► Video in partnership with Aconcagua Mountain Guides - https://aconcaguamountainguides.com/
We leads expeditions and treks with a sharp focus on safety, logistics, and the human side of climbing. From first contact to final descent, we’re always by your side. No gimmicks, no shortcuts - just solid, thoughtful work in one of the world’s most rewarding challenges. That’s what makes AMG the Aconcagua Climbing Company.
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⛺️ Gear in this video: https://store.harmenhoek.com/
🇪🇨 Group Trip 2025 to Ecuador: https://harmenhoek.com/grouphike/
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► This trip is made possible by Enlightened Equipment (https://enlightenedequipment.com/), Bonfus (https://bonfus.com), Garage Grown Gear (https://www.garagegrowngear.com/) and SOTO (https://sotooutdoors.com).
► Tent provided by Nortent: https://nortent.com/products/nortent-vern1a-one-person-backpacking-tent
► ABOUT THIS CLIMB
This expedition was done in partnership with Aconcagua Mountain Guides (AMG).
In January 2025, I climbed Aconcagua (6,962m / 22,834ft) — the tallest mountain outside of Asia — via the 360 Route, also known as the Polish Glacier Traverse. This route circles around the mountain, ascending from the east and descending via the Normal Route on the west side.
The trek began with mule support from AMG through the Vacas Valley. Over three days, I hiked from Punta de Vacas through Pampa de Leñas, Casa de Piedra, and Plaza Argentina Base Camp (4,200m / 13,780ft), located on the eastern side of the mountain.
After a few nights acclimatizing at Plaza Argentina, I continued solo and fully self-supported above base camp — carrying close to 45kg (100lbs) of gear including all camera equipment. Due to the weight, I had to shuttle loads up the mountain for both logistics and acclimatization.
I spent one night at Camp 1 (4,959m / 16,200ft), two nights at Camp 2 (Guanacos Camp) (5,500m / 18,000ft), and one night at Camp Colera (6,000m / 19,700ft), before pushing for the summit at 6,962m (22,834ft).
After summit day, I descended via the Normal Route to Plaza de Mulas, the massive west-side base camp, second in size only to Everest Base Camp. I spent a few days recovering before hiking out via Camp Confluencia, with a final day hike to Plaza Francia — which offers dramatic views of Aconcagua’s south face.
This was by far the hardest mountain I’ve climbed. From high winds and freezing temps to the challenges of altitude and filming, this was a true test of endurance.
Check out Xander: @XanderBudnick
This is an ambient film without dialog.
► TIMESTAMPS
0:00 Intro
0:57 The approach
10:18 Base Camp - Plaza Argentina
19:04 Camp 1 - 4,959m / 16,200ft
23:46 Camp 2 - 5,500m / 18,000ft
31:06 Camp 3 - 6,000m / 19.700ft
34:59 Summit Day - 6,962m / 22,834ft
41:50 Base Camp - Plaza de Mulas
48:02 Camp Confluencia
51:16 Outro
#hiking #climbing #mountaineering #aconcagua #argentina