Introduction

Cerra Aconcagua, the highest mountain in the western and southern hemispheres is soaring high on the Argentinian side of the Andes functioning as a natural divide from Chile. Standing at 6,960m (22834ft) it is the second highest mountain of the renowned seven summits, dwarfed only by Mount Everest. It is also the highest point on the globe outside of the Himalaya. During the summer (our winter), the temperature hovers between -2º and +30º celsius and drops down to -15 º at night!
Due to the extreme weather conditions facing climbers during the winter months, trekking is only possible from November to March. At the summit of the “stone sentinal” awaits an aluminium cros, a guest book and 360 degrees panoramic views of the Andes along with an unparalleled sense of achievement.
Aconcagua Ascent, is a the first major mountain expedition organised by Childreach International. It is a chance, for experienced challengers to pit themselves against the ultimate goal whilst acting as a lynchpin for Childreach’s launch into South America. This is an expedition of awareness, fundraising and publicity.

Itinerary

The basic itinerary, as provided by Childreach International for the Aconcagua Ascent is outlined below. Please note that the itinerary is liable to change and will be flexible to the summit parties needs.

• Day 1 - Depart London Heathrow (p.m.)
• Day 2 - Arrive in Santiago and make an overland transfer to Mendoza
• Day 3 – Mendoza rest and preparation day
• Day 4 – Obtain climbing permits, begin transfer to base camp
• Day 5 – Leave the road at Punta de Vacas and start trek
• Day 6 – Pampa de Lena camp (2,800m) to Casa de Piedra at 3,200m
• Day 7 – Arrive at Plaza Argentina, base camp for the summit ascent
• Day 8 – Establish High Camp I (4,530m), return to base camp
• Day 9 – Rest day at base camp
• Day 10 – Populate High Camp I
• Day 11 – Establish High Camp II (5,500m)
• Day 12 – Populate High Camp II
• Day 13 – Rest and acclimatisation day at High Camp II
• Day 14 – Establish High Camp III (6,000m)
• Day 15 – Populate High Camp III
• Day 16 – Rest and acclimatisation day at High Camp III
• Day 17-19 – Summit attempt window
• Day 20 – Return directly to base camp
• Day 21 – Leave National Park and transfer back to Mendoza
• Day 22 – Rest day in Mendoza
• Day 23 – Return to UK

When Is It?

The exact departure date must be very precise. Due to the high demands of fundraising and physical capacity for the ascent, the expedition party will not be departing until the Spring of 2011. This will allow climbers enough time to train and fundraise. Summit attempts can only safely be made in the calm weather periods that are so common in March and this is when we will be going.

Sponsorship

The minimum sponsorship to take part in Aconcagua Ascent is £4,500*. Not only will you get to take part in the trip of a lifetime but you'll also make a huge difference to hundreds of children's lives.

*Please be aware that some of your sponsorship money will be spent on your expenses. There is also a non-refundable initial donation of £400 required.
What Childreach does for you

Childreach International has been running fundraising challenge events for a number of years. With hundreds of volunteers taking part every year, Childreach international is dedicated to doing everything it can for you. Not only are all of your flights, transfers, accommodation and trekking costs (i.e. guides, tents, meals etc) absorbed but we also provide experienced group leaders to help you through every step of the challenge and a comprehensive fundraising support network.

If you would like more information than please download the Aconcagua Ascent Information Pack , email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or cal l +4420 3137 5500