ACONCAGUA
MULE SERVICE
Andesport owns and operates its own mule train, providing reliable
luggage and cargo transport between Horcones, Confluencia, and
Plaza de Mulas. Certified commitment to animal welfare.
Why Are Mules Essential on an Aconcagua Expedition?
Between Horcones and Plaza de Mulas there are more than 40 km (25 miles) of high-altitude mountain terrain. Carrying all the equipment required for an 18–22 day expedition would leave most climbers exhausted before even reaching Base Camp.Mule transport is the standard and most efficient solution for moving expedition gear safely across the mountain.The difference between a company that outsources mule services and one that owns and operates its own animals is significant: guaranteed availability, healthy animals, experienced muleteers, and reliable logistics.At Andesport, we own every mule we use on Aconcagua. This allows us to maintain complete operational control and guarantee dependable service, even during the busiest weeks of the climbing season.
How Does the Mule Service Work?
Our mule service operates along the main access routes to Aconcagua.
🟦 NORMAL ROUTE
• Puente del Inca → Confluencia
• Puente del Inca → Plaza de Mulas
• Plaza de Mulas → Horcones
🟨 VACAS VALLEY ROUTE
• Punta de Vacas → Pampa de Leñas → Casa de Piedra → Plaza Argentina
• Plaza Argentina → Punta de Vacas
• Plaza Argentina → Punta de Vacas → Puente del Inca → Plaza de Mulas (360 Route)
What Can Be Transported?
✓ Expedition backpacks and personal luggage.
✓ Sleeping bags and technical clothing.
✓ Camping equipment (tents, sleeping pads, and stoves).
✓ Food and expedition supplies.
✓ Photography and communication equipment.
Weight Limit:Each mule can carry up to 50 kg (110 lb) of total load.
For heavier loads or larger expeditions, multiple animals are
assigned to ensure safe and efficient transport.
Confluencia
0
mts
Plaza de mulas
0
mts
Plaza argentina
0
mts
Plaza francia
0
mts
Animal Welfare
Our mules are part of our team.
✓ Proud participant in the Aconcagua Animal Welfare Program
We follow responsible and ethical mule management practices throughout every expedition,
ensuring the highest standards of animal care.
✓ Proud participant in the Aconcagua Animal Welfare Program
We follow responsible and ethical mule management practices throughout every expedition,
ensuring the highest standards of animal care.
At Andesport, caring for our mules is not just part of our operation—it's one of our core values.Because we own every mule we work with, we are able to guarantee the highest standards of animal welfare throughout the climbing season.
Every animal receives regular veterinary care, proper nutrition, controlled workloads, and mandatory rest periods.Once the climbing season ends, our mules spend the rest of the year resting in their natural environment.
Our Animal Welfare Standards Include:
✓ Regular veterinary check-ups
✓ Strict weight limits
✓ Scheduled rest periods
✓ Continuous monitoring of every animal
✓ Responsible operating practices throughout the season
Your Mule Service Also Includes
✓ Mule transport for your equipment to Aconcagua Base Camps.
✓ Assistance with obtaining your Aconcagua Provincial Park climbing permit.
✓ Transportation to Horcones, the starting point of your Aconcagua expedition.
✓ Permanent radio communication between Base Camps, Penitentes, and Mendoza for coordinating return mule services.
✓ Restroom facilities available at Base Camps.
✓ Wi-Fi access and VHF radio communication at Base Camp.
✓ Assistance with waste removal from the mountain.
Who Needs Mule Service?
✓ Guided expeditions booking complete logistics with Andesport.
✓ Independent teams with their own guides who need luggage transport.
✓ Independent climbers who prefer not to carry all their expedition equipment.
✓ Trekkers visiting Plaza de Mulas Base Camp who want to hike with a lighter pack.
✓ Tour operators and travel agencies requiring logistical support for their groups.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I book mule service without joining a guided expedition?
Yes. Our mule service can be booked independently for any Aconcagua expedition or Base Camp trek.
Do the mules go all the way to the summit?
No. Mules operate only as far as Plaza de Mulas (4,370 m), the Base Camp of the Normal Route, or Plaza Argentina, the Base Camp of the Vacas Valley Route. Above Base Camp, all equipment must be carried by climbers or high-altitude porters.
How much equipment can one mule carry?
Each mule can safely transport up to 50 kg (110 lb) of total load. Tell us about your expedition, and we'll determine how many mules you'll need.
Is the service available throughout the climbing season?
Yes. Our mule service operates throughout the official Aconcagua climbing season (November to March). We recommend booking in advance, especially during the peak season.
What happens if bad weather prevents the mules from operating?
In the event of severe weather, operations may be temporarily delayed. Our logistics team continuously monitors mountain conditions and will keep you informed of any changes as early as possible.
Need Mule Transport on Aconcagua?
Whether you’re joining a guided expedition or climbing independently, Andesport provides reliable mule transport backed by more than 35 years of experience on the mountain.
Our team will help you organize the safest and most efficient logistics for your expedition.