Embark on a seven-day Aconcagua Plaza de Mulas Trek, exploring stunning landscapes and iconic camps. Begin at Confluencia Base Camp on the Normal Route, where the towering South Face of Aconcagua rises 3,000 meters, surrounded by glaciers and frozen waterfalls.
Continue to Plaza de Mulas, the main camp at the base of Aconcagua's west face, offering breathtaking views of glaciers and valleys.
For an added thrill, ascend Mount Bonete (5,000m) for panoramic views of the Andes, or spend a day soaking in the base camp's vibrant atmosphere.
This adventure offers a unique chance to experience the highest peak in the Americas, connect with mountaineers worldwide, and witness Aconcagua’s unmatched grandeur.
Federico is an outdoor lover with plenty of adventures in The Andes. Specialized in the tour logistics and organization of Expeditions and Treks in the Central Andes, Patagonia, Peru, Bolivia, and French Alps.
Hike to iconic viewpoints like the South Face of Aconcagua and Cerro Bonete, where you'll witness stunning landscapes and panoramic views of the Andes, including Aconcagua’s majestic West Face.
Optional Heli-Charter for a Scenic Departure
End your adventure with a thrilling helicopter flight from Base Camp, offering unparalleled views of the Andes before landing in Horcones and continuing to Mendoza in comfort.
Comfort and Hospitality at Base Camp
Enjoy a warm welcome at Base Camp with hot showers, hearty meals, and even free internet to connect with loved ones—making it your "home away from home" at 4,350 meters.
Route details
Day 1
Transfer Mendoza – Horcones | Hike to Confluencia Camp
Note: The program begins in Mendoza the day before the hike to check gear and secure permits. Please plan your arrival accordingly.
Private transfer from Mendoza to our warehouse in Penitentes. (there are lockers and storage places available for our guests). You can have coffee and snacks while the guides prepare the mule loads.
Another 15-minute ride takes the team to Horcones. This is the trailhead and also where the Park rangers will check permits.
A scenic hike (carrying only a daypack) leads to Confluencia, the first camp of the Horcones Valley routes.
Transfer 3 hs + Trek 3 – 4 hs Max altitude 3,390 m
Day 2
Hike Confluencia – Plaza Francia | South Face viewpoint
We make a detour to marvel at the towering South Face of Mount Aconcagua, pausing at a perfectly situated viewpoint at the base of the massive ice wall for lunch.
After a 7-hour hike, we return to Confluencia for the night.
6-7 hs Maximum altitude: 4,050 meters.
Day 3
Rest day at Confluencia camp
This day is reserved for acclimatization.
Day 4
Hike Confluencia – Plaza de Mulas
After an intense 8-hour hike, reaching Base Camp is a well-earned reward. Our camp manager and crew welcome you warmly, making you feel like family. Enjoy a hot shower, a hearty dinner, or free internet to connect with loved ones—comforts that make this your “home away from home.”
7-9 hs Maximum altitude: 4,350 meters.
Day 5
Rest day at Plaza de Mulas - Acclimatization day
Sleep in your tent, read in the dining tent, or try the yoga mats in our heated lounge tent.
Walking around to witness the hustle of basecamp life.
Day 6
Cerro Bonete trek
A non-technical hike to nearby Cerro Bonete rewards you with stunning views of Aconcagua’s majestic West Face and the achievement of reaching a 5,000-meter peak.
6-7 hs Max altitude 5,004 m
Day 7
Hike Plaza de Mulas – Horcones | Transfer to Mendoza
After a hearty breakfast with the lead guide and climbers heading for the summit, we begin our return journey to the Horcones Valley. At the trailhead, our vehicle awaits with refreshing sodas or even a cold beer, ready to transport you back to Mendoza, where the program concludes.
Optional: Heli-Charter Experience Elevate your adventure by departing Base Camp in a private helicopter instead of hiking. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Andes from a condor’s perspective during this scenic flight (weather permitting). Our Base Camp Manager will coordinate the flight early in the morning, landing in Horcones. From there, a vehicle will take you to Mendoza for the program's conclusion.
Difficulty
Challenging
Does not require specific skills, but one must be in good health
Tour provider's comments
This is an moderately difficult trek. You don’t need specific training, but you should be an active person who exercises at least 2 or 3 times a week and is in good health, as we will be hiking at high altitudes. This trek has significant elevation gain on some of the days, but don’t worry about fatigue, as you will be hiking with your day backpack only thanks to the mules that will carry the camp equipment. If you have any concerns, please contact us.
Accommodation
Comfort
Basic
Tent
6 nights
6 nights
Tent
Shared bedroom in geodesic domes with bunk beds or shared tents.
All Meals Included during the hike: Gourmet dinners with dessert, breakfast and box lunch.
Access to dining-room geodesic domes: Dining in a comfortable geodesic dome.
Tickets to group meeting place
Group meeting place
Mendoza
Calculate tour price with tickets from your city
Partnered with
Weather during the tour
Weather conditions along the route
You will get a weather forecast for this tour’s route based on
the forecasts for this season
the statistics from previous years’ trips
Tour conditions
Included
Park Entrance Permit Assistance: Help with obtaining the necessary permits for entry to Aconcagua Park;
Round Trip Transport: Comfortable transportation from your hotel in Mendoza City, Luján, or Maipú;
Professional Bilingual Guide: Expert guides certified as WFR (Wilderness First Responder);
Communications: Our guides have permanent radio communication. Wi-Fi is available at camp with limitations;
All Meals Included during the hike: Gourmet dinners with dessert, breakfast and box lunch;
Access to dining-room geodesic domes;
Accommodation;
Camp equipment transfer: 10kg per person included (mules).
Extras
Aconcagua Park Entrance Fee;
Personal Gear: Personal equipment and sleeping bag;
Lodging and meals in Mendoza not included;
Phone Communications: Personal phone communications are not included;
Insurance Liability: Not included; personal insurance is recommended;
Ground or air evacuations evacuations;
Medical Expenses;
Costs due to early abandonment or cancellation;
Additional Services: Any other service not explicitly mentioned in this list is not included.
Group size
From 2 to 8 tourists
Duration
7 days
6 nights
It's important to know
Personal equipment you need for the tour
UPPER BODY
2 Long-sleeved Base Layer: Lightweight and breathable shirts that keep your body dry and comfortable during the trek, and protected from the sun.
Fleece Jacket or Sweater: Provides additional warmth during cold mornings and evenings.
Waterproof or Windproof Jacket: Essential for protection against rain and wind. It should be lightweight, breathable, and durable. Preferably with a hood.
Insulated Jacket (Synthetic or Down): Offers an extra insulation layer, ideal for low temperatures at high altitudes. Preferably hooded.
1 Pair of Lightweight Gloves and 1 pair of warm/fleece gloves: For Keeping hands warm in cold conditions. Opt for breathable and moisture-wicking materials.
LOWER BODY
Trekking Pants: Comfortable and durable pants that allow freedom of movement. Quick-drying with multiple pockets.
Long Underwear or Tights: Additional layers that provide warmth under trekking pants.
FOOTWEAR
Trekking Boots: Sturdy and durable footwear with good ankle support, ideal for long walks on uneven terrain.
Thick Socks (2 pairs): Warm and cushioned socks to keep your feet warm and prevent blisters.
HEAD
Sun Hat: Vital for protection against the sun’s harmful rays. Choose one with a wide brim and UPF protection.
Wool or Fleece Hat: To keep your head warm in cold conditions. Opt for breathable and moisture-wicking materials.
Sunglasses with 100% UV Protection: Protect your eyes from UV rays and glare, essential at high altitudes. Preferably, with a wraparound design to minimize light entering from the sides.
Neck gaiter or buff: Multifunctional, protects your neck and face from cold, wind, and sun.
OTHER
2 Liter Water Bottle: Essential for staying hydrated. Choose a durable bottle with a wide mouth for easy filling.
35 – 45 Liter Backpack: This spacious and comfortable backpack is ideal for carrying all the necessary gear for a day of trekking.
45 – 70 Liter Duffle bag: super-tough expedition duffel to protect the gear and clothes the mules will haul to the base camp.
Trekking Poles: Help maintain balance and reduce strain on your legs during long hikes.
Headlamp with extra batteries: Hands-free light source for use at camp or in low-light situations.
Comfortable Sleeping Bag (Comfort -5°C): A sleeping bag provides comfort and warmth during cold nights in the mountains.
Sleeping Pad: Adds insulation and comfort for sleeping on hard and cold ground.
Comfortable Camp Clothes (sneakers, socks, cotton shirt, etc.): Comfortable clothes to wear after the trekking.
Sunscreen (recommended SPF 50+): Essential protection against UV rays at high altitudes.
Personal Hygiene Items (towel, soap, etc.): Basic personal hygiene items to stay clean and fresh during the trip.
Personal first-aid kit: bring any prescribed personal medications.
Is the group of climbers big?
We like small groups. We focus on giving every climber a fair chance to summit.
Will you pick us up from our accomodation?
Yes, we provide pick-up from accommodations in Mendoza City, Luján, or Maipú. Pick-ups from Valle de Uco are available for private trips only, at an additional cost. Ask us!
What kind of gear shoul I bring?
When hiking at high altitudes, it is important to be protected from the sun, the cold and the wind. Since we will be staying at campsites overnight, you will also need comfortable clothes. Additionally, good hiking boots are necessary. For a detailed list of equipment, check the equipment section for this trip.
What do I do if i don't have all the items on the equipment list?
If you do not have all the recommended gear, you can rent it in Mendoza. We will recommend stores with special discounts. Sometimes we can offer you some items for free, so please contact us.
What meals are included during the hike?
Full board is included at the basecamps and also the day snacks. Menus will be determined according to the daily camp menu. Some of the possibilities are:
Grilled chicken
Grilled meat with salads
Pizza
Carbonara rice
Bolognese pasta
Salads
Desserts
Fruits
Egg flan
Chocolate flan
Vegetarian, gluten-free and other special diets available upon request.
Do we need to carry our camping gear?
Don’t worry! You will carry your day backpack only, with some clothes, water and snacks. All the camping equipment can be delivered with the mules. So, no worries..You’ll be hiking super light!
Cancellation of booking
In case of early cancellation of the reservation, we will be forced to withhold from you a percentage of the price paid:
regardless of when the cancellation was made - 30
less than 48 hours - 100
Additional terms:
You will be charged 30% of the cost of the expedition, regardless of when the cancellation was made. Refunds will be transferred to the traveler within 30 days after the cancellation date.
Cancellations made with less than 48 hours’ notice before the activity will not be refunded.
Reviews
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Based on 8 reviews
Dates and Prices
The tour dates are not confirmed yet. Please, send a request for clarification
