Standing 6962m above sea level, Aconcagua is the tallest mountain in the Andes and tallest in the western hemisphere. Despite its great altitude, it is possible to climb Aconcagua with no previous mountaineering expereince. This allows a complete novice the chance to experience the challenge that is climbing above 20,000 ft.

Many people read one of the many exciting mountaineering books and think "I wouldn't mind giving that a go". The problem that stops most in their tracks is : Where do you start in such a complicated sport with such serious consequences for any mistakes. This article shows how the average person can get a taste of climbing at altitude.