"Plaza de Mulas" is the most popular Base camp in the Aconcagua Provincial Park, cause it´s the the base for all whom attempt te Normal Route through the shortest and easiest access, the Horcones valley. From Puente del Inca, up to Plaza de Mulas, there are a third less of way to walk, than any other access to get into Aconcagua, and the facilities all along the valley helps the people to decide to get an incredible first experience in this lattitudes.
Hundred climbers from all the world get together on the terrace where it lies, gather their efforts and share experiences before climb it as a part of the way to become their dreams in true...Everyday there are people ascending and descending to the basecamp tents relating their own experiences, frustrations and achievements, all of them, considered as a good reason celebrate giving thanks to the matther hearth for live the mortals to climb and return safe and vigorized in spirit and body.

Trekking itinerary

Day1: Members should arrive to the airport, where an AEA Expeditions representative shull be waiting for your convenience, to be shure you´ll get the right hotel at the right time. During late afternoon we use to enjoy a welcome brew with the whole group. After completing the equipment checks, we enjoy a group "welcome" dinner in Mendoza and good night's sleep after a long day of traveling.
Day2 : We drive from the refuge, to the Rangers control point.
Start of the trekking next to the Laguna de los Horcones, crossing the Seven years in Tibet bridge, over the Horcones River. During the trekking lunch break. Continuation to Confluencia campsite(3400m), dinner and a merely night rest.
Day's journey 3-5 hours and about 12 kms.
Day3: Trekking to a panoramic point / Plaza Francia (4100m) - Back to Confluence Camp for night rest. 8Hs.
Day4: Breakfast and continuation towards Plaza de Mulas going up Horcones Superior river. During the trekking overlooking of impressing mountains such as Dedos, Cuerno, Catedral , etc.., and the impressive Playa Ancha. Arrival at Plaza de Mulas(4370 m) base camp for all whom attempt to climb the “Giant of America”. Dinner and camping. Duration: 8hs.
Day5: Resting day optional short walk around the Horcones Glacier.
Day6: Trekking around the campsite and a brief visit to the Horcones glacier, some climbing could be optional deppending on the conditions of the group and the ice.
Day7: Early Breakfast. Departure towards Puente de Inca. Arrival to Ranger station in Horcones control and transfer to Puente del Inca Hot springs, on the way to Mendoza.
Day8: Transfer to the airport or Bus Terminal.

Dificulty level: Basic
Fitness level required: Average, moderated
Scenic trekking
Departures 2006 - 2007

You are responsible for

Extra expenses to desert itinerary.
Extra food or beverages.
Aconcagua Park permit fee.
Personal equipment.
Porters.

During the Walk In ( Approach)
Long shirt
Long trekking trousses
Sun Hat and neck shade cover
Walking poles ( highly recomendable)
Trekking boots waterproof and breathable recommendable.
An extra pair of socks

Torso
Capilene, thermax, or polipropylene liner top. 1 pair
An fleece jumpers polartec 200, 300 or windstopper).
Shell jacket

Hardware
Lantern
Sun glases ( good ones )
Two bottles of policarbonate 2lts cap in between
Backpack at least 60 + 10 Lts of volume.
A swiss knife or multi use twezels
A lighter

Accesories
Personal hygiene kit
Personal First aid kit.
Sun Screen SPF 40 Or higher.
Alarm Waterproof watch.

Sleeping gear
Sleeping bag depending on type ans season of the trip
Rubber Sleeping Mattress
Documentation
Passport and/or permitt entrance.

Optional equipment(*)
Walkman
a book to read at basecamp
Pen and notebook
Film camera
Video camera
And secret pocket for your values and goods