Aconcagua Summit with Grajales Expeditions via 360 Route

Climbing one of the seven summits is an exhilarating experience that combines the thrill of adventure with the profound sense of achievement that comes from conquering some of the highest peaks on the planet. Each summit represents not just a physical challenge, but also a journey into diverse climates, ecosystems, and cultures.

The seven summits include Mount Everest in Asia, Aconcagua in South America, Denali in North America, Kilimanjaro in Africa, Mount Elbrus in Europe, Vinson Massif in Antarctica, and Mount Kosciuszko in Australia (Bass List).

Each of these mountains offer unique challenges, ranging from extreme altitude and unpredictable weather to technical climbing skills and endurance tests.

The preparation for such a journey often involves rigorous training, both physically and mentally. It can take months, or even years, depending on the climber's experience level and the specific challenges of the chosen peak.

Summit Day with Grajales Expeditions 2022.

Once on the journey to the summit, climbers experience breathtaking views and experiences that are often described as life-changing.

The sense of camaraderie among climbers and the support from guides and fellow adventurers can create bonds that last a lifetime. Each ascent is not just about reaching the peak; it’s about the shared experiences, the stories exchanged around campfires, and the lessons learned in the face of nature’s grandeur.

My journey to climb Aconcagua with Grajales Expeditions via the 360 route began on December 5, 2022, after arriving in Mendoza, followed by a trip to Las Cuevas for pre-acclimatization.

PRE-ACCLIMATISATION IN LAS CUEVAS

Portezuelo del Viento in Las Cuevas has become my second home. I love this charming hostel located at an altitude of 3200 meters. Pablo, Magali, Emiliano, and Paula are like family.

As part of the pre-acclimatisation process, I climbed Santa Elena at 4500 metres.

Going up and down a nice 10km training hill near Christo Redentor on the border with Chile is my favourite place to train and settle into high altitude.

360 EXPEDITION WITH GRAJALES EXPEDITIONS

On December 11, 2022, I joined the group that started the trek at Vacas Gate, at approximately 2800 meters altitude. Our team consisted of nine climbers and three guides.

On the first day, we covered 15km to Pampa de Lenas, where we pitched our tents and had a nice meal.

Our second stop on the journey to Basecamp Argentina was Casa de Piedra.

In the morning, after crossing the Horcones River, we traversed approximately 10 km of rock and scree, navigated another river crossing, and then finally arriving at the Basecamp situated at 4500 metres.

Basecamp Argentina is less crowded than the busier Basecamp Mulas on the Normal route. I really appreciated the quieter environment with less noise. It allowed me to focus more on what was needed for my speed ascent I was planning to do straight after the expedition.

The approach on Vacas side was extremely rocky and difficult to navigate - I was worried for my safety at night time. I had a lot on my mind as I tried to just rest and be at 4500m.

Plaza Argentina is the rest spot where climbers typically take 2-3 days to regroup and acclimatise for higher camps.

It’s a good opportunity to meet other climber who stop here on the way to higher camps.

Basecamp time is also the place where climbers go for the first doctor's check up.

Most of our group cleared their Oxy and blood pressure screening, except for one. We were now down to eight climbers and three guides.

I was feeling good, clearing the doctor's visit with 92 Oxy and 110 / 75 blood pressure.

Weather was also still on our side - we had calm days with plenty of sunshine. Life was good.

After Basecamp, the group moved up to Camp 1, carried a load and then back down to Basecamp. Then Back to Camp 1, the next day where we ended up sleeping overnight.

Camp1 to Camp 2 was steep but not too long. It's nothing like the Normal side. And it's definitely quieter. There were only a couple of other expeditions sharing a camp with us.

I was constantly thinking of my speed ascent and timing and what would be the best way to execute on this side of the mountain. In fact, I wasn't even sure if I would be going up this side first or coming down. There was so much ahead of me still.

Aconcagua sunsets

We reached Camp 3 in good weather and with not too much excitement.

It was getting colder and a few people in the group started feeling more concerned about the Summit push. The altitude was starting to kick in.

Agustin, our leader, suggested I start the Summit push later in the morning due to my single boots. I thought this was an excellent idea, as it would motivate me to move faster than the group. Hopefully, this would also help with my speed ascent attempt I was planning to do after our expedition.

On Christmas eve 2022, I successfully summited Aconcagua via 360 route in 18 days.

Out of nine climbers, only four of summitted.

It was a tough and very long day 12-14 hrs for some climbers. And the storm with lots of snow was rolling in just as we touched the summit.

We could barely find the path down to Camp 3.

After the Summit day, the return journey follows the Normal route to Horcones Gate. Generally, the group will overnight at C3 and then gradually proceed to Basecamp Mulas.

Recently, an option for a helicopter flight from Basecamp has been introduced for clients who prefer to avoid the 25 km walk to Horcones Gate.

We celebrated our summit success and a strong climb with many other climbers in Basecamp!

GRAJALES expeditions does it so well with a delicious meal, champagne and wine! Everyone was feeling good and happy.

The next day, my group decided to trek out to Horcones, while I stayed in the Basecamp hoping for an opportunity to do a speed ascent in the next week or so.

Kudos to our guides: Agustin, Diego Paloti, and Diego Cofone at Grajales Expeditions on their interpersonal and guiding skills! It was such a joy to be a part of a strong team that was always in good spirits.

The greatest aspect of being on a mountain expedition is the lifelong friendships you form. From our guides, to porters, to staff on the mountain who I have forged strong friendships with, to many of my climbing mates I had an opportunity to meet and get to know.

I am forever grateful that the mountains have brought me some of my most treasured friendships. This small, yet like-minded community is truly unique. We keep inspiring one another, reminiscing, and planning new adventures together.

Rex and Alex, father daughter duo, that was part of our group (Rex summited with me), have become close family friends and they come visit my family in Australia every year!

Below in picture: Rex and Annie, visiting Australia, hiking in the Blue Mountains, swimming in the ocean, and visiting New Zealand together. Their daughter Alex and husband Keith, visiting and exploring Oz.