The Rincón Peak (17,300 fasl)
This is one of the most attractive peaks not only for its beauty but also for its interesting ascent. The normal way up crosses over glaciers almost from its base camp. From the El Salto camp at 13,000 fasl (4100 msnm), a hard trek starts over a sheer rockland cliff, usually covered in snow. Once at the top, the trail continues along the ridge, showing an unbelievable long view opening to the east. The Potrerillos Dam, Potrerillos Village, Luján de Cuyo City and part of Mendoza City can be seen from this point. After reaching a plateau called La Ollada at 14,400 fasl (4500 masl), the ascent to the top is through a culoir linked to a glacier. This culoir is the key to reach the top. Without good snow, it is impossible to cross. With breathtaking views, the traverse over the highest glacier is not demanding. The ridge that links Mt. Rincón to Mt. Vallecitos is clearly seen from the top where there is a panoramic view. This ridge is of great difficulty.
Itinerary
1ST Day: Transfer from Mendoza City to Vallecitos, one hour and a half drive. Dinner and night at refuge at 8,650 fasl (2700 masl)..
2nd Day: Ascent to Las Veguitas and from there to Piedra Grande camp at 11,550 fasl (3600 masl). Night at camp.
3rd Day: Ascent to El Salto camp at 13,000 fasl (4100 msnm). Night at camp.
4th Day: Rest and acclimatization. Night at camp.
5th Day: Summit attempt and return to El Salto camp. Night at camp.
6th Day: Return to Mendoza City.
Suggested Personal Equipment
One pair underwear polypropylene pants
One pair fleece pants (or similar warm pants)
One pair waterproof pants (gore-tex/ultrex or similar)
Two short sleeved shirts
One long sleeved polypropylene sweat shirt (or similar)
Two fleece tops (or similar warm top)
One duvet jacket (or synthetic)
One waterproof shell jacket (gore-tex/ultrex or similar)
One pair of first skin gloves
One pair of fleece gloves (or similar warm gloves)
One pair of waterproof gloves or mittens (gore-tex/ultrex or similar)
One fleece or synthetic balaclava
One warm stocking cap
One cap
One pair of sun glasses (VU protection)
One extra pair of glasses
One headlamp with spare batteries
One duvet (or synthetic) sleeping bag for -13°F (-25ºC) or less
One neoprene mattress
One comfortable 80 or 90 litres backpack
One pair of mountaineering double shoes -13°F (-25ºC) or less
One pair of trekking shoes (or similar comfortable ones)
Two pairs of warm cotton socks
Two pairs of warm synthetic socks
One pair of crampons
One ice axe
One pair of ski poles
1 Pair of waterproof gaiters
1 VU Sun block cream
Personal aid kit including baby towels
Technical difficulty
Medium: requires well developed motor skills coordination and previous knowledge.
Physical condition
Good: person who trains systematically not more than three times a week
Rates
Please, contact us.
Includes
Transfers Mendoza-Vallecitos-Mendoza
Night at refuge
Mule transportation of part of the gear to El Salto camp. (Available during summer expeditions).
All meals during expedition
Double base tents
Bilingual mountain guide
Not Included
Transfer origin-Mendoza-origin
Extra beverages
Personal gear
Personal porter
Discover the Andes, Expeditions: tel +54 -261-156571967, e-mail:info@discovertheandes.com EVT Legajo 16431