How Much Does It Cost to Climb Aconcagua?

The most significant factor affecting the cost of climbing Aconcagua is whether you try to tackle it solo or opt to climb on a guided expedition. Each option has a different cost structure and set of advantages, so your final decision should be based on your experience, budget, and risk tolerance.

Guided expeditions

Climbing Aconcagua with professional guides is an excellent choice, especially for those new to mountaineering. Guided expeditions typically include a team of experienced guides, group gear, all food, and mule transport for your equipment.

At Elite Exped, our Aconcagua expeditions start at $7000 USD. Our pricing reflects the quality of our services and our unwavering commitment to your safety. We've honed our exceptional safety standards and high summit success rate through extensive experience on the world's most challenging peaks. 

While some operators may offer cheaper rates, this can often mean they cut corners on crucial aspects like emergency planning and proper acclimatisation—two areas where we never compromise.

Independent expeditions

Climbing independently can be a great way to save money, but it also means taking on full responsibility for your own safety and all of the trip's logistics. You'll need to efficiently manage everything from planning to supplies.

With Elite Exped, our professional guides take care of the heavy lifting for you. This allows you to focus on the climb itself, with the peace of mind that all logistics are handled by experienced professionals.

For an independent climb, your total costs can range from $1,500 to $3,000 USD. This estimate includes essential services like mule hire and porters, but your final price will depend on the specific services you choose and any gear you may already own.

To create a realistic budget for climbing Aconcagua, you need to factor in all potential expenses beyond the core expedition costs. Here are some other things to consider:

• ・International flights: This is often the single largest variable cost. Round-trip flights to Mendoza (MDZ) from major international hubs can range from $900 - $2,000 USD or more, depending on where you're flying from and how far in advance you book.
  
• ・Travel insurance: High-altitude climbing requires specialised insurance that covers emergency evacuation and medical expenses. This is a non-negotiable cost, typically ranging from $200 - $400 USD.
  
• ・Accommodation in Mendoza: Plan to spend at least a few days in the city for logistics. Accommodation costs range from (hotel we use diplomatic) $180 + tax USD per night, depending on the type of lodging.
  
• ・Gear rental: If you don't own the necessary high-altitude equipment, renting in Mendoza is a cost-effective solution. A full gear rental package can cost between $300 - $800 USD.
  
• ・Porter and mule services: On some guided trips, personal porters or mules to carry your gear to higher camps are an extra cost. Expect to pay $200 - $500 USD for these services.
  
• ・Tipping: Tipping guides, porters, and cooks is a standard practice in South America. For a full expedition, it is customary to budget 700 not mandatory but recommended USD for tips.
  
• ・Local transportation: The cost of public transport and taxis between the city of Mendoza and the Aconcagua trailheads is typically between $100 - $400 USD.

• ・Food and personal expenses: Budget for daily food costs in Mendoza, which are usually $10 - $20 USD per day. This also covers any personal items you may need to purchase before the climb.

When planning a high-altitude climb like Aconcagua, it can be tempting to choose a low-cost guiding service. However, going cheap can be a dangerous choice. Experienced guides are not just there to carry your gear and show you the way; they are your primary safety resource on the mountain. They monitor your health, implement crucial acclimatisation strategies, and are trained to act quickly if you show signs of altitude sickness. Their expertise is essential for a safe and successful climb.

At Elite Exped, we don't just run expeditions; we meticulously plan every detail to give you the best chance of success. When you climb with us, you're gaining more than just a guide; you're securing a team of certified professionals with proven experience on the world's most challenging peaks, including Everest and K2. Every one of our guides is expertly trained in wilderness first response and equipped with the skills to manage high-altitude emergencies, ensuring your safety is always the top priority.

While our premium services come at a higher cost, this investment is a direct commitment to your safety and well-being. The value of our experience and training becomes clear when it matters most — in ensuring a safe and successful summit.

Learn more about our Aconcagua expeditions here