Hey! Planning on heading to Aconcagua first of February. Was originally gonna use Inkas but having a good look at this it sounds like I don't really need the added comforts of an expedition especially at 3.5k. I see the X-Factors on this mountain as a) weather and b ) health, which the expedition can't do much about. Correct me if I'm wrong. I Think I'll feel better failing if I do it solo, because of shitty weather or altitude sickness, than if I spend 3.5k on the expedition, and get hosed by bad weather or sickness. Plus the savings on the 3.5k should cover a lot of new equipment that I've got my eye on. Planning on the normal route.
Been to all the top google websites on climbing solo, which were very helpful. Still have some questions, so answer away whatever you can:
1) What type of radio should I carry with me if I go solo? Brand suggestions are good btw.
2) Can I pay a local to guide me on summit day? If so about how much?
3) Should I bring two tents or one tent and a bivvy? Also recommendations on a tent would be good. Right now I'm thinking 2 person MH Trango or possibly North Face assault (since its much lighter). Appreciate any thoughts there. Thinking MH Col Membrane for sleeping bag.
4) How best do I protect my stuff from being stolen when I stash it at the camps? Should I actually hide it? Leave it in plain site? Lock it?
5) Where do the solo climbers tend to mingle? Obviously, I'll try and make a few friends along the way.
6) How much of that 3.5k am I likely to save? I'm estimating mules are about 300 dollars and I'm budgeting about 200 for food. What else is expensive that the expeditions are providing me?
7) How much spare cash for the mountain?
8 ) I've heard about restaurants and facilities at Plaza De Mulas. I'm interested in knowing what I can get there and how much it costs. I'm not a very picky eater, but I am kinda lazy. So if I can buy all my meals at Plaza De Mulas at a reasonable price I will. Otherwise I'll be eating meal replacement packets (I'm that lazy).
9) Will my mule company let me use their latrines? If not, what are my options?
Thanks in advance!