Cerro Tronador
Summit Day Expedition
Summit Day Expedition
- Duration
- 1 or 3 days
- Difficulty
- ●●●○
- Group size
- 2 of 2 spots
- Price
- USD 1.320
- Guides and ratio
- 2:1 · max. 2
- Season
- November to March
- Location
- Cerro Tronador, Bariloche
Climbing the Pico Argentino of Cerro Tronador is one of the best mountain experiences you can have in Patagonia. It is a three-day ascent with all the ingredients of an alpine climb: a hike through the forest, a night in a mountain hut, a walk across a glacier among its crevasses, and a climb to the summit of one of the most incredible viewpoints in the region.
Its history, location and surroundings make this one of the most iconic mountains in Bariloche and Patagonia. This climb is one of those powerful experiences that is well worth having, and even more so with one of our experienced guides.
The program presented here includes only the ascent from Refugio Otto Meilling. It can be combined with the Glaciar Alerce traverse to Paso de las Nubes, and even a descent via Lago Frías, followed by a boat trip from Puerto Blest back to Bariloche.
Climb the Pico Argentino of Cerro Tronador with a UIAGM mountain guide. We offer two options, depending on the level of independence and logistics you prefer:
1-Day Ascent
Participants make their own way to the hut, where they meet the guide the afternoon before. The summit climb is done in a single day.
USD 1.320 for 2 people.
Pico Argentino from Bariloche – 3 days
Full program from Bariloche, including the approach to the hut, the summit attempt and the return, accompanied by the guide.
USD 1.800 for 2 people.
Both options include a UIAGM mountain guide and technical climbing equipment. Hut accommodation and meals are not included.
Includes
- AAGM/UIAGM high mountain guide
- Technical equipment (rope, crampons, ice axe, helmet, harness, etc.)
- Satellite communication service.
- Personal accident insurance.
Not included
- Hut accommodation.
- Dinner and breakfast.
- Transfer to Pampa Linda.
- Meals outside the expedition days.
- Personal gear (sleeping bags, warm clothing, boots, etc.).
- Travel assistance insurance.
- Tips.
- Alcoholic beverages or extras.
- Any item not specified in the program.
Requirements
- Ideal: familiarity with trekking and using crampons.
- Good physical condition.
Itinerary
-
Day 1
We leave Bariloche by vehicle for Pampa Linda. The drive takes about two hours to the base of Cerro Tronador. From here, the climb begins on a trail to Refugio Meiling (1890 m). The trail runs through the transition zone between the Patagonian Andean forest and the Valdivian rainforest, a unique environment full of biodiversity. In about four to five hours we reach the hut, nestled between the Alerce and Castaño Overa glaciers. If we have the time and energy, we recommend doing some glacier practice that afternoon to sharpen a few technical skills that will be a big help the next day. Night in the hut.
-
Day 2
We start in the early morning. Depending on the time of year, we put on crampons just minutes after leaving the hut to travel on the glacier. We climb toward the Filo de La Motte, then veer off to “La Vieja.” We descend it to find a route through the crevasses to “La Depresión.” From here we climb to the saddle between Pico Internacional and Pico Argentino. The area near the summit is the most technical, with a short snow/ice climbing section and a brief 3 to 4 m rock-climbing pitch, where the guide belays each climber from above. Estimated time is about 7 to 9 hours up and about 3 hours down, depending on snow and mountain conditions and the group's fitness. Night in the hut.
-
Day 3
After a well-deserved rest and a good breakfast, we set off without rushing to reach Pampa Linda in the afternoon. Then we return by vehicle to Bariloche. End of services. Estimated program. If you have trekking experience and your own vehicle, you can book just the ascent from the hut. The climb can also be combined with some hikes in the area. Adaptable to your goals!
What to bring
- Mountaineering boots.
Frequently Asked Questions
Snacks and extras
We recommend bringing snacks you like to supplement your days in the mountains, along with treats you truly enjoy. Eating well is the key to keeping your strength up in the mountains. To fight the loss of appetite at altitude, it's best to have a variety of foods to choose from, from sweet to sour and salty.
What to expect in the huts
Refugio Otto Meilling offers a full range of services. You can order dinner and breakfast, and even have your lunch packed for summit day. The hut also has a USB charging station for your smartphone, restrooms, and other amenities.
Rescue insurance
We require you to purchase an insurance plan to protect you against the unexpected. Check with your insurance company for any specific questions about coverage and policy details, and if you have any questions, please contact us.
Best time of year
The climb depends on snow, ice and glacier conditions, which can vary considerably over the course of the season. January can bring drier conditions, so we assess the mountain's conditions before each ascent.
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