Mount Aconcagua Tours in May 2026

What our customers ask about Mount Aconcagua Tours in May 2026

• What is the weather like at Mount Aconcagua in May?

  Winter begins at Mount Aconcagua in May with temperatures dropping to -15°C to -30°C above 4000m. Plaza de Mulas base camp at 4250m sees harsh conditions with frequent snowfall and high winds. At the city level Mendoza stays mild at 15-20°C making it a good place to prepare. Hotel Club Tapiz in Mendoza provides comfortable shelter before and after mountain trips. As one TourRadar traveler noted "proper weather preparation is essential even at base camps."

• What are the best hiking routes to explore Mount Aconcagua in May?

  The Normal Route through Plaza de Mulas provides the most reliable path in May starting in Horcones Valley and passing through Confluencia camp at 3300m. The trek to Plaza Francia at 4200m lets hikers see Aconcagua's south face while getting used to the altitude. Hotel Agua del Corral serves as a common starting point. The Vacas Valley route via Plaza Argentina offers more wind protection but needs extra permits. A TourRadar traveler shares: "The Confluencia to Plaza Francia trek was challenging but incredibly rewarding with stunning mountain vistas."

• Are there any special permits or requirements needed for visiting Mount Aconcagua in May?

  Winter climbing permits cost about 800 USD for non-Latin American visitors and must be obtained from Aconcagua Provincial Park authorities. Medical certificates and evacuation insurance are required during this season. Visitors need to check in at the park entrance by Puente del Inca. Most tour operators handle these details and hotels like Hotel Entre Cielos help coordinate paperwork. One TourRadar traveler mentioned: "The permit process was well-handled by our guide at Plaza Argentina base camp."

• How long do typical Mount Aconcagua expeditions take in May?

  Expeditions run 13-16 days to account for weather and altitude adjustment. This includes 2-3 days preparing in Mendoza usually at Hotel Club Tapiz followed by 8-10 days climbing through camps at Confluencia (3300m) and Plaza de Mulas (4250m). Rest days become especially important during May's winter conditions. A TourRadar traveler shared: "The extended acclimatization schedule was crucial for our summit success."

• What equipment is essential for visiting Mount Aconcagua in May?

  Winter climbing requires heavy-duty gear: -30°C sleeping bags double boots crampons and quality down jackets. You'll need an ice axe harness avalanche beacon and multiple warm layers. Most tours from Hotel Agua del Corral offer gear checks and rentals. Porter services can carry up to 20kg of personal equipment to higher camps. A TourRadar traveler emphasized: "Having proper technical gear was crucial for safety and comfort at higher camps like Nido de Cóndores."

• What level of fitness is required for Mount Aconcagua in May?

  Winter climbs need excellent physical condition. Climbers should handle 15-20kg packs at high altitude and maintain strength for 8-10 hour summit days. Training should start six months ahead with previous experience above 4000m recommended. Most groups begin with practice hikes from Hotel Entre Cielos in Mendoza valley. One TourRadar traveler noted: "Previous high-altitude experience and strong cardiovascular fitness were essential for coping with the conditions."