Aconcagua - 22,841 ft / 6,962 m
The highest mountain outside of Asia, Aconcagua, is a remarkable mountain lying in the Mendoza region of Argentina. Aconcagua is one of the “seven summits,” the highest peak on each continent, and represents a stage on an exceptional quest to summit all seven summits. A lofty goal on its own at 6,962 metres/22,841 ft, Aconcagua stands as the roof of South America!
Adventures Within Reach has an upcoming departure for Aconcagua set for February 14th, 2011. We still have space available for adventure seekers and alpine climbing enthusiasts!
AWR’s Private Aconcagua Climb
This 17 day excursion, departing from the city of Mendoza, will follow the Normal Route. Once participants arrive at the end of paved roads they will enter the Aconcagua Provincial Park and begin hiking at an altitude of over 10,000 feet. The arrival at the Plaza de Mulas base camp at 13,944 feet will be the site of several days of acclimatization in the ascent of this formidable and majestic peak.
Climbing to three more camps (Plaza Canadá, Nido de Cóndores, and Berlin) will bring the climbers and their guides to over 19,000 feet where they spend the night before their summit bid. The itinerary including two extra days, scheduled in the case of bad weather, will allow for the best chances of reaching the summit.
After returning from the mountain climbers will spend an evening together at a Mendoza hotel and celebrate their achievement.
History and Lore of the Roof of America
Aconcagua, the culminating point of the Cordillera de Los Andes, lies 180 kilometers west of Mendoza, Argentina near the boarder with Chile. The mountains above the arid and continental climate of Mendoza are crowned with glaciers and subject to the conditions of high altitude.
The origins of the name “Aconcagua” are uncertain, but three theories predominate. The oldest indigenous cultures in the area are the Aymaras and the Araucanos. “Kon-kawa” is Aymara for snowy peak and “Aconca-Hue” is Araucano for the name of a river that means that which comes from the otherside. The Inca influence in the area is also important and the Quecha “Akon-Kahuak” means sentinal of stone. Despite these possibilities an ancient relationship to the mountain remained speculative; however, in 1985, trekkers discover an Inca mummy at an altitude of over 15,000 feet. The remains of this young male believed to have been sacrificed suggest an ancient spiritual connection to the high mountains of the Andes.
A Serious Mountaineering Objective
Aconcagua is accessible yet a serious mountaineering objective due to inherent difficulties of the climb. The greatest challenges are high altitude and potentially extreme weather. For success, climbers need good fitness, proper acclimatization, and proper logistics. The chances for success of our expedition are high with excellent planning and the experience of internationally certified high altitude guides. The Normal Route success rate is 75%.
The Normal Route (or Northwest Route) is physically demanding yet attainable for motivated individuals. The Swiss Mathias Zurbriggen first climbed the mountain by the Normal Route in 1897 on an expedition organized by the Englishman Edward Fitz Gerald. The mountain has routes of all difficulties from extreme rock and ice to the accessible, non-technical terrain of the Normal Route.
Participants on this climb will be rewarded by spectacular views of the mountain and the many peaks that surround it. They will also have the joy of climbing on the highest mountain in the Americas, experiencing an exceptional adventure, and building unforgettable memories.
Contact us for further information about one of the world’s most exciting destinations!