Tupungato Expedition - High mountain trekking in Mendoza

High mountain trekking in Mendoza, ascent to the Tupungato volcano, crossing shelters, crossing rivers, glaciers and Andean landscapes. Adventure, mountaineering and nature in the Andes Mountain Range.

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Summer

Easy

16 Days

Ascent of Tupungato Hill

The Tupungato Expedition is a unique journey of high mountain in Mendoza which is notably different from any other experience over the +6500 meters of the Andes Mountains. Along 140 km practically virgin, you will travel through unexplored landscapes, far from the typical crowds of the Aconcagua or other mountains in northern Argentina. This expedition is designed for those who are looking for an authentic adventure of trekking and mountaineering, where commitment, solitude and introspection evoke the sensations experienced by the first Andean explorers.

The tour takes you through little-traveled trails, crossing rivers, ravines and glaciers, with nights in mountain refuges and high altitude camps. Each day represents a new challenge, from overcoming the demanding Mal Paso to climb up the moraine and glaciers of the imposing Tupungato Mountain, Mendoza, one of the highest volcanoes in South America, with more than 6,500 meters above sea level. It is very likely that during the entire trip you will not cross paths with another expedition, allowing a true connection with nature and the wild landscapes of Mendoza.

The Tupungato 360 Expedition is ideal for those who wish to experience the authentic essence of the mountaineering in the Andes, away from commercial routes and in total harmony with the natural environment. The trek includes the support of mules and porters, acclimatization stages and rest days to ensure the safety and success of the ascent. It ends by reaching the summit of Tupungato, from where you will enjoy breathtaking panoramic views and a profound sense of personal accomplishment.

This is an exclusive proposal for adventure, trekking and nature lovers, who wish to challenge their limits and discover the true greatness of the Andes Mountains in Mendoza. Join the Tupungato 360 Expedition and lived an unforgettable mountain experience, full of majestic landscapes, introspection and the spirit of the great explorers.

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( From start to summit )

Route planning

Day 1

Punta de Vacas (2420 masl) - Río Blanco Refuge (2545 masl) | 12 km (6 hs approx.) We started the expedition in Punta de Vacas, gateway to the adventure in the Andes Mountains. From here, we follow a well-marked path along the right bank of the river. Tupungato River, surrounded by spectacular Andean landscapes. The first day is ideal for acclimatization and enjoy the natural environment while we move towards the Río Blanco Refuge, our first resting point in this mountain crossing in Mendoza.

Day 2

Río Blanco Refuge - Chorrillo Refuge (2800 masl) | 14 km (6-7 hs) The journey begins by crossing the river over a solid material bridge. The route offers a less marked trail, which adds excitement and challenge to the trekking. At about 5 km we find the famous Mal Paso, a technical step with steel cable, where the use of harness and anchor ropes is essential for safety. This stage is key for the development of skills of mountaineering and to experience the authentic adventure of the Mendoza Andes.

Day 3

Refugio Chorrillo - Refugio Durmientes (3071 masl) | 19 km (10 hs) This section of the expedition is one of the longest and most demanding. We advance along trails that are not very visible, following the right bank of the Tupungato River, until you reach the mouth of the Lead River. We cross to the south on the Taguas Shelter, crossing the Tupungato River and continuing through the ravine to the Durmientes Shelter. The journey stands out for the diversity of landscapes and the direct contact with the virgin nature of the mountain range.

Day 4

Durmientes Shelter – Real de la Bajada (3,451 meters above sea level) | 22 km (10 hours) With the help of mules to cross the rivers, we embarked on a demanding trek along the right bank of the Tupungato River and then through the Quebrada del Azufre (or Santa Clara), known for its yellow hills. This is the last camp supported by mules, marking the start of the most challenging stage of the high-altitude mountaineering expedition. Passing through this section is key to acclimatization and the ascent strategy.

Day 5

Rest A crucial day for the altitude acclimatization and physical rest, allowing the body to adapt to the demands of the expedition and prepare for the more technical stages of the ascent to the Tupungato.

Day 6

Real de la Bajada – South Base Camp (4,400 meters above sea level) | 20 km (10 hours) At this stage, we climb up toward an imposing plateau, staying close to the foothills of Tupungato. The route takes us across the moraine, where the terrain becomes more challenging and technical—ideal for lovers of adventure and high-mountain trekking. We ended the day at the South Base Camp, a key step in preparing for the summit assault.

Day 7

Rest A day dedicated to rest and team organization, which is essential for successfully tackling the final stretch to the summit. Proper acclimatization is crucial on expeditions to Mountaineering in Mendoza.

Day 8

South Base Camp – Advanced Base Camp (5,100 meters above sea level) | 12 km (7 hours) The climb continues toward the Advanced Base Camp, a challenging day's hike that takes us to the Tupungato Glacier. We set up camp near the strategic Paso Alto Tupungato, surrounded by a majestic landscape of eternal snow and Andean ice.

Day 9

Advanced Base Camp – Camp 1 (5,700 meters above sea level) | 3 hours A pivotal day for the Climb up Tupungato. We gained altitude and prepared the groundwork for summit day. This high-altitude camp allows for better acclimatization and a safe strategy for the final attempt.

Day 10

Camp 1 – Summit – Advanced Base Camp The big day of the Tupungato 360 Expedition. We roped up to cross the glacier and tackled the final stretch to the summit of the Tupungato Mountain (over 6,500 meters above sea level). We enjoyed a unique panoramic view of the Andes Mountains. After the climb, we descended to the Advanced Base Camp to rest.

Day 11

Advanced Base Camp – Real Espina de Pescado (4,200 meters above sea level) | 8 km (6 hours) We set out on a trek along the ridge known as Fishbone, beginning the descent through challenging terrain that puts your hiking and navigation skills to the test. The landscape offers breathtaking views and the satisfaction of a job well done.

Day 12

Rest A day to recharge, enjoy the natural surroundings, and celebrate the mountaineering experience in the The Andes in Mendoza.

Day 13

Espina de Pescado – El Portón (3,200 meters above sea level) | 18 km (6 hours) The goal is to reach the mouth of the Arroyo Negro on Tunuyán River, where we meet up again with the mules that help us cross rivers and carry our loads. This leg marks the start of our return journey and allows us to enjoy the expedition’s final Andean landscapes.

Day 14

El Portón – Real de la Cruz (2,900 meters above sea level) | 13 km (5 hours) We hiked along easy trails, crossing valleys and ravines, until we reached the historic Real de la Cruz, a landmark along the roads of the Mendoza Mountain Range.

Day 15

Real de la Cruz – Portillo Argentino (4,380 meters above sea level) | 7–8 hours The expedition's final challenge: climbing 1,000 meters in elevation to the Argentine Portillo, a scenic overlook with unparalleled views of the Andes Mountains. After the descent, the shuttle will be waiting to take us back to Tunuyán, where we can enjoy a well-deserved rest after this unforgettable journey.

Day 16

Extra day due to bad weather or acclimatization An extra day designed to accommodate high-mountain weather conditions or to improve acclimatization, ensuring the safety and success of the expedition.

( added to your experience )

Expedition coverage

Services included

Transfers from Mendoza to Punta de Vacas and return from Portillo Argentino
Full board throughout the entire expedition
Certified mountain guide, assistants, and porters
Porters to help carry equipment upon arrival and departure
High-altitude tents, technical gear, and common kitchen items

Services not included

Mountain gear and personal clothing
Transfers within the city of Mendoza (in/out)
Lodging and meals in Mendoza before or after the expedition

Price

1 person: 10,800 USD
2–4 people: 6,000 USD per person.
5–6 people: $4,950 per person.

( Everything you need to know )

Frequently Asked Questions

Do we have to wade across the Tunuyán River?

No, you don't have to wade across the river. The crossing is done with the help and expertise of our muleteers, ensuring the safety of the entire group.

Do I need to acclimate beforehand?

It is not essential. The program is designed to facilitate optimal acclimatization during the expedition, without the need for prior high-altitude training.

Is there cell phone service during the expedition?

No, there's no cell phone service on the route. However, we have satellite communication for emergencies and coordination.

Do I need to have experience on glaciers?

Although it is not a mandatory requirement, having prior experience on glacial terrain can make the summit day easier and boost your confidence on the technical sections.

What is the difficulty level of the expedition?

The Tupungato 360 expedition is demanding and requires good physical condition, prior experience with multi-day treks, and a willingness to face the challenges typical of high-altitude mountaineering.

What personal equipment do I need to bring?

We will send you a detailed list of recommended personal gear and clothing. It includes technical mountaineering clothing, a high-altitude sleeping bag, double-layered boots, and other essential items.

What happens if the weather is bad?

The itinerary includes extra days for acclimatization or in case of adverse weather conditions. Safety is our top priority, and decisions are made with the group’s well-being in mind.

Is there medical assistanceWhat happened during the expedition?

Yes, our guides are certified in mountain first aid (WFR), and we have a first-aid kit, supplemental oxygen, and emergency communication equipment.

Can I participate if I've never been on a multi-day expedition?

Although it is not a requirement, it is recommended that you have prior experience with multi-day hikes and be in good physical condition to fully enjoy the expedition.

What kind of food is served during the expedition?

We provide complete, varied, and nutritious meals tailored to the demands of high-altitude environments and taking dietary restrictions into account when necessary.