Aconcagua 6,965m Winter Ascent - The Normal Route

A winter ascent on Aconcagua is significantly more problematic than the standard summer ascent on either the false polaco or normal routes, yet winter on the eastern flank of the Andean Range can be surprisingly mild. The 2002 winter season was characterized with extended periods of crisp but dry skies, and multiple days with little or no wind. These periods tended to last 3-7 days, with one cloudless and snowless period going over 13 days. Given the peaks location to the rain-shadow side of the range, and the fact that any precipitation has to be forced by prevailing systems of sufficient strength to reach the far side of the range, the geo-climatic conditions provide windows of opportunity for an attempt in a lull between frontal systems.

After nearly topping out in 2003 and 2004, in 2005 we managed to place 2 members on the summit and had all 5 members climb above the 20,000ft mark. In a year of deep snow and cold temperatures their acheivement was significant and we congratulate them all. With three years of experience on this winter climb we have gained considerable knowledge and are looking forward to putting together the best trip yet in 2006!

Aconcagua 6,965m Polish Glacier Route

As its name suggests, the route was forded by a Polish team in the summer of 1934. It was the second successful route to the top since some 40 years prior, when the Swiss Guide Mat Zurbriggen went up the north west shoulder. Today, it remains arguably the most aesthetic line up the hill. The route differs from the Vacas and Normal lines primarily in its consistency of angle, and its somewhat more exposed setting. Subsequently, climbers on this variation will need a significant degree of aerobic capacity, and a fundamental grasp of the techniques used in traversing ice and snow slopes up to 50°. It is, without a doubt, more akin to elemental alpine mountaineering than either of the more commonly ascended routes on Aconcagua, and a successful summit via any of the Polish proper routes is a significant addition to a climbers resume.

Aconcagua 6,965m False Polish Route

At 6,965m (22,840ft) Aconcagua is the highest peak in the Southern Hemisphere and indeed the world, outside of the greater ranges. Contrary to popular belief the crest of the massif does not form part of the Andean range but lies due east of the main chain in an unusual geographic demarcation. For this reason her summit soars well above all the peaks surrounding her, making the view in any direction mesmerizing and overtly panoramic. Aconcagua's proximity to Mendoza, and nearby roads, precludes the need for any extended or gruelling approach march commonly associated with Himalayan 7000ers. Aconcagua's non-technical lines of ascent, free of the objective dangers of avalanche and rock fall are ideal for first time high altitude aspirants, and for those seeking a training ground and springboard for loftier Himalayan objectives.

Ecuador Volcanoes, 6,310m

Ecuador is one of the world's most enchanting and varied countries. Its rich biodiversity is characterised by a preponderance of species. An ornithologist's delight, it has more bird species crammed into an area the size of France, than in the entire continental USA. It is also home to extraordinary fauna, with more than 3000 species of orchid alone. One of the world's hotspots of volcanic activity (Sangay, Tungurahua and Guagua Pinchincha are all active at time of writing), the area provides for a fascinating and diverse environment to climb in, with ascents sometimes leaving forested steppes and onto snow ridges and then glaciated valleys. Climbing four peaks in Ecuador is more akin to undertaking four separate expedition ascents, with each peak posing a different set of objectives to be overcome, and each being quite geologically unique. .
Note: our 23-day expedition will attempt the summits of Illinizas Norte, Cayambe, Cotopaxi and Chimborazo. Our 9-day program which includes Illinizas Norte and Cotopaxi can be extended to include Cayambe and/or Chimborazo.

Las Lenas Ski Tours

Never before have skiers or snow boarders been able to access such terrific value powder and party options at South America's premier resort. Based on a double or triple share studio style accommodation in a hotel just 16kms from the ski-field, members enjoy all the privileges of our normal tour program while saving substantial amounts for not using the Lenas based accommodations. Daily private bus transfers are included in the price, and if you want to party hard into the wee hours of the morning in one of Lenas' legendary nightclubs, our tour managers are always available to get you home before sunrise with the use of our private vehicles.