POLISH TRAVERSE 360
POLISH TRAVERSE 360
STARTS AND ENDS
IN MENDOZA
LENGTH
20 DAYS
ACTIVITY LEVEL
NOVICE - EXPERIENCED
PRICE
$6295
Expedition Overview
The Polish Traverse 360 (also known as the Vacas Traverse) is one of the most unique and breathtaking ways to experience Aconcagua, offering a complete circumnavigation of the mountain, crossing stunning landscapes. Our program begins with a scenic approach through the Vacas Valley, allowing for a gradual and well-structured acclimatization process. The route traverses Aconcagua from east to west, providing a unique perspective of the mountain, including the impressive Polish Glacier. With the support of our experienced local team, and a guide-to-climber ratio of 1:4 (one guide for every four climbers) to base camp and 1:3 (one guide for every three climbers) on the high camps, we maximize your chances of a successful and rewarding ascent. This expedition is designed for climbers seeking a more remote wilderness experience on a less-traveled route.
Highlights
- Less Traveled Route
- More wilderness and wildlife
- Complete circumnavigation of the mountain
- Early morning sun for warmth and beautiful vistas
Optional Additions
- Climb with oxygen (Everest O₂ systems). Last season, 100% summit success.
- Private guide for the entire trip.
- Porters to carry all your personal and group gear.
- Helicopter flights from Plaza de Mulas to the Park entrance. Saves a 7-hour walk and provides an amazing experience with spectacular views.
The AMG Advantage
- Unmatched guide-to-client ratio: We
maintain a 1:4 guide-to-climber ratio during the approach, improving to 1:3
from the high camps onward to maximize safety and summit success.
- Expert guides. Each lead guide has from 20 to 60 summit ascents under their belt.
- Porters are available to carry your gear.
- Summit Day: All guides carry oxygen on summit day along with the daily requirement of radios and medical kits. Safety is our priority!
At High Camps (above Base Camp), you’ll enjoy:
- Insulated Sleeping Domes Custom 5-meter domes, steel frames, foam floors maximum comfort
- Hot Meals prepared by AMG staff in dedicated kitchen and dining tents
- Connectivity: Free Starlink internet access
- Sanitation: Steel-framed, full-height toilet tents — clean, easy to use, and sheltered
This picture shows the Polish 360 Route and each camp on the way to the summit of Aconcagua. The day to day itinerary below makes reference to these locations.
Itinerary
DAY 1 – Mendoza (762 m) 2,500 ft
Arrive in Mendoza, where AMG staff greet you at the airport and transfer you to one of the city’s top hotels. At 4 p.m., we hold a welcome meeting, slideshow presentation, gear check, and questions and answer period . Our team will assist with any rental needs or last-minute purchases. Enjoy Mendoza’s vibrant dining scene in the evening. (dinner not included).
Overnight: Mendoza
DAY 2 – Mendoza / Los Puquios (2,743 m) 9,000 ft
After breakfast, we drive three hours to Los Puquios, our privately owned ranch near the entrance of Aconcagua Provincial Park. Along the way we stop for lunch at Potrerillos, a picturesque lakeside town in the Andean foothills. At Los Puquios, we prepare our loads for mule transport up the mountain before checking into our cozy mountain hotel in Penitentes.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Overnight: Los Puquios
DAY 3 – Los Puquios / Pampa de Leñas (2,950 m) 9,678 ft
We transfer by private van to the Vacas Valley trailhead, check in with Park Rangers, and begin our five-hour hike alongside the Vacas River. Mules carry our equipment, allowing us to trek with just light daypacks. On arrival at Pampa de Leñas, we relax under covered dining tents.That evening, our local arrieros prepare a traditional Argentine Asado (barbecue) for the team. Wi-Fi access.
Trek Duration: 4-5 hours
Meals Included: Breakfast, Packed Lunch and Dinner
Overnight: Pampa De Leñas
DAY 4 – Pampa de Leñas / Casa de Piedra (3,250 m) 10,662 ft
Our six-hour trek continues along the Vacas River, culminating in breathtaking views of Aconcagua’s East Face and the striking Polish Glacier. At Casa de Piedra, we settle into camp with comfortable dining tents, Wi-Fi access, and a hearty, home-cooked meal prepared by our guides.
Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
Meals Included: Breakfast, Packed Lunch and Dinner
Overnight: Casa de Piedra
DAY 5 – Casa de Piedra / Plaza Argentina Base Camp (4,200 m) 13,800 ft
We cross the Vacas River and ascend the Relinchos Valley on our longest trekking day (6–7 hours), rewarded by spectacular mountain vistas. On arrival at Plaza Argentina Base Camp, AMG staff welcome you with drinks and a warm meal inside our private dining tent.
Trek Duration: 6-7 hours
Meals Included: Breakfast, Packed Lunch, Reception, and Dinner
Overnight: Plaza Argentina Base Camp
DAY 6 – Plaza Argentina Base Camp (Rest Day)
DAY 7 - Plaza Argentina Base Camp / Cerro Colorado (4,700 m) 15,300 ft – Hike & Return.
Today we ascend 500 meters to the summit of Cerro Colorado to give us additional acclimatization before carrying loads to Camp 1. From the top, there are great views of Aconcagua and the surrounding mountains.
Hiking Duration: 3-4 hours Round Trip
Meals Included: Breakfast, Packed Lunch, Afternoon Snack, and Dinner
DAY 8 – Plaza Argentina / Camp 1 (4,950 m) 16,240 ft – Carry & Return
We make our first carry up the mountain, bringing personal and group gear to Camp 1 (optional porters available for hire). The 6–7 hour round trip follows a moraine trail beside the glacier. We enjoy a packed lunch at Camp 1, then return to Plaza Argentina to continue acclimatizing.
Trek Duration: 6-7 hours
Meals Included: Breakfast, Packed Lunch, Afternoon Snack, and Dinner
Overnight: Plaza Argentina Base Camp
DAY 9 – Plaza Argentina Base Camp (Rest Day)
DAY 10 – Plaza Argentina / Camp 1 (4950 m) 16,240 ft
We ascend to Camp 1 in a 5–6 hour climb, carrying personal gear and supplies. At camp, AMG’s 5-meter sleeping and dining domes — pre-stocked with cooking equipment and offering internet access — eliminate the need to set up tents or stoves. Meals and snacks are provided along the route.
Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
Meals Included: Breakfast, Packed Lunch, and Dinner
Overnight: Camp 1
DAY 11 – Camp 1 / Camp 2 “Guanacos”” (5,500 m) 18,044 ft – Carry & Return
DAY 12 – Camp 1 / Camp 2 “Guanacos”
DAY 13 – Camp 2 “Guanacos” (Rest Day)
DAY 14 – Camp 2 “Guanacos” / Camp 3 “Cólera”
DAY 15 – Summit Day (6,962 m) 22,841 ft
We rise early and gear up inside the warmth of the sleeping domes, where guides serve hot drinks and breakfast. Once fully prepared, we ascend gradually for ~3 hours to Independencia Hut, traverse the West Face, and climb the steep Canaleta gully to the summit ridge. From the summit cross, enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view — a true moment of celebration! After the photos, we descend carefully back to Cólera.
Trek Duration: 8-13 hours
Meals Included: Breakfast, Packed Lunch, and Dinner
Overnight: Camp 3 Cólera
DAY 16 – Camp 3 Cólera / Plaza de Mulas (4,260 m)
We descend to Plaza de Mulas Base Camp (4–5 hours), where a celebratory meal awaits. Porters assist by carrying group gear, trash and human waste. This is a time to relax and reflect on your achievement.
Trek Duration: 4 hours
Meals Included: Breakfast, Packed Lunch, Reception and Dinner
Overnight: Plaza de Mulas
DAY 17 – Plaza de Mulas / Horcones / Mendoza
We trek 6–8 hours to Horcones, with mules carrying your belongings. After reaching the park entrance, a transfer van returns the team to Mendoza. That evening, climbers and guides often gather for a celebratory dinner (dinner not included).
Trek Duration: 6 to 8 hours hiking, 3 hours driving
Meals Included: Breakfast, Packed Lunch, Mendoza Dinner Not Included
Overnight: Mendoza
DAY 18 – Mendoza
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. End of AMG services.
Meals Included: Breakfast
DAY 19 & 20 – Extra Weather Days
Reserved as a flexible day to accommodate weather or unexpected conditions.
Note: This itinerary is a general guideline and may be adjusted for weather, trail conditions, or unforeseen events.
DAY 1 – Mendoza (762 m) 2,500 ft
Arrive in Mendoza, where AMG staff greet you at the airport and transfer you to one of the city’s top hotels. At 4 p.m., we hold a welcome meeting, slideshow presentation, gear check and questions and answer period . Our team will assist with any rental needs or last-minute purchases. Enjoy Mendoza’s vibrant dining scene in the evening. (dinner not included).
Overnight: Mendoza
DAY 2 – Mendoza / Los Puquios (2,743 m) 9,000 ft
After breakfast, we drive three hours to Los Puquios, our privately owned ranch near the entrance of Aconcagua Provincial Park. Along the way we stop for lunch at Potrerillos, a picturesque lakeside town in the Andean foothills. At Los Puquios, we prepare our loads for mule transport up the mountain before checking into our cozy mountain hotel in Penitentes.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Overnight: Los Puquios
DAY 3 – Los Puquios / Pampa de Leñas (2,950 m) 9,678 ft
We transfer by private van to the Vacas Valley trailhead, check in with Park Rangers, and begin our five-hour hike alongside the Vacas River. Mules carry our equipment, allowing us to trek with just light daypacks. On arrival at Pampa de Leñas, we relax under covered dining tents.That evening, our local arrieros prepare a traditional Argentine Asado (barbecue) for the team. Wi-Fi access.
Trek Duration: 4-5 hours
Meals Included: Breakfast, Packed Lunch and Dinner
Overnight: Pampa De Leñas
DAY 4 – Pampa de Leñas / Casa de Piedra (3,250 m) 10,662 ft
Our six-hour trek continues along the Vacas River, culminating in breathtaking views of Aconcagua’s East Face and the striking Polish Glacier. At Casa de Piedra, we settle into camp with comfortable dining tents, Wi-Fi access, and a hearty, home-cooked meal prepared by our guides.
Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
Meals Included: Breakfast, Packed Lunch and Dinner
Overnight: Casa de Piedra
DAY 5 – Casa de Piedra / Plaza Argentina Base Camp (4,200 m) 13,800 ft
We cross the Vacas River and ascend the Relinchos Valley on our longest trekking day (6–7 hours), rewarded by spectacular mountain vistas. On arrival at Plaza Argentina Base Camp, AMG staff welcomes you with drinks and a warm meal inside our private dining tent.
Trek Duration: 6-7 hours
Meals Included: Breakfast, Packed Lunch and Dinner
Overnight: Plaza Argentina Base Camp
DAY 6 – Plaza Argentina Base Camp (REST DAY)
Day 7 - Plaza Argentina Base Camp / Cerro Colorado (4,700 m) 15,300 ft – Hike & Return.
DAY 8 – Plaza Argentina / Camp 1 (4,950 m) 16,240 ft – Carry & Return
We make our first carry up the mountain, bringing personal and group gear to Camp 1 (optional porters available for hire). The 6–7 hour round trip follows a moraine trail beside the glacier. We enjoy a packed lunch at Camp 1, then return to Plaza Argentina to continue acclimatizing.
Trek Duration: 6-7 hours
Meals Included: Breakfast, Packed Lunch and Dinner
Overnight: Plaza Argentina Base Camp
DAY 9 – Plaza Argentina Base Camp (REST DAY)
DAY 10 – Plaza Argentina / Camp 1 (4950 m) 16,240 ft
We ascend to Camp 1 in a 5–6 hour climb, carrying personal gear and supplies. At camp, AMG’s 5-meter sleeping and dining domes — pre-stocked with cooking equipment and offering internet access — eliminate the need to set up tents or stoves. Meals and snacks are provided along the route.
Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Overnight: Camp 1
DAY 11 – Camp 1 / Camp 2 “Guanacos”” (5,500 m) 18,044 ft – CARRY & RETURN
DAY 12 – Camp 1 / Camp 2 “Guanacos”
DAY 13 – Camp 2 “Guanacos” (REST DAY)
DAY 14 – Camp 2 “Guanacos” / Camp 3 “Cólera” (5970m) 19,586 ft – Carry & Return
DAY 15 – Camp 2 “Guanacos” / Camp 3 “Cólera”
DAY 16 – SUMMIT DAY (6,962 m) 22,841 ft
We rise early and gear up inside the warmth of the sleeping domes, where guides serve hot drinks and breakfast. Once fully prepared, we ascend gradually for ~3 hours to IndependenciaHut, traverse the West Face, and climb the steep Canaleta gully to the summit ridge. From the summit cross, enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view — a true moment of celebration! After photos, we descend carefully back to Cólera.
Trek Duration: 8-13 hours
Meals Included: Breakfast, Packed Lunch and Dinner
Overnight: Camp 3 Colera
DAY 17 – Camp 3 Cólera / Plaza de Mulas (4,260 m)
We descend to Plaza de Mulas Base Camp (4–5 hours), where a celebratory meal awaits. Porters assist by carrying group gear, trash and human waste. This is a time to relax and reflect on your achievement.
Trek Duration: 4 hours
Meals Included: Breakfast, Packed Lunch and Dinner
Overnight: Plaza de Mulas
DAY 18 – Plaza de Mulas / Horcones / Mendoza
We trek 6–8 hours to Horcones, with mules carrying your belongings. After reaching the park entrance, a transfer van returns the team to Mendoza. That evening, climbers and guides often gather for a celebratory dinner (dinner not included).
Trek Duration: 6 to 8 hours hiking, 3 hours driving
Meals Included: Breakfast, Packed Lunch, Mendoza Dinner Not Included
Overnight: Mendoza
DAY 19 – Mendoza
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. End of AMG services.
Meals Included: Breakfast
DAY 19 & 20 – Extra Weather Days
Reserved as a flexible day to accommodate weather or unexpected conditions.
Note: This itinerary is a general guideline and may be adjusted for weather, trail conditions, or unforeseen events.
TOP-TIER TENTS AT ALL CAMPS
Services Included
Services Not Included
- Climbing permit fee. The Aconcagua Park entrance permit/ascent fee is not included. Permit costs vary according to the climber’s nationality and the selected route.
- Mandatory rescue and evacuation insurance. All climbers must carry insurance that specifically covers rescue and helicopter evacuation, with the appropriate clause clearly included in the policy.
- Trip cancellation and travel insurance. Trip cancellation insurance is strongly recommended. Any additional travel insurance for interruption, baggage, delays, or other unforeseen events is also not included.
- International airfare. Round-trip airfare from your home country to Mendoza is not included.
- Airline and airport costs. This includes excess baggage charges, lost luggage, airport taxes, and any airline-related fees.
- Payment and transfer fees. Wire transfer fees, credit card charges, and other administrative or payment-processing surcharges are not included.
- Single room supplement. A single-occupancy room is available at an additional cost.
- Return airport transfer. Transportation from your hotel to the airport after the expedition is not included.
- Extra hotel nights and meals. Any additional accommodation or meals required if the expedition ends early or returns to Mendoza ahead of schedule are not included.
- Meals and drinks not listed in the itinerary. This includes lunches and dinners in Mendoza and any other meals not specifically mentioned as included.
- Alcoholic beverages, bottled drinks, and personal snacks. Items such as candy bars, energy bars, gels, and specialty sports drinks are not included.
- Personal mountain gear and clothing. Please refer to the gear list for all required personal equipment.
- Personal porter service. Additional porters hired to carry personal gear are not included. We recommend booking this service in advance, as availability may be limited and pricing is usually better when arranged ahead of time.
- Additional personal services or transport. Any extra services not specifically included in the program, such as private transfers, saddle mule service, or extra load transport, are not included.
- Guide and staff tips. Tips for guides and base camp staff are not included.
- Personal expenses. Laundry, extra showers, drinks, tips, and other personal expenses in the city or on the mountain are not included.
- Early departure costs. Any expenses resulting from leaving the expedition early, whether for personal or medical reasons, are not included. This may involve additional hotels, meals, and transportation by mule, vehicle, or helicopter.
- Costs caused by delays beyond AMG’s control. Any expenses resulting from weather, transportation disruptions, governmental measures, or other circumstances beyond AMG’s control are not included.
- Any service not specifically listed as included.
Important Notes
- Permit fees vary and are set by the relevant authorities, based on nationality and route.
- Rescue and evacuation coverage is mandatory, not optional.
- High-quality energy bars, gels, and sports drinks can be difficult to find in Argentina, so we recommend bringing them from your home country.
- Taxis are readily available for the return to the airport, and Uber and Cabify also operate in Mendoza City.
- A detailed schedule of early departure and evacuation costs will be provided with your confirmation materials.
Skills & Training
TRAINING
At home. AMG will assist you with a custom acclimatization and training plan. Visit Training & Acclimatization for details.
TECHNICAL SKILLS
The summit climb on Aconcagua does not require previous training in technical climbing skills to participate. We are primarily climbing on trails, but on occasion may use crampons and fixed lines to add safety if the route requires. Guides will provide instruction in the use of crampons in case they may be required.
PHYSICAL DIFFICULTY
Climbing Aconcagua is a physically challenging undertaking. You will have multiple days carrying loads between 25 lbs. (11kg.) and 40 lbs. (18kg.) and ascending as much as 3,000 ft. (950 m) in a particular day. With less than half the amount of oxygen in the air as at sea level, altitude plays an important role in the physical challenge.
PHYSICAL FITNESS
All these challenges can be overcome through proper training and previous experience camping in cold conditions. You should begin physical training several months prior to your climb by carrying a backpack and slowly increasing the weight and altitude gain on each hike. If you can reach a point where you are comfortable carrying the pack weights mentioned above and ascending 1,000 m (3,000 ft.) in a four to six-hour period, you will be on your way to having the strength and endurance to climb Aconcagua.
SELF-MANAGEMENT
You should also be prepared to take care of yourself in a cold environment. This means knowing how to control your body temperature by hydrating well, putting on different layers of clothing to maintain body heat, and eating sufficiently (regularly throughout the day) to maintain your strength. It is important to learn how to monitor your health and know how you are feeling. We will help you to fine-tune many of these skills as we trek to Base Camp and begin to ascend the mountain.
ALTITUDE CHALLENGE
Last but not least is the altitude challenge. It helps to have climbed high before, (over 4,000-5,000 m (12,000 to 16,000 ft.), but if you will walk slowly, stay hydrated, and monitor your health, guides will be able to assist you in the acclimatization process with a very high likelihood of success. Remember, training for your climb is essential to reaching the summit and having the experience of a lifetime.
2026/2027 Schedule & Dates
NORMAL ROUTE
| NORMAL ROUTE | Guide |
|---|---|
| 28 Nov - 16 Dec | Hernán Rios |
| 04 Dec - 22 Dec | Gabriel Fracchia |
| 11 Dec - 29 Dec | Emilio Abudi |
| 18 Dec - 05 Jan | Juan Araya |
| 28 Dec - 15 Jan | Ruben Barrera |
| 03 Jan - 21 Jan | Emanuel Luquez |
| 10 Jan - 28 Jan | Rodrigo Gutierrez |
| 17 Jan - 04 Feb | Agustin Coppini |
| 29 Jan - 16 Feb | Ezequiel Di Fabio |
| 05 Feb - 23 Feb | Rodrigo Gutierrez |
POLISH TRAVERSE 360
| POLISH 360 TRAVERSE ROUTE | Guide |
|---|---|
| 03 Dec - 22 Dec | Ezequiel Di Fabio |
| 10 Dec - 29 Dec | Gabriel Fracchia |
| 17 Dec - 05 Jan | Rodrigo Gutierrez |
| 27 Dec - 15 Jan | Gonzalo Quiroga |
| 09 Jan - 28 Jan | To be decided |
| 16 Jan - 04 Feb | To be decided |
| 28 Jan - 16 Feb | Emilio Abudi |
| 04 Feb - 23 Feb | Agustin Coppini |
POLISH TRAVERSE 360 CLIMBING SCHEDULE
| POLISH 360 TRAVERSE ROUTE | Guide |
|---|---|
| 03 Dec - 22 Dec | Ezequiel Di Fabio |
| 10 Dec - 29 Dec | Gabriel Fracchia |
| 17 Dec - 05 Jan | Rodrigo Gutierrez |
| 27 Dec - 15 Jan | Gonzalo Quiroga |
| 09 Jan - 28 Jan | To be decided |
| 16 Jan - 04 Feb | To be decided |
| 28 Jan - 16 Feb | Emilio Abudi |
| 04 Feb - 23 Feb | Agustin Coppini |
Choose Your Program
PRIVATE CLIMBS
Choose the starting date you prefer!
Climb with your friends and family ONLY
