Are you planning to climb Aconcagua, South America’s highest peak at 22,837 feet (6,961 meters)? Choosing the right route is one of the most important decisions you’ll make — and after completing my own expedition in February 2025, I can confidently recommend the Aconcagua 360° Traverse.
The pace is comfortable, the scenery is breathtaking, and the variety of camps along the way makes the experience far more interesting than a single-route ascent. This guide will help you see the reasons to choose the 360° Traverse, how to plan for your expedition, and what to expect each day.
Why Choose the Aconcagua 360° Traverse?
-
Better Acclimatization – Gradual elevation gain compared to the Normal Route helps your body adjust to the altitude.
-
Varied Landscapes — You’ll experience remote valleys, alpine passes, and dramatic moraines.
-
Multiple Camps & Viewpoints – More opportunities to rest, explore, and enjoy the scenery.
- Earlier Sun & Warmer Mornings – Camps on the east side of the mountain get sunlight sooner, making for warmer starts and easier mornings on the trail.
-
Less Crowding – Fewer climbers compared to the direct approach from Horcones Valley.
My Recommended Outfitter: Inka Expediciones
I chose Inka Expediciones for my Aconcagua climb and can’t recommend them enough. As a local Argentine company, they have the logistics, guides, mule support, and permit process completely dialed in, making your climb smoother from start to finish.
Visit Inka Expediciones to learn more about their full-service expedition packages.
Aconcagua 360° Traverse – Day by Day Itinerary
If you’re still weighing your options, check out my detailed day-by-day trip report packed with photos, route descriptions, and insights from my own experience. You’ll find everything from what to pack, to what the camps are really like, to why I think the 360° Traverse is the ideal choice.
- Pre-climb – Hola Mendoza
- Day 1 – Meet and Greet
- Day 2 – Shuttle to Puente de Inca
- Day 3 – Trek to Pampa de Leñas
- Day 4 – Trek to Casa de Piedra
- Day 5 – Trek to Plaza Argentina Base Camp
- Day 6 – Rest Day at Plaza Argentina
- Day 7 – Carry to Camp 1
- Day 8 – Another Day of Rest and Recovery
- Day 9 – Move to Camp 1
- Day 10 – Move to Camp 2
- Day 11 – Rest at Camp 2
- Day 12 – Move to Camp 3
- Day 13 – Summit Day!
- Day 14 – Descend to Plaza de Mulas
- Day 15 – Return to Puente de Inca
- Day 16 – Back in Mendoza
- Post-climb – Adiós Argentina
Whether it’s your first high-altitude climb or you’re adding Aconcagua to your mountaineering resume, the 360° Traverse offers one of the most satisfying ways to stand on the highest point in South America.
