Experience the Cerro Peñas Coloradas expedition in Mendoza. A 3-day ascent with views of Aconcagua, ideal for those taking their first steps in high-altitude mountaineering with maximum safety.
THE EXPERIENCE
On this expedition, we ascend Cerro Peñas Coloradas, a 4,211 m peak located in the heart of the Andes. It’s a hidden gem of Mendoza, perfect for those looking to experience the mountains at a steady pace, away from the more crowded routes.
Our journey begins in the historic village of Las Cuevas, near the border with Chile. From there, we follow trails surrounded by towering peaks such as Tolosa and Navarro.
As we gain altitude, the effort is rewarded with unique panoramic views, including outstanding perspectives of Aconcagua’s immense west face. This is an invitation to experience mountaineering in a safe environment and to connect deeply with the Andean landscape.
This is a demanding expedition, designed for mountaineers with very good aerobic fitness and the willingness to face the harsh conditions of the Andes. To help you understand the real effort involved in the Cerro Peñas Coloradas ascent, here are the key stages: - Day 1: approximately a 2-hour approach hike carrying a loaded backpack to reach the first section and set up camp - Day 2 (Summit): the ultimate challenge. A sustained trekking day requiring around 12 hours of continuous effort, ascending through the Quebrada de los Caracoles to reach 4,211 m, where the body truly begins to feel the reduced oxygen levels - Day 3: a steady descent over rocky terrain back to the vehicles, demanding strong leg endurance after the effort of summit day It’s important to understand the demands of this journey. This is not a conventional hike — moving above 4,000 meters requires determination, adaptation to altitude, and resistance to fatigue. To protect you from the Andean environment, our accommodation logistics are as follows: - Nights 1 & 2: shared high-altitude tents. Given the remote and rugged setting of the Mendoza Andes, services are minimal (no urban comforts), but the tents provide essential shelter from strong winds and sub-zero temperatures Far from traditional tourism, this experience allows you to live mountaineering in its purest form and take your first real step into high altitude — because some landscapes are only earned on foot.
We meet in Mendoza for a thorough gear check. If anything is missing, we stop by a trusted rental shop. Then, we transfer by vehicle to Las Cuevas. From there, we hike for approximately 2 hours to reach our campsite, where we set up camp and spend the next two nights.
We start early. After breakfast, we begin a demanding day of trekking (around 12 hours in total). We follow the Quebrada de los Caracoles to its end before ascending along the west ridge of the mountain. Upon reaching 4,211 m, the reward is absolute: a vast sea of mountains, with the towering peaks of Chile — Juncal and El Plomo — dominating the horizon. We return to camp to rest.
After breakfast, we pack up camp and prepare to retrace the route from the first day. We share a final mountain lunch before taking our transfer back to Mendoza, marking the end of the expedition.
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.
Cerro Peñas Coloradas is a mountain commonly chosen as an introduction to high-altitude ascents in the Andes.
With good overall health, regular training, and a strong willingness to take on the challenge, the ascent is achievable.
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.
The meeting point is YPF ACA station in Mendoza at 9:00 AM. For GPS directions: https://goo.gl/maps/ipREjqMYYvAetA9R6
Arrival in Mendoza is estimated around 4:00 PM. In case of delays on the trail, we will do our best to manage logistics so those with onward connections can stay on schedule.
However, in the event of exceptional circumstances such as river flooding, major storms, or road closures, MONS – Actividades de Montaña is not responsible for any affected services.
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.
Yes. You’ll be undertaking a physically demanding activity above 4,000 meters, so staying well hydrated is essential throughout the expedition.
We recommend drinking around 3.5 liters per day. The better hydrated you are, the better your body will cope with both the cold and the altitude.
During the expedition, we’ll hike along trails that cross mountain streams. Your guides will indicate where and how to refill your bottles safely.
We recommend carrying containers with a total capacity of at least 2 liters.
Once we begin the trek, there will be no phone signal. We recommend switching your phone to airplane mode to preserve battery life.
It’s also important to protect your batteries: at night, keep your phone and any battery-powered devices inside your sleeping bag, as cold temperatures drain them 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