At 6,770 meters above sea level, Cerro Mercedario is the eighth highest mountain in the Americas and the second highest in the Cuyo region of Argentina, after Aconcagua. Located in the Cordillera de la Ramada, south of San Juan province, this massive peak is part of the circuit of the ten highest summits in the continent.
Known for its challenging ascent due to high altitude and extreme weather, Mercedario also stands out for its incomparable beauty and historical significance.
35 km
14 days
Physical demand
Technical difficulty
- Altitude: 6,720 m.a.s.l.
- Individual or groups
- Departures: subject to season availability
- Departure: 09:00 from Mendoza
- Return: 18:00 to Mendoza
- One of the highest peaks in the Americas. Requires excellent physical condition, prolonged acclimatization, and experience in long and high-altitude expeditions. Depending on the season, snow and ice sections may appear. Crampons and an ice axe are used.
Route Description
The ascent route is one of the most traditional in the region, known for its stunning landscapes with panoramic views of nearby peaks like Pico Polaco, La Mesa, and La Ramada, plus breathtaking views of Aconcagua from the summit.
The mountain was climbed by the Incas over 500 years ago as part of their ritual offerings. Along the way, you can find ancient ruins from that era.
Throughout the expedition, participants will be immersed in a rich history that goes back centuries.
While the ascent is not highly technical, it demands strong physical endurance and proper acclimatization to extreme altitude and mountain conditions.
The expedition includes progressive acclimatization, equipment carries to camps, and proper rest periods to minimize altitude sickness risks.
- Itinerary
Day 1 | Mendoza – Barreal (1,630 m.a.s.l.)
- Meet in Mendoza.
- Introduction to the guides, gear check, and transfer to Barreal.
- Accommodation in cabins.
Day 2 | Barreal – Laguna Blanca (3,150 m.a.s.l.)
- 4×4 transfer to Laguna Blanca.
- Overnight at camp.
Day 3 | Trek to Guanaquitos (3,650 m.a.s.l.)
- Ascent with porters to Guanaquito Camp (4–5 hours hike).
Day 4 | Ascent to Cuesta Blanca (4,385 m.a.s.l.)
- Ascent to Cuesta Blanca Base Camp.
- Camp setup.
Day 5 | Rest at Cuesta Blanca
- Rest day and acclimatization. Optional easy hikes.
Day 6 | Gear Carry to Pirca de Indios (5,200 m.a.s.l.)
- Gear carry to Camp 1.
- Return to Cuesta Blanca.
Day 7 | Rest at Cuesta Blanca
Another rest day for optimal acclimatization.
Day 8 | Ascent to Pirca de Indios (5,200 m.a.s.l.)
- Final ascent to Camp 1.
- Camp setup.
Day 9 | Ascent to La Ollada (5,800 m.a.s.l.)
- Ascent to Camp 2, a key day for final acclimatization.
Day 10 | Summit Attempt (6,720 m.a.s.l.)
- Early morning departure to the summit.
- Return to camp.
Days 11 & 12 | Reserve Days for Bad Weather
Day 13 | Descent to Laguna Blanca
Day 14 | Return to Barreal / Mendoza
Recommended Clothing and Footwear
· Thermal base layer
· Trekking pants or similar
· Synthetic t-shirt (avoid cotton)
· Fleece or mid-layer sweater
· Thin thermal gloves
· Warm hat
· Windproof or waterproof jacket
· Hiking boots or shoes with good grip
Accessories
· 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
- Good physical condition and previous mountain experience
- Medical certificate for high-altitude activity
- Recommended age: 18 to 60 (special cases subject to approval)
Includes
Certified professional mountain guide o (1 every 3 or 4 participants)
4×4 round-trip transport from Mendoza to Barreal
Accommodation in cabins at Barreal
Porters and/or mules for group equipment
Full board on the mountain: breakfast, packed lunch, dinner
High-mountain tents (shared), stoves, cooking equipment
First aid kits and medical oxygen at high camps
Pre-expedition training and gear advice
Communication devices (VHF/Cell phone)
InReach satellite tracking device
Not included
Personal expedition gear
Meals outside the mountain (Mendoza/Barreal)
Evacuation expenses
Additional nights outside the itinerary for early departure or delays
Services not listed in “Includes”
Book your adventure now!
Experience an unforgettable expedition into the heart of the Andes in San Juan.
Cerro Mercedario awaits you with vast landscapes, absolute solitude, Inca history, and a challenging summit. Our professional guides are ready to accompany you step by step on this high-altitude journey.
Join a unique, safe, and truly transformative experience!
Experience an unforgettable expedition into the heart of the Andes in San Juan.
Cerro Mercedario awaits you with vast landscapes, absolute solitude, Inca history, and a challenging summit.
Our professional guides are ready to accompany you step by step on this high-altitude journey.
Join a unique, safe, and truly transformative experience!
