We are sure that the work done by the mules represents a very important part in the history of aconcagua. As is true with the adventures carried out by mountaineers, who year after year attempt to climb aconcagua, since transporting all of the gear necessary for an expedition of aproximately 20 days up alpine trails for 40 kilometers to plaza de mulas or 70 kilometers to plaza argentina is exhausting work; attempting this task can often put at risk the success of the whole expedition.
The mules carry 60 kilos ( 132 lbs ) in loads of no more than 30 kilos (66lbs) each. In this way the loads are put on each side of the mule one side balancing the other. Ofcourse the loads can be of lesser weight, but never exceed the forementioned limit.
It is important that the bags in which the gear is packed be sufficiently durable that they don’t break or rip on being tied on to the mule or when the mules rub one against the other as they walk in a pack.
During the climbing season the mules are kept in puente del inca. Normally they make the trip up and down to the base camps on a daily basis but all the same it is recommended that the mules be ordered at least one day in advance. In this way the muleteers can prepare the animals for the trip the day before since they tend to leave puente del inca at 4:00 am so as to be able to return before the sun sets.
The muleteers
With out a doubt one of the most important links in this chain are these tough, hard working men, used to arduous conditions who normally come from the country where they handle animals from youth.
Each one of the muleteers is usually in charge of up to but no more than three animals so as to insure that the loads are well taken care of.
It is of utmost importance for mallku expeditions that the animals are correctly looked after. For this reason our muleteers are all conscious of how they treat the mules.
Transport of equipment
We have permanent staff in mendoza , puente del inca, plaza de mulas and plaza argentina who are in charge of coordinating and watching over the gear to be transported. They are also responsible for communicating orders for mules and ensuring that the gear is sent and delivered.
We also offer evacuation on saddled horses under the vigilance of our muleteers who will safely guide you down.
Services included in the transport of equipment or saddled horses for individuals:
We carry your loads by mules to or from the different base camps:
- Plaza de Mulas
- Plaza Argentina
- Plaza Francia
- Saddled horses for individuals to or from the different base camps.
Shuttle in pick-up truck from puente del inca, penitentes or punta de vacas to either of the two trail heads: horcones valley or vacas valley.
Transport your equipment with authorized companies that have good reputation. Don’t put your expedition at risk.
