Overview
Program Structure
Prices, Details and Dates
Related Courses

Patagonia Icefield Expedition

Overview

The immense ice cap of southern Patagonia remains one of the moste beautiful mountain areas in the world. Encompassing vast glaciers, hundreds of peaks, and some of the most specacular and difficult summits on the planet, the area exerts an intense draw on our instinct for exploration and adventure. This expedition includes an ascent of Gorra Blanca (9514ft/2900m), spectacular and rare views of the huge west face of Cerro Torre, and a short traverse of the eastern section of the Patagonian Ice Cap.

Sunset on the Fitzroy Group from the Patagonian Ice Cap. AAI Collection

This is a spectacular journey from the beginning to the end with wildlife viewing opportunities, travel through varied ecosystems, and a climb onto one of the world's largest ice masses. In addition to this, you will enjoy the constellations of the southern sky, a sea of ice punctuated by elegant peaks that few have seen, and close-up views of truly awe-inspiring mountains that are among the world's most beautiful and challenging. Like our other Patagonia programs, this is an excellent expedition for photography, and the adventure of a lifetime.

Patagonia Icefield Expedition

Program Structure

8-Day Expedition
Estimated Distance Covered: 62m/100km
Backpack Weight: 65lbs/30kg (porters available for additional cost to reduce pack weight)
Difficulty: Strenuous
Baseline winter camping and simple glacer skills required.
Pricing is ratio-based.
Timeframe: September-March

Objectives

The primary goal of this program is to traverse a piece of the Patagonian Ice Cap or Icefield. We do this by walking on trails, talus, glaciers and steep snow slopes. In addition to this, we must cross rivers -- sometimes on a zipline -- and we must move in all sorts of different weather conditions.

A successfull ascent of Gorra Blanca is the icing on this spectacular cake.

The Icefield Expedition is a physcially demanding program, but not a terribly techncial one. Those who have climbed moderate glaciated peaks successfully like Mt. Baker, Mt. Rainier or Cotopaxi should have the right physical fitness for this trip.

Patagonia Climbers

A group of climbers enjoying some breathtaking views during their Patagonia Ice Field Expedition. Merlin Lipshitz

Weather

The wind in the area is sometimes referred to as "the broom of God." It is for this reason that we have devised a 10-day itinerary. You'll note that there are two additional days built in to accomodate for weather or to add rest days.

It is important to note that part of the reason this area is so beautiful is because it is hit by high winds and storms regularly.

Patagonia Icefield Expedition

Prices, Details and Dates

$7500 - one person
$3950 - two or more people

Dates:

Currently, these programs are being offered on a private basis only. The program is available from September through March. Contact the AAI office for availablity - [email protected] or 360-671-1505.

Prerequisites:

Excellent physical condition

Previous experience camping in a wintery backcountry environment

Multi-day backpacking and/or mountaineering experience

Previous glacier travel experience

Inclusions:

Four Season Tents

Cooking Equipment, Fuel, Stoves and Expedition Meals

Snowshoes

Glacier Equipment: Crampons, Harness, Ropes, Shovel, etc.

Sledge/Sled

Communications Device (inReach/VHF Radio)

Expedition First Aid Kit

Transfer El Chaltén-Río Eléctrico

Exclusions

Transportation from El Calafate to El Chaltén

Lodging at El Chaltén

Porters (available upon request)

Personal Equipment

Alcoholic Drinks

Gratuities

Personal Travel and Rescue Insurance

Services Not Specified