Aconcagua 14-Day Normal Route Expedition¶

The classic non-technical 14-day ascent of the highest peak in the Americas via Plaza de Mulas basecamp and three high camps to the Canaleta summit gully.

Overview¶

The Normal Route via the Horcones Valley is the standard non-technical ascent of Aconcagua (6,961m), the highest peak in both the Western and Southern Hemispheres. This 14-day itinerary departs from Penitentes and follows the Horcones River to Plaza de Mulas basecamp at 4,370m, then establishes three high camps before a summit push to the Canaleta gully. No glacier travel or technical climbing is required, but extreme altitude and Viento Blanco (white wind) make acclimatization the defining challenge.

Day 1: Penitentes to Confluencia Camp¶

Obtain permits in Mendoza or Penitentes, then follow the Horcones Valley trail with mules carrying loads to Confluencia. The flat Horcones Valley gives way to desert scrub and spectacular views of the south face.

Day 2: Confluencia to Plaza de Mulas Basecamp¶

A long but gradual ascent along the Horcones Valley to the vast Plaza de Mulas basecamp, the largest high-altitude basecamp in the world with full services including a medical tent and hotel-tent.

Day 3: Acclimatization Rest Day at Basecamp¶

Rest and acclimatize at basecamp. Optional day hike to 5,000m to stimulate red blood cell production. Medical check available at the basecamp clinic.

Day 4: Basecamp to Camp 1 Canada¶

First carry to Camp Canada on the Normal Route ridge. The trail switchbacks steeply above basecamp through moraine and scree to the established camp perches with windbreak walls.

Day 5: Camp Canada to Camp 2 Nido de Condores¶

Continue up the ridge to Nido de Condores (Condor's Nest) at 5,380m. The terrain is scree and rock with increasing altitude effects. Nido is the last camp with reliable water from snow melt.

Day 6: Nido to Camp 3 Colera, Summit Push, and Descent¶

Climb to Camp Colera at 5,970m, then push directly to the summit via the Canaleta — a 400m loose scree gully at extreme altitude. The summit at 6,961m offers views across the Andes. Descend to Colera for the night.

Day 7: Colera Camp to Penitentes¶

Full descent from high camp through all camps back to the Horcones Valley and Penitentes in one long day. Mules assist with heavy loads. Celebrate at the ranger station on exit.