INTRODUCTION
At 6,960 meters, Aconcagua is the highest mountain in the Americas and the highest peak outside of Asia. Its name translates from the Quechua word ‘Akon-Kahuak” which means Stone Sentential. The mountain lives up to this reputation as it towers over the heart of the Andes lying on the border between Chile and Argentina. The surrounding lowlands rise up to 4000 meters and provide beautiful desert landscapes with a diversity of flora and fauna.
The ‘Polish Glacier Traverse Route’, often called the ‘360 Polish Traverse’, completely circumnavigates Aconcagua by ascending the Polish Route from the east and descending the Normal Route to the west. This climb is a wonderful experience as you are always traveling on new terrain with ever-changing views.
The Polish Glacier Traverse is a more challenging ascent than the Normal Route with longer distances and times between camps above base camp (5-7 hours on the Polish Traverse Route as compared to 3-4 hours on the Normal Route). But it is not more technically difficult and much less traveled than the Normal Route.
We have well-appointed base camps on both sides of the mountains where you will spend a total of 5 days, (see itinerary) relaxing and enjoying well-cooked meals in our dining tents.
Our Polish Traverse climb employs porters to carry sleeping tents between each camp and remove human waste from the mountain. We plan a 20-day expedition giving us more days on the mountain than any other guide service allowing you better acclimatization and a greater chance of reaching the summit.
THE A.T. ADVENTURES ADVANTAGE – Setting us apart from other guide services
A.T. ADVENTURES’ staff and guides have a 336-year history of organizing and leading successful climbing expeditions to the summit of Aconcagua. A.T. ADVENTURES employs outstanding guides, provides excellent base camp services, well-appointed gear and itineraries with proper acclimatization schedules that allow each climber an excellent opportunity to reach the summit. Our level of care, commitment to quality and decision making that is focused on the climber, has been the trademark of our operation.
GUIDES
Known as the finest guides on the mountain, they lead not only A.T. ADVENTURES climbs but also trips for some of the most renowned guide services in the industry. Several of our Lead Guides have over 40 ascents of Aconcagua and all are certified by AAGM (Argentinean Association of Mountain Guides) and the EPGAMT (School of High Mountain and Trekking Guides), the two highest certifications in Argentina.
SMALL TEAMS AND GUIDE RATIO
On both the Normal and Polish Traverse Routes our expeditions are limited to 12 climbers. Our guide ratio is 1 guide for every 3-4 team members on the mountain. Small teams with low guide ratio more readily translate to success, giving us the ability to assist climbers to the summit.
ITINERARIES WITH ADEQUATE ACCLIMATIZATION DAYS
On the Polish Glacier Traverse Route, we offer a 20-day program round trip from Mendoza. This is longer than any other company and is very important to increase your chance of summit success and a prime example of where we put quality first. These extra days allow us to wait out bad weather or have extra rest days if needed. Many other teams retreat early as they have run out of time or moved too quickly up the mountain often causing climbers to become ill. If we finish on time you can enjoy the beautiful city of Mendoza and the surrounding wine county or fly home early. See, Itinerary Polish Glacier Traverse.
PORTER ASSISTANCE
At no additional cost, porters are employed to strategically assist climbers in load carrying. Porters will move tents between all camps and carry down all human waste to be transported out of the Park. Team members can also hire additional porters to carry their personal gear if they choose.
BASE CAMP SERVICES
Our Base Camps come fully equipped with large dining tents, table, and chairs, professional kitchens with chefs to serve you and Wi-Fi throughout the Camp. Hot Showers are available upon request.
PARTNERS WHO OWN THEIR OWN RESOURCES
A.T. ADVENTURES partners own all the logistical services, including Base Camps, climbing gear and mules which is imperative in operating quality trips at a competitive price.
- A.T. ADVENTURES uses offices and depots in both Mendoza and at the entrance of the Park. Climbers and teams can utilize our services at each of these depots. Our full time, well-trained staff are ready to address your needs whether in Mendoza or on the mountain.
- They own over 140 mules which allow us to easily transport all your equipment and supplies without delay to the Base Camps.
ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP AND ETHICS
A.T. ADVENTURES holds itself to the highest standards of environmental practices. We support the Provincial Park’s mission to preserve the natural resource. Below are some of our commitments to this endeavor.
- All human waste is removed from the mountain by porters and helicoptered out of the Park for disposal.
- All trash is brought down from the mountain and A.T. ADVENTURES mules carry it out of the Park for disposal.
- We use LNT (Leave No Trace) principals throughout the climb.
- Our mules are well cared for with annual medical checkups and sufficient rest days between trips up the mountain.
A.T. ADVENTURES COMMITMENT
Climbing Aconcagua is a large undertaking which requires your commitment to training, time away from work and financial expense. We understand your commitment and are dedicated to providing you the best opportunity to reach the summit. There may be many personal reasons to choose a particular guide service, but there are four main areas of concern that you should consider: Safety Record, Guides, Logistics In-Country, and Pre-Trip Planning with the climber. A.T. ADVENTURES is the leader in all these areas.
| DEPARTURE/RETURN LOCATION | ACONCAGUA |
| DURATION DAYS | 20 Days |
| TRIP ROUTE | ACONCAGUA |
| INCLUDED | HOTEL IN MENDOZA GEAR CHECK AND ORIENTATION ASSISTANCE WITH CLIMBING PERMIT TRANSFER MENDOZA / PENITENTES / MENDOZA MEALS LODGING IN PENITENTES TRANSFER TO THE ACONCAGUA TRAILHEAD MULES CONFLUENCIA BASE CAMP TREKKING TO PLAZA FRANCIA PLAZA DE MULAS BASE CAMP TREKKING IN PLAZA DE MULAS AREA AND MT. BONETE CLIMBING PORTERS FOR THE HIGH CAMPS OUR GUIDES EXTRA DAYS COMMUNICATIONS EQUIPMENT AND TENTS GIFTS |
| NOT INCLUDED | Wire Transfer Fees for deposit or balance (If Applicable) International round-trip airfare home country – Mendoza Excess baggage charges, lost luggage and airport taxes Climbing Permit Fee ($850 – $1100, depending on season) Single Room Supplement (Hotels Only) Guide Tips Private porters hired to carry your personal gear if you choose. They can be confirmed in advance. Some supplemental snacks such as candy bars and drinks which are not mentioned in provided services – see confirmation materials Additional hotels and meals if the expedition finishes early and returns to Mendoza. Airport transfers. (Due to multiple arrival schedules). Taxis are an easy way to get back and forth from the Airport to your hotel. You can also request personal pickups at the airport for an additional cost. All fees incurred for early departure from the scheduled itinerary (whether personal or medical), including additional hotels, meals & transportation (mules, auto or helicopter) a full schedule of departure evacuation fees will be sent in confirmation materials for early departures. Personal gear (personal clothing), see gear list. Charges incurred as a result of delays beyond the control of Aconcagua Mountain Guides LLC Trip cancellation insurance |
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Day 1
MENDOZA (760m)
Upon arrival in Mendoza, you will enjoy the comforts of one of the best hotels in Mendoza which will be our meeting place. Your confirmation letter will confirm our meeting time where we will provide a complete orientation to include: a comprehensive gear check, an overview of the entire climb and a question and answer period. Guides will assist you with any gear rentals or purchases if required. For the evening you are free to walk the streets of Mendoza and enjoy the many great restaurants in the area. (Meals not included)
Upon arrival in Mendoza, you will enjoy the comforts of one of the best hotels in Mendoza which will be our meeting place. Your confirmation letter will confirm our meeting time where we will provide a complete orientation to include: a comprehensive gear check, an overview of the entire climb and a question and answer period. Guides will assist you with any gear rentals or purchases if required. For the evening you are free to walk the streets of Mendoza and enjoy the many great restaurants in the area. (Meals not included)
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Day 2
MENDOZA / PENITENTES (2,725m)
After registration with Aconcagua Provincial Park we drive to Penitentes to start our acclimatization. Upon reaching Penitentes we will check in to our quaint hotel at the base of the mountain and have lunch. In the afternoon, the mule’s loads are prepared at our Depot at Los Puquios for the following day. (B, L, D)
After registration with Aconcagua Provincial Park we drive to Penitentes to start our acclimatization. Upon reaching Penitentes we will check in to our quaint hotel at the base of the mountain and have lunch. In the afternoon, the mule’s loads are prepared at our Depot at Los Puquios for the following day. (B, L, D)
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Day 3
PENITENTES / PAMPA DE LEÑAS (3,100m)
The group will be taken to the entrance of the Park in our private van and begin the trek to Pampa de Leñas Camp. Our equipment is carried by mules (each climber carries a day pack) and camps will be set up by our staff upon arrival. (B, PL, D)
The group will be taken to the entrance of the Park in our private van and begin the trek to Pampa de Leñas Camp. Our equipment is carried by mules (each climber carries a day pack) and camps will be set up by our staff upon arrival. (B, PL, D)
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Day 4
PAMPA DE LEÑAS / CASA DE PIEDRA (3,600m)
After breakfast and gear packing we head off on our trek to Casa de Piedra camp. This is a gradual walk along the Vacas River for about 5-6 hours. This is one of the most beautiful days on the trek where we eventually see the magnificent East Face of Aconcagua with the Polish Glacier running directly to the summit. Like in the previous day, the tents will be set up and you will be able to rest waiting for dinner to be ready. (B, PL, D)
After breakfast and gear packing we head off on our trek to Casa de Piedra camp. This is a gradual walk along the Vacas River for about 5-6 hours. This is one of the most beautiful days on the trek where we eventually see the magnificent East Face of Aconcagua with the Polish Glacier running directly to the summit. Like in the previous day, the tents will be set up and you will be able to rest waiting for dinner to be ready. (B, PL, D)
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Day 5
CASA DE PIEDRA / PLAZA ARGENTINA BASE CAMP (4,000m)
The trek to Plaza Argentina Base Camp is our longest trekking day (6-7 hours) with the reward of reaching base camp. Once at Plaza Argentina, we will stay in our own private campsite with the necessary comforts so as to make your stay as nice as possible. (B, PL, D)
The trek to Plaza Argentina Base Camp is our longest trekking day (6-7 hours) with the reward of reaching base camp. Once at Plaza Argentina, we will stay in our own private campsite with the necessary comforts so as to make your stay as nice as possible. (B, PL, D)
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Day 6
PLAZA ARGENTINA BASE CAMP
Here we take a rest day and perhaps take on some short walks in the area. (B, L, D)
Here we take a rest day and perhaps take on some short walks in the area. (B, L, D)
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Day 7
PLAZA ARGENTINA / CAMP 1 (4,950m) / PLAZA ARGENTINA
Carry food and equipment to Camp 1 about 5 hours climbing. (Each team member carries their own gear). Once at Camp 1, you will enjoy your packed-lunch and then return to Plaza Argentina. Carries such as these are an important aspect of our acclimatization process. (B, PL, D)
Carry food and equipment to Camp 1 about 5 hours climbing. (Each team member carries their own gear). Once at Camp 1, you will enjoy your packed-lunch and then return to Plaza Argentina. Carries such as these are an important aspect of our acclimatization process. (B, PL, D)
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Day 8
PLAZA ARGENTINA BASE CAMP
Resting and acclimatization day in Plaza Argentina. This day will also be used to prepare gear for our move to Camp 1. (B, L, D)
Resting and acclimatization day in Plaza Argentina. This day will also be used to prepare gear for our move to Camp 1. (B, L, D)
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Day 9
PLAZA ARGENTINA / CAMP 1
On this day we move to Camp 1, approximately 6 hours. During the climb, each client will be responsible for carrying personal equipment and additional supplies. Sleeping tents will be carried by our porter staff. On the way, the group will have lunch and once you arrive you will set up the tents with the guides help. (B, PL, D)
On this day we move to Camp 1, approximately 6 hours. During the climb, each client will be responsible for carrying personal equipment and additional supplies. Sleeping tents will be carried by our porter staff. On the way, the group will have lunch and once you arrive you will set up the tents with the guides help. (B, PL, D)
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Day 10
CAMP 1 / CAMP 2: UPPER GUANACOS (5,500m) / CAMP 1
Carry to Camp 2 will take 4-5 hours. As part of our acclimatization we carry the necessary food and fuel to Camp 2. We begin our day ascending moderate switchbacks that make the climbing easier and then have an ascent of 18,000ft (5,500m) elevation gain to reach Camp 2. While on the climb, the surrounding mountains open up to us with wide vistas along with a magnificent view of the Polish Glacier. Once at Camp 2, we will cache our supplies and take a good rest while enjoying lunch. Then we descend back to Camp 1. (B, PL, D)
Carry to Camp 2 will take 4-5 hours. As part of our acclimatization we carry the necessary food and fuel to Camp 2. We begin our day ascending moderate switchbacks that make the climbing easier and then have an ascent of 18,000ft (5,500m) elevation gain to reach Camp 2. While on the climb, the surrounding mountains open up to us with wide vistas along with a magnificent view of the Polish Glacier. Once at Camp 2, we will cache our supplies and take a good rest while enjoying lunch. Then we descend back to Camp 1. (B, PL, D)
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Day 11
CAMP 1 / CAMP 2: UPPER GUANACOS
The group will climb up to Camp 2 at 5,500m (5 hours climbing) and setup camp. On this day, each client will be responsible for carrying personal equipment and additional supplies. Sleeping tents will be carried by our porter staff. The tents will be pitched, and the team will be able to rest and recover. (B, PL, D)
The group will climb up to Camp 2 at 5,500m (5 hours climbing) and setup camp. On this day, each client will be responsible for carrying personal equipment and additional supplies. Sleeping tents will be carried by our porter staff. The tents will be pitched, and the team will be able to rest and recover. (B, PL, D)
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Day 12
Rest day in Camp 2. (B, L, D)
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Day 13
CAMP 2 / CAMP 3 CÓLERA (6,000m) / CAMP 2
Carry to Camp 3. Carry expedition equipment and food that you will need in Cólera, about 4-5 hours climbing (each member of the group will carry gear to Cólera Camp). Once at Cólera Camp, you will enjoy your lunch. Then you will return to Camp 2. This trek will continue helping with your acclimatization process. (B, PL, D)
Carry to Camp 3. Carry expedition equipment and food that you will need in Cólera, about 4-5 hours climbing (each member of the group will carry gear to Cólera Camp). Once at Cólera Camp, you will enjoy your lunch. Then you will return to Camp 2. This trek will continue helping with your acclimatization process. (B, PL, D)
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Day 14
CAMP 2 / CAMP 3 CÓLERA
We begin with an early start and after breakfast, we further ascend towards the Normal Route. On this day, each client will be responsible for carrying personal equipment and additional supplies. Sleeping tents will be carried by our porter staff. At Cólera Camp the campsite will be settled, strategically located for its altitude and protected from strong winds. The guide will check each member of the group and will orient climbers as to summit day plans. (B, PL, D)
We begin with an early start and after breakfast, we further ascend towards the Normal Route. On this day, each client will be responsible for carrying personal equipment and additional supplies. Sleeping tents will be carried by our porter staff. At Cólera Camp the campsite will be settled, strategically located for its altitude and protected from strong winds. The guide will check each member of the group and will orient climbers as to summit day plans. (B, PL, D)
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Day 15
CAMP 3 / SUMMIT (6,962m) / CAMP 3
This is our planned summit day beginning with a pre-dawn start. This is the great day! Our goal is reach the summit, where you will be rewarded an unforgettable experience, and then return to Cólera. (B, PL, D)
This is our planned summit day beginning with a pre-dawn start. This is the great day! Our goal is reach the summit, where you will be rewarded an unforgettable experience, and then return to Cólera. (B, PL, D)
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Day 16
CAMP 3 / PLAZA DE MULAS (4,260m)
After a long trek, you will get to Plaza de Mulas Base Camp. On this day, each client will be responsible for carrying personal equipment and the expedition equipment assigned to him. Sleeping tents and waste produced by expedition group will be carried by our porter staff. Once in Plaza de Mulas, the group will have the afternoon to enjoy the lower altitude and reflect on experience. (B, PL, D)
After a long trek, you will get to Plaza de Mulas Base Camp. On this day, each client will be responsible for carrying personal equipment and the expedition equipment assigned to him. Sleeping tents and waste produced by expedition group will be carried by our porter staff. Once in Plaza de Mulas, the group will have the afternoon to enjoy the lower altitude and reflect on experience. (B, PL, D)
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Day 17
PLAZA DE MULAS / HORCONES / MENDOZA
Descend to Horcones (6-7 hours) on the last trekking day of the expedition. Your belongings will be carried by mules so you will only take a light bag pack with a jacket and your packed lunch. Transfer to Mendoza city. Lodge in the hotel. (B, PL) (Mendoza dinner not included)
Descend to Horcones (6-7 hours) on the last trekking day of the expedition. Your belongings will be carried by mules so you will only take a light bag pack with a jacket and your packed lunch. Transfer to Mendoza city. Lodge in the hotel. (B, PL) (Mendoza dinner not included)
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Day 18
MENDOZA
Breakfast. End of services. (
Breakfast. End of services. (
19
Day 19
Extra day for weather.
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Day 20
Extra day for weather
NOTE: THE ABOVE ITINERARY IS INTENDED AS A GUIDELINE ONLY. ALTHOUGH EVERY EFFORT WILL BE MADE TO ADHERE TO IT, CHANGES MAY BE CAUSED DUE TO WEATHER CONDITIONS, TRANSPORT FAILURE OR OTHER UNFORESEEN EVENTS. PLEASE BE FLEXIBLE IF NECESSARY.
TECHNICAL SKILLS
The Polish Glacier Traverse Route on Aconcagua does not require previous training in technical climbing skills to participate in a summit climb. We are primarily climbing on trails but on occasion use crampons and a fixed line to add safety it the route requires. Instruction in the use of crampons will be taught by your guides to prepare you in case it is required.
PHYSICAL DIFFICULTY
Climbing Aconcagua is a physically challenging undertaking. You will have multiple days carrying loads between 25lbs (11kg) and 40lbs (18kg) and ascending as much as 3,000ft (950m) in a particular day. After reaching a camp we set up and sleep in tents with outside temperatures that could reach -20 C. Altitude plays an important role in the physical challenge with less than half the amount of oxygen in the air as at sea level.
PHYSICAL FITNESS
All these challenges can be overcome through good training and previous experience camping in cold conditions. You should begin your physical training several months prior to your climb by carrying a backpack and slowly increasing the weight and altitude gain on each hike. If you can reach a point where you are comfortable carrying the pack weights mentioned above and ascending 1000 meters (3,000 feet) in a 4-6 hour period you will be on your way to having the strength and endurance to climb Aconcagua.
SELF-MANAGEMENT
You should also be prepared to take care of yourself in a cold environment. This means knowing how to control your body temperature by hydrating well, putting on different layers of clothing to maintain body heat and eating sufficiently (regularly throughout the day) to maintain your strength. It is important to learn how to monitor your health and know how you are feeling. We will help you to fine-tune many of these skills as we trek to base camp and begin to ascend the mountain.
ALTITUDE CHALLENGE
Last, but not least is the altitude challenge. It helps to have climbed high before, (over 4,000-5,000m – 12,000 to 16,000 feet) but if you will walk slowly, stay hydrated and monitor your health, the guides will be able to assist you in the acclimatization process with a very high likelihood of success. Remember training for your climb is essential to reaching the summit and having the experience of a lifetime.
| *2019* AVAILABLE DATES (Minimum of 4 People) |
| JAN 5-25 |
| JAN 26TH-FEB 14 |
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