Argentina
Camping Los Penitentes
Established Campground
Perched below the dramatic spires that give Los Penitentes its name, this campground serves as the primary staging area for serious mountain adventures. Sites are basic but functional, with fire rings, picnic tables, and shared bathroom facilities. The thin air and stark mountain landscape create an otherworldly atmosphere that’s distinctly high-altitude Argentina.
Located along Ruta Nacional 7 just 165 kilometers from Mendoza, the campground operates year-round but can be brutally cold in winter. The adjacent ski resort provides additional services during season. Many overlanders use this as a acclimatization stop before attempting the Chilean border crossing at Cristo Redentor.
High-altitude Aconcagua staging ground
Place Details
| Type | Established Campground |
|---|---|
| Street address | Ruta Co. Navarro Norte, Los Andes, Valparaiso Region, Chile Get directions → |
| Elevation (ft) | 8530 ft |
| Nearest town | Puente del Inca, Mendoza |
| Miles from pavement | 0.3 mi |
| Minimum vehicle | Any vehicle |
| Access road surface | Gravel |
| Cell service | None |
| Capacity (# of rigs) | 30 rigs |
| Cost (USD/night, 0 = free) | $800.00 / night |
| Reservation required | No |
| Stay limit (nights) | 30 nights |
| Best season | November-March |
| Land manager | Private |
| Permit required | No |
| Amenities | Fire ring, Picnic table, Toilets |
| Coordinates | Open directions |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |