Truly the “Roof of the Americas,” Cerro Aconcagua, at 22,834 ft. (6,959 meters) is not only the highest mountain in South America, but also the highest peak outside of Asia. The name Aconcagua is most likely a derivative of the Incan words “Akon Cahuak,” meaning Stone Sentinel. Located on the Chilean- Argentine border, it is easily accessed through the Argentine city of Mendoza.
Aconcagua was first climbed in 1897 by Matthias Zurbriggen, a Swiss mountain guide. The Zurbriggen route (Normal Route), which climbs the peak by way of the Horcones Valley from the northwest, has become the most popular route of ascent. A second, non-technical route known as the “Standard” or “Falso de Polacos” (False Polish- so named for its proximity to the Polish Glacier) route, has grown in popularity over the years. This route approaches the mountain from the northeast, via the Vacas Valley. These two routes see the vast majority of climbers on the mountain, and though they are not difficult from a technical climbing aspect, the extreme combination of high altitude, winds, and cold temperature make them a challenge for any mountaineer.
In mid-December, a small team of climbers will ascend the Vacas Valley and attempt the East Face of the mountain. Led by long-time Mountain Trip guide Chris Kerrick, the team will consist of:
Karin Shoeman from the South Africa
Hazel Nash from the UK
Ryan Shanahan from the US
We will do our best to provide daily updates on the team's progress, but please keep in mind that Aconcagua is a big mountain, with big mountain weather and other conditions that could conspire for the team to not make contact for up to a few days at a time. Keep in mind the old adage, "No news is GOOD news."
Enjoy their journey!
Our approach to Aconcagua involves three days of trekking up the Vacas Valley. This desert valley is very reminiscent of parts of the Grand Canyon. Here climbers are just starting up the trail at the mouth of the Vacas Valley.
