Climb Aconcagua – Polish 360 Traverse Route

20 days Argentina
  • Duration

    20 Days

  • From

    Contact Us

  • Activity Level

    Extreme

  • Trip Type

    Summit

At a Glance

  • Total Trekking Days: 15
  • Level of Difficulty: Grade 6 (of 6)
  • Min/Max Altitude: ~9,000 ft (2,750 m) / ~22,840 ft (6,962 m)
  • Seasons: November–March
  • Accommodations: Hotels & Camping
  • Group Size: 4–10 Participants
  • Age Limit: 18–65 Years

Highlights

  • Circumnavigates Aconcagua by ascending from the east and descending to the west
  • Multiple days using the proven climb high, sleep low approach, giving you the greatest chance of a successful summit
  • A more challenging ascent than the normal route, with longer distances and increased time between camps

Description

Aconcagua is the highest mountain in the Americas and the tallest peak outside of Asia, earning its place among the famed Seven Summits. Its name is believed to come from the Quechua Akon-Kahuak, meaning “Stone Sentinel”—a fitting title for a mountain that dominates the Andes along the border of Chile and Argentina.

The Polish Route, often referred to as the 360° Polish Traverse, fully circumnavigates Aconcagua by ascending from the east and descending to the west via the Normal Route. This non-technical climb delivers a remarkably dynamic experience, moving through varied terrain with constantly shifting perspectives of the mountain. The Polish Glacier ascent is more demanding than the Normal Route, with longer carries and greater distances between camps, but is widely regarded as more scenic and rewarding.

This expedition-style climb follows a proven climb-high, sleep-low acclimatization strategy, supported by built-in weather days to allow flexibility in case of delays. You will spend a total of five days across well-established base camps on both sides of the mountain, with thoughtfully prepared meals in our dining tents balanced by long, challenging days at high altitude. By the time you reach the summit, you will leave with a deeper understanding of both yourself and one of the world’s great mountains.

Upon arrival at Mendoza, transfer from the airport to the hotel where you will have an orientation meeting. You will meet your guides, perform a comprehensive gear check, receive an overview of the entire climb, and answer any questions.

Guides will assist you with any gear rentals or purchases if required. Your evening is free to explore the enchanting town of Mendoza, known for its many bodegas (wineries), as this town is nestled in the heart of wine-country, famed for Malbecs.

After registration with Aconcagua Provincial Park, we will drive to Penitentes to start our acclimatization. We will have lunch in Uspallata and continue our journey. Upon reaching Penitentes, we will check in to our quaint hotel at the base of the mountain. The afternoon will be spent preparing our gear for the mules at our repository at Los Puquios for the following day.

This morning you will be transported to the entrance of the park in our private van, where we will begin the trek to Pampa de Leñas Camp by winding our way through the Vacas Valley, where our camp sits at river's edge. Mules will carry our equipment and our staff will set up camps upon arrival.

After breakfast we will pack gear and head off on our trek to Casa de Piedra Camp. This is a gradual walk along the Vacas River, one of the most beautiful days on the trek. We will see the magnificent East Face of Aconcagua with the Polish Glacier that runs directly to the summit. Staff will help ready camp and cook dinner, you are free to relax and enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery.

The trek to Plaza Argentina Base Camp is our longest most intense trekking day. Today we will depart from the main valley and begin ascending the Valle de los Relinchos. Once at Plaza Argentina, we will stay in our own private campsite with the necessary comforts to make your stay enjoyable.

Today we take the day to rest and do some optional short walks in the area to help acclimatize. Plaza Argentina is where you will become acquainted with (or reminded of) the world of mountaineering. With swaths of dome tents, guides and porters and adventurers from all over the world it is a very busy exciting place.

For today's expedition, each team member will carry their own food and equipment to Camp 1. We will eat packed lunch at Camp 1, then return to Plaza Argentina. These hikes (also referred to as 'carries') are an important aspect of our acclimatization process.

A day in Plaza Argentina to rest, acclimatize, and prepare gear for our move to Camp 1.

Today is a big move to Camp 1. You will be responsible for carrying personal equipment and as well as additional supplies. Porters will carry sleeping tents. Upon arrival, you will be aided by your guides to help set up your tent.

Today is a carry to Camp 2. As part of our acclimatization, team members will carry the necessary food and supplies and stow some of it at Camp 2. We will begin by ascending moderate switchbacks that make the climb easier. About a third of the way up, the trail takes us officially out of the valley and up on the mountain face, where views will not disappoint. Throughout the climb, the surrounding mountains open up revealing wide vistas and a magnificent view of the Polish Glacier. At Camp 2 we will cache our supplies and rest while enjoying lunch, then descend back to Camp 1.

Today we will climb to Camp 2 and set up camp. Again, everyone will be responsible for carrying personal equipment and additional supplies. Porters will carry sleeping tents. At camp we will work together to pitch tents, then rest and recover.

Today we take the day to rest and relax.

You will carry expedition equipment and food that you will need in Camp 3: Cólera. Once at Cólera Camp, we will have lunch, then return to Camp 2. This trek will continue helping with your acclimatization process.

We begin with breakfast and an early start, ascending toward the Normal Route. On this day, everyone will be responsible for carrying personal equipment and additional supplies. Sleeping tents will be carried by our porter staff. At Cólera Camp we will settle our campsite, which is strategically located for its altitude and protection from strong winds. The team guide will check each member of the group and orient climbers regarding summit day plans.

Our planned summit day will begin with a pre-dawn start. As expected, today will be our most challenging of the entire expedition. Today will be like none other in our expedition, as you climb on narrow, exposed paths while the sun rises, gradually lighting the surrounding mountains. Our goal is to reach the summit, where we will be rewarded with an unforgettable experience, and then return to Camp 3 (Cólera).

After a long trek, you will get to Plaza de Mulas Base Camp. On this day, everyone will be responsible for carrying personal equipment and the expedition equipment assigned to them. Porters will carry sleeping tents and waste. Once in Plaza de Mulas, the group will have the afternoon to enjoy the lower altitude and reflect on our experience.

Descend to Horcones Lake and privincial parkon on the last trekking day of our expedition. Mules will carry our belongings so team members will only take a light daypack with a packed lunch. Transfer to Mendoza city and lodge in the hotel.

Enjoy a final breakfast before our services conclude.

Extra day for weather.

Extra day for weather.

Climbing Aconcagua with Embark
Webinar: Aconcagua Climb: The Polish Traverse Route for Experienced Trekkers
The trek to Aconcagua

Above Costs Include:

  • ✓ Mountain guides certified by the AAGM (Argentinean Association of Mountain Guides) and the EPGAMT (School of High Mountain and Trekking Guides)
  • ✓ Airport pickup in Mendoza as per the program by private vehicle
  • ✓ Transfer from Mendoza to Penitentes and return by private vehicle
  • ✓ Transfer to/from the trailhead by private vehicle
  • ✓ Assistance with obtaining your climbing permit
  • ✓ Accommodation in Mendoza & breakfasts while at the hotel
  • ✓ Gear check and orientation
  • ✓ All meals and accommodations while on climb
  • ✓ Accommodation, meals, insurance, equipment, transportation and allowances of guide and porter

Cost Does Not Include:

  • ✘ Aconcagua permit fee
  • ✘ Lunch & dinner in Mendoza prior and post-climb
  • ✘ Any sightseeing tours in Mendoza
  • ✘ International and domestic airfare
  • ✘ Private porters hired to carry personal belongings
  • ✘ Travel & supplemental medical insurance coverage
  • ✘ Wi-Fi at Base Camps
  • ✘ Expenses of personal nature (tips for guide, porter and driver, laundry, bar bill, telephone calls etc.)
  • ✘ Alcoholic beverages and bottled drinks
  • ✘ Additional hotel nights in Mendoza if the expedition finishes early and returns to Mendoza
  • ✘ Fees incurred due to early departure from the scheduled itinerary (evacuation fees, mules, hotels, etc.)
  • ✘ Airport drop off at the end of the trip- taxis are easily obtained from the hotel in Mendoza
  • ✘ Any other expenses not mentioned above
Real moments from the trail

Captured Adventures

Expert Local Guides

Travel with local experts who share their comprehensive years of experience, insight and passion.

All Accommodation

Fully supported camping, hotels or mountain lodges; we arrange it all.

Equipment

All main equipment for your expedition is provided, you just bring your personal gear

Artisan Meals

Our chefs are professionals with a ton of experience, passionate about blending taste and nutrition.

Authentic Unique Itineraries

We personally curate every destination, so you know your experience has been vetted by experts with years of experience.

Safety Is Our Priority

We operate under very specific safety parameters; with a network of evacuation plans, local doctors and clinics in case of emergency.

Flexible Payments

Reserve your spot with a small deposit and pay the balance later.

Insurance Support

Supplemental insurance is required - we provide support to guide you to the right policy.
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