PRICE €6500

Aconcagua

Climb to the highest peak in the Western Hemisphere
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TRIP Dates

  • 04 Jan – 23 Jan 2027

    3 Spots Left

  • 31 Jan – 18 feb 2028

    Available

Aconcagua

Location

Argentina

Duration

19 Days

Route

Polish Traverse

Grade

Difficult

Altitude

6962 m

Activity

Approx 6-8 hrs

The Aconcagua 360° Expedition offers the ultimate journey around the highest mountain in the Americas, combining the spectacular Vacas Valley Route on the eastern side with the classic Normal Route for the descent. This complete mountain traverse showcases Aconcagua from every angle, delivering a true expedition experience through remote valleys, dramatic alpine landscapes, and one of the world’s great high-altitude challenges.

Expedition Highlights

  • Summit Aconcagua (6,961m) — the highest mountain in the Americas
  • Complete the legendary 360° traverse, ascending one route and descending another
  • Experience both the remote Vacas Valley and the classic Normal Route
  • Small expedition teams led by Black Mountaineering Elite Guides
  • Elite local guides, logistics and high-altitude support
  • Proven acclimatisation strategy designed to maximise summit success
  • Carry out a true expedition through the heart of the Andes
  • Stunning camps beneath towering glaciers and dramatic mountain scenery
  • Develop essential high-altitude expedition skills and decision-making
  • Earn your place among the Seven Summits progression on one of the world’s great mountaineering objectives

Route Map

Trip Details

  • Arrival in Mendoza.
    Welcome to Argentina and the start of your Aconcagua 360° Expedition.

    Upon arrival in Mendoza, you’ll be met by the Black Mountaineering team and transferred to the expedition hotel. Later, Jason Black will conduct a full expedition briefing, equipment check, and final preparations before we come together for a welcome dinner and an opportunity to meet the team.

    Overnight: Team Hotel, Mendoza

  • Mendoza to Penitentes & Puente del Inca.
    After breakfast, we depart Mendoza and drive towards the Andes, stopping at the Aconcagua Provincial Park entrance to complete all official climbing permit formalities.

    We then continue to Penitentes – Puente del Inca, where we’ll check into our expedition hotel and make the final preparations for life on the mountain. Here, our expedition equipment is organised and loaded onto the mule train, which will transport the bulk of our gear to Plaza Argentina Base Camp ahead of the team.

    The remainder of the afternoon is yours to relax, enjoy the mountain surroundings, and prepare for the expedition ahead.

    Overnight: Expedition Hotel, Penitentes – Puente del Inca (2,725m)

  • Penitentes to Pampa de Leñas.
    After breakfast, we drive to the entrance of the Quebrada de Vacas, where our approach trek begins.

    Following the wide Vacas Valley, we make our way towards Pampa de Leñas (3,100m), our first expedition camp. On arrival, we’ll set up our tents, enjoy a freshly prepared meal, and rest beneath the vast Andean sky.

    Throughout the approach to Base Camp, you’ll carry only your daypack, while our mule team transports your personal expedition equipment.

    Overnight: Expedition Camp, Pampa de Leñas (3,100m)

  • Pampa de Leñas to Casa de Piedra.
    Today we continue deeper into the remote Vacas Valley, following the river through vast desert landscapes surrounded by the towering peaks of the Andes.

    As we approach Casa de Piedra (3,600m), we’ll gain our first spectacular views of Aconcagua’s impressive eastern face. On arrival, we’ll set up camp, enjoy a freshly prepared meal, and rest beneath the mountain.

    You’ll carry only a small daypack, while our mule team transports your personal expedition equipment.

    Overnight: Expedition Camp, Casa de Piedra (3,600m)

  • Casa de Piedra to Plaza Argentina Base Camp.
    Today we make our final approach to Plaza Argentina Base Camp (4,000m), the gateway to Aconcagua’s spectacular eastern route. As we climb higher into the Andes, the mountain reveals its true scale, with breathtaking views of glaciers, rugged peaks, and the immense north-east face of Aconcagua.

    Upon arrival, we’ll settle into our fully supported Base Camp, which will be our home as we prepare for the ascent. Here, we’ll organise equipment, monitor acclimatisation, and begin the next phase of the expedition.

    As on previous days, you’ll carry only your daypack, while our mule team transports your personal expedition equipment.

    Overnight: Plaza Argentina Base Camp (4,000m)

  • Rest and acclimatisation day at Plaza Argentina Base Camp.
    Today is dedicated to rest, recovery, and allowing your body to adapt to the altitude before we begin our higher rotations on Aconcagua.

    We’ll organise personal equipment, review the climbing strategy, monitor each team member’s acclimatisation, and prepare loads for the move to the higher camps. The remainder of the day is yours to relax, hydrate, and enjoy the spectacular surroundings of Base Camp.

    Overnight: Plaza Argentina Base Camp (4,000m)

  • Plaza Argentina Base Camp to Camp 1 & return.
    Today we complete our first acclimatisation rotation on Aconcagua, climbing from Plaza Argentina Base Camp (4,000m) to Camp 1 (4,950m).

    Each climber will carry approximately 10kg of expedition food and equipment, which will be cached at Camp 1 in preparation for our move higher on the mountain. After lunch and time to acclimatise at altitude, we descend to Plaza Argentina Base Camp to rest and recover.

    This important rotation follows the proven principle of “climb high, sleep low,” allowing the body to adapt gradually before we begin our higher camp progression.

    Overnight: Plaza Argentina Base Camp (4,000m)

  • Rest and training day at Plaza Argentina Base Camp.
    Today is dedicated to recovery following our first carry to Camp 1 and to making the final preparations for our move higher on Aconcagua.

    The guide team will complete a full equipment check and lead practical team training, covering the systems, routines, and mountain procedures required for the ascent. The remainder of the day is focused on rest, hydration, nutrition, and allowing the body to continue adapting to the altitude.

    Overnight: Plaza Argentina Base Camp (4,000m)

  • Plaza Argentina Base Camp to Camp 1.
    Today we leave Base Camp and climb to Camp 1 (4,950m), beginning our progression onto the higher mountain.

    You will carry your own personal clothing and equipment, while our high-altitude porters transport the shared expedition equipment. Our tents will be carried and set up in advance, allowing the team to settle into camp and focus on recovery, hydration, and acclimatisation.

    Spending the night at Camp 1 is an important stage in adapting to the altitude before continuing higher on Aconcagua.

    Overnight: Camp 1 (4,950m)

  • Camp 1 to Camp 2 – Upper Guanacos & return.
    Today we continue our acclimatisation programme with a carry from Camp 1 (4,950m) to Camp 2 – Upper Guanacos (5,500m).

    Each climber will carry approximately 10kg of expedition food and equipment, which will be left at Camp 2 in preparation for our move higher on the mountain. After lunch and time to acclimatise, we descend back to Camp 1 to rest and recover.

    This rotation is another important step in preparing the body for the higher camps and eventual summit push.

    Overnight: Camp 1 (4,950m)

  • Camp 1 to Camp 2 – Upper Guanacos.
    Today we move from Camp 1 (4,950m) to Camp 2 – Upper Guanacos (5,500m), continuing our ascent of Aconcagua.

    You will carry your own personal clothing and equipment, while our high-altitude porters transport the shared expedition equipment. Our tents will already be pitched on arrival, allowing the team to settle into camp, rehydrate, and continue acclimatising before the next stage of the climb.

    Overnight: Camp 2 – Upper Guanacos (5,500m)

  • Rest day at Camp 2 – Upper Guanacos.
    Today is dedicated to rest, recovery, and continued acclimatisation at Camp 2 (5,500m).

    The guide team will monitor everyone’s health and acclimatisation, review the weather forecast, and prepare equipment for the move to the higher camps. The day is focused on hydration, nutrition, and conserving energy as we enter the final stages of the expedition.

    Overnight: Camp 2 – Upper Guanacos (5,500m)

  • Camp 2 to Camp 3.
    Today we make our move to Camp 3 (6,000m), traversing across the mountain to join the Normal Route beneath the legendary Polish Glacier.

    This spectacular crossing offers a unique perspective of Aconcagua and forms part of the famous 360° Route, combining the remote eastern approach with the classic summit route.

    You will carry your own personal clothing and equipment while our high-altitude team supports the movement of shared expedition gear. Upon arrival, we’ll settle into Camp 3 and make our final preparations for the summit push.

    Overnight: Camp 3 (6,000m)

  • Summit Day – Aconcagua (6,962m).
    Today is the day we have been preparing for. Setting out well before dawn, we begin our summit push towards the highest mountain in the Americas.

    Following the Normal Route, we climb steadily through the high Andes, passing iconic landmarks before making the final ascent to the summit of Aconcagua (6,962m). Standing on the roof of the Americas is an unforgettable achievement and the reward for months of preparation and determination.

    After celebrating on the summit, we descend carefully back to Camp 3, where we’ll rest after one of the most demanding days of the expedition.

    Overnight: Camp 3 (6,000m)

  • Camp 3 to Plaza de Mulas Base Camp.
    After an early breakfast, we begin our descent via the Normal Route to Plaza de Mulas Base Camp, completing the second half of the legendary Aconcagua 360° Traverse.

    You will carry your own personal clothing and equipment during the descent, while our expedition logistics team ensures your fresh clothing and additional kit are waiting for you on arrival at Base Camp.

    The afternoon is yours to relax, recover, and celebrate completing the climb with the team.

    Overnight: Plaza de Mulas Base Camp

  • Plaza de Mulas to Penitentes.
    Today we complete our descent from Plaza de Mulas Base Camp, trekking out through the Horcones Valley to the park entrance, where our expedition vehicle will be waiting.

    You’ll carry only your daypack, while our mule team transports your personal expedition equipment. From there, we transfer to our comfortable lodge in Penitentes, where you can enjoy a hot shower, a well-earned meal, and your first night back below the high mountains.

    Overnight: Expedition Lodge, Penitentes

  • Penitentes to Mendoza.
    After breakfast, we depart the Andes and travel by private Black Mountaineering transfer back to Mendoza City.

    On arrival, you’ll have time to relax, enjoy the comforts of the city, and reflect on an extraordinary expedition before joining the team for a celebratory evening.

    Overnight: Team Hotel, Mendoza

  • Contingency Day 
    An additional contingency day is built into the itinerary to provide flexibility in the event of adverse weather or other unforeseen circumstances that may affect the safe progress of the expedition.

    This reserve day greatly improves the likelihood of a successful summit by allowing the guide team to make sound decisions based on mountain conditions, weather forecasts, and the team’s acclimatisation, rather than being forced to adhere to a fixed schedule.

    Overnight: Determined by the expedition itinerary and current mountain conditions.

  • Final departure home.
    Today marks the end of your Aconcagua 360° Expedition.

    As participants will be travelling on different international flight schedules, airport transfers are not included on departure day. You are free to arrange your own transport to Mendoza International Airport at a time that suits your onward journey.

    We hope you leave Argentina with unforgettable memories, lifelong friendships, and the incredible achievement of standing on the highest mountain in the Americas.

What’s Included

  • Expedition led by Jason Black, High Altitude Specialist and Aconcagua World Record Holder
  • Small guide-to-client ratio to maximise safety and summit success
  • Mule transport for personal equipment to and from Base Camp (25kg per person)
  • Hotel accommodation in Mendoza (1 night before and 1 night after the expedition, 4★ hotel, shared basis with breakfast)
  • All meals and drinking water throughout the expedition (Mendoza accommodation is bed & breakfast only)
  • Premium Base Camp facilities including heated dining tent, lounge, electricity, tables and chairs
  • Satellite and VHF radio communications at Base Camp
  • High Camp accommodation (1 tent shared between 2 climbers)
  • Expedition cooking team providing freshly prepared hot meals and drinks
  • Emergency oxygen with summit masks and regulators
  • Porter support for all communal expedition equipment including tents, stoves, fuel and waste management
  • Daily professional weather forecasts
  • Daily avalanche forecasts
  • Official Aconcagua Summit Certificate upon successful ascent

What’s Not Included

  • Aconcagua Climbing Permit (approximately USD $800–1,000 and must be purchased in advance)
  • International flights to and from Argentina
  • Recommended expedition gratuity (USD $250 per participant, distributed amongst the guide team, cooks, mule drivers, porters and support staff)
  • Personal travel, mountaineering and emergency helicopter rescue insurance (mandatory)
  • Personal climbing equipment and clothing
  • High Altitude Porter services for personal equipment (optional – approximately USD $650 for a standard 40L load)
  • Additional costs arising from leaving the expedition itinerary for personal, medical or other reasons
  • Personal expenses including satellite phone calls, specialised food and drinks, laundry and other incidental costs
  • Hot showers at Base Camp (approximately USD $15 per shower)
  • Base Camp Wi-Fi (approximately USD $25 per 24 hours)
  • Any item not specifically listed under What’s Included

Gallery

  • aconcagua top
  • aconcagua
  • donkeys on the mountain
  • landscape photo of aconcagua
  • aconcagua

TRIP Dates

  • 04 Jan – 23 Jan 2027

    3 Spots Left

  • 31 Jan – 18 feb 2028

    Available

PRICE €6500

Deposit €399 on booking.
Go to Trip Dates
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Precision ● Professionalism ● Passion

Trip Information

Frequently asked questions

The following frequently asked questions may help answer any queries you have about Jason Black Mountaineering, what this expedition involves, and what is required. If your question isn’t answered here please check our dedicated Expert Advice page, otherwise don’t hesitate to get in touch.

  • Yes the Aconcagua national park services require all climbers to have a permit.
    Jason Black Mountaineering will look after the administration of obtaining your permit.

    2026 ACONCAGUA CLIMBING PERMIT
    2027 permit fees issued October 2026 

    The Early bird permit fees October 2026

    Normal Route : International climbers: $1000

    Polish 360* Traverse : International climbers $1300

    The late permit fees September 2026

    Normal Route : International climbers: $1100

    Polish 360* Traverse : $1450 for international climbers

  • Previous experience at altitude is necessary. It is a much greater undertaking than other mountains such as Kilimanjaro. You will require crampons, an ice axe and good backpacking skills, but not rope.

  • The climbing season is from mid-November to mid-March. 80 percent of mountaineers go in December or January.

  • Park entrance fees which must be paid for in person in Mendoza.

    You must have Personal travel insurance, which covers Medical vaccinations.

    Personal spending and tips.

  • We can arrange extra hotel nights for you if you want to arrive early or stay on for some extra days. Please let us know so we can make the arrangements as required.

  • There are no technical mountaineering skills required to climb Aconcagua. That said, it is a tough climb. You’ll need to acclimatise properly, adapt to high winds and face cold night, quite normal for a high mountain.

  • Slow and Steady

  • Yes, you can leave any luggage at the hotel during the trek.

  • Jason Black will personally meet you at the airport. Please look for our Black Mountaineering signboard.

  • Most guests are eligible to get a visa on arrival at the airport and it takes between 30 minutes to an hour depending on the rush. Guests are responsible to check and verify all visa requirements and visas before arriving, and that includes your current Covid vaccine card. (you will not get in if not vaccinated). Your passport needs to have at least 6 months validity on the date you are entering South America. Check this as soon as you book your climb.

  • We have solar electricity at Basecamp

  • Aconcagua is the tallest mountain in South America and should be respected. Altitude sickness is a reality, but manageable in the hands of an experienced high altitude leader. Your enemy up high is altitude and cold if you and the team manage this with care and the weather is good then the chances of success are high. Abuse this and the chances are greatly reduced. Jason black is one of the most experienced high altitude mountaineers in the world and knows best how to move when to move and how to be successful on Aconcagua.

  • Climbing insurance is vital for Aconcagua. If an accident or incident should occur that requires immediate medical assistance and evacuation you will most definitely want adequate trekking insurance that can cover the costs of air ambulance and treatment. Make sure you have insurance that covers you for any travel related risks, like lost, stolen, damaged or delayed baggage; interruptions and flight delays and tour operators default.

  • Jason Black is a certified Wilderness Advanced First Aid and is remote professional and wilderness leader highly experienced in remote and challenging environments. We are equipped with pulse oximeters and in addition to keeping a close watch of your condition they will take daily readings of your blood oxygen saturation levels. In addition our guides carry a basic first aid kit and have a mobile phone. In an emergency situation the guide will coordinate rescue efforts with the park rangers office where a support team is available 24/7.

  • Jason Black Mountaineering runs small number unique groups. He never shares personal data but we can give you a general idea on nationalities, sex and approximate age ranges, if you contact us directly.

  • Your smile and an open mind and an open heart.

  • On any trip it is advised to take out travel insurance appropriate to the countries you are visiting and what you will be doing when you get there. It is important to take out your policy as soon after booking your trip as possible. If you need to cancel for a legitimate reason then your trip costs and flight costs will be covered.

    Our recommended Insurance provider is : https://www.trailfinders.ie/

    Some companies sell an annual travel insurance policy as part of a package which might include house and car insurance, but in our experience those travel polices may not cover the sorts of activities that we provide like trekking at altitude and mountain climbing, but they will cover holidays like wildlife safaris. Do always check that what you buy covers what you are planning to do.

    Areas to be aware of.

    Coronavirus update: since the global pandemic and the introduction of travel corridors and advisories against travel by the FCO in Ireland and other Governments, insurance companies have adjusted their policies and some are offering cover for travel to countries which are on the FCO list for ‘all but essential travel’ and there are some offering cover for cancellations due to covid-19.

    Proof of travel insurance is mandatory before starting the trek. Standard policies often only cover medical evacuation to 4000m so make sure the policy you get covers trekking as an activity up to the trek max altitude. Some policies require that you pay for evacuation up front and will reimburse you when you get home and submit the documents. Evacuation can cost up to €5000 so make sure that your policy will actually pay for any expenses while you are travelling. You only need to be covered on the policy for the days you will actually be trekking.

    It does not happen often but if you are evacuated and want to make an insurance claim its mandatory to get a hospital report in the country as soon you get off the mountain. Often, trekkers with altitude sickness feel better once they get to a lower elevation, but it’s important to get the proper medical documentation for claims. The hospital will charge you a fee of $150 for the medical report required by your insurance. You are responsible for any evacuation or medical bills that are incurred. Most insurance companies will cover these costs for you before you leave the country, but some will want you to pay all costs out of pocket and then reimburse you. We suggest that you check your insurance policy and ensure that they will cover all costs upfront in the event of an evacuation.

    We always encourage you to know what your insured for and check specifics before you arrive.

    Measure twice cut one.

    Jason Black

    Do I need a visa?

    You will need to check if you require a Visa to enter the country of the trip. Please ensure you do this immediately as it generally can be a lengthily process.

    Google the visa requirements required on the internet. If you have any difficult reach out to Jason for advice. If you require an invitation letter we can provide you on request

    When do i book my flights

    Once you have booked your trip you can book your flights to coinside with the arrival and departure date’s required for the expedition.
    Check in with Jason on exact arrival and departure dates.

Join the Experts!

Our experienced team can offer you personalised advice based on 25 years of experience at high altitude, ensuring that you are as prepared as possible when you arrive in Argentina. We know not everyone has access to mountains and know there is no one size that fits all approach. We know some of you will only have access to gym training.

Aconcagua does require serious training and preparation before coming on this strenuous climb and it’s time to start mapping out a training plan now.

Climbers must have prior experience of similar peaks, including significant ascents in the Andes, Alps, Rockies, Caucasus or Himalayas.

Climbing Aconcagua (6,961m) requires a high level of physical fitness, as it is one of the toughest non-technical high-altitude climbs in the world. The main challenges come from altitude, extreme weather, and long summit day rather than technical climbing skills. Here’s a breakdown of what’s needed physically:

1. Endurance & Cardiovascular Fitness

  • Expect long days of hiking (6–10+ hours per day).
  • The summit push can take 12–18+ hours round trip.
  • Your body must sustain exertion at high altitudes with reduced oxygen levels (only ~40% of sea level oxygen at the summit).

✅ Training:

  • Long hikes with a heavy pack (15–20 kg)
  • Running, cycling, swimming (to build cardiovascular base)
  • Stair climbing with weight

2. Strength & Load-Carrying Ability

  • You’ll carry loads of 15–20 kg (33–44 lbs) to high camps.
  • Terrain includes rocky trails, loose scree, and snow.
  • Strong legs, core, and back are essential.

✅ Training:

  • Squats, lunges, deadlifts (for leg strength)
  • Core workouts (planks, Russian twists)
  • Carrying a weighted pack uphill

3. High-Altitude Adaptation

  • No matter how fit you are, acclimatisation is key.
  • Aconcagua’s altitude can cause AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness), HAPE, or HACE if you ascend too fast.
  • Even fit climbers can struggle if they don’t adapt properly.

✅ Preparation:

  • Do an acclimatisation climb (e.g., Kilimanjaro, Mera peak or Island peak) before Aconcagua.

4. Mental Resilience

  • Summit day is brutal—expect freezing temps (-30°C/-22°F), strong winds, and exhaustion.
  • You’ll be sleeping in a tent for weeks, dealing with altitude headaches, nausea, and fatigue.
  • The wind on the summit ridge can be soul-crushing.

✅ Mental Prep:

  • Train in bad weather to toughen up.
  • Push through long, exhausting training days.
  • Simulate Aconcagua conditions: cold-weather training, multiple back-to-back hikes.

5. Recovery & Injury Prevention

  • Aconcagua is long and grueling (2–3 weeks), so recovery matters.
  • Your knees, ankles, and back take a beating.
  • Blisters, muscle strains, and altitude sickness can derail your climb.

✅ Injury Prevention:

  • Strengthen ankles and knees (step-ups, single-leg exercises).
  • Train with trekking poles to reduce joint strain.
  • Prioritise mobility, stretching, and foam rolling.

Minimum Fitness Benchmarks for Aconcagua

You should be able to:
✅ Hike 10+ hours with a 15–20 kg pack at high altitude
✅ Ascend 1,000m+ in a day without exhaustion
✅ Maintain a resting heart rate below 60 bpm (a sign of solid cardio fitness)
✅ Complete a 30-minute stair climb with a 20 kg pack without stopping
✅ Run 10 km in under 50 minutes (optional, but a good fitness indicator)

Who Should NOT Attempt Aconcagua?

🚫 If you can’t carry a 15+ kg pack for several days
🚫 If you haven’t trained for long endurance hikes
🚫 If you have no high-altitude experience (unless on a well-planned itinerary)
🚫 If you struggle in cold, extreme conditions

Final Thoughts

Aconcagua is not technical but brutally demanding. Many fit people fail due to altitude and weather. If you’re already comfortable at 5,000m+ and have solid endurance, strength, and mental toughness, you stand a good chance.

Would you like a specific training plan for Aconcagua? Let me know your fitness level, and I’ll help!

Here is our carefully designed Jason Black Mountaineering 12-week structured training plan for Aconcagua, designed to build endurance, strength, altitude preparedness, and mental toughness.
Adjust based on your current fitness level and experience.

Aconcagua Training Plan (12 Weeks)

Goal: Build endurance, strength, and altitude adaptation to handle long climbs with a heavy pack.

✅ Weekly Schedule Overview

Day

Activity

Monday

Strength Training + Stair Climb with Pack

Tuesday

Cardio (Running/Cycling) + Core

Wednesday

Weighted Hike (8–15 km)

Thursday

Strength + Endurance (Stair Climbs, Step-ups)

Friday

Rest or Light Recovery (Yoga, Stretching)

Saturday

Long Hike (15–25 km, 1,000m elevation gain)

Sunday

Cross-Training (Swimming, Cycling) or Active Recovery

Phase 1 (Weeks 1–4): Base Building

Goal: Build cardio endurance, leg strength, and pack-carrying ability.

✅ Hiking:

  • 8–12 km (5–7 miles) with a 10 kg pack
  • 600–800m elevation gain
  • 3–4 hours duration

✅ Strength Training (2x per week)

  • Squats – 4 sets of 8
  • Lunges – 3 sets of 10 per leg
  • Deadlifts – 4 sets of 6
  • Step-ups (Box 45 cm) – 3 sets of 12 per leg (with a weighted pack)
  • Planks – 3 x 1 min
  • Pull-ups – 3 sets of 6

✅ Cardio Training

  • 45–60 min runs at moderate pace
  • 30 min stair climb with a 5 kg pack
  • Cycling/swimming for active recovery

✅ Mental Prep

  • Train in bad weather (rain, wind, cold)
  • Hike on rough terrain

Phase 2 (Weeks 5–8): Strength & Endurance Boost

Goal: Increase hiking difficulty, pack weight, and elevation gain.

✅ Hiking:

  • 12–18 km (7–11 miles) with a 12–15 kg pack
  • 800–1,200m elevation gain
  • Summit a local peak (if possible)

✅ Strength Training (2x per week)

  • Increase weights for squats, lunges, deadlifts
  • Farmer’s carry (15–20 kg each hand) – 3 sets of 30m
  • Stair climbing (40+ min with a 10 kg pack)

✅ Cardio & Endurance

  • 1 x interval running session (5x 3 min fast, 3 min slow)
  • 60+ min continuous running or cycling
  • Rowing or swimming (good for lung capacity)

✅ Mental Training

  • Simulate summit conditions: hike while fasting for part of the day
  • Sleep in a tent on weekends
  • Push through long back-to-back training days

Phase 3 (Weeks 9–12): Peak Performance & Altitude Prep

Goal: Final simulated climbs, heavy loads, and max endurance.

✅ Hiking (Most Important)

  • 20+ km (12+ miles) with a 15–20 kg pack
  • 1,200–1,500m elevation gain
  • 6–8 hours duration
  • Back-to-back long hikes (Sat & Sun) for real fatigue training

✅ Strength & Endurance Training

  • Stair Climbing (45–60 min with 15 kg pack)
  • Bulgarian Split Squats – 3 sets of 10 per leg
  • Dead Hangs – 3 sets of 30 sec (for grip strength)

✅ Altitude & Cold Exposure

  • If possible, train at altitude or use a hypoxic training mask
  • Spend time in cold weather gear to adapt

✅ Mental Prep

  • Simulate summit day: Start a long hike before sunrise with limited food/water
  • Sleep in high-altitude environments (if possible)
  • Long stair workouts at the end of the day (simulate exhaustion)

Final Prep (Last 2 Weeks)

🔹 Reduce heavy training (Tapering)
🔹 Focus on sleep, stretching, and light hikes
🔹 Pack & gear test (Fully loaded backpack, boots, and summit gear)
🔹 Simulate high-altitude breathing (practice slow, deep breaths)

Key Training Tips

✔ Train with your backpack & boots early!
✔ Use trekking poles for stair climbs and hikes
✔ Hydration & nutrition practice – Know what fuels you best
✔ Recovery matters! – Foam roll, stretch, and prioritise sleep
✔ Train in extreme conditions (rain, snow, wind, heat)

Are You Ready for Aconcagua?

✅ Can you hike 1,500m+ with a 15 kg pack?
✅ Can you handle 8–10 hour hikes back-to-back?
✅ Have you trained in cold, high-wind conditions?
✅ Do you feel mentally prepared for suffering?

If you can check all the boxes, you’re in solid shape! Let me know if you want customised adjustments based on your current fitness level!

Download Kit List

Travel Documents
Passport 6mts Valid
Debit/Credit Cards
Insurance Papers
Photocopy of passport

Base Layers
Merino Wool Underwear (4 pcs)
Merino long sleeve base layer (2 pcs)
Merino long pants base layer (1 pcs)
Merino Short Sleeve T Shirt (2 pcs)

Mid Layers
Tech Fleece (1pcs)
Tech fleece with hood (1pcs)
Heavyweight Hiking Pants (1pcs)
Lightweight Hiking Pants (2pcs)

Windproof/Rain Layers
Hard Shell Jacket (1pcs)
Hard Shell Pants (1pcs)

Insulation Layers
800+gram Goose Down Jacket with hood
Insulated Pants
Lite puffer Jacket

Headwear
Warm Hat (2pcs)
Balaclava (1pcs)
Baseball Cap (1pcs)
Bandana or Buff (2pcs)

Eyewear
Cat 4 Glacier Glasses
UV Nose protector
Ski Goggles

Gloves
Lightweight Liner Gloves
Shell Guide Glove with Insulated Liner
7000m Expedition Mitts

Footwear
Liner Socks (3 pairs)
Wool or Synthetic Socks (3 pairs)
Double Skin Mountaineering Boots 7000m (Kailas /
Lasportiva / Millet)
Trekking Approach Shoes
Camp Booties (optional)
Gaiters (optional)

Sleeping Equipment
Sleeping Bag -30°C
Inflatable Sleeping Pad
Closed-cell Foam Pad
Earplugs
Inflatable Pillow

Mountaineering Gear
Large 120ltr Duffel Bag
Expedition Backpack 75L+ for above basecamp
Trekking Backpack 30L
Trekking poles (optional)
Ice Axe (2pcs)
Crampons
Headlight 500-700 Lumens (2pcs)

Travel Items
Small hotel Duffel Bag
Travel Clothes
Cash
Visa Card
ATM card

Additional Food Items
Snack food
Salty-sweet bars
Summit gels
Nuts
Beef jerky

Medical
Personal First-aid kit
Compeed blister packs
Sutures & steri strips
Ibuprofen
Paracetamol
250mg Diamox 20days
Medicated throat lozenges
Medicated throat spray
Antibiotic Azithromycin 500mg
Laxatives
Imodium
Mosquito repellent
Menstrual products
Electrolytes
Nail cutter
Duck tape – Repair Kit
Hand & Feet chemical warmers

Toiletries (Personal)
Toilet Paper
Toothpaste &Toothbrush
Bio Baby wipes (2pcs)
Soap
Shampoo
Shaver
Towel
Small nail-brush
Sunscreen: SPF 50
Lip Screen: SPF 30
Aftersun

Additional Items
Compression Stuff Sacks
Plastic Cup (high camps)
Plastic Bowl (high camps)
Plastic Spoon (high camp)
Water Bottles 1- litre (3pcs)
Thermos 1- litre
Pee Bottle 1- litre
Female Urination Device (FUD)
Knife or Multi-tool (optional)

Optional Electronics
Country-appropriate power adapters
Avalanche Transceiver
Adventure Sports Watch
GPS/ Garmin inReach Mini
Sherpa 100AC Power Bank
Phone camera
Batteries
Charging leads

You may pay your deposit and balance using any lawful means. If sending money by electronic bank transfer then you will be responsible for covering the cost of the fees associated with the transfer, so that the company receives the full amount shown on your invoice, in the denomination shown on your invoice.
See more about our payment policy Here

On Booking your expedition our returns policy can be viewed here

We recommend Global Rescue

This is Mandatory and you will not receive your permit to climb from the National park rangers until you show proof of Insurance for up to 7,000 meters at the park gate apron entry.

It is your responsibility to ensure that you have sufficient personal travel insurance for this expedition. Your policy must provide cover for; a) medical injury or sickness b) trekking up to 7,000 meters (c) helicopter evacuation in an emergency situation, and d) repatriation to one’s country of residence. You must declare any pre-existing medical conditions to your insurers and ensure you receive written confirmation that any pre-existing medical conditions are fully insured. We advise you to obtain travel insurance as soon as you book, that will cover you for unforeseeable circumstances such as illness or injury that might result in you not being able to take part in your expedition.

1. Medical injury or sickness

2. Mountaineering above 5,000 metres

3. Helicopter evacuation in an emergency situation

4. Repatriation to country of residence.

Why Jason Black Mountaineering?

World Leading Mountaineer

At the helm of Jason Black Mountaineering is Jason Black himself, a renowned global Mountaineer and International Expedition Leader.

With a remarkable list of achievements, including summiting Mt Everest and the formidable K2, Jason holds multiple world records in high-altitude mountaineering. His feats, such as being the fastest to summit Kilimanjaro twice and completing the Aconcagua traverse in record time, establish him as one of the world’s leading high-altitude mountaineers.

As a high altitude specialist, Jason’s passion for testing his physical and mental capabilities remains undiminished. His accolades include being awarded Ireland’s National Outdoor Athlete of the Year for his historic summit of K2.

The Future of Adventure

We are proud to Inspire and empower individuals and organisations. Showing globally how our adventures are leaving a positive life changing humanitarian impact. We supporting local communities and contribute positively to the balance of global inequalities.

Putting purpose before profit, empowering local communities, employing locals, supporting local businesses and leaving a lasting positive humanitarian impact on all our expeditions is at the core of our mountaineering values. Join us on a transformative expedition, where purpose, passion, and the thrill of the great outdoors converge.

Commitment to Safety and Environment

Jason Black’s commitment to safety standards, extensive high altitude mountain knowledge, and adventure travel sets him apart from the rest.

The small group approach adopted by Jason Black Mountaineering offers significant advantages, including a better guide-to-client ratio, reduced environmental impact, and a stronger team dynamic.

What our
clients say

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