This expedition offers an extraordinary adventure on one of the highest summits in the Andes!
Towering at 6,710 meters (21,981 feet), Mount Mercedario is situated in the Argentine province of San Juan, north of Mendoza. As the tallest peak in the Cordillera de la Ramada and the eighth-highest in the Andes, it is renowned for its rugged, remote terrain. The mountain features long yet rewarding approaches through lush valleys, surrounded by peaks reaching 5,000 to 6,000 meters, making it a true haven for mountaineering enthusiasts.
Throughout the trek, climbers will traverse breathtaking valleys and towering mountains, with chances to observe local wildlife, including guanacos and foxes. Camping in the Colorado Valley, enveloped by glaciers and a stunning waterfall, allows for an immersive experience in the unspoiled beauty of the Andes. This region showcases the true wilderness of the Andes, presenting a remote and pristine landscape.
!! Expedition from February 1st is a 12- day trek !!
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.
Mount Mercedario, standing at 6,710 meters (21,981 feet), is the tallest peak in the Cordillera de la Ramada and the eighth-highest in the Andes
Breathtaking Natural Landscapes
The expedition features breathtaking valleys and towering mountains, providing an immersive experience in the Andes' unspoiled beauty
Unique Camping Experience
Climbers will camp in the picturesque Colorado Valley, surrounded by glaciers and a stunning waterfall, enhancing their connection to the wilderness and landscape
Route details
Day 1
Mendoza to Barreal and El Molle / Laguna Blanca
Start your journey with a transfer from Mendoza to Barreal, covering a distance of 240 km at an elevation of 1600 m. From Barreal, you'll take a 4WD vehicle to El Molle or Laguna Blanca, depending on the road conditions.
Once you arrive, you'll set up camp and spend the night beneath the stars, allowing yourself to acclimate to the high-altitude surroundings.
Day 2
Trek to Los Colorados Base Camp (3700 m)
Begin your journey with a 3 to 6-hour hike through challenging terrain to reach Los Colorados Base Camp, situated at an altitude of 3,700 meters.
As you adjust to the elevation, take in the stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains.
Day 3
Acclimatization Day at Base Camp
Dedicate the day to acclimatizing at Base Camp by embarking on short hikes to higher elevations before returning to camp.
This day is essential for preparing your body for the challenges of high altitudes.
Day 4
Carry to Cuesta Blanca (4500 m)
Set off on a 6-hour round trip to deliver supplies to Camp 1 at Cuesta Blanca (4500 m).
This trek aids in acclimatization and prepares Camp 1 for your arrival in a few days.
Day 5
Rest Day at Base Camp
Enjoy a well-deserved rest day at Base Camp.
Use this time to relax, recover, and prepare for the move to higher camps.
Day 6
Move to Cuesta Blanca (Camp 1, 4500 m)
Make your way to Cuesta Blanca, a 4-hour journey to reach Camp 1 at an elevation of 4500 meters.
Once there, establish your camp and take time to acclimatize to the increased altitude.
Day 7
Acclimatization Day at Cuesta Blanca
Dedicate the day to acclimatization at Camp 1.
Enjoy short hikes in the surrounding area, prioritizing a slow and steady pace to help your body adjust to the thinner air.
Day 8
Move to Pirca de Indios (Camp 2, 5200 m)
Continue your ascent with a 5-hour trek to Pirca de Indios (Camp 2) at 5200 m.
This camp offers stunning views and a sense of isolation that is both humbling and inspiring.
Day 9
Optional Rest Day at Pirca de Indios
Take this day to relax and further acclimate at Pirca de Indios.
It also serves as a cushion for any potential weather delays, keeping the group flexible.
Day 10
Move to La Ollada (Camp 3, 5900 m)
Ascend to La Ollada (Camp 3) at 5900 m, a critical staging point for your summit attempt.
This 4-hour hike will bring you close to the summit, with time to rest and prepare.
Day 11
Summit Day – La Ollada to Summit (6700 m)
Begin your ascent before dawn to reach the summit of Mount Mercedario (6700 m).
This 10-hour round trip will test your endurance and resolve as you traverse scree slopes and icy terrain. Take in the stunning views from the top before making your descent back to La Ollada.
Day 12
Second Summit Attempt (Weather Contingency)
An extra day is reserved for a second summit attempt if weather conditions or the group’s pace necessitate it. This allows flexibility and increases the chances of a successful ascent.
Day 13
Descend to Base Camp
Start your descent from La Ollada to Base Camp, embarking on a 6-hour journey that follows your previous path through the breathtaking Andean scenery.
Day 14
Return to Mendoza
Conclude your expedition by journeying back from Base Camp to the trailhead, then proceed to Mendoza.
Take time to celebrate your accomplishments with your team and reflect on the remarkable adventure you've shared.
Difficulty
Challenging
Does not require specific skills, but one must be in good health
Tour provider's comments
Level skill: intermediate.
Accommodation
Comfort
Basic
Upscale
Tent
13 nights
Accommodation: base camp.
13 nights
Base camp
High-altitude equipment, including tents, stoves, and kitchen supplies will be provided.
Tickets to group meeting place
Group meeting place
Provincia de 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
Road transfers according to the itinerary;
Permanent assistance with English-speaking staff;
English-speaking mountain guide (one guide for every three climbers);
Base camp and high-altitude equipment, including tents, stoves, and kitchen supplies;
All meals and cooking gas during the mountain expedition;
Permits are required from the mining company that owns the access path and from Gendarmerie.
Extras
Hotel nights or any meals in the city (contact us if you need hotel recommendations or bookings in Mendoza);
International and domestic airfares;
Porters, personal gear, medications, ground or air evacuations, room service, laundry, beverages, phone communications, and other items of a personal nature;
Insurance liability, hospitalization, medical expenses, or other services.
Group size
From 2 to 8 tourists
Duration
14 days
13 nights
It's important to know
Personal equipment you need for the tour
UPPER BODY
Synthetic T-Shirt: Breathable material, to keep you fresh and dry.
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: This is a super-tough expedition duffel to protect the gear and clothes the mules will haul to the camps.
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. Include eye drops in case you are sensitive or allergic to dust.
Swimming suit.
Personal ID or passport
USB power bank suggested
US$ 30 in Chilean pesos (for any small expense arising as drinks or snacks).
What kind of gear should I bring?
For a comprehensive list of equipment, please refer to the Equipment section. If you need to rent any piece of equipment, we’re here to assist you. Don’t hesitate to ask us!
What is the demaded skill level of this trek?
Intermediate.
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
5.0
Based on 8 reviews
Dates and Prices
The tour dates are not confirmed yet. Please, send a request for clarification
