Aconcagua Polish Traverse Route
Climb with our experienced guides to the highest peak in South America
Guided high altitude climbing expeditions to Aconcagua offer a great way to experience the spectacular Andes of Argentina and reach a Seven Summit. Aconcagua, often referred to as the “Stone Sentinel,” is the highest peak in South America, the highest peak in the world outside of Asia, and one of the Seven Summits. This expedition is a great stepping stone for the world’s highest peaks, like Mount Everest, and a great introduction to full blown expeditionary climbing.
Basic mountaineering skills are required and some experience at altitude will increase your likelihood of success. But, the mountain is not to be taken lightly and it offers a challenge to even seasoned high altitude climbers. Join our experienced guides and reach the summit of this much sought after peak. Read more about qualifications below and check out the blog, “Aconcagua calling- are you ready for it?”
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Description
Experience Aconcagua the way few climbers do… on a true east-to-west traverse of the mountain. Rather than climbing the Normal Route as an out-and-back ascent, this expedition approaches through the remote Vacas Valley to Plaza Argentina Base Camp, summits Aconcagua, and descends the opposite side via Plaza de Mulas and the Horcones Valley. The result is a far more complete experience, showcasing the mountain’s diverse landscapes, changing perspectives, and immense scale from both sides.
The journey begins beneath Aconcagua’s impressive east face, with exceptional views of the Polish Glacier and the wild terrain of the upper Andes. After acclimatizing at Plaza Argentina, climbers ascend via the Polish Traverse before joining the Normal Route for the final summit push.
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Qualifications
Climbing Mount Aconcagua: What to Expect
This climb is suited for beginning climbers who are in excellent physical condition with basic mountaineering experience. Although the higher altitude, length of climb and more extreme temperatures make this climb more challenging than Mount Kilimanjaro, the actual terrain on Aconcagua is similar, but it may require the use of an ice axe and crampons. It is also different from Kilimanjaro in that this is a small team, self-supporting mountaineering expedition. It is required that you are familiar with the proper use of these tools prior to your trip to Aconcagua.
For those with minimal mountaineering and/or high altitude experience a logical progression might look like this:
- Participate in a climbing course in the North Cascades, such as the Glacier Mountaineering Course or the Alpine Climbing Course
- Climb high altitude peaks such as Mexico Volcanoes, Ecuador Volcanoes or climbs in Peru or Bolivia
OR;
- Climb Kilimanjaro
- Participate in a high altitude mountaineering course in Bolivia or Ecuador. These courses provide training and additional experience at altitude and exposure to big mountain expedition living and a chance to fine-tune equipment, fitness, and mental preparation.
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Aconcagua Specific FAQs
What experience do I need to join an expedition?
While Aconcagua is not a technical climb, it does require prior experience at moderate and higher altitudes. A previous trek on Kilimanjaro or Everest Base Camp will give you an idea of how you might acclimatize. Some experience with ice axe and crampons is also needed. Many people attempt Aconcagua after a successful trek of Kilimanjaro but it is physically a much tougher expedition and requires an increased level of training. Aconcagua is colder and higher and unless you hire a porter the loads are much heavier. The support infrastructure is not as extensive and you will be involved in some camp chores and helping with the team operations.
What is the hardest thing about climbing Aconcagua?
Altitude and physical difficulty. Aconcagua is a difficult physical challenge. Climbers need to be in very good shape to participate. A strong base of aerobic fitness along with a solid core is a great place to start. A program of running or walking is not enough by itself. Workouts should include carrying a pack uphill. The physical challenge of climbing a big mountain is amplified by the altitude. Aconcagua is a big mountain and there is no way to get around careful acclimatization. This requires combining increasingly higher camp altitudes and rest days as well as careful monitoring of everyone’s condition. Nutrition and hydration is also important. The schedule we use has proven over many years to give climbers the best chance at a summit attempt in a reasonable time frame. All this said, a climb of Aconcagua is significantly more difficult than a trek of Kilimanjaro and as such cannot be compared directly. Aconcagua requires a dedicated training program and the demands of a longer expedition, higher altitude and the cold and windy weather make this expedition a serious commitment.
How big will my group be?
Groups can range from four climbers and a guide, to as many as 12 expedition members total. Porters do not stay at camps with the group, so the number of people climbing may change from day to day. Ratio for the climb is 4:1, but again, there is the option to hire an additional guide on summit day
What weather can I expect on Aconcagua?
Aconcagua’s weather is very unpredictable! The peak is so high that it has its own microclimate. At high camp night temperatures can be as low as 5°F to ‑20°F, ( 15°C to ‑30°C.). On the summit during the day temperatures could range from ‑13°F to 55°F, (-25°C to +15°C.). Weather tends to fall into a daily pattern where clouds clear up during the morning, leaving clear skies by midday. In early afternoon clouds commonly appear again, covering the summit by mid to late afternoon, then clearing again later. Wind is a common denominator on Aconcagua. It is a very windy place! Winds of 40 – 60 mph are very common with higher speeds that can last for days.
What special equipment will I need?
Aconcagua requires high altitude mountaineering boots, crampons and ice axe, sleeping bag with a minimum rating of at least ‑20F, a warm expedition parka and mittens. This is in addition to standard backpacking and mountaineering clothing and gear used at lower altitudes.
Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?
Yes, we commonly have climbers with dietary restrictions. Depending on the restriction we may ask you to bring food to supplement the expedition food, but we will be happy to work with you and provide a menu that accommodates any restrictions.
Can I hire a porter?
Porters are included for helping get gear to the various camps. You can expect porters to carry 5kg per person. If you’d like a personal porter that can be arranged.
Is oxygen available?
We do not carry oxygen for climbers’ use and it is not typically used to climb Aconcagua. Emergency oxygen is available in rescue caches at base camp and at points on the mountain.
Can I take a shower during the expedition?
Yes, there is a service offering showers at base camp for a fee.
What happens if I get sick and have to turn back?
Throughout the time we are on the mountain, the staff will monitor your health. If you decide that you are not going to continue, or we feel that you are not well enough to proceed, there are several options. Our normal schedule of carrying gear from one camp to the next with rest days in between usually allows for a staff member to descend to a lower camp with someone not feeling well, without altering the schedule for the other team members. A guide can also be called from base camp to help. In the case of sickness requiring evacuation, we will use all of our resources to ensure a timely descent to medical facilities.
Do I need insurance to join an Aconcagua Expedition?
Aconcagua National Park now requires all participants on the expedition to have rescue insurance. Climbing at altitude carries inherent risk and the cost of helicopter evacuation, hospitalization and medical treatment is very expensive and not usually covered in typical insurance policies. Additionally, you should strongly consider trip cancellation insurance. Every year we have people that must cancel their trip at the last minute due to injury, family or work reasons. Depending on the policy you purchase a majority, or all your expenses would be covered in this instance.
Do we get a refund if we do not reach the summit due to weather?
No. But, we do everything possible to give you the best opportunity to summit. Experienced guides and a proven schedule of climb high/sleep low interspersed with rest days creates a setting that allows most climbers the chance for a summit. Mountain Madness utilizes modern and accurate forecasting and receives updates regularly throughout the expedition and will maximize stretches of good weather. However, Aconcagua is a huge mountain and like all big mountains, the weather can be extreme. High winds, cold temperatures, and poor visibility can at times make life difficult and climbing impossible. We will always base our decisions about a summit attempt on safety and the ability of the team to get to the summit and back. We offer you a professionally planned and expertly led expedition, but cannot guarantee a summit.
I’m considering arriving a day or so early. Can you help with hotel reservations? What is there to do in Mendoza?
Great idea! Mendoza is a fun city and a good place to rest from traveling before heading into the mountains. We can make hotel reservations for you or help with recommendations. Mendoza is the largest city in the region and the center of the largest wine producing area in Latin America, famous for its Malbec and other red wines. Mendoza is also famous as an epicurean destination with many great restaurants. There are also a number of museums in Mendoza. Take a winery tour or two and eat your way around town. Sounds like a pleasant way to spend a little free time!
Have a Question? Contact Us!
Price
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Aconcagua Polish Traverse
$9,750 – 21 Days / Includes travel time
4 Person Minimum // 10 Person Maximum
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Single Supplement (I want my own hotel room) – $900
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Price Includes
- Guide(s) and staff
- Two scheduled hotel nights in Mendoza (double occupancy) before the climb
- One scheduled hotel night in Mendoza (double occupancy) after the climb
- Welcome dinner in Mendoza
- Celebration dinner in Mendoza
- All food during the climb
- All team climbing gear, tents and cooking gear
- All expedition staff including base camp personnel and porters
- Airport transfer from Mendoza airport to hotel on arrival
- Transfer to/from the trailhead
- Waste management & disposal
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Price Does Not Include
- International airfare
- Argentina entry visa and airport fees
- Climbing permit — cost is approximately $800 — 1,000+ depending on month
- Personal climbing gear and clothing
- Personal Porters for personal climbing gear and clothing
- Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, room service, extra hotel nights, extra meals, etc.)
- Travel insurance with trip cancellation
- Rescue insurance (required by Aconcagua National Park)
- All expenses associated with non-scheduled departure
- Meals in Mendoza (Exceptions: Welcome & Celebration Dinners)
- Lunch en route to the trailhead
- Additional hotel nights in Mendoza above and beyond the inclusions listed above
- Alcoholic and bottled beverages
- Airport transfer for return flight home
- Guide/Staff gratuities
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Payment Schedule
- $700 deposit at time of registration, which includes a $300 non-refundable registration fee
- Balance due 120 days prior to departure
- The balance may be paid by check, wire transfer, ACH or credit card with a 3% convenience fee
Dates
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Aconcagua 2026-27
- Dec 20, 2026 — Jan 9, 2027 - 9 Spots Remaining
- Jan 10, 2027 — Jan 30, 2027 - 9 Spots Remaining
Custom Dates Available — Contact Us
Policies
Cancellation / Refund Policy
- MMI strongly recommends trip cancellation/interruption and evacuation insurance for all trips. Our insurance partner, Ripcord, offers comprehensive travel insurance including trip cancellation, as well as rescue/evacuation policies and can assist in answering any questions. In addition, Participant is expected to have sufficient medical insurance as prescribed by their country of origin. Participant understands that MMI does not include any type of insurance with the cost of the trip.
- If you decide to cancel your trip or change your itinerary, MMI must be notified in writing. Your trip will be cancelled from the date written notice is received. If proper written cancellation notice is not received, amounts paid and reservations made will be forfeited.
- Non-refundable fees may apply for certain trips in order to secure permits and other services. MMI must strictly adhere to cancellation policies outside MMI’s control.
- Due to the personalized service we offer on our trips, MMI reserves the right to waive any fees. We will attempt to accommodate changes and cancellations, waiving certain fees when feasible.
- Circumstances outside the control of MMI and its partners, may require amended cancellation/refund policies. Such circumstances may include, but are not limited to COVID-19, natural disasters, wildfires, terrorism and so forth.
International Trips/Courses:
- Full refund, less the non-refundable registration fee, will be provided 121 days or more before the departure date
- No refunds will be provided 120 days or less before the departure date
Trip Insurance
We strongly recommend the purchase of travel cancellation insurance to protect you from the unexpected. You aren’t likely to think of it now, but people do get ill, break a bone, have a family emergency or get assigned to a last-minute business trip. If you are in remote areas, please note that emergency rescue & evacuation can be very expensive.
We also strongly urge you to consider rescue and evacuation insurance if your own policy does not provide the coverage needed. Services available may include, but are not limited to, helicopter evacuation, medical care, etc.
If you choose not to purchase insurance, you assume full responsibility for any expenses incurred in the event of a medical emergency and/or evacuation, as well as for trip cancellation, interruption, lost luggage, etc. We are not the experts and therefore ask that you please consult our travel insurance partner directly with any specific questions.
To protect against losses due to illness, accident, or other unforeseen circumstances, Mountain Madness strongly recommends the purchase of travel insurance as soon as possible after making a deposit. Mountain Madness has partnered with Redpoint Resolutions as our preferred travel insurance provider. Redpoint’s Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ is designed for adventurers.
For a quote, or to purchase travel insurance, please click this link Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ or call +1 – 415-481‑0600. Pricing varies based on age, trip cost, trip length, and level of coverage.
Critical benefits of Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance include:
- A completely integrated program with a single point of contact for emergency services, travel assistance, and insurance claims
- Evacuation and rescue services from your point of injury or illness to your hospital of choice
- Comprehensive travel insurance for trip cancellation/interruption, primary medical expense coverage, baggage loss or delay, emergency accident and emergency sickness medical expense, emergency dental, accidental death and dismemberment, and more
- Optional security evacuation coverage in case of an unplanned natural disaster or other security events
- Waiver for pre-existing conditions (must be purchased within 14 days of tour deposit)
- Optional “Cancel for Any Reason” coverage (must be purchased within 14 days of tour deposit)
Itinerary
Flight Information
Participants should plan to arrive in Mendoza, Argentina on Day 2 of the itinerary. Flight schedules and routing options vary widely depending on your departure location. A Mountain Madness representative will meet you upon arrival and provide transportation to the team hotel.
Return flights should be scheduled for Day 21 of the itinerary. Because mountain weather and conditions can affect expedition timing, we strongly recommend purchasing flexible or changeable airline tickets whenever possible. Please contact our office if you would like assistance planning your travel.
Aconcagua Day by Day
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Day 1
Travel
Depart home for Mendoza, Argentina.
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Day 2
Mendoza
Elevation: 2,428 ft / 740 m
Arrive in Mendoza, Argentina, the gateway to Aconcagua and the largest city in the region. Upon arrival, you’ll be met by your guide and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free to recover from travel, organize equipment, and begin adjusting to the dry climate of western Argentina. Mendoza’s tree-lined avenues, mountain views, and vibrant café culture provide a comfortable setting before heading into the high Andes.
Accommodations: NH Mendoza Cordillera
Meals: Welcome Dinner -
Day 3
Mendoza
Elevation: 2,428 ft / 740 m
Today is dedicated to expedition preparation. After breakfast, the team gathers for gear checks and a comprehensive briefing of the climb. The remainder of the day allows time run last minute errands, relax, hydrate, and mentally prepare for the journey ahead. A strong start in Mendoza often contributes significantly to success higher on the mountain.
Accommodations: NH Mendoza Cordillera
Meals: Breakfast -
Day 4
Transfer to Puente del Inca
Elevation: 9003 ft / 2744 m
Leaving Mendoza behind, the expedition travels west toward the Andes along the famous international highway connecting Argentina and Chile. As the mountains grow larger, the landscape transitions from vineyards and desert foothills to dramatic alpine scenery. The drive will take approximately 3 hours. Upon arrival in the Puente del Inca region, final preparations are made for entering Aconcagua Provincial Park. The team settles into camp, organizes loads for the mule service, and enjoys the first night in a true mountain environment.
Accommodations: Tent
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner -
Day 5
Trek to Pampa de Leñas
Elevation: 9,450 ft / 2,880 m
Andean landscape, offering the first real immersion into the mountain environment. The terrain is generally moderate but the dry climate and intense sun require disciplined hydration. After several hours of trekking, the team arrives at Pampa de Leñas, the first wilderness camp of the expedition.
Distance: 13 miles
Time: 5 – 7 hours
Accommodations: Tent
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Day 6
Trek to Casa de Piedra
Elevation: 10,660 ft / 3250 m
Continuing deeper into the Vacas Valley, today’s trek leads toward Casa de Piedra. The route gradually gains elevation while revealing increasingly dramatic views of the surrounding peaks. The expedition now feels far removed from civilization as the team follows ancient routes once used by muleteers crossing the Andes. Casa de Piedra serves as an important staging point before the climb to base camp, offering spectacular evening views of the upper mountain.
Distance: 10 miles
Time: 4 – 6 hours
Accommodations: Tent
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Day 7
Plaza de Argentina
Elevation: 14,100 ft / 4300 m
Today’s objective is Plaza Argentina Base Camp, located at approximately 4,300 meters (14,100 feet). The route climbs through the Relinchos Valley, where the massive eastern face of Aconcagua gradually comes into view. The final approach can feel challenging due to the altitude, but the reward is arrival at one of the most impressive base camps in the Andes. Upon reaching camp, the team settles into expedition accommodations and begins adapting to life at altitude.
Distance: 8 miles
Time: 5 – 7 hours
Accommodations: Tent
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Day 8
Plaza de Argentian — Acclimatization Day
Elevation: 14,100 ft / 4300 m
A full rest and acclimatization day is scheduled at base camp. Guides monitor the team’s adaptation to altitude while climbers focus on hydration, nutrition, and recovery. The camp environment provides an excellent opportunity to explore nearby viewpoints, enjoy views of the Polish Glacier, and learn more about the route ahead.
Accommodations: Tent
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Day 9
Carry To Camp 1
Elevation: 16,240 ft / 4950 m
Today we begin our acclimatization rotations by carrying a portion of our food, and personal equipment to Camp I. Thanks to expedition support and mule-assisted logistics lower on the mountain, loads are lighter than they would be on a self-supported climb, but the altitude still makes for a rewarding day. After caching our gear at Camp I, we’ll descend back to Plaza Argentina Base Camp for another night of recovery and acclimatization as we prepare to move higher on the mountain.
Accommodations: Tent
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Day 10
Rest Day At Base Camp
Elevation: 14,100 ft / 4300 m
Following the carry rotation, the team enjoys a recovery day at Plaza Argentina. Guides will check the weather forecasts, monitor acclimatization progress, and review the plan for moving higher on the mountain. Rest, hydration, and proper nutrition remain priorities as the body continues adapting to the reduced oxygen available at altitude.
Accommodations: Tent
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Day 11
Move To Camp 1
Elevation: 16,240 ft / 4950 m
The expedition leaves base camp and moves permanently to Camp I. Carrying the remaining equipment needed for the next phase of the climb, the team ascends gradually and establishes camp at approximately 4,850 meters (15,900 feet). The views expand dramatically, offering panoramic perspectives of the surrounding Andes and the valleys below.
Accommodations: Tent
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Day 12
Ascend to Camp 2
Elevation: 17,716 ft / 5400 m
Today’s climb takes the team to Camp II at approximately 5,400 meters (17,700 feet). The environment becomes increasingly alpine and exposed as vegetation disappears entirely and the mountain dominates every direction. Movement becomes slower and more deliberate as climbers conserve energy and continue acclimatizing to the thinner air.
Accommodations: Tent
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Day 13
Rest Day At Camp 2
Elevation: 17,716 ft / 5400 m
A scheduled rest day allows the team to recover before moving to high camp. We’ll go for a short acclimatization hikes to promote acclimatization while avoiding. Guides monitor weather developments and assess team readiness for the final stages of the climb. From Camp II, the scale of Aconcagua becomes increasingly apparent.
Accommodations: Tent
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Day 14
Climb to Camp 3 (Berlin)
Elevation: 19,700 ft / 6000 m
The team ascends to Camp III, commonly known as Berlin, at approximately 6,000 meters (19,700 feet). This high camp serves as the launching point for the summit attempt. Conditions are often cold, windy, and demanding, requiring careful pacing and energy management. After establishing camp, climbers rest, hydrate, and prepare gear for an early summit day departure.
Accommodations: Tent
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Day 15
Summit Day
Elevation: 22,841 ft / 6962 ft
Summit day begins long before sunrise. From our high camp, the route continues along the Northwest ridge, passing the highest refuge in the world, Refugia Independencia, at 21,476 feet / 6546 meters. From these ruins we continue climbing up and right, crossing the Cresta del Viento (Windy Crest). From here we traverse the upper part of the Gran Acarreo, which leads to the Canaleta; the most famous and challenging part of the Normal Route. The Canaleta is an approximately 30-degree scree gully that rises 1,300 feet / 363 meters and requires great patience and stamina. Above the Canaleta, you will find yourself on the Cresta del Guanaco, the ridge that joins the lower South Summit to the higher North Summit. We follow the ridge crest to the 22,841 foot / 6962 meter true summit, where aluminum cross marks the highest point in the Western Hemisphere! The 360-degree view from the summit is awe-inspiring as you gaze out towards the numerous 20,000 foot / 6096 meter peaks of the Andes. Summiting and returning back down to the Berlin Camp usually takes between 9 – 12 hours.
Accommodations: Tent
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Day 16-18
Extra Days
Contingency Days.
Accommodations: Tent
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Day 19
Descend To Plaza de Mulas
Elevation: 14,300 ft / 4359 m
After completing the climb, the team descends to Plaza de Mulas, Aconcagua’s largest and most famous base camp. The increased oxygen and relative comfort are immediately noticeable. Climbers often celebrate the completion of the ascent while enjoying a well-earned meal and the camaraderie of fellow mountaineers from around the world.
Distance: Approx 16 miles
Time: 6 – 8 hours
Accommodations: Tent
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Day 20
Trek to Horcones and Return to Mendoza
Elevation: 2,428 ft / 740 m
The final trekking day follows the Horcones Valley out of Aconcagua Provincial Park. As the team descends toward the trailhead, the mountain gradually recedes into the distance. Upon reaching Horcones, transportation awaits for the return journey to Mendoza. After days or weeks in the mountains, a hot shower, comfortable hotel, and celebratory dinner are welcome rewards.
Accommodations: NH Mendoza Cordillera
Meals: Welcome Dinner -
Day 21
Fly Home
Depart for home.
Meals: BreakfastNote on Itinerary: Although we do our very best to follow the schedule listed, this itinerary is subject to change due to inclement weather, unsafe route conditions, or other reasons beyond our control and in the guide’s best judgement.
Equipment for Aconcagua Polish Traverse Route
This is a comprehensive gear list. Depending on conditions for your trip, your guide may decide that some items are not needed.
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Carrying Gear
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Large capacity climbing pack (70-85L)
Lightweight as possible with a volume of 4,000 – 5,000 cubic inches (70 - 85 liters)
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Small duffel bag
Large enough to hold everything you’re not taking on the mountain. Will be stored at hotel, to be used after trip
Examples:
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Small padlock for duffel bags
Extra security
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Baggage tags
Makes identifying your bags easy at airports or hotels
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Large Duffel bag (100-150L)
Durable and waterproof. Examples: Patagonia Black Hole or The North Face Base Camp.
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Sleeping Gear
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Expedition quality sleeping bag (-20F/-30C Down or Synthetic)
One down or synthetic bag rated from -20°F / -30°C
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Sleeping pad (inflatable or closed cell foam)
This can be an inflatable or closed cell foam pad. Make sure to purchase a pad rated for cold conditions.
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Sleeping pad (foam)
A foam pad will be provided but a supplemental sleeping pad is advised for warmth and comfort. Closed cell foam 3/4 or full length. This pad is used in conjunction with the first pad
Examples:
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Climbing Gear
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Mountaineering ice axe
under 5’7” use 60cm, 5’7”-6’2” use 60 or 65cm, over 6’2” use 70cm
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Crampons w/ anti-balling plate
Steel 12-pont. Must be fit to climbing boots prior to trip, new-matic/hybrid type
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Climbing helmet
Lightweight
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Adjustable trekking poles
Three piece poles recommended
Examples:
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Head and Face
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Fleece or wool hat
It must cover the ears
Examples:
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Shade hat or baseball cap
A visor hat with a good brim is essential for protection from the sun
Examples:
Mountain Madness trucker hat
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Bandanas or neck gaiter
Various uses, i.e. cleaning glasses, sun protection when tied around the neck, etc. We have our own Mountain Madness neck gaiter available for purchase!
Examples:
Mountain Madness neck gaiter
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Balaclava or Buff
A thin balaclava will add significant warmth on that cold summit day
Examples:
Outdoor Research, Marmot
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Facemask
Neoprene or microfleece ski type
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Glacier glasses
100% UV protection with side shields and a hard-sided storage case
Examples:
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Ski goggles
To fit over glacier glasses in high wind. Rose or amber lenses
Examples:
Smith, Oakley
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Hands
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Leather work gloves
One pair lightweight to spare your climbing while doing camp chores
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Liner gloves
Two pairs thin fleece or synthetic
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Softshell gloves
One pair medium-weight for daily wear when it’s not too cold
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Expedition gloves
Insulated, water resistant shell with leather palms
Examples:
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Expedition mitts
One pair Gore-Tex or equivalent, with textured palms and taped seams. Synthetic or down filled. Warm, heavy duty for cold temperatures
Examples:
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Feet
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Thin socks (2 pair)
Two pairs of synthetic or wool socks to wear under heavy wool socks to help prevent blisters and keep feet dry
Examples:
Smartwool or Cool Max
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Thick socks (3 pair)
Three pairs of synthetic or wool socks, medium to heavyweight. Check boot fit with thin and thick socks on
Examples:
Smartwool or Thorlo
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Down Booties
Down booties to keep feet warm while in tent. Must have grippy soles.
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Gaiters
One pair of gaiters made of breathable material; keeps dirt and snow out of boots. Make sure they fit over your boots
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High-altitude double mountaineering boots (6000m)
Plastic or hybrid rated for 6,000-meter peak climbs or winter mountaineering. If you choose a plastic boot, you must have liner boots that are in new or excellent condition!
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Light hiking boots or trail shoes
For acclimatization hikes
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Upper Body
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Synthetic t-shirts
2x Synthetic or merino wool t-shirts. No cotton!
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Long-sleeved Base Layer
A non-cotton baselayer top. Wool or synthetic fabrics are required. Short or long sleeve acceptable, though we recommend long sleeve.
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Sports bras
Two, synthetic, no cotton!
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Softshell Jacket w/ hood
This is what you will be wearing while hiking at higher altitudes or while kicking around camps at lower altitude. This jacket should be full-zip
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Hardshell jacket w/ hood
A good jacket made of Gore-Tex (recommended) or waterproof nylon, roomy enough to fit over multiple layers
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Expedition down parka w/ hood
This is your most important piece of warm gear and will mean the difference between an enjoyable climb or a miserable one. A warm, full zip jacket with hood is mandatory. It’s important that you jacket is 700+ fill down, baffle construction (not sewn through seams) and as a thick, insulated hood
Examples:
Feathered Friends Volant
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Sun hoodie
A long-sleeved base layer top made from non-cotton materials such as merino wool or polyester. Light-colored, hooded sun shirts are strongly recommended for sun protection and are commonly worn by guides on most climbs.
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Lower Body
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Undergarments
Adequate supply for the entire trip
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Long base layer
Non-cotton baselayer bottoms that should fit snugly without constriction. We recommend lighter weight baselayers rather than heavier fleece-type layers.
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Softshell pants
Softshell pants are water resistant, yet highly breathable and durable. Great for colder conditions over a pair of long underwear or tights higher on the mountain or summit day
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Hardshell pants
waterproof and breathable with side zips (minimum of ¾ zips recommended) Gore-Tex or equivalent
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Insulated pants
Synthetic or down with full side zip. Warm insulation for upper mountain
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Miscellaneous
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Stuff sacks/ditty bags/plastic bags
To organize gear in your duffle and pack. All clothing should be kept dry using waterproof stuff sacks or large heavyweight plastic bags (trash compactor bags work great)
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Toiletries
Toothbrush and paste, comb, tampons, biodegradable soap (small amount), etc. Bring enough for the entire trip
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Toilet paper
1 – 2 rolls stored in a plastic bag
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Sunscreen
Bring plenty of sun block with SPF of 40 or more. It's easy to underestimate the amount necessary for your trip!
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Lip balm
Must have SPF rating of 20 or more. Bring two just in case!
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Ear plugs
To block out snoring and other noise to ensure a good night's sleep
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Water bottles with insulators
Two one-liter wide-mouthed plastic bottles
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Small stainless-steel thermos (optional)
For hot beverages on summit day
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Water purification
Steri Pen, Potable Aqua, Polar Pure crystal iodine. Purifies drinking water while on the trip.
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Water flavoring
Powdered additives like Gatorade or NUUN are a nice change of pace to water and help replenish much needed electrolytes.
Examples:
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Large plastic bowl
Bring a 2-4 cup camping bowl or a plastic "Rubbermaid" style container for your mountain dining
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Insulated cup (12-16oz)
A 12-16 oz (350-500 ml) mug with an attached lid will help keep you hydrated
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Lexan spoon or spork
Lightweight and strong
Examples:
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Headlamp
Bring extra batteries!
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Pocket knife or multitool
Simple Swiss Army type with scissors. Make sure you transport in checked bag, not carry-on!
Examples:
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Personal first aid and drug kit
small personal first aid kit with ample bandaids and moleskin
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Nausea medications
Pepto Bismol tablets; Maalox, Gelusil M or Mylanta antacid tablets. Donnatal for stomach cramps. Probiotic capsules taken daily may help keep your gastro-intestinal system working smoothly
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Towel
For wash up in camp
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Handi-Wipes
A small pack or two anti-bacterial are great for general hygiene
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Spare contacts and glasses
Contacts can be a problem in dusty conditions, so make sure you have your back-up glasses with you. Glasses wearers should have a spare set
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Snacks (general)
Bring your favorite snacks and power/energy bars or if there is something else you particularly like to eat while hiking and climbing
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Spare bottle for a pee bottle, and a pee funnel (Lady J or Freshette) for women
It can be a cold walk to the toilet at night
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Insect repellent
A must!
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Personal electronics
Phone with camera, and/or separate camera. Bring extra batteries and memory!
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Electronics charging
If you want to charge your electronics along the way, a small, lightweight solar panel to charge batteries or portable charging device may be a good addition
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Travel power adapter
Most come in kits with all the plugs you need. Double-check to make sure you’re taking the correct adapter/plugs
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Travel clothing
Comfortable clothing for travel before and after the expedition
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Book Trip
Aconcagua Polish Traverse
$9,750
21 Days / Includes travel time
4 Person Minimum // 10 Person Maximum
Elevation
22,841 ft / 6962 m
Route
Polish Traverse Route
Guide Ratio
3:1 client to guide ratio
Difficulty
Intermediate
This climb is suited for beginning climbers who are in excellent physical condition with basic mountaineering experience and some high altitude experience. For additional info see Qualifications section in page overview.
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