Patagonia Ascent

Cerro Gorra Blanca

  • Cerro Gorra Blanca

Within the Southern Patagonian Ice Field, we find this striking white mountain, known for its beauty, stunning views, and classic Patagonian weather.

The strong humid northwest winds create the characteristic “ice mushrooms” that make this ascent a great challenge for climbers seeking a unique and demanding experience.

  • Duration: 4 days
  • Pax: 1 or 2 climbers
  • Recommended season: October to March

Included Services

  • UIAGM / IFMGA certified guide
  • Expedition meals
  • Tent
  • Cooking equipment
  • Group technical gear
  • GPS
  • VHF and satellite communication
  • Personal technical gear (helmet, snowshoes, harness, crampons, carabiners, ice axes)
Not Included Services
  • Rescue insurance (participants must have their own coverage)
  • Sleeping bag
  • Sleeping pad
  • High mountain boots
  • Backpack
  • High mountain clothing
  • Meals outside expedition days
  • Hotel
  • Rescue insurance is not included. Participants must have their own coverage (see Terms & Conditions).
Attention: National Park entry fees are not included in this program. You can purchase your tickets at APN – National Park Website.
PROGRAM

The day before the expedition there is a brief meeting with the guide to check equipment and finalize details.

Day 1: Río Eléctrico Valley – La Playita

We drive 15 km to the bridge over Río Eléctrico, northwest of El Chaltén, the starting point of our approach to Marconi Glacier.

The first two hours follow a well-marked trail along Río Eléctrico through Ñire and Lenga forest. At Piedra del Fraile camp we leave the forest and enter a glacial valley with views of Marconi Pass.

From this point onward there is no vegetation to protect us from the wind, and the trail becomes more demanding. We contour Lake Eléctrico along its southern shore until reaching Río Pollone. After crossing the river, we hike one more hour to La Playita where we set camp.

  • Distance: 12 km (approx. 6 hours)
  • Elevation gain: 50 m

Day 2: Marconi Glacier – Paso Marconi

At first light we begin our daily routine: breakfast, packing, and departure. Depending on conditions, we ascend via Marconi Pass or through Laguna de los 14.

Once on the glacier, crampons and ropes are used to safely navigate crevasses and steep slopes of ice and hard snow.

This is one of the most technical and demanding days due to terrain variability (rock, ice, snow) and strong winds channeled by the glacier from the Ice Cap and Pacific Ocean.

Camp is set at Marconi Pass (1600 m), offering spectacular sunset and sunrise views over Fitz Roy, Cerro Pier Giorgio and the Ice Cap.

  • Distance: 10 km (7–9 hours)
  • Elevation gain: 800 m
  • Camp: Paso Marconi

Day 3: Marconi Glacier – Gorra Blanca Summit

Early start to take advantage of optimal glacier conditions. We move across the ice field surrounded by crevasses and seracs until reaching the west shoulder leading to the summit.

Near the summit, we face technical sections shaped by strong humid Pacific winds. From the top we enjoy outstanding views of the Ice Cap and surrounding peaks.

We descend back to base camp. Depending on conditions, we either stay overnight or continue down to La Playita.

  • Distance: 22 km (8–9 hours)
  • Elevation gain: 1400 m ascent
  • Camp: Paso Marconi or La Playita

Day 4: Marconi Glacier – El Chaltén

Return to El Chaltén following the same approach route.

  • Distance: 22 km (approx. 8 hours)
  • Descent: 900 m
DIFFICULTY

Physical difficulty: Alpine terrain, including steep scree slopes, rock climbing sections, moraines, glaciers, and snow. Elevation gain of 1000 m or more.

Technical skills: Glacier experience required. Proper use of crampons and ice axe is necessary.

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Note: You can check our Difficulty Levels, General Information and Terms & Conditions for more details before booking.