Aconcagua Normal Route

DETAILED ITINERARY ACONCAGUA NORMAL ROUTE

The Normal Route to Aconcagua is the most popular way to reach the Roof of the Americas and the classic option for climbers attempting Aconcagua for the first time. This non-technical but physically demanding route follows the Horcones Valley and features well-established camps, allowing for safe and progressive acclimatization throughout the expedition.

The Normal Route to Aconcagua stands out for its excellent logistics, clear trails, and professional support, making it ideal for mountaineers seeking a high-altitude challenge without technical climbing. Strategic camps such as Confluencia and Plaza de Mulas help reduce risks while increasing summit success.

This expedition can be combined with other iconic high-altitude programs in the Andes, including Aconcagua 360°, Ojos del Salado expedition, and the San Francisco Volcano ascent, creating a complete mountaineering experience for climbers looking to explore different regions and challenges.

For official information about permits, access, and regulations in Aconcagua Provincial Park, please visit:
www.mendoza.gov.ar/areasnaturales/aconcagua

DAY 1: MENDOZA

Arrival, airport transfer, hotel check-in, equipment check and expedition briefing. Hotel.

DAY 2: MENDOZA / PENITENTES

Climbing permit application with guides, transfer to Penitentes ski area. Mountain Refuge (shared).

DAY 3: PENITENTES / CONFLUENCIA

Park entrance at Horcones, permit control, trek to Confluencia Camp. Tents.

DAY 4: CONFLUENCIA / PLAZA FRANCIA / CONFLUENCIA

Acclimatization trek to Plaza Francia (South Face view), return to Confluencia. Tents.

DAY 5: CONFLUENCIA / PLAZA DE MULAS

Long trek (≈8 hours) to Plaza de Mulas Base Camp. Tents.

DAY 6: PLAZA DE MULAS

Rest and acclimatization day (active rest). Tents.

DAY 7: PLAZA DE MULAS / PLAZA CANADÁ / PLAZA DE MULAS

Acclimatization trek to Camp 1, lunch, and return to base camp (≈5 hours). Tents.

DAY 8: PLAZA DE MULAS

Rest and acclimatization day. Tents.

DAY 9: PLAZA DE MULAS / PLAZA CANADÁ

Ascent to Camp 1 (≈3 hours), set up camp. Tents.

DAY 10: PLAZA CANADÁ / NIDO DE CÓNDORES

Ascent to Camp 2 (≈4 hours), rest. Tents.

DAY 11: NIDO DE CÓNDORES / CÓLERA

Short climb to Camp 3 (≈3 hours), final high camp. Tents.

DAY 12: CÓLERA / SUMMIT / CÓLERA

Summit attempt, ascent and descent on the same day. Tents.

DAY 13: CÓLERA / PLAZA DE MULAS

Descent to base camp. Tents.

DAY 14: PLAZA DE MULAS / MENDOZA

Trek to Horcones (6–7 hours), transfer to Penitentes and Mendoza. Hotel.

DAY 15: MENDOZA / AIRPORT

Breakfast, airport transfer, end of services.

DAYS 16–17: CONTINGENCY DAYS

Extra days for weather or unforeseen conditions.