Experience your first ascents above 4,000 meters in Mendoza. Expedition to Cerro Adolfo Calle and Stepanek with mountain hut stay, meals, and professional guides.
THE EXPERIENCE
The ascent of Cerro Adolfo Calle and Cerro Stepanek is the perfect introduction to high-altitude mountaineering in the Cordón del Plata (Mendoza). This expedition is designed for those who want to climb progressively, safely, and with full support above 4,000 meters.
We’ll explore the Cordón del Plata Provincial Park, a fascinating environment that combines active glaciers, meltwater rivers, and high-altitude grasslands. The routes present a clear physical challenge, but with stable terrain and no technical exposure, making it the ideal setting to gain experience at altitude without worrying about logistics.
During the itinerary in the high mountains, we’ll cover: - Day 1: 1.5 km with 200 m of elevation gain - Day 2: 10 km of sustained hiking with 1,300 m of elevation gain - Day 3: gradual descent and return along the same trail It’s important to keep in mind that this is not a city walk: the altitude above 4,000 meters, lower oxygen levels, the weight of your personal backpack (around 5 kg), and the high-mountain environment make this a very different level of effort compared to the sierras. We stay at a base mountain hut (2,900 m) with very basic facilities. This infrastructure is adapted to the rugged and harsh environment of the Cordón del Plata, so its main purpose is protection from the cold rather than comfort: - No showers available - Shared bathrooms - Rooms with mattresses in shared bunk beds (you bring your own sleeping bag) Far from conventional tourism, this experience gives you access to a truly unique natural environment — because some landscapes can only be reached on foot, and some experiences of personal challenge can only be found in the Andes.
Distance: 1.5 km | Elevation: +200 m We transfer from Mendoza City to the Cordón del Plata Provincial Park. To ensure proper acclimatization, we’ll ascend gradually to Veguitas Camp (3,240 m) to help the body adapt, and then descend to spend the night at our hut at 2,900 m.
Distance: 10 km | Elevation: +1,300 m We start early. After a solid breakfast, we begin the most demanding day of the expedition. Expect around 12 hours of steady hiking as we aim to reach the summit of Cerro Stepanek (4,194 m) and then Cerro Adolfo Calle (4,272 m). We return to the hut to celebrate and rest.
After breakfast, we pack our gear and begin a gentle descent along the same trail. We’ll share a farewell lunch before taking our private transfer back to Mendoza City, marking the end of our services.
Great experience! An incredible adventure. Challenge accomplished thanks to Mons's guidance!! A perfect mix of effort and fun. We’ll be back for more, with you guys, of course!! Thanks, Manu!!!
Of course! You can join any of our scheduled dates. We keep our groups small to ensure a more personal experience, with a strong focus on safety and group connection.
Our groups are usually made up of solo travelers, friends, and couples. If you’re looking for something more private or can’t find a date that works for you, get in touch and we can design a custom experience so your group can explore the mountains at your own pace.
Yes — food won’t be something you need to worry about. Preparing inclusive meals is an important part of what we do. We offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, even in the middle of the mountains.
We just ask that you let us know in advance when booking, so we can plan everything carefully and make sure your meals are properly organized.
It’s simple. First, send us a message on WhatsApp at +54 9 3512 11-3842 to check availability for your preferred date. Then, you secure your spot with a deposit.
From there, we take care of all the logistics. You just fill out your medical form, pack your backpack, and get ready for the experience.
This program includes climbing two mountains that are commonly used as an introduction to high-altitude ascents in the Andes. With a good general level of health, regular training, and the right attitude, most people can complete the ascent.
We recommend this experience for people between 16 and 65 years old.
Participants under 18 can join only if accompanied by a responsible adult, who will be fully responsible for them during the trip.
We meet on the first day at 9:00 am near Plaza Independencia, in Mendoza city center. From there, we begin our logistics and transfer to the Cordón del Plata Provincial Park.
The estimated arrival time in Mendoza City is around 5:00 pm. We know many participants have flights or buses to catch, so the guides manage the walking times to meet this schedule.
That said, the mountains always come first: if there are weather-related situations (rising rivers or storms), times may vary. We recommend booking your return for the evening so you can enjoy the experience without stress.
You’ll be doing a demanding activity at altitude, so staying hydrated is non-negotiable. We recommend drinking around 3.5 liters per day to support acclimatization and handle the cold.
During the expedition, we’ll cross pure meltwater streams, and our guides will show you exactly where and how to refill your bottles. We suggest bringing containers with a total capacity of at least 2 liters.
Most of our participants choose to stay in Mendoza City the night before the meeting point.
For accommodation options, you can check:
https://mendoza.tur.ar/listings/gran-mendoza/alojamientos/
No, the experience is not cancelled due to rain in the forecast. We monitor weather conditions professionally and understand that mountain forecasts can change, with the most accurate updates coming 24 to 48 hours in advance.
If conditions require additional technical gear, we’ll let you know so you can rent it in Mendoza before the expedition. Our team is trained to manage your safety at all times.
At the mountain hut, there is Wi-Fi and sometimes mobile signal. During the hikes, however, signal is intermittent. We recommend using airplane mode and treating your phone mainly as a camera.
One important tip: at night, keep your phone and power banks inside your sleeping bag, as the cold drains batteries very quickly.
Our focus isn’t on performance, but on creating a real mountain experience — a chance to disconnect from the city while still enjoying a high level of service in a remote setting.
- Small groups: We keep things relaxed, so you can enjoy the trail, take a breath, and connect with the group.
- Inclusive meals: We take care of all the food. Full board is included, with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available, even in the mountains.
- Mountain hut stay: We sleep in mountain huts. Facilities are simple compared to the city, but it’s the perfect place to rest and share the day.
- Everything taken care of: You just pack your backpack — we handle the logistics and safety.
BEFORE YOU GO
We reply within 24 hours
Our team reviews your message and gets back on WhatsApp with everything you need.
We send you the full details
Itinerary, gear list, booking conditions, and everything you need to get ready.
You confirm with a deposit
You secure your spot with the first payment. Your price is locked in from that moment.
DIRECT CONTACT
Send the form and we'll reply within 24 hours with everything you need to decide.
Spots per departure are limited.
Your place in the mountains is waiting.
We're with you from day one