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.
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
Patagonia Icefield Expedition Related Courses
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