Things I Wish I Knew Before Climbing Aconcagua

Aconcagua is one of these mountains that will stay with you forever. No matter what the outcome of the expedition is, you’re bound to have the adventure of a lifetime with enough stories to share for years to come. This is what I wish I knew before climbing it. 

It gets windy. Very windy. 

The biggest challenge on the expedition is managing the wind. It’s always best practice to include several reserve days in your schedule because trekking in 70 km/h wind is not something anyone should have to do. Since the wind is very unpredictable, it’s best to check forecasts regularly and plan your rotations accordingly. More importantly, invest in some high-quality windbreakers—both light and heavy—so that you’re ready for any and all conditions! 

Prioritise self-care.

This is one of these mountains that you simply can’t afford to let yourself go in. Skin-care routine? Make sure you have it. Showers? Take them when you can. Wash your clothes on your rest days if there is good sunlight, indulge at the base camp bakery, and do whatever it is that you usually do at home to self-care. Base camp will be your home for 3 weeks! 

Drink a lot of water. 

Aconcagua is super dry. Chances are, you’ve already been at altitude before and understand the importance of drinking water and applying moisturiser. Double your efforts on Aconcagua. I’m used to having 3-4L of water per day at altitude, but I was finishing almost 5-6L up there. Prioritise your water intake at all times! 

Invest in lightweight gear. 

Once you’re ready to move up the mountain from base camp, it helps when your gear doesn’t weigh a ton on your back. Invest in technical, lightweight layers even if this is not a technical mountain, because your back will thank you (and me). Brands such as Arctery’x and Rab have fantastic options! 

Invest in a comfortable hiking boot.

This is most likely your make it or break it item in your gear list. You’re going to walk long distances over rugged terrain, and making sure you’re not getting blisters or facing any other issues is what’s going to determine the level of fun you have later higher up the mountain. Investing in a good and comfortable hiking boot is a no-brainer, but make sure you break it in before starting the expedition!