1-888-892-5462
Aconcagua
1-888-892-5462
Cost:
Length:
Difficulty:
Type:
$4500
24 day(s)
Mountaineering
| January 6, 2011 | Gabriel Barral | ||
| January 29, 2011 | Billy Nugent |
Towering above its neighboring peaks in the heart of the central Andes, Aconcagua rises to 22,841', making it the highest peak in the world outside of the Himalaya. Surrounded by peaks of over 19,000', Aconcagua is a stunning and rugged mountain. It is the ideal challenge for those who are ready to take their mountaineering to a new level, achieve a significant personal goal, and tackle one of the "Seven Summits"!
Aconcagua requires only a minimum of technical climbing experience. Due to the high altitude and severe winds, however, the climb can be extremely challenging and serious.
Our Falso Polacos Expedition - The advantage of this expedition lies in the tried and true nature of this itinerary as the successful traditional model of our previous ascents. This option ascends the Vacas and Relinchos Valleys to our High Camp (19,000') at the base of the Polish Glacier. The route then ascends a rising traverse to the northwest, and connects with the Ruta Normal at approximately 20,000'. After reaching the summit, we retrace our steps descending through the Vacas Valley.
As you prepare for your upcoming adventure please feel free to contact our office and speak directly to one of our experienced guides regarding equipment, conditioning, the route, or any other questions you may have about our programs. We are available Monday thru Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at (888) 89-CLIMB or info@rmiguides.com.
Aconcagua Itinerary
Day 1: Depart U.S! Travel to Mendoza, Argentina (MDZ) typically takes 18 - 27 hours from the U.S. depending on your departure city, available connections, and flight times.
Day 2: Upon arrival in Mendoza, we are picked up at the airport and transferred to our hotel. After checking into your room, you can explore the city and the many beautiful parks, or just relax by the pool. We have a team meeting scheduled for 5:00 pm in the hotel lobby. Overnight in Mendoza.
Day 3: We depart from the hotel and head to the permit office to secure the climbing permits for our expedition. With our climbing permits secured, we depart Mendoza head west towards Aconcagua. Gradually driving out of the fertile wine country and into the mountains, we arrive at Los Penitentes (9,000'). Los Penitentes is the center of activity for climbers heading up the mountain, and it is here that we finalize our preparations for the expedition. Overnight in Los Penitentes. (B, D)
Day 4: We begin the approach to our Basecamp at Plaza Argentina. The gradient is initially very mild as we begin our hike on a trail alongside the Vacas River. Temperatures during the day are usually hot as we make this high desert approach, but are often pleasantly warm in the evenings. On the trek, team members carry 20 to 25 pounds in their packs, and remaining personal and group gear is carried by the mules. Our first camp is Pampa de Leñas (9,000'). (B, D)
Day 5: We continue hiking towards Basecamp via the Vacas Valley. After a long day on the trail, we are rewarded with an impressive view of the Eastern Face of Aconcagua, just before we make it to our second night's camp at Casa de Piedra (10,550'). (B, D)
Day 6: We complete the approach to Basecamp by following the Relinchos Valley to Plaza Argentina. Base Camp (13,800') is on a glacial moraine overlooking the river valleys of our approach. Here we bid farewell to our mules and establish camp. (B, D)
Day 7: Packing and organizing our gear is the mission for the day, combined with time for relaxing and acclimatizing. (B, D)
Day 8: Our trek ends and the climb begins with our first carry of the trip. We carry supplies and equipment to Camp 1 at 16,200'. After caching our gear, we will descend to Basecamp for overnight. (B, D)
Day 9: Move to Camp 1. We leave Basecamp and climb back to Camp 1 with our remaining gear and establish our next camp. (B, D)
Day 10: Carry to Camp 2 (Ameghino Col at 17,700'). Today we get our first view to the north across the expansive scree fields heading towards the Guanacos Valley, and the distant, snow covered peaks of the central Andes range now lay at our feet. (B, D)
Day 11: Rest and acclimatization at Camp 1. (B, D)
Day 12: Move to Camp 2 (17,700'). (B, D)
Day 13: Carry to Camp 3 (19,200'). The route to Camp 3 follows a steepening path to the high, broad bench just below the imposing Polish Glacier of Aconcagua. (B, D)
Day 14: Move to Camp 3. (B, D)
Day 15: Rest and acclimatization at Camp 3. (B, D)
Day 16: Move to Camp 4 (High Camp at 20,500') (B, D)
Day 17: Summit Day on Aconcagua! We make an early start for the summit, joining the Ruta Normal. A gradual traverse along the mountain's northwest flank takes us past the Refugio Independencia and to the base of the Canaleta, a 1,000' long couloir leading to the summit ridge. From the top of the Canaleta, it is a straight forward traverse to the summit. After our summit celebration and photos, we begin our descent, returning to High Camp for the night. (B, D)
Day 18: Weather Day
Day 19: Weather Day
Day 20: We continue our descent from High Camp and return to Plaza Argentina Basecamp. (B, D)
Day 21: After we pack up Basecamp and prepare our loads for the mules, we begin our trek out. We descend down the Relinchos Valley and the Vacas valley to Pampa de Leñas. We celebrate our last night on the mountain with a traditional BBQ. (B, D)
Day 22: We finish the trek, reaching Los Penitentes early in the afternoon. After packing our gear, we leave Los Penitentes and drive back to Mendoza. Our final evening in this beautiful city is the perfect place for our team celebration. Overnight in Mendoza. (B)
Day 23: Depart Mendoza for scheduled flights back to the U.S.
Day 24: Arrive home.
Key: B, L, D = Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner included.
Aconcagua Equipment List
The following is a list of equipment required for the program. Skimping on equipment can jeopardize your safety and success, so we want you to think carefully about any changes or substitutions you are considering.
Most of the required equipment is available for rent or purchase from Whittaker Mountaineering. RMI participants receive a 10 percent discount on new clothing and equipment items ordered from Whittaker Mountaineering (excluding sale items). The Discount Code is RMI 2010 for internet orders. For more information or questions regarding clothing and equipment items call 800-238-5756 or click below.
Pack & Bag Guides' Pick
2 DUFFEL BAG(S): 120+ liter bag(s) made of tough material with rugged zippers.
BACKPACK: A 90+ liter pack is the recommended size for this climb. It is imperative that your backpack is large enough and tough enough to handle the load. A separate summit pack is not needed.
DAY PACK: A 25+ liter day pack to use as carry-on, while traveling or sightseeing.
SLEEPING BAG: A bag bag rated to -20° to -30° F. Either goose down or synthetic, with ample room for movement. Most guides prefer down, because it is lightweight and compactable. A waterproof bag is superb, but not mandatory.
SLEEPING BAG: The temperature rating system for sleeping bags is arbitrary and is not a guarantee of warmth. Base your selection on how well you do in the cold. If you tend to sleep on the cold side, choose a bag rated on the lower end of the temperature range. Using two sleeping bags together is not recommended.
SLEEPING PAD - CLOSED FOAM: A full-length or 3/4 length closed cell foam pad. This second sleeping pad is placed on top of the inflatable.
Technical Gear Guides' Pick
ICE AXE: The length of your axe depends on your height. Use the following general mountaineering formula: up to 5'8", use a 65 cm. axe; 5'8" to 6'2", use a 70 cm. axe; and taller, use a 75 cm. axe. If you hold the axe so that it hangs comfortably at your side, the spike of the axe should still be a few inches above the ground.
CRAMPONS: The 10 to 12 point adjustable crampons designed for general mountaineering are ideal. Rigid frame crampons designed for technical ice climbing are not recommended. Carry any repair kit/replacement parts and adjusting tools which are specific to your crampons.
TREKKING POLES: Lightweight and collapsible.
Head
WARM HAT: Wool or synthetic. It should be warm, but thin enough to fit underneath a climbing helmet.
GLACIER GLASSES: A pair of dark-lensed sunglasses with side shields or full wrap-type sunglasses.
GOGGLES: Amber or rose-tinted goggles for adverse weather. Additionally, contact lens wearers may find a clear-lensed goggle very useful on windy nights.
BATTERIES FOR HEADLAMP: We strongly recommend Lithium batteries as they perform well in a cold environment.
Hands Guides' Pick
LIGHT WEIGHT GLOVE: Fleece or wool gloves.
MEDIUM WEIGHT GLOVE: Wind/water resistant insulated ski gloves.
HEAVY WEIGHT INSULATED GLOVE OR MITTEN: Wind/water resistant, insulated gloves or mittens for protection against wind, snow and cold. These also serve as emergency back-ups if you drop or lose a glove.
Upper Body Guides' Pick
LIGHT TO MEDIUM WEIGHT BASELAYER: Long-sleeve wool or synthetic top will be used as your base layer. Zip-neck styles will allow for better temperature regulation.
LIGHT INSULATING LAYER: A fleece or other insulation layer.
SOFT SHELL LAYER: A windproof, water-resistant and highly breathable layer.
HARD SHELL JACKET: A jacket made of rain/wind-proof material with an attached hood.
INSULATED PARKA with HOOD: This item becomes of highest importance when we are faced with poor weather. This should be an expeditionary-type heavy parka that extends well below the waist and above the knees. Goose down is recommended versus synthetic fill. It does not have to be waterproof, but that is a nice feature. The parka is worn primarily in camp, at rest breaks, and on summit day (when it is of crucial importance). When sizing a parka, allow for several layers to be worn underneath; buy it large. The parka must have an insulated hood.
NON-COTTON HIKING SHIRT: Lightweight, synthetic shirt with either long or short sleeves. The long sleeve is preferred for sun protection.
Lower Body Guides' Pick
1 - 3 UNDERWEAR: Non-cotton briefs or boxers are a must on the mountain.
LIGHT TO MEDIUM WEIGHT BASELAYER: Light to medium weight wool or synthetic bottoms.
CLIMBING PANT: Synthetic climbing pants offer a wide range of versatility. You can wear them alone on hot days, or in combination with the base layer on cold days. The thickness (insulation quality) should be based on how well you do in the cold.
HARD SHELL PANT: A pant made of breathable rain and wind-proof material will be needed. Full-length side zippers are required for facilitating quick clothing adjustments over boots and crampons in cold, inclement weather.
DOWN OR SYNTHETIC INSULATED PANT (OPTIONAL): A synthetic primaloft pant.
Feet Guides' Pick
MOUNTAINEERING BOOTS: Insulated plastic boots are the preferred choice. They provide the best insulation as well as a more rigid sole for kicking steps and holding crampons. Leather mountaineering boots that have completely rigid soles are also adequate, but they will need to be insulated and may still result in cold feet on summit days.
HIKING BOOTS: A pair of lightweight boots for approaches and hiking on rugged terrain.
LIGHTWEIGHT HIKING SHOES: Great for travel, day hikes, and camp.
- La Sportiva Exum Ridge
- La Sportiva Exum Ridge
SANDALS: These are used during river crossings and should hold securely to the foot, i.e. straps should circle the ankles and cross over the top of the foot.
GAITERS: A knee-length pair of gaiters, large enough to fit over your mountaineering boots. This will protect you from catching your crampons on loose clothing.
3 PAIR SOCKS: Either wool or synthetic. Some people find liner socks useful for reducing friction.
Miscellaneous Items Guides' Pick
LIP PROTECTION
6 - 8 CHEMICAL HAND and TOE WARMERS
3 WATER BOTTLES: One-quart water bottles are required. Wide mouth bottles are ideal since their opening is less likely to freeze.
2 INSULATED WATER BOTTLE COVERS: These help prevent liquids from freezing. It should completely cover the bottle.
POTABLE AQUA: Water purification for 50 quarts.
2 - 3 GARBAGE BAGS (Large): We recommend lining your backpack with garbage bags to keep items in your backpack completely dry.
TOILET PAPER
EAR PLUGS: For sleeping.
2 AA BATTERIES: For avalanche transceiver. Avalanche transceivers are supplied by RMI.
LUGGAGE LOCKS: For your duffel bags. Must be TSA approved.
STUFF SACKS
CAMERA
Travel Clothes
2 PAIR CASUAL PANTS
4 SHIRTS
Toilet Articles
TOOTHBRUSH
TOOTHPASTE
BABY WIPES
HAND SANITIZER: Personal size.
Personal First Aid Kit
BAND-AIDS
ASPRIN / IBUPROFEN
MOLESKIN
ANTACIDS
IMMODIUM (ANTI-DIARRHEA)
PEPTO-BISMOL (STOMACH RELIEF)
SMALL ROLL OF ADHESIVE TAPE
Personal Medications
ANTIBIOTICS: Antibiotics for Traveler's Diarrhea
TYLENOL #3: Tylenol 3 for pain
DIAMOX: Acetazolamide for Altitiude Illness (250 mg. tabs)
Utensils Guides' Pick
SPOON or SPORK
Travel Documents
PASSPORT: Valid for six months beyond your return date.
COPY OF PASSPORT: The first two pages of your passport.
COPY OF FLIGHT ITINERARY
2 EXTRA PASSPORT PHOTOS
Optional Items
BABY POWDER
READING MATERIAL / JOURNAL
iPOD or MP3 PLAYER
PEE BOTTLE (PEE FUNNEL FOR WOMEN)
Provided Equipment
RMI provides the following equipment for your program: tents, group cooking equipment, climbing ropes, climbing anchors, avalanche transceivers, avalanche probes and shovels, and blue bags (for solid waste disposal).
Every guide on your climb will carry rescue equipment and a first aid kit. Each climb has two-way radios and a satellite phone for emergency contact.
Pre-Trip Checklist
Purchase travel insurance.
Return the Participant Information Form to the RMI Office.
Purchase airplane tickets.
Reserve rental equipment.
Be in the Best Shape of Your Life!
Meals
Breakfast and dinner meals on the mountain are included as indicated in our Trip Itinerary. With the exception of hotel breakfasts, most restaurant meals are on your own. Your trip fee does not included bottled water and drinks.
Please list any special dietary needs on the Participant Information Form. The form must be returned to the RMI Office 60 days prior to the program departure date.
Mountain Lunches
You are responsible for your own mountain lunches for 19 days. Lunch items should weigh about 12 - 13 lbs. We may have a chance to purchase additional food in Mendoza, but we recommend you take what you need and only supplement with local food if necessary.
Take lunch foods that you genuinely enjoy. Eating well is the key to maintaining your strength while in the mountains. And in order to combat the loss of appetite at altitude, it is best to have a variety of foods from which to choose, from sweet to sour to salty.
Lunch snacks are eaten during short breaks throughout the day while in the mountains. Avoid packing any items that require preparation or hot water.
Argentina disallows certain fresh food items to pass through Customs. These include fresh cheeses and meats, fresh fruits of any kind, and fresh vegetables. If you wish to include fresh food in your menu, wait until Mendoza to purchase it. Other items such as salami, jerky, dried fruit, etc should be commercially packaged items, not home packaged.
Recommended mountain lunch items: dry salami, smoked salmon, jerky (turkey, beef, fish), small cans of tuna fish, individually wrapped cheeses such as Laughing Cow or Baby Bell, crackers, bagels, candy bars, hard candies (Jolly Ranchers, Toffees, Life Savers), Gummy Bears, sour candies (Sweet Tarts), cookies, dried fruit, nuts, energy bars, GORP mixes, and drink mixes (Gatorade/Kool-Aid).
Mountain Breakfasts and Dinners
The breakfast menu includes items such as instant oatmeal, cold cereals (granola), breakfast bars (Kashi, Kudos), hot drinks (coffee, tea, cocoa, cider) and local fresh fruit.
Dinner usually begins with soup and ends with dessert, followed by a round of hot drinks. Healthy one-pot meals, incorporating fresh local food whenever practical, are served as the main course. One typical main course dinner might be spaghetti with sausage and fresh vegetables. Another meal might be chicken fajitas with cheese, tortillas, onions, and peppers. There are limitations, but the menu is planned to offer good variety and ample portions.
Qualifications
There are no technical climbing prerequisites to join this expedition, but climbing on previous high mountains will be of significant benefit to you. Simply put, climbers will usually perform better, be more prepared, and able to enjoy the experience more, if one has climbed other mountains before attempting Aconcagua. The altitude, length of trip (14 days on the mountain), the remoteness of the area, and the heavy backpacks, all contribute to make this a demanding trip. Excellent physical conditioning is required, and we strongly suggest developing a training program well in advance of your trip. Good experiences to consider prior to attempting Aconcagua include climbs in Mexico, Ecuador, Elbrus, and Kilimanjaro, all of which allow climbers to experience moderate altitude with minimal technical difficulty.
Fitness for Mountaineering
Mountaineering is a tough endurance sport, and the importance of good conditioning cannot be overstated. In training, we want to mirror, as best we can, the physical activities that we will be performing in the mountains. Your primary focus should be gaining the necessary strength and stamina needed to go up and down steep slopes with a backpack.
It is imperative that you undertake a rigorous conditioning program prior to your trip and arrive in top physical shape. Here are some proven suggestions to get you ready for the physical challenge.
Start training immediately. The more time you have to get in shape, the better.
Cardiovascular training (such as running and cycling) and strength and endurance training (such as weight training and stair climbing) should both be included in your program.
Start cardiovascular training by running, biking, hill climbing, or using step machines. Try exercising for an hour or more per session, and keep your heart rate and respirations at a reasonably high level, without over doing it. Three to four long training sessions per week are going to be more beneficial than short daily workouts. The intensity of your workout should reflect the level of effort we anticipate needing to climb the last 1,000' to the summit.
Begin your strength training by working on muscle groups used in mountaineering. Specifically, you want to target your quadriceps, calves, hamstrings, back and shoulder muscles.
There is no better training for mountaineering than up and downhill hiking. Get outside and go on extended hikes with a weighted backpack 2 - 3 times per week. Try hiking for 60 to 90 minutes at a time with a 10 - 15 minute break after each segment. Begin your training program with a 20 - 25 pound pack and work up gradually to the approximate weight expected to be carried on the climb. If there are no hills nearby, stairs work fine for training, especially if you can find a taller multiple storied buildings or stadium steps. When working out in a gym, use stair stepping machines and treadmills with a weighted pack. Additionally, treadmills raised up to the full 15 degrees will be more beneficial than running on relatively flat terrain.
Bottom line: Plan on being in the best shape of your life!
This sounds like a lot of work... and it is. With our daily schedules busy with family, work, and other important commitments, it can be difficult to set aside time for training. But being physically prepared for your climb is the single most important thing you can do to increase your chances of standing on the summit. It's also more enjoyable.
For more detailed information regarding conditioning, please see the Physical Fitness & Conditioning for Mountaineering document.
Acclimatization
Excellent physical conditioning significantly increases your ability to acclimatize.
The key to climbing Aconcagua is proper acclimatization. The adage climb high and sleep low is the way we climb, and it is for very good reason. Moving slowly up the mountain, following a calculated ascent profile, allows time for your body to adjust to the altitude. In addition to a proper rate of ascent, your performance is often related to how well an individual has taken care of himself/herself throughout the hours, days and weeks prior to arrival at High Camp. Proper hydration, nutrition, and warmth must be maintained on a daily basis throughout the expedition. Anyone can experience a "bad day", but what is important is to keep a Positive Mental Attitude.
The preventative use of Diamox is not generally recommended by RMI, but this is a personal choice. Please consult your physician if you wish to add this medication to your first aid kit. Used as a sleeping aid for your first night at high camp, it can be quite beneficial. Or if someone is having trouble acclimating, it may help that person remain on the mountain. Our guides cannot arbitrarily dispense this prescription medication, and consequently, the need for having your own personal supply.
Travel Consultant
RMI has partnered with Erin Rountree to provide our clients with comprehensive travel support. As an independent agent of the Travel Society, she has booked countless miles for adventure travelers across the globe. We have been working with Erin for the last 8 years, and she is very knowledgeable about the travel needs of our programs. Please call (208) 788-2870 or email at etravel@cox.net.
Travel Insurance
We strongly encourage everyone to consider purchasing travel insurance. Travel insurance offers the best possible protection if you have a sudden, unexpected illness or injury prior to or when traveling. Check with the insurance provider for specific coverage details. If you have not yet purchased travel insurance, you may do so prior to commencement of the program.
For more information please visit one of the websites below, or contact your local travel agent.
AIG Travel Guard
International Health Insurance
Erin Rountree
Personal Medical Insurance
We recommend that you purchase medical insurance for your expedition as most standard insurance does not cover mountaineering. International Health Insurance (IHI) provides coverage for annual travel or a single trip. For additional information including coverage, benefits and premiums or to book online visit International Health Insurance.
Getting There
Travel to Mendoza, Argentina (MDZ) typically takes 18 - 27 hours from the U.S. depending on your departure city, available connections, and flight times. Flights generally arrive in the afternoon on Day 2 of the itinerary. Departing flights may be booked for any time on the final day of the program.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will begin requiring airlines to collect additional passenger information. This effort is part of the Secure Flight pre-screening program. TSA will require you to provide your full name, date of birth and gender as it is shown on the identification document that you plan to present at airport security check-points. You must begin making your reservations using your full name, matching exactly the ID you plan to present at the airport. Collection of your date of birth and gender will be mandatory beginning August 15th, 2009. If you submit that information at time of booking your reservation you can avoid delays at check-in. Finally, verify your name on your frequent traveler profiles. If you signed up using a name other than your name as shown on your identification, you should contact each frequent traveler program to update your name to match Secure Flight's full name requirement.
Entry Information
A valid passport is required when traveling to Argentina. Your passport must be valid for 6 months beyond the expected return date. U.S. passport holders may stay up to 90 days without visa.
We suggest making a copy of the first two pages of your passport and keeping them in a separate bag as a backup. A copy should also be left with your emergency contact.
Please confirm any current travel advisories/warnings as well as passport and visa requirements with the U.S. Department of State.
Airport Arrival
Upon arrival at the Mendoza airport (MDZ), proceed to the Immigrations desk for foreign travelers. They will provide you with an entrance permit adequate for your stay. Please check the date to ensure it covers your complete stay in Argentina.
Once you receive your bags from Baggage Claim, you will proceed to Customs. There will be a random selection of bags for inspection. Be sure to keep all your bags together.
A private shuttle will take you to our hotel.
Departure Tax
An airport departure tax of approximately $40 per person is due at the airport in Mendoza prior to leaving the country.
Immunizations / Travel Medicine
No immunizations are currently required for entering Argentina. There are, however, several recommendations. Before travel, be sure you are up to date on all routine immunizations according to schedules approved by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practice (ACIP). Some schedules can be accelerated for travel.
See your doctor at least 4-6 weeks before your trip to allow time for shots to take effect. If it is less than 4 weeks before you leave, you should still see your doctor. It might not be too late to get your shots or medications as well as other information about how to protect yourself from illness and injury while traveling.
CDC recommended vaccinations and preventive medications:
As needed, booster doses for
Other vaccinations may be recommended under specific circumstances. For the most updated information on inoculation requirements and recommendations, please refer to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. This information is accurate at the time of writing, but may change with little or no notice.
Transportation
The provided transportation as stated in the itinerary is via private vehicle.
Argentina Country Facts
Argentina is a country of high Andean peaks and salt flats, massive ice fields, a vast thorny wilderness known as the Impenetrable, a spectacular Lake District, penguins, flamingos, caimans, capybaras and more.
The country's economy is focused around food processing, motor vehicles, textiles, chemicals and petrochemicals, printing, metallurgy, steel and agribusiness. This is a new Argentina, one emerging from a severe economic crisis with a renewed sense of identity and purpose.
Buenos Aires, the capital of Argentina, has become one of the most talked-about travel destinations in South America. It's not just a cliche that their steaks are highly acclaimed and their wines are delicious and affordable. And if you have the opportunity to experience a soccer match during your time there, you will find them full of passion and intensity.
Weather
The practical climbing season on Aconcagua is January and February. We will certainly share the mountain with other climbers during these months, but the better weather and higher likelihood of reaching the summit are well worth it.
Many organizations advertise "less crowded" expeditions in December and March. Be aware that December is still early spring and sees substantial snowfall and poor weather, and extreme winds and colder temperatures may be common. March is known for notoriously high winds (the Vienta Blanco or "white wind") and most tour operators have ceased operations at that time.
While there can be no guarantees of perfect weather in the mountains, our expeditions take full advantage of both the weather and route conditions for this expedition, and utilize prime months for optimal climbing experiences.
Money
The current currency of Argentina is the Peso. U.S. Dollars are no longer widely accepted.
You should find that $400-$600 for spending money is adequate for restaurant meals, drinks, tips and pocket money. You may choose to bring more depending on your shopping plans and length of stay.
Cash machines are readily available in Mendoza, but become increasingly difficult to find outside of the main urban areas.
Credit cards are accepted in most, but not all, areas.
Everyone has a preferred way to carry money. Some use money belts, others have hidden pockets. Whatever you do, be aware of pickpockets and thieves in any area which caters to tourists.
Tipping
Local waiters, drivers, and other service personnel expect to be tipped. Ten to fifteen percent is standard.
Our guides work hard to ensure your well being and success on the mountain. If you have a positive experience, gratuities are an excellent way to show your appreciation. Amounts are at your discretion and should be based on your level of enjoyment. Tips for excellent service normally average 10 – 15% of the cost of the program.
Health
Travelers often suffer from upset stomachs when in foreign countries. There are some basic rules, however, that can help keep you healthy.
Hygiene - It is important that you wash your hands thoroughly before meals and after using any bathroom. If water is not available for washing, we recommend using a hand sanitizer.
Water - The number one rule is: don't drink the water, and that includes shower water and ice! Brush your teeth with purified water rather than tap water. You should check bottled water for a good seal and use a napkin to wipe dry excess moisture in drinking glasses. Take care with fruit juice, particularly if it has been diluted with water. Carefully clean the tops of bottled beverages before opening.
Food - If you can cook it, boil it, or peel it; you can usually eat it. Salads and fruits should be washed with purified water or peeled where possible. Be wary of ice cream and shellfish. Always avoid any undercooked meat
Electricity
Electricity in Argentina is different than in the United States. Argentina has standardized on type I sockets and plugs. Type C plugs and power points are still commonly found in older buildings. Both are used for 220-240 volt, 50 hertz appliances. U.S. appliances will require plug adaptors, convertors or transformers. Please visit http://users.telenet.be/worldstandards/electricity.htm for more detailed information.
Medical Emergencies
Aconcagua is a remote mountain without easy access to definitive medical care. We are our own rescue team. A rescue team headed by the Mendoza Police operates on the Ruta Normal, which joins our route above 20,500'.
The medical facilities in Buenos Aires and other urban areas in Argentina are very professional. We will work with our tour operator to access an appropriate level of care should the need arise.
Travel Advisories / Warnings
Please confirm any current travel advisories / warnings as well as entry requirements with the U.S. Department of State.
Resources
Jim Ryan, Aconcagua: Highest Trek in the World (A Cicerone Guide). Cicerone Press, 2004.
This is a beautifully illustrated, useful and packable guide.
Argentina Reference and Travel Guide is a thorough orientation to Argentina, with links to various travel pages such as Frommers and Lonely Planet.
Payments
A deposit of $1,500 per person secures your reservation. Deposit payments may be made via MasterCard, Visa, or check. Final payment is due 90 days prior to the start of your program, and we will send you a payment reminder approximately three weeks before your payment is due. Balance payments may be made via check or wire transfer only. If your final payment is not received within 90 days of the program your reservation will be cancelled and all fees forfeited. Trips departing within 90 days from the reservation date must be paid in full at the time of reservation.
Cancellations
Once we receive written notification (mail, e-mail, or fax) that you are canceling an individual participant or your entire reservation the following fees will apply. A fee of $750 per person will be charged for cancellations made more than 90 days before departure. There will be no refunds for cancellations made less than 90 days before your program. Unfortunately, due to the time-sensitive nature of our business, and the difficulty in re-booking a trip close to departure, we cannot make exceptions to this policy.
We strongly encourage everyone to consider purchasing travel insurance. Travel insurance offers the best possible protection if you have a sudden, unexpected illness or injury prior to or when traveling. Check with the insurance provider for specific coverage details. If you have not yet purchased travel insurance, you may do so prior to commencement of the program. For more information please visit one of the websites below, or contact your travel agent.
AIG Travel Guard
International Health Insurance
Erin Rountree
Land Cost
The current fee includes:
- RMI Leadership
- Hotel accommodations as indicated in the itinerary
- All park entrance fees
- Support animals to base camp
- All group transportation in country as stated in the itinerary
- All group cooking, climbing and camping equipment
The fee does not include:
- International airfare
- Travel insurance and personal medical insurance
- Excess baggage fees and departure taxes
- Meals not included in the itinerary
- Bottled water and personal drinks
- Customary guide gratuities
- Additional room charges including laundry service and other personal expenses
- Hotel accommodations not indicated in the itinerary
- Transfer from Mendoza Hotel to Airport for outbound flight
- Medical, hospitalization and evacuation costs (by any means)
* Single Travelers: If you wish to share accommodations, we will assign you a roommate. If you wish to stay alone, a supplemental fee will be charged for a single room. The single supplement is not available in huts, tents, or in all hotels.
Risk Management
Safety is RMI's number one priority. Our guides manage significant hazards inherent in mountaineering such as avalanches, ice fall, rock fall, inclement weather, and high winds, but they cannot eliminate them. RMI guides draw from their wealth of experience and training to make sound decisions that improve your chance of reaching the summit without compromising the necessary margin of safety.
Please clearly understand that mountaineering is inherently a hazardous sport. You are choosing to engage in an activity in which participants have been injured and killed. While those accidents are indeed infrequent, they may occur at any time and be out of our control. We ask that participants acknowledge the risk and hazards of mountaineering, and make their own choices about whether or not to engage in this activity.
Climber Responsibilities
Mountaineering is both an individual challenge and a team endeavor. Some of the responsibility for the team is carried by the individual climbers. For this reason, we ask that each participant:
- is physically and mentally fit, properly attired and equipped, and continues to self assess throughout the program to ensure as safe a climb as possible. If a climber's own physical fitness limits his or her ability to safely continue upward, that can have a negative impact on the summit experience or opportunity of other climb participants.
- honestly and accurately describe themselves, in terms of fitness, health and skills, and their equipment to their guides, and that they adhere to the advice of their professional mountain guide.
Age-Appropriate Guidelines & Restrictions
In the interest of the safety and well-being of all participants, RMI adheres to the following age-appropriate guidelines and restrictions on all climbing programs, domestic and international. An individual’s birthday must precede the departure date of the program. For example: a 15 year old who turns 16 on July 1 may participate on a program beginning July 2.
- Ages 15 & under: No participants age 15 & under
- Ages 16 & 17: Accompanied by parent or legal guardian
- Ages 18 & above: No restrictions
Participants on Private Climb programs are assessed on an individual basis.
General Policies
RMI's program plans and itineraries are subject to change or adjustment based on a number of factors. These include, but are not limited to, route conditions, weather, terrain, and many other factors. RMI has complete discretion to change plans to accommodate any of these or other factors, including discretion to change program schedule or itinerary, and change guides or staff, as necessary for the proper and safe conduct of the program.
We reserve the right to cancel any program due to inadequate signups, weather or route conditions. In such a case, a full refund is given; however, RMI cannot be responsible for any additional expenses incurred in preparing for the program (i.e., airline tickets, equipment purchase or rental, hotel reservations).
RMI cannot guarantee that you will reach the summit. Weather, route conditions, your own abilities, or the abilities of other climbers may create circumstances that make an ascent unsafe, and you or your entire party may have to turn around without reaching the summit. Failure to reach the summit due to a person's own lack of fitness or to any of the events associated with mountaineering (such as weather, route, avalanche hazard, team dynamics, etc.), are not Rainier Mountaineering, Inc.'s responsibility and will not result in refund or reschedule.
If the Participant decides to leave a trip at any time after the start of the trip and prior to its conclusion, he or she will not be entitled to a refund.
RMI reserves the right to dismiss the Participant from a trip or to send the Participant to a lower altitude at any time if RMI determines, in its sole discretion, that the Participant is not physically, technically, or psychologically prepared for or capable of participating in the program.