Cerro Plata, at 5,930 meters above sea level, is the highest summit of the Cordón del Plata — one of the most accessible mountain areas from Mendoza city.
This region is an excellent training ground for higher mountains like Aconcagua or Mercedario, and it also represents a challenging summit in its own right. The area offers stunning natural beauty with impressive views of the Cordón del Plata, the Potrerillos Valley, and the foothills.
80 km from Mendoza
6 days + 1 extra day
Physical demand
Technical difficulty
- Altitude: 5,960 m.a.s.l.
- Individual or groups
- Departures: subject to season availability
- Departure: 09:00 from Mendoza
- Return: 18:00 to Mendoza
- A high-altitude expedition requiring excellent physical condition, good acclimatization, and prior experience at altitude. While there are no highly technical sections, crampons may be needed.
Tour Description
The normal route presents no major technical challenges, making it an ideal goal for experienced high-altitude climbers or those in good shape looking to venture into altitude mountaineering.
The program includes a night at the Vallecitos Refuge for initial acclimatization and strategic gear carries to higher camps to ease the ascent. An extra day is included for acclimatization or weather contingencies.
- Itinerary
Day 1 | Mendoza City (900 m.a.s.l.)
- Meet with the guide at 09:00 h.
- Gear check and assistance with rental if needed.
- Overnight stay in Mendoza.
Day 2 | Mendoza – Vallecitos Refuge (2,900 m.a.s.l.)
- Transfer from Mendoza to Vallecitos.
- Overnight at the refuge with dinner and breakfast included.
Day 3 | Refuge – Veguitas Superiores Camp (3,300 m.a.s.l.)
- Breakfast at the refuge.
- Light-load ascent to Veguitas Superiores Camp.
- Overnight in tents.
Day 4 | El Salto Camp (4,200 m.a.s.l.)
- Ascent to El Salto Camp carrying part of the gear.
- Overnight in tents.
Day 5
- Rest day, acclimatization, or contingency for bad weather.
- Active rest, short walks, or use this day in case of unfavorable weather.
Day 6 | Cerro Plata Summit (5,930 m.a.s.l.)
- Early morning summit push.
- Return to El Salto Camp.
Day 7
- Extra day in case of bad weather.
Day 8 | Descent to Vallecitos and Return to Mendoza
- Descent from El Salto to the refuge.
- Transfer to Mendoza city.
- End of the program.
Recommended Clothing and Footwear
· Thermal base layer
· Trekking pants or similar
· Synthetic t-shirt (avoid cotton)
· Fleece or mid-layer sweater
· Thermal gloves
· Warm hat
· Windproof or waterproof jacket
Accesorios
· UV-protection sunglasses
· Sunscreen and lip balm
· Backpack (50–60 liters)
· Water bottle (at least 2 liters)
· Headlamp with extra batteries
· Trekking poles and sleeping bag suitable for sub-zero temperatures
- Additional Recommendations
- Excellent physical condition and prior high-altitude experience are essential
- Always follow the guide’s instructions and maintain a steady pace
- Stay well-hydrated and nourished throughout the expedition
Includes
Certified professional mountain guide (1 every 3 or 4 participants)
Round-trip private transport Mendoza – Vallecitos
One night at the Vallecitos Refuge with dinner and breakfast
Gear check and rental assistance
High-mountain tents (double or triple occupancy)
Full board: breakfast, box lunch, dinner, and snacks
Shared equipment (cooking gear, utensils)
First aid kit
Communication devices (VHF/Cell phone)
InReach satellite tracking device
Stand-by vehicle in Vallecitos for emergencies
Not included
Personal gear required for the expedition
Personal porters (available upon request)
Extra accommodation due to early finish or unused extra days
Costs for early departure (transport, meals, lodging, etc.)
Medical and travel insurance (mandatory)
Services not mentioned in “Includes”
Book your adventure now!
Join the challenging and rewarding experience of ascending Cerro Plata — the highest peak of the Cordón del Plata. Enjoy spectacular landscapes and the thrill of reaching 5,960 meters, accompanied by professional guides ensuring your safety and enjoyment.
We look forward to sharing this unforgettable Andean adventure with you!
Join the challenging and rewarding experience of ascending Cerro Plata — the highest peak of the Cordón del Plata. Enjoy spectacular landscapes and the thrill of reaching 5,960 meters, accompanied by professional guides ensuring your safety and enjoyment.
We look forward to sharing this unforgettable Andean adventure with you!
