Do you know the Cerro Aconcagua? It is the highest natural elevation in America and one of the main in the world. We present the particularities and details of this incredible mountain.
Cerro Aconcagua, or simply El Aconcagua —as it is often called—, is a magnificent and imposing mountain located in the department of Las Heras, in the province of Mendoza, in western Argentina.
It is the highest mountain in America with 6962 meters, and is the second highest in the world, after the Himalayan system in Asia. It is a magnificent natural place of great heights that attracts thousands of climbers and hikers from all over the world.
Characteristics of Cerro Aconcagua
This hill is located within the Aconcagua Provincial Park. The Central Andes are protected there, which in their interior harbor natural riches, such as fresh water —one of the most valuable natural resources— contained in the glaciers and headwaters of basins. In addition, it protects the diversity of flora and fauna and, clearly, Cerro Aconcagua.
This famous mountain actually has two peaks: the North, at 6,962 meters —which is the highest— and the South, at 6,930 meters . In addition, other peaks that exceed 5000 meters can be seen accompanying the wonderful environment.
The Aconcagua borders the Valle de las Vacas to the north and east, and the Valle de los Horcones to the south and west. It should also be noted that it is located about 180 kilometers from the city of Mendoza, the capital of the province.
Origin of your name
The exact origin of the name Aconcagua is not known, but there are two versions mostly accepted. One comes from the Quechua language (Akon-Kahuak) which means ‘Stone Sentinel’; and the other from the Aymara language (Kon-Kawa) which could be translated as ‘Snow Mountain’ Both languages ​​are indigenous.
Peak south of Cerro Aconcagua.
Climate and high season
The climate is cold and dry throughout the year, with temperatures hovering around -2°C at night and 10°C during the day in winter. In summer, temperatures reach 30°C during the day and 15°C at night, at an altitude of approximately 2,800 meters. As we go up, the temperature decreases.
The climate is harsh due to these high altitude conditions. In addition to the dry cold, you have to expose yourself to strong solar radiation due to the diaphanous sky. The use of sunscreen and constant hydration is recommended not only because of fatigue, but also because the dry arid climate causes the loss of a large amount of body fluid.
On the other hand, clothing must be suitable for this type of climate, since when the sun goes down, the source of heat disappears and the cold takes center stage in a matter of minutes. This means that extreme conditions occur; On the same day, temperatures vary a lot.
Summer turns out to be the best season to visit or climb Cerro Aconcagua. If you plan to undertake this adventure sometime, we recommend that you do it between the months of December to March.
Go on a unique adventure
Whether you want to admire the landscape of the Aconcagua Provincial Park or spend a day of adventure in this mountain, we assure you that from there you will take away memories and experiences that you will not forget.
You don’t have to climb the gigantic Cerro Aconcagua to make the trip worthwhile. You can camp, hike, take photos or just enjoy the scenery. Regarding the latter, it is an excellent plan to contemplate the sun between the mountains, breathe pure and clean air and enjoy the tranquility of the place.
The great challenge of climbing Cerro Aconcagua
Clearly, climbing Aconcagua is not for everyone; rather, it is for a few. It is a unique challenge, which puts to the test the climber who wants to overcome all the challenges that are found there: the height, the weather, the fatigue and the long hours, or even days, ascending the mountain.
To attempt this challenging ascent, it is recommended to do it with a specialized guide. In fact, it is usually carried out in groups, due to the great logistics and equipment necessary for it.
Anyone who wants to achieve the challenge of climbing Cerro Aconcagua must have prior preparation and adequate training, since resistance and muscular strength are essential. You even have to prepare specifically to climb Aconcagua, so it is also recommended to have previously climbed lower mountains.
Patience, perseverance and acclimatization cannot be lacking. The ascent must be slow, so that the body adapts to so much physical requirement, to the lack of oxygen and to the harsh temperatures.
If you are in a position to climb Cerro Aconcagua, this can be a great opportunity to challenge yourself. After all the effort it requires, comes the great satisfaction of having reached the top of the highest mountain in America. Those who have achieved it will surely keep incredible moments of the great journey.
If for some reason you are in a position to climb, but at a lower altitude, do not forget that there are mountains lower than Cerro Aconcagua in the same place. You know your own limits, so choose what works best for you.
“Those who feel the mountain do not need explanations and as long as there are walls, needles and edges, there will be those who climb them, enjoying what they do, even if they do not understand exactly why”. —Josep Manuel Anglada i Nieto—
A really unique place
Can you imagine admiring the gigantic Cerro Aconcagua? It is the highest natural place in the entire American continent! On this site, you can go mountaineering, hiking, camping or enjoy the views of an unusual landscape. You can even venture in the most extreme way by climbing Cerro Aconcagua.
In addition, there is more to see: Mendoza has great natural jewels that cannot be missed. The entire province has unique tourist corners, with beautiful natural settings as the main attraction.
