The trek from Tilcara to Calilegua is one of the best treks in Argentina, taking you from the arid mountains of the Quebrada de Humahuaca to the lush jungle of the Yungas Jujeñas. In this guide, we tell you everything you need to know to plan and enjoy the trek from Tilcara to Calilegua.

It is ideal for those who are looking for incredible landscapes with the cultural and historical ingredient that is perceived during the whole experience. The trekking is considered demanding: it is approximately 70 kilometers, has a high altitude pass with more than 4100 meters above sea level, steep ascents as well as steep descents throughout the journey.

Why is it one of the best treks in Argentina?

The Tilcara Calilegua trekking is a unique experience involving:

  • Connection with history: You follow in the footsteps of the native peoples who used this route to trade between the ravine and the jungle.
  • Diversity of landscapes: In just a few days, you go from the colorful mountains of the Quebrada de Humahuaca to the dense jungle of the Yungas.
  • Physical challenge: Ideal for hiking enthusiasts looking for a demanding but rewarding adventure.
  • Living culture: You get to know small towns, friendly people and traditions that are kept alive.

What is the best time of the year and how long does the tavesia last?

The best time to do this trek is between April and October, when the weather is drier and temperatures are cooler. It is best to avoid the summer months (December to March) because the rains can complicate the trail and make it dangerous.

The tour is done in 4 or 5 days, depending on your pace and how you want to enjoy the experience, although in our proposal for the Trekking from Tilcara to Calilegua you will find a detailed itinerary, below we suggest 3 places to spend the night during the journey:


Wayra wasi: A refuge in the ravine

After overcoming 4000 meters of altitude through the pass of the condor, Wayra wasi is a magical place to rest after a first demanding day of trekking. This small rural outpost is known for its tranquility and breathtaking views of the gorge.

  • What it offers:
    • Shared rustic lodging with bunk beds and mattresses.
    • Possibility to enjoy home-cooked meals.
  • About the location:
    • It is ideal to rest after a first day of trekking.
    • Perfect point to adapt to the rhythm of the crossing.

Molulo: A hidden paradise

As you advance in the trek, the landscape changes, and Molulo is one of the most special stops. This small village is nestled in the transition between the puna and the yungas jungle.

  • What it offers:
    • Simple shared accommodations with bunk beds and mattresses.
    • Total disconnection experience: no cell phone signal, only nature.
    • Possibility of short walks in the surroundings, such as the school or the cemetery.
  • About the location:
    • Ideal to recharge your energy before facing one of the most demanding parts of the trekking.
    • From here, the landscape begins to change, preparing you for the jungle that awaits you in Calilegua.

San Lucas: Discover the mountain jungle

San Lucas is another key point in the trek from Tilcara to Calilegua. This town surrounded by lush vegetation, sounds of nature and lots of tradition, is the last place to stay before the end of the trek.

  • What it offers:
    • Family and economic lodgings, with options for all budgets.
    • Authentic atmosphere full of history and tradition.
    • Homemade food and typical dishes of the region.
  • Why choose San Lucas:
    • It is a strategic place to rest before reaching Peña Alta/San Francisco where the trek concludes.
    • You can learn about life in the villages of the area and share with their inhabitants.
    • You are immersed in the biodiversity of the yungas, with birds, butterflies and impressive vegetation.

What to bring for the Tilcara Calilegua Trekking?

Here is a basic list so that you don’t miss anything, considering that you will eat and sleep in shelters:

  • Footwear: Comfortable, well-worn trekking boots (no new shoes on a long hike).
  • Clothing: Layers for the cold of the altitude and light clothing for the jungle, it is essential to bring a waterproof-breathable layer. We recommend you to read this article on Layered clothing.
  • Protection: Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses and insect repellent.
  • Equipment: Large backpack, sleeping bag, insulator, capacity to carry up to 3 liters of water and elements to purify it.
  • Food: Energy snacks, nuts, chocolate and light food for the road.
  • Others: First aid kit, GPS/Track on the phone, flashlight and spare batteries.

In our proposal for the Tilcara to Calilegua Trek you will find a complete equipment list.


With or Without Guide?

If you have no experience in trekking or do not know the area, hiring a guide is highly recommended.

In Huka we have the best proposal for you to enjoy trekking from Tilcara to Calilegua guided by professionals in a safe way and without taking care of anything, enjoying and respecting nature and sharing with local people.


Final Tips for Tilcara Calilegua Trekking

  • Train before: This is not a trek for beginners – be prepared!
  • Respect people and nature: Take your garbage with you, don’t make fires and take care of the environment, respect the culture and beliefs of the local people.
  • Hydrate well: At high altitude and with the physical effort, it is key to drink plenty of water. To learn more about how the body reacts to altitude, we recommend reading this article: Preparing body and mind for altitude.
  • Enjoy the process: Don’t rush. Stop to rest, take pictures and connect with nature.

In Summary

The trek from Tilcara to Calilegua is an adventure that challenges you physically and mentally, but gives you landscapes, stories and experiences that you will not forget. It is for those who want to get out of the comfort zone and live something authentic.

Plan your trip, prepare your backpack and dare to live this unique journey! And if you have already done it, tell us your experience in the comments.

See you on the road!

Trekking in Aconcagua

Mount Aconcagua, the highest mountain in America, is an emblematic destination for trekking and nature lovers. Among the many options it offers, there are two routes that stand out especially for those who want to experience this Andean giant without trying to reach its summit: the Trekking to the Mirador de la Pared Sur and the Trekking to Base Camp (Plaza de Mulas). These experiences allow you to explore and get to know the park’s majestic surroundings, enjoy impressive views of its most important glaciers, and experience the spirit of adventure characteristic of high altitude camps.

Below, we tell you everything you need to know about these two unmissable routes, as well as useful information on prices, equipment and tips for planning your excursion to Cerro Aconcagua.


Aconcagua Short Trek: Viewpoint of the South Wall

The trek to the Aconcagua South Wall Lookout is perfect if you are looking for a few days tour and enjoy the breathtaking views of this mountain. It is one of the most popular options for those who want to experience the park environment without embarking on the long trek to Aconcagua Base Camp, such as Plaza de Mulas.

Technical details of the trekking to the Mirador de la Pared Sur:

  • Duration: 2 to 3 days (round trip).
  • Distance: About 8 to 12 kilometers, depending on the itinerary.
  • Maximum height: Approximately 4,100 meters.
  • Difficulty: Easy to Moderate. Ideal for people with no previous experience and good physical condition.

You must spend at least one night at Camp Confluencia. The most exciting point of the tour is to reach the viewpoint, where you will have a privileged view of the imposing South Wall of Mount Aconcagua, one of the most famous and admired faces by mountaineers. From here, you will be able to observe the hanging glaciers and connect with the highest mountain in America.


Trekking to Aconcagua Base Camp: Plaza de Mulas

If you have more time and are looking for a greater challenge, the trek to Aconcagua base camp, known as Plaza de Mulas, is the best alternative. This is the base point for climbers attempting the summit, but it is also a stand-alone attraction for those who wish to enjoy unique landscapes in a multi-day adventure.

Technical details of the trekking to Plaza de Mulas:

  • Duration: 4 to 6 days (round trip).
  • Total distance: Between 35 and 45 kilometers, depending on the itinerary.
  • Maximum height: 4,300 meters (Plaza de Mulas).
  • Difficulty: Moderate, due to the altitude and the distance covered. Ideal for people in good physical condition.

This trek to Aconcagua base camp is ideal if you are looking for a more intense experience. You will enjoy the spectacular scenery and views of the glaciers at base camp, sleeping in Confluencia and visiting the Mirador de la Pared Sur to better acclimatize to the altitude before the ascent to Plaza de Mulas.


Aconcagua 2025 Trekking and Permits Prices

Aconcagua trekking has a cost that varies depending on the duration, the type of route and the services included. Here is an approximate idea of the prices for 2025:

Additionally, aTrekking Permit must be paid to enter the Aconcagua Provincial Park.


Best Time for Trekking Cerro Aconcagua

The austral summer, between December and March, is the best time for any trekking on Mount Aconcagua. During these months, weather conditions are more stable, with higher temperatures and less chance of precipitation.

However, do not forget that temperatures in the mountains can drop rapidly, especially in the afternoon or at night. Always wear appropriate clothing, ideally using the layering system to cope with sudden changes in weather.


Necessary Equipment for the Trekking

Whether you choose to trek to Aconcagua base camp or a shorter route such as the Mirador de la Pared Sur, it is essential to have the right equipment to ensure your safety and comfort:

  • Footwear: Waterproof and comfortable trekking boots.
  • Clothing: Layered clothing (warm clothes, waterproof jacket, gloves, hat).
  • Hydration: Water bottles and water purification tablets, as mountain water may not be safe to drink untreated.
  • Sun protection: Sunglasses, hat and high protection sunscreen.
  • Specific equipment: trekking poles, 30-40 liter backpack, warm and insulating sleeping bag (if you sleep in a tent).

Frequently Asked Questions about Aconcagua Trekking

Is it necessary to hire a guide for the Aconcagua trekking?

It is not mandatory for shorter routes, but it is recommended, especially if you are not familiar with the terrain. For longer routes, such as the hike to Aconcagua base camp (Plaza de Mulas), an experienced guide is suggested.

2. Is there wifi or cellular signal in the Aconcagua campsites?

Limited wifi services are available at some of the main campsites, such as Confluencia and Plaza de Mulas. Cellular signal is very weak or non-existent in most of the park, so it is advisable not to rely on it and to plan any important communication before entering the park.

3. What services are available at the Aconcagua camps?

In campsites such as Confluencia and Plaza de Mulas, you will find basic services and some additional ones:

  • Chemical or ecological toilets: Available in all main camps.
  • Rest areas: Domes or tents equipped for resting, with 220v electricity and wi-fi.
  • Meals: The guided services include full board during the trekking.
  • Medical assistance: There are medical checkpoints at the main camps to monitor acclimatization and attend to emergencies.

How long does it take to acclimatize?

Acclimatization depends on each person, but we recommend at least one day of rest at an intermediate camp such as Confluencia, before continuing on to Plaza de Mulas or higher altitudes.

5. What kind of food should I bring for the trekking?

For day treks, you can carry a light lunch, energy snacks such as granola bars, nuts and dried fruits. For longer routes such as base camp, it is advisable to bring light, easy to prepare and high in calories. If you hire an agency, meals are included in the service, which is an advantage for not carrying so much weight.

6. How cold can it get during the trekking?

Temperatures on Aconcagua vary depending on altitude and time of day. On the Mirador de la Pared Sur trek, temperatures can range from 5°C to 20°C during the day, but drop to near 0°C at night. At Plaza de Mulas, nights tend to be much colder, with temperatures reaching -10 °C or lower. Wear appropriate clothing to cope with these changes.

7. Are mules available to transport equipment?

Yes, on the trek to Plaza de Mulas base camp you can hire the services of mules to transport your equipment and reduce the weight to be carried. The price of this service varies according to the distance and the total weight to be transported.

8. What happens if I feel sick during the trek?

If you experience symptoms of altitude sickness or any other physical problem, it is important to report it immediately to your guide or camp staff. At the main camps such as Confluencia and Plaza de Mulas, there are medical checkpoints where your condition can be evaluated and, if necessary, a descent can be coordinated for your safety.


Why Choose Aconcagua for Your Next Adventure?

The Cerro Aconcagua treks are not only a sporting experience, but an opportunity to connect with America’s highest mountain at its best. From short routes like theShort Trek to the Mirador de la Pared Sur to longer challenges like theAconcagua Base Camp Hike, this mountain has something to offer to all levels of adventurers.

Now you know everything you need for your trekking to Mount Aconcagua, get ready, pack your backpack and live an unforgettable experience in the Mendocino Andes!

Moderate (3+)
5 days | 4 nights