Climbing Aconcagua  

Two trusted expedition partners from my personal journey

By Luis Caturelli
Laramie Basecamp, WY

If summiting Aconcagua (6,961 m / 22,838 ft) is on your bucket list, I want to personally recommend two incredible expedition companies in Argentina: Aconcagua Star and Alto Rumbo.

These aren’t just names I found online—I’ve worked with both of them. I trained alongside Pablo Gasparini, co-founder of Aconcagua Star, during our mountain guide certification in Argentina. During that same period, I spent seven years working with Alto Rumbo, guiding expeditions across the Andes. I know firsthand the level of professionalism, safety, and mountain passion both teams bring to the table. Few things in my career have been as rewarding as seeing climbers reach their goals in the high mountains under the guidance of people I truly admire and respect.

Why Climb Aconcagua?

Aconcagua is the highest peak in the Americas and the tallest outside the Himalayas. It’s one of the Seven Summits, making it a coveted challenge for mountaineers around the globe. Despite its impressive altitude, it’s also a mountain that can be climbed without technical skills—if you’re properly acclimatized and physically prepared. This unique blend of accessibility and altitude makes it one of the most attractive big mountain experiences in the world.

From rugged glacier views and high-altitude base camps to the empowering sense of pushing beyond your limits, Aconcagua offers both physical and emotional rewards. For mountaineers, or serious hikers, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime journey. And for those of us in the outdoor industry, it’s a connection point—a place that continues to bring together people who live and breathe mountains.

Aconcagua Star was founded by Pablo Gasparini and Arkaitz Ibarra—two exceptional guides I personally trust. Their small-group expeditions focus on personalized attention, deep connection with the mountain, and true Argentine mountain culture. They care deeply about every climber they work with and are always adapting their approach based on the group’s dynamics and weather.

• Multiple itineraries:

  • Normal Route – 20 days

  • 360° Traverse Route – 19 days

  • Aconcagua + Ojos del Salado – 21 days

• Private mountain lodge at 3000 m to support acclimatization and provide a comfortable start

• 81% summit success rate in the 2024/25 season

Contact Aconcagua Star

Website: https://aconcaguastar.com
Email: info@aconcaguastar.com
Instagram: @aconcaguastar

Other expeditions by Aconcagua Star:

• Ojos del Salado (Chile/Argentina)

• Cordón del Plata (Intro to high-altitude mountaineering)

• Volcanoes of Catamarca

• Custom climbs in the Andes and logistics for photographers and documentarians

Alto Rumbo – Solid Logistics and Safety from a Legendary Team

Alto Rumbo is one of Argentina’s most respected and longest-standing expedition operators. With 21 years of experience in the Andes, they’ve guided over 15,000 people and completed more than 1,100 expeditions and excursions. I spent seven years working with them and saw countless climbers reach their goals thanks to their meticulous planning, strong safety culture, and genuine team spirit. Their trips span Argentina and the world, including destinations like Kilimanjaro, Nepal and Europe. They’re also deeply committed to sustainability, education, and community support. With this legacy, Alto Rumbo brings unmatched reliability, deep regional knowledge, and a culture of trust to every climb.
Alto Rumbo also has its own mountain lodge in the Sierras Grandes of Córdoba, in the center of the country. It’s a unique place, full of history and innovation. I took part in its construction — it features geodesic dome structures and also hosts a high-altitude greenhouse for tabaquillos (Polylepis australis) reforestation. If you have extra time during your trip to the south, you should definitely stop by. The food is excellent, and the people are amazing.

What sets them apart:

• 14-day itinerary (+2 weather days) to the summit via the Normal Route

• Top-notch logistics: mules, high-altitude porters, tents, meals, radio communication, accident insurance

• Participant screening: groups are kept small and carefully formed to ensure compatibility and safety

• Backup and medical protocols: guides are trained in wilderness first aid and satellite support is available when needed

Contact Alto Rumbo
Website: https://altorumbo.tur.ar/
Email: expediciones@altorumbo.com.ar
Instagram: @altorumbo.ok

Other expeditions by Alto Rumbo:

• Volcán Lanín (Argentina’s most iconic volcano)

• Nevado de Cachi

• Cordón del Plata & Intro to mountaineering

• Trekking in Patagonia & Atacama Desert crossings

• Southern Patagonian Ice Field (Hielos Continentales)

• Custom logistics and trips for schools, companies, and photographers

If you're not sure which one is right for you, reach out. Both are excellent choices, and the best option depends on what kind of experience you're looking for—more autonomy and personal connection, or structured ease and full support.

Special Gear Discounts at Laramie Basecamp

If you’re heading to Aconcagua, we’ve got you covered here in Laramie. We offer exclusive discounts on expedition gear for anyone booking with Aconcagua Star or Alto Rumbo. We know how important it is to have reliable layers, boots, and hardware when you're heading to extreme altitudes.

Stop by for:

• Personalized gear fitting and layering systems

• Pre-trip advice from experienced climbers and skiers

• Expedition-grade outerwear and technical accessories

• Discounts on select brands for expedition members

• Advice from someone (me!) who's worked with both teams and is seriously considering Aconcagua this upcoming season

Don’t wait until you're already in South America to think about your gear—we’re here to help you prepare confidently from the very beginning.

Summit season runs from December to February, and these expeditions often fill up well in advance. Don’t miss the chance to climb one of the world’s great mountains—with guides who love it as much as you will.

We hope to see you on the trail soon!