Cerro Mercedario

What is it about?

This expedition involves climbing Cerro Mercedario, the eighth highest mountain in the Americas, exploring the Ramada Range. Over several days, participants alternate between acclimatization hikes, high-altitude camps, and intermediate ascents. Along the way, they traverse wide valleys, glaciers, and rocky and snowy slopes, enjoying the typical high-mountain landscapes. It is designed for those with prior experience on 6,000+ meter peaks and includes the support of guides, mountaineering equipment, and all necessary logistics.

About the Volcano

Cerro Mercedario, at 6,770 m / 22,205 ft, is one of the major peaks of the Andes, located in San Juan Province, Argentina.

Its geography combines rocky slopes, small glaciers, and wide valleys, offering a very typical high-mountain environment.

Due to its altitude and isolation, Mercedario experiences cold and windy conditions and requires proper acclimatization for ascents.

Although it is not an active volcano, its formation is the result of the region’s tectonic activity, and it remains a significant challenge for experienced high-altitude mountaineers.

What is included

• Private transportation and transfers throughout the expedition.

• Accommodation in mountain refuges and high-altitude tents; hostel night upon return.

• Professional guides, one assistant for every three participants.

• Full board in the mountains (breakfasts, snacks, dinners, and trekking meals).

• Safety equipment: VHF radio, satellite phone, GPS, first aid kit, and oxygen at Base Camp.

• Shared equipment: tents, heaters, fuel, and cooking utensils.

Services Not Included

• Food in the city. Personal clothing.

• Expenses incurred due to voluntary withdrawal from the expedition.

• Rescue and evacuation costs.

• Meals outside the mountain itinerary. Accommodation in hostel, inn, or hotel in Fiambalá before the start of the expedition. Dinner on the night of return to the city.

• Soft drinks or alcoholic beverages during the expedition.

Summary Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Barreal (1,660 m / 5,446 ft) and transfer to Laguna Blanca (3,100 m / 10,170 ft). Load preparation and camp setup.

Day 2: Transfer to Guanaquitos Base Camp (3,660 m / 12,008 ft).

Day 3: Carry loads to Camp 1 Cuesta Blanca (4,330 m / 14,206 ft) and return to Guanaquitos.

Day 4: Ascent to Camp 1 Cuesta Blanca (4,330 m / 14,206 ft).

Day 5: Acclimatization and rest day at Cuesta Blanca.

Day 6: Carry loads to Pirca de Indios (5,160 m / 16,929 ft) and return to Cuesta Blanca.

Day 7: Ascent to Pirca de Indios (5,160 m / 16,929 ft).

Day 8: Acclimatization day at Pirca de Indios, with optional ascent to La Ollada.

Day 9: Ascent to La Ollada (5,655 m / 18,549 ft).

Day 10: Summit of Cerro Mercedario (6,770 m / 22,205 ft) and return to La Ollada; ~12+ hour day.

Day 11: Descent to Guanaquitos (3,660 m / 12,008 ft).

Day 12: Descent to Laguna Blanca and transfer to Barreal.

Days 13–14: Extra days for bad weather or logistical adjustments.

Gallery

Take a look at some images of what you experience on our expeditions.

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