Mount Aconcagua

Mount Aconcagua is the highest mountain in South America. It stands 22,837 feet tall in the Andes Mountains of Argentina. It is also the tallest mountain in the entire Western Hemisphere. Many climbers try to reach its peak every year.

A Giant Mountain

Aconcagua is part of the Andes, the longest mountain range in the world. The mountain is near the border of Argentina and Chile. Its peak is covered in snow and glaciers all year round. Strong winds and cold temperatures make climbing it very challenging.

Climbing Aconcagua

Aconcagua is one of the Seven Summits, the tallest mountains on each continent. Many climbers travel from around the world to try to reach the top. The climb usually takes about two to three weeks. Climbers must get used to the thin air at high altitude.

Fun Facts

• Aconcagua is the tallest mountain outside of Asia.
• The name Aconcagua may come from a native word meaning stone sentinel.
• The youngest person to climb Aconcagua was only 9 years old.

Did You Know?

Even though Aconcagua is very tall, it is not a volcano. It was pushed up by the same forces that built the Andes Mountains!