Discover the Mount Penitentes, one of Mendoza’s premier trekking experiences. This remarkable route circles Mount Penitentes, near the Chile-Argentina border, with breathtaking views of Mount Aconcagua, the tallest peak in the Americas. Combining stunning landscapes, exciting adventure, and authentic Andean culture, it’s perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Starting in Penitentes Mountain Village, the trek ascends to the Serrata Pass at 13,123 feet (4,000 m), offering panoramic vistas of Aconcagua and the towering Tupungato Volcano. The journey continues into the remote Tupungato Valley, surrounded by peaks reaching up to 19,500 feet (6,000 m). Along the way, cross rivers, explore wild valleys, and spot condors and guanacos. Guided by skilled gauchos, evenings end with a hearty Argentine asado by the fire.
With its awe-inspiring scenery, rich cultural experiences, and challenging trails, this trek promises an unforgettable journey through the Andes. Don’t miss this extraordinary adventure!
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.
Tour highlights
Stunning Panoramic Views
Ascend the Serrata Pass and marvel at the breathtaking vistas of Mount Aconcagua and the surrounding peaks—unparalleled photo opportunities await!
Immersive Valley Treks
Traverse the picturesque Quebrada Arroyo Blanco and Quebrada del Tupungato Valleys, experiencing the serene beauty of Andean landscapes, complete with river crossings and enchanting mountain trails.
Acclimatization with Aconcagua`s Majesty
Ease into the high-altitude adventure with a scenic hike in Aconcagua Park, where the towering presence of the world’s highest peak outside the Himalayas inspires awe from the very start.
Route details
Day 1
PREVIOUS DAY • Arrival in Mendoza
Welcome meeting in Mendoza City: Meet your guide at your hotel for a briefing. Equipment check and rental if needed.
Accommodation: in Mendoza, lodging not included.
Day 2
Transfer to Penitentes 9,186 ft | 2,800 m
Transfer: Begin your adventure with a scenic 9:30 AM departure from Mendoza to the charming Penitentes Village.
Trekking: Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Aconcagua Park during an acclimatization hike to an elevation of 9,679 ft (2,950 m). This leisurely trek not only helps you adjust to the altitude but also offers breathtaking vistas of the majestic Mount Aconcagua.
Accommodation: Relax and recharge in a cozy mountain refuge nestled in the heart of Penitentes Village.
Prepare for awe-inspiring landscapes and unforgettable experiences!
Day 3
Hike to Camp I 11,076 ft | 3,276 m
Trekking: Kick off the traverse with an invigorating 6-hour hike to our first camp. Along the way, soak in the awe-inspiring beauty of the Andean landscape. Once we arrive, we'll set up camp and unwind while taking in the stunning mountain views.
Hiking Time: Approximately 5-6 hours.
Accommodation: Spend the night under the stars in comfortable tents at Camp I.
Get ready for a day filled with exploration and unforgettable Andean vistas!
Day 4
Ascend to Serrata Pass 13,123 ft | 4,000 m – Descent to Camp II
Trekking: Take on the challenge of ascending Serrata Pass, where breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Aconcagua and the surrounding peaks await. After reaching the pass, descend into a serene valley to arrive at Camp II, located at 11,076 ft (3,270 m).
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours of awe-inspiring exploration.
Accommodation: Rest and recharge in cozy tents at Camp II, surrounded by the majestic Andean landscape.
This is a journey where effort meets unparalleled beauty!
Day 5
Hike through Quebrada Arroyo Blanco Valley
Trekking: Embark on a 6-hour hike through the picturesque Quebrada Arroyo Blanco Valley, where the serene beauty of the Andean wilderness surrounds you. As you navigate the flat terrain, enjoy the adventure of crossing crystal-clear rivers two or three times. At the valley's end, you'll arrive at the welcoming Blanco Refuge, home to Camp III.
Hiking Time: Approximately 6 hours of easy, flat terrain with a touch of river-crossing excitement.
Accommodation: Settle in for the night in cozy tents at Camp III, located at the scenic Refugio Blanco.
Let nature’s splendor and the peaceful valley views rejuvenate your spirit!
Day 6
Hike through Tupungato river Valley
Trekking: Enjoy an 8 km hike through the captivating Quebrada del Tupungato Valley, where stunning vistas and the peaceful ambiance of the Andes set the tone for the day. The trek concludes on the international route to Chile, a fitting end to this incredible adventure.
Hiking Time: Approximately 4 hours of scenic exploration.
Transfer: Return to Mendoza with an estimated arrival time of 5:00 PM, leaving you with cherished memories of your Andean journey.
Complete your adventure with this unforgettable hike through one of the region's most enchanting valleys!
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.
Accommodation
Comfort
Basic
Tent
4 nights
3 nights
Tent
Camping in shared tents.
1 night
Shelter
Mountain shelter with shared rooms.
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
round trip transportation: Comfortable transportation from your hotel in the city of Mendoza;
bilingual professional guide: Expert guides certified as WFR (Wilderness First Responder);
pre-expedition assistance: A visit at your hotel to meet your guide, review the necessary equipment, and coordinate any additional gear rentals;
communications: Our guides have permanent radio communication;
all meals included during the expedition: Delicious dinners, breakfast, and packed lunch;
accommodation: One night in a mountain shelter in shared rooms and three nights in camps in shared tents;
mules for common equipment transport: Common equipment transport will be handled by mules;
expedition equipment: All shared equipment for the expedition (tents, cooking gear, etc.).
Extras
mule or porter services for personal equipment: If you wish to hire this service, please ask us in advance to organize it;
telephone communications: Personal telephone communications are not included;
personal gear: Each participant must bring their own personal gear, including clothing, footwear, and specific trekking accessories;
accommodation and meals in the city of Mendoza: Accommodation and meals in Mendoza city are not included in the program;
costs resulting from abandoning the program: Any additional costs related to the interruption or abandonment of the expedition, whether for personal reasons, health issues, or weather conditions;
medical and evacuation/rescue expenses: Medical insurance, emergency evacuations, or any costs related to medical needs are not included. It is recommended to have adequate travel insurance;
additional services: Any other services not explicitly mentioned here;
extras not mentioned in the program: Any additional service or cost not explicitly detailed in the list of included services.
Group size
From 2 to 8 tourists
Duration
5 days
4 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.
River Crossing Footwear (Crocs or Sandals): These lightweight, quick-drying shoes are ideal for crossing rivers and relaxing at camp.
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.
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.
– 90 Liter / Large Backpackif you prefer hiking without the mule service: A comfortable large backpack will be necessary to carry all your gear and camp equipment.
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.
What kind of physical shape is required for this hike?
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. Although the route does not present technical difficulties, we will reach nearly 4,000 meters on one of the days, and we will cross rivers along the way. as we will be hiking considerable distance every day, reaching the 4,000m during one of the days. If you have any concerns, please contact 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!
Where will we sleep?
The first night, we will sleep in a mountain refuge in shared rooms. The other nights will be spent in shared mountain tents for 3 people. If you prefer an individual tent, you must request it in advance and keep in mind that it will add extra weight to carry.
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.
