the absolute greatest danger, with a severe risk of altitude sickness and pulmonary edema. Unpredictable, hurricane-force winds known as the 'Viento Blanco' can strike the upper slopes with devastating suddenness.
Time needed
A full summit expedition is a major undertaking that typically requires two to three solid weeks to allow for cautious acclimatization and weather delays. A simple hike to the lower Confluencia camp can be completed in a single day.
Geography
Facts
- Altitude of 6,960.8 meters (22,837 feet) above sea level
- Highest peak in the world outside of the Asian continent
- First successful ascent in 1897 by Swiss guide Matthias Zurbriggen
- Located within the 71,000-hectare Aconcagua Provincial Park
- Formed by the subduction of the Nazca Plate under South America
- Features several large glaciers, including the Horcones Superior
- Attracts over 3,000 climbers during the peak summer season
- Considered one of the iconic Seven Summits of the world
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 Aconcagua (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How high is Aconcagua?
At 6,961 meters, it is the highest mountain outside of Asia.
Is a permit required for mountaineering?
Yes, a paid permit is required to enter the Aconcagua park and for summit attempts.
When is the best season?
The main season for ascents is from December to February.
Is the mountain suitable for beginners?
No, it is a demanding high-altitude tour that requires physical fitness and experience.
What is the weather like at the summit?
It is extremely volatile with icy winds, even in mid-summer.
Aconcagua: where is it located?
Aconcagua is located in Argentina.
Aconcagua: what is there to see?
Highlights include Aconcagua, Cerro Ameghino, Cerro Catedral.
Aconcagua: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Aconcagua: why is it worth visiting?
Mount Aconcagua, located in the Mendoza Province of Argentina, is the highest peak in the Western and Southern Hemispheres, reaching an altitude of 6,960.8 meters.
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