Ascents to over 6000m require considerable fitness. Good hillwalking or mountaineering fitness is obviously important, but is not enough on its own. For high altitude expeditions clients particularly need good cardiopulmonary (heart and lung) fitness. This can only be maintained, or obtained, by a program of intensive exercise such as running, circuit training, squash or cycling. This should be done in small doses (e.g. half an hour every other day) over a period of at least three months before the expedition. If you don?t do this sort of exercise you are unlikely to get to the top - Mercedario will be a physically demanding expedition.

The normal route on Mercedario is on the whole an easy ascent route with few difficulties, suitable for those with extensive summer walking experience plus a little winter and/or Alpine walking experience. We may need to use an ice-axe and crampons for some short easy sections but previous experience of using these is not necessary.

On this type of expedition there are inevitably some hardships which clients must be prepared to face in return for the great rewards of success climbing such a big mountain. Customers should be prepared for cold nights whilst camping and be prepared for very windy and dusty weather at times in the mountains. Customers must be able to carry their share of expedition equipment on their back above base camp. Weights carried will be about 20kg. As we'll be a long way from the nearest supermarket we will have to put up with tinned and/or dehydrated food in our diet during our time on the mountain. All customers are expected to assist occasionally with the routine work of this type of expedition; pitching tents, cooking and washing up.

Guanaco, Argentine Andes

Despite the fact that at first sight there is little to eat in the barren valleys of the High Andes the area is very good for seeing some of South Americas unusual wildlife, particularly on the lower approach slopes. Vicu? and guanaco are wild relatives of the llama and are seen frequently. The vizcacha, a species of South American rodent is also commonly seen hopping over rocks in the foothills. With a bit of luck we may even see a condor circling the peaks

Flights from London to Mendoza via Buenos Aires the Argentine capital cost from £800-£1000 at Christmas. We normally arrange these for customers through our travel agents, Journey Latin America (ATOL 2828) at very competitive prices. We make no charge for this service and many customers find it convenient as we then all fly on the same plane.

If you prefer you are welcome to arrange flights yourself. Please note that if booking flights yourself it is better to pay only a deposit in the short term in case we do not have sufficient fully paid customers to run the expedition.

Visas are not necessary for British citizens, but you should have a full passport valid for at least six months from the date of travel. Other nationalities may need visas - please check with your local Argentine embassy.

All clients must be insured for medical costs and repatriation. We recommend having insurance for baggage, cancellation and personal liability as well. If you would like advice on insurance please ask.

The high camp at 5800m on Mercedario.

Argentina is one of the more developed countries in South America and the standard of hygiene is generally as good as at home. You will be unlucky to get an upset stomach or diarrhoea. Vaccinations for tetanus, typhoid and polio are recommended. The country is very safe and relaxing to travel in; theft and muggings are almost certainly less likely than they are in any British city. Everyone who visits Argentina is overwhelmed by how much like a part of Europe the country is.

While we are staying in Mendoza and Barreal accommodation will be in a clean and secure hotel with private bathroom. We normally use a small hotel with a friendly atmosphere, rather than a big luxury hotel. If we have to stay in any more out of the way places we have to use whatever lodging is available; this is usually perfectly clean in Argentina. When out in the mountains we use modern lightweight tents (supplied by us) - you'll need a warm sleeping bag and karrimat or thermarest.

This is an adventure holiday and all clients will be exposed to hazards not found in everyday life by taking part in this itinerary. While we take all reasonable precautions to reduce risk it is neither possible nor desirable to completely eliminate these additional hazards. Some of these hazards carry the risk of serious injury or death. It is important that you understand the risks you may be exposed to before signing our booking form. We have identified the following areas as the principal additional risks of this itinerary. This is not a fully inclusive list - please ask if you would like to see a more detailed risk assessment of this itinerary before booking.

Driving, hotels and general safety : In Argentina driving, fire standards and general safety standards are not as high as in Europe.

Remoteness : You will be camping in a remote area for an extended period and therefore obtaining medical assistance for any problem will be a slow process.

Minor slips and falls : due to steep, uneven and unstable ground.

Weather : Mercedario is occasionally affected by severe and sometimes dangerous storms. Forecasts are not so reliable.

Altitude : At high altitudes there is an increased risk of medical problems, most obviously altitude illness. Mountain Hazards : In certain places you may be subjected to a slight risk of rock slips. There are river crossings on this itinerary which could become serious. In stormy weather might be a slight risk of avalanche.

Climbing through penitente snow at 4800m, Mercedario

Our expeditions fall somewhere between the large, rigidly organised expeditions of the larger companies and the frustrations, hassles and uncertainties of independent travel in an unfamiliar country. Our expeditions are designed to be small and flexible. The expedition will be co-ordinated, organised and led by us, but we'll consult and involve the expedition members when planning the details of the trip.

Please note however that the leaders decision is final where the safety of the group or any member is in jeopardy; for example where retreat or diversion is necessary due to illness or bad weather.

At the time of writing expedition leaders have not been finalised for the 2009-2010 season - please contact us nearer the time for details.

Normally the minimum number of customers we need to run this expedition is three. The maximum size of the expedition will be six customers plus leader and assistant. In some circumstances we may be able to run the expedition with just two members and a local leader.

We will be running a social day for these expeditions when expedition members will be able to meet both their leader and other members. These are usually held in the English Lake District in October or November. We make no charge for these social days but you have to cover your own costs. Please ask for details if you are interested in this option

Back to Mercedario front page (Dates and Prices)