douc wrote:Hey Brad, by the way, I was checking out the Aconcagua site which had the Mendoza application form online. Looks pretty simple like you pay it and go, but I saw blanks for insurance company #'s, guide info, and mule service. Now, I'm pretty sure I can make it solo. Are they going to bring something up saying I need a guide and mule service, insurance?
Hey Douc:
As far as I know you don't need a mule service, guide or insurance to climb Aconcagua. The form at the Ministry was a little different than the one on-line so fill it out there when you pay. Insurance helps in case you get into trouble as I believe the rescue helicopter coverage is limited to the standard route and only to bring climbers to the park entrance. You'll bear the cost of the trip to the hospital in Mendoza and any medical costs. Insurance is not that expensive but the choice is yours. If you use a mule service they usually bring your trash out for you and they must sign the back of your permit before you leave or you could be fined up to $200 USD. Even though they are the most expensive part of the climb, besides airfare, most climbers use a mule service to carry the bulk of their gear in as it's a 40 kilometer walk to Plaza Argentina. If you want to try and save money see if you can tag-along with some other climbers to share the cost.