Mount Penitentes Ascent

Itinerary

Day 1: Meeting in the city of Mendoza, 9 am. Private transfer to Penitentes (2850 m.a.s.l.), located 120 kms from the city. We will prepare the backpacks and begin the walk  to the base camp. Ascent by Quebrada de Vargas. 5-hour walk, with intermediate stops. Rest and setting up of the camp. Acclimatization. Dinner and overnight.

• Starting height: 2650 m.a.s.l
• Height of the camp: 3300 m.a.s.l
• Estimated walking time: 6 hours

Note: in winter conditions or with less available time, we usually camp next to Cuevas River,  at 2700 meters above sea level. In this way the first day there is almost no physical demand and on the second day we walk with less weight. In this last case, the second day is taken as the first one.

Day 2:Free day to rest and enjoy the landscapes while we are  acclimatizing to the height. Short hike  Hydration, dinner and early sleep.

• Starting height: 3300 m.a.s.l
• Height of the camp: 3300 m.a.s.l
• Estimated walking time:suggested 3hours, without carrying weight

Day 3:Early breakfast. Day to attempt Penitentes summit of 4350 masl. The ascent is long and gradual. We begin to get great views of the south wall of Mount Aconcagua. Arrival to summit around noon. Photos and celebration. Return to camp. Long day between 8 and 10 hours of walking. Farewell dinner and overnight in the mountain.

• Starting height: 3300 m.a.s.l
• Maximum altitude: 4350 m.a.s.l.
• Height of the camp: 3300 m.a.s.l
• Estimated walking time: 10-11 hours

Day 4: Breakfast.  Descent by the Quebrada de Vargas(4-hour walk). yPrivate transfer to Mendoza city. End of our services.

• Starting height: 3300 m.a.s.l
• Final height: 2650 m.a.s.l