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tupungato volcano guided expedition

Tupungato Volcano Guided Expedition · 21,555 ft

Tupungato Volcano Expedition View gallery
From U$D 6800 min 3 pax
Tupungato Volcano Guided Expedition · 21,555 ft
Level
Intermediate-high
Duration
16 Days
Season
Nov-March

The towering Tupungato Volcano is located in a remote and uncrowded area of the Central Andes.

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tupungato volcano guided expedition View gallery
Map of Argentina

Tupungato Volcano Guided Expedition

Discover the Wild Andes

The Tupungato Volcano Guided Expedition is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure to one of the Andes’s tallest and most remote peaks. Standing at 6,570 meters (21,555 feet), Tupungato is a dormant volcano located on the border between Argentina and Chile. Known for its rugged beauty and dramatic landscapes, this guided expedition takes you through remote valleys, rivers, and glaciers, showcasing the untamed wilderness of the Andes.

A Remote and Challenging Journey

The Tupungato Volcano Guided Expedition is not just about reaching the summit—it’s about experiencing the raw and untouched beauty of the Andes. You’ll cross expansive desert landscapes, ascend through steep valleys, and camp under starry skies, surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks. Wildlife sightings, such as condors soaring above, add to the sense of wonder.

Expert Guidance and Logistics

Due to Tupungato’s remoteness, this expedition is logistically demanding. We rely on mule trains to transport equipment and set up multiple acclimatization camps. Our certified guides, with over 25 years of experience, will ensure your safety and comfort throughout the journey. The Tupungato Volcano Guided Expedition offers a unique opportunity to challenge yourself in one of the most breathtaking locations on Earth.

Summit Day: A True Adventure

The highlight of the Tupungato Volcano Guided Expedition is the summit day. This challenging ascent involves navigating snowfields and ridgelines, leading you to the northern summit of the volcano. From the top, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views stretching across the Andes, revealing the rugged beauty of both Argentina and Chile.

Join us for the Tupungato Volcano Guided Expedition, and conquer one of the highest volcanoes in the world while immersing yourself in the wild beauty of the Andes.

Why choose us to climb Tupungato Volcano with us?

  • Over 20 Years of Experience guiding in this amazing mountain
  • Small Groups with personalized service
  • Certified and Experienced Guides | WFR First-Aid certified
  • Excellent Food Services in comfortable camps
  • Comprehensive Assistance from start to finish
  • Permanent Communication

Have you got Questions? Feel free to contact us anytime for more information!

See What Our Clients Say About Us:  Check here! 

Topography

Itinerary

17-Day Program for the Tupungato Volcano Expedition

Day 1: Arrival in Mendoza and Preparations
  • Reception at the airport and transfer to Mendoza city.
  • Check-in at the hotel and a thorough gear check for the expedition.
  • Introductory meeting with the guides to review expedition details.
  • Welcome dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 2: Transfer to Puesto Santa Clara
  • Transfer from Mendoza to Puesto Santa Clara in the Tupungato region, passing through scenic vineyards and estates.
  • At Santa Clara, we meet the local muleteers (baqueanos) and prepare the loads for the mules.
  • Traditional Argentine barbecue and overnight in tents.
Day 3: Trekking to Refugio Durmientes (3,900 m)
  • Trekking from Refugio Santa Clara to Refugio Durmientes, with impressive mountain views, allows for gradual acclimatization.
Day 4: Ascent to Portezuelo del Azufre (4,600 m)
  • We will have our first real encounter with altitude as we ascend to the Portezuelo del Azufre, which offers stunning panoramic views of the Andes.
  • Descent into the Tupungato Valley (3,300 m), where we camped at Real del Goterón. Hiking time: 8-9 hours.
Day 5: Crossing the Tupungato River to Base Camp (3,800 m)
  • Early morning river crossing and a 4-hour trek to the base camp, surrounded by the wild, remote landscapes of the Andes.
Day 6: Rest and Acclimatization
  • A day dedicated to eating, hydrating, and resting to aid acclimatization at the base camp.
Day 7: Carry Load to Camp 1 (4,500 m)
  • We ascend to Camp 1 to carry food and supplies. Located in a sheltered spot, this camp offers incredible views and serves as the launching point for the summit. Return to base camp. Hiking time: 8-9 hours.
Day 8: Rest and Acclimatization at Base Camp
Day 9: Move to Camp 1 (4,500 m)
  • We move from the base camp to Camp 1. Hiking time: 6 hours.
Day 10: Carry Load to Camp 2 (5,400 m)
  • We carry supplies to Camp 2, located on the ridge leading to the volcano’s snow dome. Then, we return to Camp 1. The hike takes 8 hours.
Day 11: Rest and Acclimatization at Camp 1
Day 12: Move to Camp 2 (5,400 m)
  • We make the final move to Camp 2. Hiking time: 6 hours.
Day 13: Summit Day
  • We begin the ascent to the crater along the ridge at dawn to reach the North Summit (6,550 m). For those seeking an additional challenge, the South Summit is just 20 meters higher and requires 2-3 hours of trekking.
  • Return to Camp 2. Hiking time: 10-12 hours.
Day 14: Reserve Day for Weather
Day 15: Descent to Base Camp
  • Descent from Camp 2 to base camp, reuniting with the muleteers. Hiking time: 8 hours.
Day 16: Return to Refugio Durmientes
  • It is a challenging day as we ascend to Portezuelo del Azufre (4,600 m) and descend to Refugio Durmientes. Hiking time: 8 hours.
Day 17: Return to Mendoza
  • Final trek from Refugio Durmientes to Puesto Santa Clara, where the vehicle will transfer us back to Mendoza.
  • Check-in at the hotel and farewell dinner to celebrate the successful expedition.
Recommended equipment for the Tupungato Volcano Guided Expedition · 21,555 ft

→ ANDES VERTICAL EXPEDITION CLIMBING GEAR DOWNLOAD HERE

Essential Gear for You Expedition

The right gear is crucial to your safety and comfort on Tupungato Volcano. Gathering your equipment early ensures you get the correct sizes and quality. While some items may be costly, there are often online deals or local sales you can look for.

When making your purchases, remember not all salespeople are familiar with high-altitude climbing. Therefore, it is essential to balance their advice with our recommendations. Feel free to reach out to us for guidance.

Expect various weather conditions, from warm days at base camp to cold, windy conditions near the summit. Choose clothing that is warm, lightweight, and allows freedom of movement. Additionally, consider the layering principle for better insulation: use several thin layers rather than a thick one.

Gear Recommendations

Our list includes trusted gear options, but explore what suits you best. If you’re concerned about costs, space, or future use, gear rentals, including sleeping bags, mattresses, and mountaineering boots, are available in Mendoza. Ask us! We will be happy to assist you in choosing what best accommodates your needs.

Services

Included Services

  • 2 nights accommodation in Mendoza: Enjoy two nights in a comfortable hotel in Mendoza before and after the expedition.
  • All meals during the expedition: Nutritionally balanced meals provided throughout the trip (except in Mendoza).
  • Bilingual Mountain Guide: A professional guide with over 20 years of experience, certified as a Wilderness First Responder (WFR).
  • Mule transportation: Mules will transport all equipment to the base camp, ensuring the climbers travel light.
  • Assistant guide: An additional assistant to ensure the best experience and support for the group.
  • Shared expedition equipment: Includes high-quality tents, stoves, and all necessary communal gear.
  • Complete base camp services: Full camp setup at the base for comfort and convenience.
  • Transfers: Private transfers from your hotel in Mendoza to the starting point of the expedition and back.
  • Permanent communication: Radio communication and satellite phone for safety and emergency use.
  • First aid kits and acclimatization monitoring: Daily checks of climbers’ acclimatization progress with pulse oximeters and first aid support.

What’s Not Included

  • Trip abandonment costs: Any extra costs incurred if the climber abandons the expedition.
  • Meals and drinks in Mendoza: Meals and beverages during your stay in Mendoza are not covered.
  • Personal gear and medications: Bring your own personal climbing gear and any required medication.
  • Evacuations: Costs for ground or air evacuations are not included.
  • Room services and laundry: Personal services at hotels, such as room service and laundry, are the climber’s responsibility.
  • Phone communications: Emergency phone communications are available, but personal use is not covered.
  • Insurance liability: Insurance is not included, and we recommend getting global rescue insurance for the trip.
  • Hospitalization and medication: Any medical treatment or medication is not part of the package.
  • Other services: Any services not explicitly mentioned in this list are not included in the expedition package.

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