The Club Andinista Mendoza: Founded 1945
Long before Mendoza became internationally famous for its Malbec, it was known to mountaineers. The Andes that form Mendoza’s dramatic western backdrop are home to some of the highest peaks in the Western Hemisphere, including Aconcagua at 6,961 meters. Founded in 1945, the Club Andinista Mendoza (CAM) was established by a group of Mendoza residents captivated by the Andean peaks on their doorstep. At a time when mountaineering in Argentina was in its infancy, these pioneers were already mapping routes, documenting peaks, and building the institutional knowledge that would underpin Argentine Andean climbing for decades.
Why Mendoza Is the Mountaineering Capital of Argentina
Mendoza’s geography makes it exceptional for mountaineering. The province borders Chile along the main Cordillera, and within a few hours of the city, climbers can access peaks ranging from technical rock routes to high-altitude snow and ice objectives. Aconcagua — the highest peak in both the Western and Southern Hemispheres — sits entirely within Mendoza province and draws thousands of climbers each season (December to March). Below Aconcagua, dozens of other peaks offer routes for climbers of all levels: Mercedario (6,770m), Tupungato (6,570m), and countless trekking summits in the 3,000–4,500m range.
Aconcagua: The Crown of the Andes
The mountain can be approached via the Normal Route (non-technical, but demanding) or via harder technical routes on the Polish Glacier and the South Face. The climbing season runs from mid-November to mid-March, with peak season in January. Penitentes and Puente del Inca are the base areas closest to the mountain, accessible from Mendoza city in about 2.5 hours along Ruta 7 toward Santiago.
Mendoza Today
The Club Andinista Mendoza continues to operate, offering courses, guided trips, and a community for climbers of all levels. For travelers interested in combining Mendoza’s wine culture with outdoor adventure, our excursions can incorporate day hikes and mountain visits alongside winery experiences.
Planning a mountain day? Read our guide to Aconcagua Park and our Mendoza travel guide.