1. What’s the difference between Ameghino Upper Guanacos & Polish and Traverse Route?
The Ameghino Upper Guanacos and the Polish Traverse use the same trekking route, the Vacas and Relinchos valley until Plaza Argentina base camp. The only section where they came apart is after camp 1! The Ameghino traverse through the Ameghino col to the old Guanacos route reaching the chooper camp or camp ! The Polish Traverse continue to the base of the glacier where we set camp 2, near the glacier where the wind with the help of the glacier blows strong and cold…..this camp is also more expose and the hike to Piedras Blancas more demanding than from camp 2 of the Ameghino Upper Guanacos.
2. Which route should I choose?
The Ameghino because: more progressive, less crowded, beautiful, full circuit, best high camp, most successful, etc.
3. Can I hire a Porter ?
You have to confirm it in advance. A porter can carry up to 20 kg and cost approximately US $1,300 through the Ameghino Upper Guanacos, Polish Traverse and Polish Glacier route and US $800 on the Normal route. You normally share it between two, so he carry 10kg each and cost you half of the price.
4. Which training do I need?
Once you get register we will send you a training program, for you to be fit and ready to climb the Aconcagua.
5. What time should I arrive and where do I meet my guides?
We organize a meeting with your guide on day 1 of our program at 5:00pm, at the hotel (Hyatt Park Plaza or NH Cordillera Hotel, depending which Hotel we are using).
For an earlier or latest arrival, please contact us to help you to organize it.
6. How many climbers will participate on the expedition?
We accept a maximum of 12 climbers in each expedition that follow the Ameghino & Upper Guanacos, Polish & Traverse and Normal Route. For the Polish Glacier route we accept 6 climbers.
7. What is the maximum weight I’m supposed to carry?
As we use porters for gears (tents) and thanks to our double carry strategy (as we go twice to each High Camp, we carry first, half of the weight and then the second half) you might have to carry 10-12 kilos (22 – 26 lbs) maximum.
8. Does someone will pick me up at the airport?
Our driver will meet you at Mendoza airport and will drive you to your hotel in Mendoza (if you arrive earlier than day 1 we will be happy to advice you for hotel booking). We will ask later for your flight information.
9. How much is the Aconcagua Climbing Permit ?
During the season, 2010-2011, climbing permits did raise till US $714 for high season, US $523 for mid season and US $285 for low season.
10. How can I pay the Aconcagua Climbing Permit?
You have to pay it cash, in Argentinean Pesos. Your guide will go with you on Day 2 of our program to the Aconcagua Provincial Park Office to assist you on the procedure.
11. How can I pay the Aconcagua Climbing Permit?
You have to pay it cash, in Argentinean Pesos. Your guide will go with you on Day 2 of our program to the Aconcagua Provincial Park Office to assist you on the procedure.
12. How much should I tip my guide & Aconcagua Express staff?
Tipping is a personal matter. You should tip accordingly to the quality of the service and help you received.
13. Do I need a visa for Argentina?
It will depend of your nationality, please check here.
Check if you will have to pay a reciprocity fee.
14. Will I receive a Summit Certificate?
All our clients receive a certificate at the end of the expedition attesting that you reached the summit of or a certain altitude on Aconcagua.
15. When is the best time to climb Aconcagua?
We offer departure from the end of November to the middle of February, when the weather is warmer and climate more stable. Usually December and January are the warmer months.
16. Is it possible to arrange a special diet?
In our application form we will ask you if you have a special diet (vegetarian, vegan, no pork, etc…) and we will of course provide you an appropriate meal. Just mention it.
USA: 1-877-260-5447
Canada: 1-877-260-5447
UK: 0 800 868 740
Australia: 1 800 182 208
Brazil: 0 800 891 6292
Chile: 56 2 2217 9101 (office)