Day 17 / 25 January 2026: Summit Day | 2950–2580 Here it is—the biggest day of this magnificent adventure we have been journeying toward for more than two weeks! Tonight, taking into account the physical condition of our participants, the weather forecast, and the mountain conditions, our expedition leader and local guides will decide the exact start time for the ascent. On such a high-altitude climb with nearly 1000 meters of elevation gain, we usually begin between midnight and sunrise. Although continuous, deep sleep is rare at this altitude due to the effects of high elevation, the high-quality expedition services we provide will still allow you to rest effectively in our tents. It is often said that reaching the high camp on Aconcagua is only the first half of the journey—the summit push is the second half. Our route will progress along a clear and rocky terrain up to a section known as Piedras Blancas (6060m). From there, we will continue along the mountain’s northern ridge, reaching the northeast face via a narrow path. The ascent then continues through zigzagging trails. One of the first major landmarks of summit day is Refugio Independencia (6380m). This point is often used to evaluate energy levels and overall conditions before facing the final steps. We will then proceed along a ridge west of Refugio Independencia called Portezuelo del Viento. Afterwards, a long east-to-west traverse across the Gran Acarreo awaits us. Conditions here are often variable—strong morning winds rising from the valley can cause significant wind chill. Large hard-packed snow and even ice patches may appear. This is often where ice axe and crampon use becomes necessary. Although the traverse is no steeper than 30 degrees, it is one of the most attention-demanding parts of the route due to the conditions. We continue to the base of La Canaleta, the final and only steep gully on the summit route. Here we will take a break at La Cueva (6650m), a cave-like shelter carved into the mountainside. At the western end of La Canaleta, the rocky walls narrow and fade into the Acarreo. The route becomes steeper, and short switchbacks lead us toward the summit ridge. Just before reaching the ridge, we traverse onto a gentler section known as El Filo del Guanaco, avoiding hazards on the south face. We are now fully in the high-altitude world—at around 6800 meters! The final effort will bring us to the summit. Although it may look short, this last section can take 45 to 60 challenging minutes. This is where every participant’s physical, mental, and acclimatization training is truly tested. In just a short while, we will stand on Aconcagua—the highest point of the Americas—capturing unforgettable summit photos. The breathtaking panorama of the Andes, its glaciers, and its towering, snow-covered peaks spreads out in all directions at 6961 meters. The Penitentes Valley is cut by the iconic Mercedario, while immense white slopes rise at dramatic angles around us. Volcanic-looking pyramid-shaped giants dominate the skyline. Red, brown, and yellow rock formations stretch infinitely across the high-mountain landscape. Our view includes Tolosa and Gemelos, the Juncal glaciers, Navarro and Polleras, Leones, Plomo, and more. After enjoying this monumental experience, we will begin a careful descent back to Camp 3. We will settle into our tents with pleasant exhaustion, have a light dinner, drink plenty of fluids, and rest before leaving this high camp in the morning. Approximate Activity Duration: 10–12 hoursIncluded Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner Day 18 / 26 January 2026: Extra Day Day 19 / 27 January 2026: Extra Day Aconcagua lies in a region where fierce winds frequently strike massive mountains. Harsh weather windows—especially high winds—are often the determining factor in Andean climbs. For this reason, and for proper acclimatization, we include reserve days in the program. These extra days are typically used either at Plaza de Mulas base camp or Nido de Cóndores high camp. On expeditions where these reserve days are not needed, we may leave the mountain earlier or enjoy a relaxed time at base camp. We designed a flexible end-of-expedition schedule to make the most of these possibilities. Approximate Activity Duration: —Included Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner Day 20 / 28 January 2026: Descent to Plaza de Mulas Base Camp After an early breakfast, we leave Camp 3 and descend efficiently toward Plaza de Mulas, passing the intermediate camps. If we have any gear stored at these camps, we will collect them during short breaks along the way. Upon reaching base camp, a small celebration evening awaits us. Approximate Activity Duration: 5–6 hoursIncluded Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner Day 21 / 29 January 2026: Plaza de Mulas – Horcones Trek & Transfer to Mendoza After breakfast and handing over our bags, we will leave base camp. Today, a long descent awaits us. We will walk through the rocky, desert-like valleys we ascended days ago—nearly all day long. There is, however, another option that can make this long day much easier: participants may choose to descend to the Horcones gate by helicopter as an extra service. From there, it is even possible to transfer directly to Mendoza without waiting for the rest of the group or baggage. Our expedition leader will provide the necessary details and assist with coordination. Under normal circumstances, we reunite with our vehicles at the Horcones entrance and continue to our expedition logistics center. While we enjoy cold drinks and rest, we will wait for our luggage to be delivered. Afterwards, we head to Mendoza, arriving late at night. Tonight, after nearly several weeks, we are back in our comfortable hotel rooms. Approximate Activity Duration: 6–8 hoursIncluded Meals: Breakfast – Lunch Day 22 / 30 January 2026: Mendoza – Airport Transfer – Departure (AR1429 MDZ–EZE 18:30–20:05 & TK16 EZE–IST 23:50–22:10) We have time until noon. You may rest or continue enjoying this beautiful city. At 15:00, we transfer to the airport for our return flights. IMPORTANT NOTE:You may extend your stay in Argentina with the help of our travel consultants. However, we recommend planning this extension on-site. When reserve days are not needed—or when early return to Mendoza is possible through additional descent services—there is usually ample time to enjoy sightseeing and relaxation activities. Often, participants coordinate shared plans that optimize both time and budget. For these reasons, we recommend keeping post-expedition plans flexible.
