Overview:
Venture into the alpine on a trip to Frey, Argentina. With myself, an AMGA Certified Rock Guide, and my wife Anju, a Spanish translator and experienced South American traveler, you'll be able to tag alpine summits and experience classic rock routes high above the pampas.
On this trip to Refugio Frey, you can expect splitter granite, alpine vistas, and a European-style hut experience.
Have you always dreamed of a Patagonian alpine climbing trip? But, perhaps not on the scale of Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre? Imagine the High Sierra's South American counterpart and you have Frey. Shorter approaches, needle shaped summits, perfect stone, and great history characterize Frey's climbing. Artisan food, cozy accommodations, and beer/wine for after climbing characterize the Refugio.
Although flexible, our baseline trip takes place over 8 days in Chile. With direct flights from the US to Buenos Aires, travel is safe and easy.
We begin by picking you up at the airport in San Carlos de Bariloche, where we will spend our first night in Argentina. Situated on Lago Nahuel Huapi, Bariloche is a welcoming tourist hot spot with plenty of dining and shopping options (and quite a few chocolate shops). This first evening gives us a chance to test out local cuisine and do a final gear check.
The next morning, we make an early departure for the trail head. We load up our packs with all the equipment needed and take off on the steep half-day hike to Refugio Frey. The Refugio is situated at the toe of Laguna Toncek, a beautiful alpine lake right beneath Torre Principal, the largest spire in the range. After checking in, we have the option to stay inside the hut or to camp nearby while still using the amenities provided. Depending on your climbing background and desire, we tailor the upcoming days to provide the best experience.
We have the chance to crag nearby or make longer (~2 hr) hikes to the alpine towers. The nearby cliffs vary from 10-60 minute approaches and offer a spectrum of difficulties, with the best and highest concentration being in the moderate (5.8-5.10) range. Like many of the towers, climbing on Torre Principal requires only one short section of 5.10a. Plenty of other, harder options can be found for those in need of a challenge.
On day 6 or 7, we pack up our bags and hike back down to Bariloche to celebrate our adventure.
Cost:
$6450 for 1 guest
$7450 for 2 guests
$8450 for 3 guests
Cost includes two guides, lodging, food, and ground transportation.
Cost does not include airfare, trip insurance, or gratuities.
Location:
Length:
8 days (custom trips offered, ask for details)
Season:
January
Experience Required:
Although not required, climbers should have experience climbing on granite. This trip is built for the intermediate (5.8-5.10) rock climber with experience outdoors.
Travel:
Flights are offered direct to Buenos Aires from major airports around the world. From there, it is a short connection to San Carlos de Bariloche. All ground transportation is included.
Equipment:
A gearlist will be provided after booking.
Questions? Don't hesitate to ask: info@akioanju.com
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