Cerro Eléctrico, 1-day guided ascent from El Chaltén
Conquer the thunderous Argentinian Cerro Eléctrico in El Chaltén with incredible views with IFMGA-qualified guide Merlin.
Private
Andes
1 Day
All year
High
Advanced
Highlights
- Climb the Cerro Eléctrico in the Argentinian Andes.
- Capture the stunning scenery as you ascent the mountain.
- Benefit from having a fully-qualified guide leading the way.
Description
Rising in the south of Argentina is the Cerro Eléctrico that measures 2,257 meters.
Its name comes from the fierce noise that is created by the wind in the valley, which resembles the strikes of thunder.
Beginning in the mountain village of El Chaltén, which is located in the gorgeous Glaciares National Park, we’ll take an early morning drive to Río Eléctrico, which is about 10 miles away.
From the Río Eléctrico, we will begin hiking on the trails to Piedra del Fraile, a comfortable and easy trail which provides access to the Valle del Río Eléctrico.
After 30 minutes we’ll head off the trail and turn towards a dry canyon that presents steep slopes. This route brings us to the base of the glacier.
It is from here that we need to use crampons and rope to help us climb the very steep section.
Conquering the glacier will take us to the great summit of Cerro Eléctrico, which stands at 2,257 meters.
Upon a successful climb you’ll gain access to breathtaking views of the Fitz Roy mountain and Piedras Blancas Glacier.
The climb takes in total approximately 12 hours and gaining 1,700 meters. The steep slopes reach peaks of around 35 degrees. This makes the climb very difficult, and participants must have a very good level of fitness.
Get in touch now to reserve your place on a 1-day guided ascent to the Cerro Eléctrico beginning in the mountain village of El Chaltén.
Price includes
- Guiding fee
- Transportation start and back
Details
More info
Equipment list: backpack 50-60 litres, mountaineering boots, bottle or thermo flask 1 litre, synthetic underwear, 2 polar jackets, fleece jacket or wind stopper (heavy weight), puff jacket, wool or fleece hat, neck warmer, buff, or balaclava, sun cap, warm trousers and t-shirt, waterproof gloves, waterproof jacket & trousers (gore-tex), gaiters, extra socks and t-shirt, sunglasses & goggles, hygienic set, sun block & lip protection, headlamp, pocket knife, walking poles, light trekking shoes.
Meeting point
FAQs
Do I need to have previous mountaineering experience for this trip? Is this trip suitable for beginners?
The Cerro Eléctrico ascent is suitable if you have a good level of physical fitness and some prior experience in mountaineering or high-altitude trekking. If you’ve done multi-day treks and have been at high elevations, this trip could be a good match. No advanced technical climbing skills are necessary, so it’s accessible even if you’re relatively new to mountaineering but physically prepared.
There are great options if you don't have experience, for example Cerro Madsen (https://www.explore-share.com/trip/cerro-madsen-1-day-guided-ascent/)
I'm looking for insurance to cover my climbing trip in Patagonia. Do you have any recommendations?
Explore-Share partners with Global Rescue, which offers comprehensive coverage including cancellation, rescue, and medical insurance. This ensures that you are protected against unforeseen circumstances, giving you peace of mind during your climbing adventure around el Chalten. To learn more about Global Rescue and to purchase your insurance, please visit: https://partner.globalrescue.com/exploreshare/
Feel free to explore the link for detailed information about their coverage options and benefits.
What technical skills are needed?
You don’t need any specific technical climbing skills for this ascent. However, it’s helpful if you have some basic knowledge of mountaineering or have taken an introductory mountaineering course. I will provide all necessary technical gear, including ice axes and crampons.
What equipment is provided and what should I bring?
I will provide technical gear such as ice axes and crampons. If you don’t have proper boots, you can rent them from stores in El Chaltén. I recommend bringing appropriate clothing and any other personal items you’ll need for a full day of outdoor activity in mountain conditions.
Are porters available for the ascent?
Since this is a 1-day ascent, porters are not typically necessary or provided. You should be prepared to carry your own personal gear, though the weight will be minimal for such a short duration.
What is the accommodation and meal arrangement?
As the ascent is completed within a single day, accommodation and meals are not part of the package. I advise you to bring snacks and water for the day. If you’re staying in El Chaltén before or after the ascent, there are various lodging options available in the town.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Patagonia’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s a good idea to have an extra day available to choose the best weather conditions for the ascent. If the scheduled day turns out to have poor weather, I may suggest adjusting the plan to ensure your safety.
What are some recommended accommodations near our adventure location?
About the guide
Merlín
5.0
(88)
Mountain Guide
Certified UIAGM-IFMGA Mountain Guide from Argentina.
I live in El Chaltén since 1998. I'm originally from Bariloche and I started with mountain activities when I was 15 years old. I've done climbing and ascents in many mountains of Patagonia, Perú, Bolivia, United States and Europe; such as Fitz Roy, Cerro Torre, Alpamayo, El Capitán, Mont Blanc and Aconcagua among others. I'm also a Ski Instructor and I am passionate for backcountry ski.
I speak fluent English, Italian and French and have been leading trips and expeditions for more than 20 years. I work together with a group of guides, so if I'm not available for the trip you request, one of my colleagues will guide you!
Certificates
AAGM | UIAGM
What people are saying about this trip
Joshua
We came to El Chalten late season (mid to late May) and wandered into Merlin's office hoping to find an open climbing guide. We discussed options with him given the upcoming weather and our abilities and ended up doing a day of sport climbing and a day of mountaineering on Cerro Madsen. Through both adventures he was knowledgeable, friendly, and safe. He encouraged us through the entire climb and even brought some treats for the top. I would highly recommend Mountaineering Patagonia if you are in search of a guide.
Jason
Had a great trip with Merlin and looking forward to a return trip next year. Highly recommended to anyone looking to explore the mountains near El Chalten or wherever he happens to be guiding.
Michael
Merlin is everything you would expect from a professional mountain guide and more. He looked after our creature comforts in camp with hot tea and hot meals not from a package. He will push you hard when on the move and is happy when you succeed. I highly recommend his service in the mountains and the accommodations he offers in town. Would be my first Choice for our next trip!
Joe
Awesome trip, challenging but incredibly rewarding. Thanks for such an excellent trip Merlin, will remember it for ages!
Tyler
We just completed the Base Camps Trek with Frederico and it was incredible! It exceeded all our expectations, everything was taken care of, and Merlin and his team are great! Can't wait to do the Huemul Loop in the next year or two.
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