Things You'll Need:
- Winter Outerwear
- Travel Services
- Camp-stove Fuels
- Camping Stoves
- Climbing Harnesses
- Climbing Ropes
- Sleeping Bags
- Winter Backpacking Tents
-
Step 1
Come up with approximately $2,500 U.S. for a guided expedition, not including international airfare.
-
Step 2
Allow for a 17-day trip with 10 days of climbing.
-
Step 3
Fly into Buenos Aires, then on to Mendoza where you'll secure your permits and meet up with your tour operators.
-
Step 4
Grab your mules and local porters at Plaza Argentina for the trek up the Vacas Valley, a three-day, 30-mile stroll.
-
Step 5
Hike up to Casa Peidre at 10,000 feet. There you'll have your first unobstructed view of "The Big A."
-
Step 6
Set up Base Camp at around 14,000 feet where your battle with headaches will likely begin. Acclimatize and rest there.
-
Step 7
Move on to Camp I at 16,600, then push to Camp II at 19,300. You'll need plenty of rest and fluids along the way, and don't forget to filter the running water in the streams.
-
Step 8
Begin your summit attempt at 5 a.m. on the Polish Glacier Route for challenging ice climbing.
-
Step 9
Look for signs of Incan civilization as you approach the summit.
