YOUR STORY BEGINS WITH A MILESTONE
The SURI Milestones are a collection of expeditions designed to accompany you
from your first steps at altitude to the most demanding mountain challenges.
Each milestone represents a physical, technical, and personal stage in your transformation process.
INITIATION MILESTONES
Begin your mountain journey with accessible yet authentic hikes.
True height, sustained rhythm, and first steps that connect you to something bigger.
No prior experience necessary, but with the guidance and care that make the difference.
Cerro Adolfo Calle Stepanek - Mendoza
ANDEAN AWAKENING
4 days | 4,200 meters above sea level | Difficulty: Medium
In just a few days, you'll experience the essence of the mountains: altitude, cold, pace, and camaraderie. Ideal as a first real experience, without great demands. It's not a test. It's a calling.
Bertrand Volcano - Catamarca
BEATING HEART
X days | 5275 masl | Difficulty: Medium
A versatile expedition, perfect for those with some initial experience. The route requires perseverance and adaptation to the climate. It's the ideal terrain for strengthening physical and mental skills.
Cerro Franke - Mendoza
THE CHALLENGE
4 days | 4,880 meters above sea level | Difficulty: Medium
A slow, continuous ascent, with stunning landscapes and steep elevation gains. This type of ascent offers a perfect transition between classic trekking and high mountain adventures.
PROMOTION MILESTONES
Advance to greater challenges with longer, more demanding and in-depth expeditions.
Designed for those who already want to go further, both physically and internally.
More height, more decisions, more real change.
San Francisco Volcano - Catamarca
THE BORDER
8 days | 6016 meters above sea level | Difficulty: High
A remote stretch of land between volcanoes, salt flats, and clear skies. Eight days in one of the continent's most peaceful landscapes. Here, the difficulty isn't walking: it's holding on to the immensity.
Cerro Plata - Mendoza
THE TEST
8 days | 5,960 meters above sea level | Difficulty: High
For seven days, the pace changes. There are tough days, cold nights, and decisions that determine progress. Cerro Plata isn't the highest, but it has what it takes to test your will.
Ojos del Salado Volcano - Catamarca
THE END IS WHERE I LEFT
12 days | 6,893 meters above sea level | Difficulty: High
It's not just the world's highest volcano. It's a journey steeped in history, symbolism, and difficult decisions. The Ojos del Salado mountaineers gather from around the world.
San Francisco Volcano
Andes mountain range on the Argentine-Chilean border
San Francisco Volcano, at 6,016 meters above sea level, is an extinct volcano located in the Andes Mountains, on the border between Argentina and Chile, southeast of the San Francisco International Pass in the province of Catamarca. At 6,016 meters above sea level, it is considered one of the most accessible peaks in the world, over 6,000 meters high. However, it is rarely visited.
The ascent to San Francisco Volcano is via its northwestern slope. From its summit, there is a beautiful view of Laguna Verde and the neighboring volcanoes that form part of the Ojos del Salado Volcano chain, including El Fraile, Incahuasi, El Muerto, Walter Penk, and Mount Solo and Mount Tres Cruces.
It was first climbed in 1913, by Walther Penck.
The best time to climb San Francisco Volcano is between September and April. It has no records of volcanic activity, which is why it is considered extinct.
Program
Difficulty: High Itinerary
Day 1: 12:00 Meeting at La Rioja Airport. Transfer to Fiambala, 273 km, approximately 3:30 hours. We'll obtain the permits and continue to the Cortaderas Hotel, located at 3,300 meters (97 km, an additional 1 hour of travel). Overnight at the hotel, with rooms to share for up to 4 people.
Day 2: Ascent to Pastos Amarillos Hill (4,100 m), a 4- to 6-hour trek. Overnight at a hotel. Rooms can be shared for up to 4 people. Day 3: Transfer to Las Grutas (4,100 m), a day of relaxation and acclimatization. Overnight in a tent or shelter without services.
Day 4: Ascent to the Falso Morocho volcano (4,500 m). Overnight in a tent or shelter without services.
Day 5: Ascent to Bertrand Volcano at 5,200 meters. Overnight in a tent or shelter without services. Day 6: Day of total relaxation. Those who wish can spend time relaxing in a hot spring at 4,200 meters. Overnight in a tent or shelter without services.
Day 7: We travel from Las Grutas to the base of Mount San Francisco at 4,800 meters above sea level. From there, we begin our ascent to the summit. Descent. Transfer to Las Grutas. If we arrive before customs closes, we continue to the Cortaderas Hotel. Otherwise, we will sleep at Las Grutas again.
Day 8: Transfer from the Cortaderas Hotel to La Rioja Airport, arriving around 2:00 PM or earlier. End of service.
Dates:
November:
1 al 8
15 al 22
March:
April 29th to 5th (no price)
Important
Situations such as weather changes or force majeure that endanger the safety of the group or individual may cause the same itinerary to change.
What services do we include:
- All meals described
- Professional guide service
- Professional guide service assistant for groups of 4 or more
- Nights in the hotel and shelter according to the program
- Transfers in the program
What services do we NOT include:
- Transfers to La Rioja airport or Fiambala/Cortaderas hotel and return to your place of origin.
- Hotel in La Rioja or Fiambala if you arrive before or stay after the expedition
- Alcoholic beverages in the shelter/hotel
- Sleep in a private room
- Expenses incurred by abandoning the planned itinerary
- Carrying personal equipment
- Sleeping Bag and Personal Equipment
- Baggage problems (lost or delayed flight)
- Expenses incurred by rescue and evacuation
- Anything not described in this program
Expedition cost: 1,150,000 pesos per person, based on double occupancy or more.
Pissis Volcano
Expedition to the Pissis Volcano
6793 meters above sea level
Following the War of the Pacific in 1879, Chile conquered two of Peru's southern departments bordering the Republic of Bolivia, while also conquering two of the latter's departments. It was then necessary to explore the new territories and verify their boundaries with neighboring countries. The formation of a Desert Exploration Commission was decreed in April 1883.
The second objective was to survey the morphological characteristics of its soil and determine the mineral richness of its mountains. Chilean explorer Francisco José San Román (1838-1902) was appointed as head of the Commission, accompanied on this task by the Norwegian-Chilean geologist Lars Sundt and a group of assistants.
The commission used the Chilean town of Copiapó as its base of operations and carried out eleven campaigns between 1883 and 1889, five of which were in the Andes mountains, collecting names and as much information as possible on peaks and passes, including the Pissis volcano, at 6,882 meters. In 1885, it was named Pissis in honor of the French geographer serving Chile, Pedro José Amadeo Pissis.
This volcano is located entirely within Argentine territory, about 28 kilometers from the border and on the Catamarca-La Rioja border.
Already known by muleteers and natives by the indigenous names of "Nevado de Pillánhuasi" or "Nacimientos del Jagüel," after the publication of the two-volume surveys conducted by the San Román commission, it was officially renamed "Pissis."
Program:
Difficulty: High
Itinerary
Day 1:
12:00 Meeting in Fiambalá, meeting with the guides, review of personal equipment, and briefing on the operation of the expedition.
Transfer to the Cortaderas Hotel at 3300 meters, free afternoon.
Day 2:
Ascent to Cerro Pastos Largos (4,100 meters), a 4- to 6-hour trek. Overnight at a hotel.
Day 3:
Transfer to the Caves at 4,100 meters, a day of relaxation and acclimatization: gentle trekking and photo safari, San Francisco Lagoon, wildlife including swans, vicuñas, and views of the Incahuasi Volcano. Ascent to the Falso Morocho Volcano at 4,500 meters. Overnight in a tent or shelter without services.
Day 4:
Ascent to Bertrand Volcano, 5,200 meters. Overnight in a tent or shelter without services.
Day 5:
A day of total relaxation. Those who wish can spend time relaxing in a hot spring at 4,200 meters. Overnight in a tent or shelter without services.
Day 6:
We travel from Las Grutas to the base of San Francisco at 4,800 meters above sea level, from where we begin our ascent to the summit. Descent. Transfer to Las Grutas. If we arrive before customs closes, we continue to the Cortaderas Hotel. Dinner. End of services.
Day 7:
Extra (extra due to weather conditions)
Day 8:
Hotel Cortaderas, we will rest, refuel for the second part of the expedition, and stay there that night.
Day 9:
Transfer from the hotel to Camp 1 (approximately 5,000 meters). 5-hour off-road trip, river fording, 4x4 adventure. Overnight at Camp 1.
Day 10:
In the morning, after breakfast, we prepare to head to C2 at approximately 5400 meters above sea level. We spend the night at C2 for 3 to 5 hours.
Day 11:
Summit attempt (6795 meters above sea level) and descent to Camp 2.
Day 12:
Departure from the Valley. Overnight in Fiambala. End of services.
The planned itinerary includes three extra days due to weather conditions.
Important
Situations such as weather changes or force majeure that endanger the safety of the group or individual may cause the same itinerary to change.
CLARIFICATION:
If you're a single person, to get tickets in advance, you can choose to take another 6500 km tour in the area, such as the Incahuasi Volcano. You can also pay for the transfer service privately.
What services do we include:
- All meals described
- Professional guide service
- Professional guide service assistant for groups of 4 or more
- Nights in the hotel and shelter according to the program
- Transfers in the program
What services do we NOT include:
- Transfers to La Rioja airport or Fiambala/Cortaderas hotel and return to your place of origin.
- Hotel in La Rioja or Fiambala if you arrive before or stay after the expedition
- Alcoholic beverages in the shelter/hotel
- Sleep in a private room
- Expenses incurred by abandoning the planned itinerary
- Carrying personal equipment
- Sleeping Bag and Personal Equipment
- Baggage problems (lost or delayed flight)
- Expenses incurred by rescue and evacuation
- Anything not described in this program
Price:
2900 USD per person based on double occupancy or more
Incahuasi Volcano
Andes mountain range on the Argentine-Chilean border
Incahuasi, or Nevado de Incahuasi, is a volcanic mountain in the Andes of South America. Its elevation is 6,648 meters (21,648 feet) and it lies on the border of the Argentine province of Catamarca and the Atacama region of Chile. The volcano consists of a 3.5-kilometer-wide caldera and two stratovolcanoes. Four pyroclastic cones lie 7 kilometers (4.3 mi) to the northeast and produced basalt-andesite lava flows that cover an area of 10 square kilometers (4 square miles). Incahuasi is located northeast of Nevado Ojos del Salado, the world's highest volcano. Both volcanoes are located at the southern end of the Central Volcanic Zone. Together with El Fraile, El Muerto, Nevado Tres Cruces, and El Solo, they form a 50-kilometer-long volcanic chain. A wide lava dome measuring 6 by 4 kilometers (3.7 by 2.5 mi) is located on its eastern flank. The volcano has a volume of about 231 cubic kilometers.
Incahuasi has two craters, a summit crater and an arcuate crater on the eastern slope containing a lava dome. The summit crater measures 750 by 900 meters. The subsidiary vents, conversely, are associated with fissure openings. The western and southwestern slopes of Incahuasi are dotted with lava domes, which are more moderate than those of other volcanoes in the region. Less than 1 kilometer wide and 5 kilometers long, the lava flows extend down the volcano, reaching the Las Coladas salt flat east of Incahuasi. Two 2-kilometer-long gullies extend to the north and east of the main crater. Volcanism in the area dates back to the Oligocene and Miocene, when the main volcanic arc was located 40 kilometers to the west in the Maricunga Belt. Between 9 and 6 million years ago, volcanic activity in the Maricunga Belt decreased and eventually ceased. Simultaneously, the main volcanic arc experienced increased volcanic activity. Like many Andean volcanoes, Incahuasi has erupted andesite containing hornblende and pyroxene. The lava flows on the main stratovolcano are dacitic. The four cones northeast of the main volcano have erupted basaltic andesite. Similarly, the parasitic cones have erupted magnesium-rich basaltic andesite. The minerals contained in these rocks include clinopyroxene and olivine.
The best time to climb the volcano is between September and April. There are no records of volcanic activity, so it is considered extinct.
Program
Difficulty: High
Itinerary
Day 1: 12:00 Meeting in Fiambalá, meeting with the guides, review of personal equipment and briefing on the operation of the expedition.
Transfer to the Cortaderas Hotel at 3300 meters, free afternoon.
Day 2: Ascent to Pastos Largos Hill (4,100 meters), a 4- to 6-hour trek. Overnight at a hotel.
Day 3: Transfer to the Caves at 4,100 meters. Relax and acclimatize for a day of relaxation. A gentle trek and photo safari takes you to San Francisco Lagoon, where wildlife includes swans, vicuñas, and views of the Incahuasi Volcano. Ascent to the Falso Morocho Volcano at 4,500 meters. Overnight in a tent or shelter without services.
Day 4: Ascent to Bertrand Volcano 5200 m. Night in a tent or shelter without services. Day 5: Total relaxation day. Those who wish can spend time relaxing, bathing in a hot spring at 4200 m. Night in a tent or shelter without services. Day 6: We transfer from Las Grutas to the base of San Francisco at 4800 masl, from there we begin our ascent to the summit. Descent. Transfer to Las Grutas. If we arrive before customs close, we continue to the Cortaderas Hotel. Dinner. End of services before departure to Vn San Francisco.
Day 7: Extra (extra due to weather conditions) Day 8: Hotel Cortaderas, we will rest, restock for the second part of the expedition, we will stay there that night.
Day 9: From the hotel, we will travel directly to the end of the vehicle track at around 4,700 meters, at the base of Incahuasi. Overnight in a tent.
Day 10: Carrying and transfer from camp to C2 (5,700 m), undoubtedly one of the hardest days of the expedition, a 6- to 8-hour journey covering 1,000 meters of elevation gain and 4.5 km with a backpack weighing approximately 15 kg. Overnight in a tent.
Day 11: Rest day. We will use this day to rest, hydrate, and eat well, regaining strength for the next day.
Day 12:
Summit Day! A long expedition day where we must overcome the first obstacle! The famous Incahuasi gully, where the steepest elevation gain is at that point, then reach the summit plateau in 5 hours and, in another 5 hours, reach the long-awaited summit! The day generally lasts 12-14 hours. We return to Camp 2 for the night.
Day 13:
After breakfast, we'll break camp and head down to meet the vehicle. We'll then transfer to the Cortaderas hotel for dinner. End of services.
Days 14 and 15: Extra due to weather conditions.
Important
Situations such as weather changes or force majeure that endanger the safety of the group or individual may cause the same itinerary to change.
CLARIFICATION:
If you're a single person, to book tickets in advance, you can choose to take another 6500 km tour in the area, such as the Incahuasi Volcano. Alternatively, you can pay for the transfer service individually or split it between two people.
What services do we include:
- All meals described
- Professional guide service
- Professional guide service assistant for groups of 4 or more
- Nights in the hotel and shelter according to the program
- Transfers in the program
What services do we NOT include:
- Transfers to La Rioja airport or Fiambala/Cortaderas hotel and return to your place of origin.
- Hotel in La Rioja or Fiambala if you arrive before or stay after the expedition
- Alcoholic beverages in the shelter/hotel
- Sleep in a private room
- Expenses incurred by abandoning the planned itinerary
- Carrying personal equipment
- Sleeping Bag and Personal Equipment
- Baggage problems (lost or delayed flight)
- Expenses incurred by rescue and evacuation
- Anything not described in this program
Expedition cost: 2300 USD based on double occupancy or more
Ojos del Salado Volcano
Highest volcano in the world
Andes Mountains
Argentine Route
The Ojos del Salado volcano is actually located in the middle of a spectacular "museum" of mountains, in an extraordinarily remote and difficult-to-access area. Here, the Andes mountains rise majestically among salt flats, sand, flamingos, and colorful lagoons; it's surprising that the snow and glaciers on their peaks don't yield to the desert heat.
Ojos del Salado is located south of the Atacama Desert, in the most arid and desert-like area of the Andes, on a vast plain called the South American Altiplano.
Located in the third region of Chile -inside the city of Copiapó- and in the province of Catamarca on the Argentine side, in an area surrounded by mountains over 6000m high, Ojos del Salado stands out as the most outstanding summit with 6893 meters above sea level, an altitude that makes it worthy of several records: being the highest volcano in the world, the second highest summit in America, the highest mountain in the Chilean Andes and the second highest in the Argentine Andes after Aconcagua (6962m).
The "Ojos" volcano is an andesitic volcano. Based on the age of its emission, the volcano would correspond to a recent volcanism—known as neovolcanism—having its main activity during the Pleistocene-Holocene. It currently undergoes secondary volcanic activity, designated by the generic name fumarolic. However, sulfonic activity was observed in 1937 and 1956, and most recently in November 1994, when an intermittent gray column of water vapor and sulfurous gases was produced. This gaseous activity decreases the amount of oxygen available above 6,400 m.
Incahuasi has two craters, a summit crater and an arcuate crater on the eastern slope containing a lava dome. The summit crater measures 750 by 900 meters. The subsidiary vents, conversely, are associated with fissure openings. The western and southwestern slopes of Incahuasi are dotted with lava domes, which are more moderate than those of other volcanoes in the region. Less than 1 kilometer wide and 5 kilometers long, the lava flows extend down the volcano, reaching the Las Coladas salt flat east of Incahuasi. Two 2-kilometer-long gullies extend to the north and east of the main crater. Volcanism in the area dates back to the Oligocene and Miocene, when the main volcanic arc was located 40 kilometers to the west in the Maricunga Belt. Between 9 and 6 million years ago, volcanic activity in the Maricunga Belt decreased and eventually ceased. Simultaneously, the main volcanic arc experienced increased volcanic activity. Like many Andean volcanoes, Incahuasi has erupted andesite containing hornblende and pyroxene. The lava flows on the main stratovolcano are dacitic. The four cones northeast of the main volcano have erupted basaltic andesite. Similarly, the parasitic cones have erupted magnesium-rich basaltic andesite. The minerals contained in these rocks include clinopyroxene and olivine.
The best time to climb the volcano is between September and April. There are no records of volcanic activity, so it is considered extinct.
Program
Difficulty: High
Itinerary
Day 1:
12:00 Meeting in Fiambalá, meeting with the guides, review of personal equipment, and briefing on the operation of the expedition.
Transfer to the Cortaderas Hotel at 3300 meters, free afternoon.
Day 2:
Ascent to Cerro Pastos Largos (4,100 meters), a 4- to 6-hour trek. Overnight at a hotel.
Day 3:
Transfer to the Caves at 4,100 meters, a day of relaxation and acclimatization: gentle trekking and photo safari, San Francisco Lagoon, wildlife including swans, vicuñas, and views of the Incahuasi Volcano. Ascent to the Falso Morocho Volcano at 4,500 meters. Overnight in a tent or shelter without services.
Day 4:
Ascent to Bertrand Volcano, 5,200 meters. Overnight in a tent or shelter without services.
Day 5:
A day of total relaxation. Those who wish can spend time relaxing in a hot spring at 4,200 meters. Overnight in a tent or shelter without services.
Day 6:
We travel from Las Grutas to the base of San Francisco at 4,800 meters above sea level, from where we begin our ascent to the summit. Descent. Transfer to Las Grutas. If we arrive before customs closes, we continue to the Cortaderas Hotel. Dinner. End of services.
Day 7:
Extra (extra due to weather conditions)
Day 8:
In the morning, after completing all customs procedures, we'll head to the Cortaderas Hotel, rest, restock supplies for the second leg of the expedition, and stay there that night.
Day 9:
Transfer from the hotel to Arenal High Camp (approx. 5,500 m). 12-hour off-road trip, river fording, pure 4x4 adventure. Overnight at Arenal Camp.
Day 10:
In the morning, after breakfast, we prepare to head to C1 at altitude 5800 meters (approximately 3 to 5 hours). We spend the night at C1.
Day 11:
Summit attempt (6893 meters above sea level) and descent to Camp 1.
Day 12:
Departure from the Valley. Overnight at Hotel Cortaderas. End of services.
The planned itinerary includes three extra days due to weather conditions.
Important
Situations such as weather changes or force majeure that endanger the safety of the group or individual may cause the same itinerary to change.
What services do we include:
- All meals described
- Professional guide service
- Professional guide service assistant for groups of 4 or more
- Nights in the hotel and shelter according to the program
- Transfers in the program
What services do we NOT include:
- Transfers to La Rioja airport or Fiambala/Cortaderas hotel and return to your place of origin.
- Hotel in La Rioja or Fiambala if you arrive before or stay after the expedition
- Alcoholic beverages in the shelter/hotel
- Sleep in a private room
- Expenses incurred by abandoning the planned itinerary
- Carrying personal equipment
- Sleeping Bag and Personal Equipment
- Baggage problems (lost or delayed flight)
- Expenses incurred by rescue and evacuation
- Anything not described in this program
Price:
3200 USD per person based on triple occupancy or more
CLARIFICATION:
If you are a group of one or two people, to book your tickets in advance, you can choose to take another 6500 km tour in the area, such as Mount Pissis or the Incahuasi Volcano. You can also pay for the transfer service individually or split it between two people. This service is not included in the program if you are less than three people.
C° Vallecitos
Cordón del Plata
The Cordón del Plata is the high mountain "school" for Argentines in general. A short distance from Mendoza, Argentina (almost 100 km), we find, in those mountains, one of the few relatively "alpine" landscapes in the country, where the Vallecitos Mountains stand out at 5,460 meters above sea level. Where altitude, truly large mountains, ice, and verticality combine. It is a midpoint between the great distances and desert-like gentleness of the high mountains of the Northwest and the concentrated and towering granite masses of Patagonia. Much could be written about the geological, historical, or romantic aspects of these beautiful mountains, where so many mountaineers of different generations have many memories, dreams, and first achievements. But let's get down to business from an Andean perspective. Visible in part from the city of Mendoza and even more so from the towns in the east and the Uco Valley, from Guaymallén to San Carlos, the people of Mendoza are unaware of its secrets, and many mistake its white masses for Aconcagua or Tupungato. The Cordón del Plata belongs neither to the boundary mountain range or Principal Range, where Aconcagua is located, nor to the ancient Precordillera, but lies between the two, forming, along with the Cordillera del Tigre, the so-called Frontal Range. It is geologically the newest, and for this reason its mountains are the most slender in the Central Andes. Our program invites you to discover it and be captivated by its great shadows, attempting to reach several of its precious peaks.
Program
Difficulty: High
ITINERARY: Consists of 8 days
The camps will be marked by name and corresponding altitude (in meters) to give a better idea of the ascent. We recommend previous experience before embarking on this activity. For other expeditions, please contact us.
Day 01: Mendoza / Vallecitos (2,750)
We'll meet at the YPF bus station across from the Mendoza bus terminal at 10/11 am, or those who wish can make their own way to the refuge. We'll then travel to the Vallecitos area, approximately 85 km away. Once there, we'll settle into the San Bernardo refuge. We'll use this day to organize our gear and have a briefing about the expedition. Our first night at the refuge.
Day 02: Shelter / portage / Veguitas Superior Camp (3350)
After breakfast, we'll get ready to hike through the Rio Blanco gorge to our first campsite. There, we'll leave our gear and return to the refuge. We'll spend the night at the refuge.
Day 03: Veguitas Superior Shelter/Camp (3350)
After breakfast, we'll get ready to hike along the Rio Blanco Gorge to our first campsite. From this point on, we'll spend the night in a tent.
Day 04: Upper Veguitas / El Salto Camp (4200)
After breakfast, we'll begin the trek to El Salto Camp, where our new camp will be set up. This trek will last approximately 7 hours.
Day 05: El Salto (4,200)
Rest day, which we will use to walk around the area.
Day 06: El Salto / Summit (5960) / El Salto
The big day has arrived! The group will wake up very early in the morning, have breakfast, and begin the ascent. It will be a long day, lasting around 2:00 p.m. We will attempt to reach the summit, where we will enjoy an incredible experience, and return to camp. We will rest tonight, satisfied with having achieved our goal.
Day 07: El Salto / Shelter in Vallecitos
The group will descend from the waterfall to a shelter, making the final effort of the expedition. We'll rest for a while and continue our journey to Mendoza, arriving in the city in the late afternoon. End of services.
Day 08:
Extra day due to bad weather.
Important
Situations such as weather changes, health issues, or force majeure that endanger the safety of the group may cause the itinerary to change or be suspended.
What services do we include?
- All meals on the mountain
- Professional guide service
- Professional assistant guide service from 4 members
- Expedition tents and cooking equipment
- Personal Accident Insurance
- Group equipment porter up to 20kg. If you have more than 20kg, it will be divided among the team members. If you don't want to carry any weight, you can hire another porter; this service is not included in this program.
What Services do we NOT include?
- Transfer Hotel / Airport / Hotel
- Hotel in Mendoza before or after the expedition
- Extras and drinks in Mendoza
- Expenses incurred by abandoning the planned itinerary
- Carrying of personal equipment (consult)
- Group equipment carrying starting at 21 kg (divided among team members – if you don't want to carry weight, you can hire an extra porter; this service is not included in this program)
- Sleeping Bag and Other Personal Equipment
Expedition cost: 1,200,000 pesos per person, based on double occupancy or more.
C° Payment
Cordón del Plata
The Cordón del Plata is the high mountain "school" for Argentines in general. Just a short distance from Mendoza, Argentina (almost 100 km), we find, in these mountains, one of the few relatively "alpine" landscapes in the country. It combines altitude, truly high mountains, ice, and verticality. It's a midpoint between the great distances and desert-like gentleness of the high mountains of the Northwest and the concentrated, towering granite masses of Patagonia. Much could be written about the geological, historical, or romantic aspects of these beautiful mountains, where so many mountaineers of different generations have many memories, dreams, and first achievements. This is where Mount El Plata stands out, rising 5,960 meters above sea level. But let's get down to business from an Andean perspective. Visible in part from the city of Mendoza and even more so from the towns in the east and the Uco Valley, from Guaymallén to San Carlos, the people of Mendoza are unaware of its secrets, and many mistake its white masses for Aconcagua or Tupungato. The Cordón del Plata belongs neither to the boundary mountain range or Principal Range, where Aconcagua is located, nor to the ancient Precordillera, but lies between the two, forming, along with the Cordillera del Tigre, the so-called Frontal Range. It is geologically the newest, and for this reason its mountains are the most slender in the Central Andes. Our program invites you to discover it and be captivated by its great shadows, attempting to reach several of its precious peaks.
Program
Difficulty: High
ITINERARY: Consists of 8 days
The camps will be marked by name and corresponding altitude (in meters) to give a better idea of the ascent. We recommend previous experience before embarking on this activity. For other expeditions, please contact us.
Day 01: Vallecitos (2,750)
We'll meet at the YPF bus station across from the Mendoza bus terminal at 10/11 am, or those who wish can make their own way to the refuge. We'll then travel to the Vallecitos area, approximately 85 km away. Once there, we'll settle into the San Bernardo refuge. We'll use this day to organize our gear and have a briefing about the expedition. Our first night at the refuge.
Day 02: Shelter / portage / Veguitas Superior Camp (3350)
After breakfast, we'll get ready to hike through the Rio Blanco gorge to our first campsite. There, we'll leave our gear and return to the refuge. We'll spend the night at the refuge.
Day 03: Veguitas Superior Shelter/Camp (3350)
After breakfast, we'll get ready to travel along the Rio Blanco gorge to our first campsite. From this point on, we'll spend the night in a tent.
Day 04: Upper Veguitas / El Salto Camp (4200)
After breakfast, we'll begin the trek to El Salto Camp, where our new camp will be set up. This trek will last approximately 7 hours.
Day 05: El Salto (4,200)
Rest day, which we will use to walk around the area.
Day 06: El Salto / Summit (5960) / El Salto
The big day has arrived! The group will wake up very early in the morning, have breakfast, and begin the ascent. It will be a long day, lasting around 2:00 p.m. We will attempt to reach the summit, where we will enjoy an incredible experience, and return to camp. We will rest tonight, satisfied with having achieved our goal.
Day 07: El Salto / Shelter in Vallecitos
The group will descend from the waterfall to a shelter, making the final effort of the expedition. We'll rest for a while and continue our journey to Mendoza, arriving in the city in the late afternoon. End of services.
Day 08:
Extra day due to bad weather.
Important
Situations such as weather changes, health issues, or force majeure that endanger the safety of the group may cause the itinerary to change or be suspended.
What services do we include?
- All meals on the mountain
- Professional guide service
- Professional assistant guide service from 4 members
- Expedition tents and cooking equipment
- Personal Accident Insurance
- Group equipment porter up to 20kg. If you have more than 20kg, it will be divided among the team members. If you don't want to carry any weight, you can hire another porter; this service is not included in this program.
What Services do we NOT include?
- Transfer Hotel / Airport / Hotel
- Hotel in Mendoza before or after the expedition
- Extras and drinks in Mendoza
- Expenses incurred by abandoning the planned itinerary
- Carrying of personal equipment (consult)
- Group equipment carrying starting at 21 kg (divided among team members – if you don't want to carry weight, you can hire an extra porter; this service is not included in this program)
- Sleeping Bag and Other Personal Equipment
Expedition cost: 1,200,000 pesos per person, based on double occupancy or more.
C° Aconcagua
Normal Route
Mount Aconcagua is the highest peak in the Southern and Western Hemispheres. It is the second of the Seven Summits, surpassed only by Mount Everest.
Aconcagua Provincial Park is located approximately 180 km west of the city of Mendoza, entirely within Argentine territory.
The ascent of Mount Aconcagua (6,962 m) via the Normal Route is not technical, but it does require excellent physical condition and, above all, appropriate equipment for the extremely low temperatures that characterize the roof of the Americas. Embarking on an expedition to this legendary mountain is much more than trying to reach the highest peak: It means becoming part of the community of mountaineers from around the world who live together at the Base Camps. It means discovering the trails of the Andean valleys and their wild nature. It means experiencing the atmosphere of high altitudes, with their incredible reliefs and colors.
Program
Difficulty: High
ITINERARY: Consists of 16 days - 15 in the mountains.
The camps will be marked with their names and corresponding altitudes (in meters) to give a better idea of the ascent. We recommend previous experience before participating in this activity.
Previous day: Day 1 in the city.
In the morning, we'll meet at your accommodation and check your mountain gear. We'll accompany you to rental equipment if necessary. We'll spend the night in the mountains, at 2,500 meters above sea level.
The meeting and end point of the expedition will be in the city of Mendoza.
Day 01: Horcones (2990 mts) / Confluencia (3390 mts)
We enter the Aconcagua Provincial Park and head to our first camp.
Day 02: Confluence – Plaza Francia (4050 mts) - Confluence
Acclimatization day, from Confluence we will go to the viewpoint of the south wall, Plaza Francia to return to Confluence
Day 03: Confluence – Mulas Square (4350)
After a heavy day of trekking, we headed to the second largest base camp in the world!
Day 04: Rest in Plaza de Mulas (4350 mts)
A day of rest and recovery from the previous days, we'll use this day to organize team portage and logistics. Rehydrate.
Day 05: P Mulas / Cerro Bonete Summit (5000 mts)
We will ascend Bonete Hill. Overnight at base camp.
Day 06: Rest in Plaza de Mulas
A day of rest and recovery from the previous days, we'll use this day to reorganize the team's portage and logistics. It's important to hydrate.
Day 07: Plaza de Mulas to Canada (5050)
The group leaves base camp and moves to Canada, night in Canada.
Day 08: Canada to Condor's Nest (5560)
A heavy day, we continued the ascent to the second high camp, Nido de Cóndores (5,560m), carrying full backpacks of approximately 20 kg.
Day 09: Condor Nest (5560)
Rest and recovery day from the previous days. We'll use this day to regain strength, rest, and, above all, rehydrate.
Day 10: Condors' Nest – Cholera (6000)
The group ascends to the final high-altitude camp, Cólera (5,970 m). We have dinner at almost 6,000 meters…
Day 11: Cholera - Summit Attempt (6962) – Cholera
Bright and early, we set out to begin the journey we've been waiting for so long. We'll ascend to Independencia (6,300 meters above sea level), then cross the long traverse to the cave and begin the final stretch through the famous Canaleta to the northern and main summit of the highest mountain in the Americas. We'll take photos and begin the long descent to Cólera or Nido camp. We'll rest. The day will last from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Day 12: Cholera - Mule Square (4350)
After breakfast, we will break camp and return to base camp.
Day 13: Mulas Square – Horcones (2990)
The trek down takes between 6 and 9 hours. Most of the equipment is carried by mules, so we walk light. Horcones, transfer to Mendoza, overnight at the hotel, end of services.
Day 14: Extra day due to bad weather
Extra day due to weather contingencies.
Day 15: Extra day due to bad weather
Extra day due to weather contingencies.
Important
Situations such as weather changes, health issues, or force majeure that endanger the safety of the group may cause the itinerary to change or be suspended.
NOTE: The proposed itinerary is subject to change due to weather contingencies or force majeure that jeopardize the safety of the group. The guides reserve the right to modify the program at their discretion. You can rest assured that any changes decided upon are based on two fundamental principles: maximizing safety and the likelihood of success, and based on the knowledge and experience of our guides.
Services included
- Professional guides
- 1 guide for every 3 (three) passengers.
- Transportation from hotel / mountain / hotel
- Accommodation described in the program
- Equipment storage
- Food
- Transporting loads on mules
- Dining room
- First aid kit
- Bathrooms
- Showers x2
- Drinking water
- Relaxation area
- Porterage service
- Our expedition includes the transfer of common cargo
Services NOT included
- Tickets aéreos in/out Mendoza
- Personal entry permit to Aconcagua Park
- Personal rescue insurance (we recommend Global Rescue / Ripcord – which has direct contact with the Helicopters company, which is the only one operating in Aconcagua)
- Personal mountain equipment required
- Carrying personal equipment
- Group equipment carrying (described in the program)
- Rescue expenses or other costs due to abandonment of the expedition, whether due to medical advice or personal decision
- Personal expenses (laundry, telephone, drinks, internet access, satellite phone, extra showers, personal porter)
- Snacks / food for the entire expedition
- As for tips, we recommend a common tip of 100 USD per group member to be divided among the muleteers, kitchen staff, porters, and staff. We recommend 200 USD per person per guide.
- Extra nights' hotel accommodations are available if you return to the city early, or if you don't use the reserved days due to bad weather, or if you stay longer in Mendoza.
- Extra-Penitentes-Mendoza transfer in case you personally return to the city.
- Transportation OUT Hotel-Airport.
- Anything that is not properly clarified in this program
Approximate price based on double occupancy: 6900 USD per person
Aconcagua
Route 306°
Mount Aconcagua is the highest peak in the Southern and Western Hemispheres. It is the second of the Seven Summits, surpassed only by Mount Everest.
Aconcagua Provincial Park is located approximately 180 km west of the city of Mendoza, entirely within Argentine territory.
The ascent of Mount Aconcagua (6,962 m) via Route 306 is not technical, but it does require excellent physical condition and, above all, appropriate equipment for the extremely low temperatures that characterize the roof of the Americas. Embarking on an expedition to this legendary mountain is much more than trying to reach the highest peak: It means becoming part of the community of mountaineers from around the world who live together at the Base Camps. It means discovering the trails of the Andean valleys and their wild nature. It means experiencing the atmosphere of high altitudes, with their incredible reliefs and colors.
Program:
Difficulty: High
Itinerary: 18 days
Day 01 · MENDOZA – Altitude: 760 mts.
Day before the expedition where we will check equipment and go to rent if necessary
Day 02 · Mendoza / Puente de Inca – Altitude: 2700 mts.
In the morning after breakfast we will move to Puente del Inca to begin our acclimatization process.
Day 03 · Inca Bridge / Pampa de Leñas – Altitude: 2950 mts.
We enter the Vaca Gorge, a little-traveled place, undoubtedly the best way to get to know Aconcagua.
Day 04 · Pampa de Leñas / Casa de Piedra – Altitude: 3250 mts.
After breakfast we continued into the Vaca Gorge, a little-traveled place, undoubtedly the best way to get to know Aconcagua.
Day 05 · Approach from Casa de Piedra to Plaza Argentina – Altitude: 4200 mts.
After breakfast, we have our first challenge! Walking across the Vacas River! Those who wish can cross it on mule and then continue to our beautiful base camp.
Day 06 · Rest day in Plaza Argentina – Altitude: 4,200 mts.
Day of total relaxation at base camp
Day 07 · Porting equipment and food to Camp 1 – Altitude: 4900 mts.
Day of acclimatization and new natural landscapes
Day 08 · Base Camp Rest – Altitude: 4200 mts.
Day of total relaxation at base camp
Day 09 · Ascent from Base Camp to Camp 1 – Altitude: 4900 mts.
We begin the second stage of the mountain! We move to the high camps.
Day 10 · Porting equipment and food to Camp 2 – Altitude: 5500 mts.
We headed to Camp 2 to leave provisions for the following days, returning to C1 to help our acclimatization process.
Day 11 · Acclimatization at Camp 2 – Altitude: 5550 mts.
Crampon practice day and relaxation at Camp 2
Day 12: Ascent to camp 3 - Cholera
The group ascends to the final high-altitude camp, Cólera (5,970 m). We have dinner at almost 6,000 meters…
Day 13: Cholera - Summit Attempt (6962) – Cholera
Bright and early, we set out to begin the journey we've been waiting for so long. We'll ascend to Independencia (6,300 meters above sea level), then cross the long traverse to the cave and begin the final stretch through the famous Canaleta to the northern and main summit of the highest mountain in the Americas. We'll take photos and begin the long descent to Cólera or Nido camp. We'll rest. The day will last from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Day 14: Cholera - Mule Square (4350)
After breakfast, we will break camp and return to base camp.
Day 15: Mulas Square – Horcones (2990)
The trek down takes between 6 and 9 hours. Most of the equipment is carried by mules, so we walk light. Horcones, transfer to Mendoza, overnight at the hotel, end of services.
Day 16: Extra day due to bad weather
Extra day due to weather contingencies.
Day 17: Extra day due to bad weather
Extra day due to weather contingencies.
Important
Situations such as weather changes, health issues, or force majeure that endanger the safety of the group may cause the itinerary to change or be suspended.
NOTE: The proposed itinerary is subject to change due to weather contingencies or force majeure that jeopardize the safety of the group. The guides reserve the right to modify the program at their discretion. You can rest assured that any changes decided upon are based on two fundamental principles: maximizing safety and the likelihood of success, and based on the knowledge and experience of our guides. For detailed information, please contact us.
Services included
- Professional guides
- 1 guide for every 3 (three) passengers.
- Transportation from hotel / mountain / hotel
- Accommodation described in the program
- Equipment storage
- Food
- Transporting loads on mules
- Dining room
- First aid kit
- Bathrooms
- Showers x2
- Drinking water
- Relaxation area
- Porterage service
- Our expedition includes the transfer of common cargo
Services NOT included
- Tickets aéreos in/out Mendoza
- Personal entry permit to Aconcagua Park
- Personal rescue insurance (we recommend Global Rescue / Ripcord – which has direct contact with the Helicopters company, which is the only one operating in Aconcagua)
- Personal mountain equipment required
- Carrying personal equipment
- Group equipment carrying (described in the program)
- Rescue expenses or other costs due to abandonment of the expedition, whether due to medical advice or personal decision
- Personal expenses (laundry, telephone, drinks, internet access, satellite phone, extra showers, personal porter)
- Snacks / food for the entire expedition
- As for tips, we recommend a common tip of 100 USD per group member to be divided among the muleteers, kitchen staff, porters, and staff. We recommend 200 USD per person per guide.
- Extra nights' hotel accommodations are available if you return to the city early, or if you don't use the reserved days due to bad weather, or if you stay longer in Mendoza.
- Extra-Penitentes-Mendoza transfer in case you personally return to the city.
- Transportation OUT Hotel-Airport.
- Anything that is not properly clarified in this program
Approximate price based on double occupancy: 6900 USD per person
