UKC

Hola amigos,

I was wondering if anyone here has had any experience of having to hire gear for Aconcagua in Mendoza?

I'm a driver for an overland travel company, and am based out in South America... I've had a load of cancelled trips and so as it lands me in Santiago at the right time of year, I thought it'd be a great opportunity to get myself up Aconcagua. Unfortunately as I never thought I'd get the chance to do anything out here apart from the odd few day treks etc., all of my winter gear is stashed away in a loft in England, which means I've got to either hire or buy the gear to do it (preferably the former...).

If anyone's had experience or any suggestions for where to hire good gear in Mendoza that would be great, I'm onto one place but it's good to have some options to email ahead before I rock up - am going to need pretty much everything such as boots, crampons, axe, sunglasses, jacket, etc.

Muchas gracias! Sam

In reply to Sam Dragoman:

There are plenty of places. The older traditional place is Orviz: http://www.orviz.com/ but others are good too. There are several lesser places along Ave Las Heras - it runs perp to the main ave (San Martin) in the city centre and turns into Ave Juan B Justo where Orviz is.

Also along the main pedestrian mall, Paseo Sarmiento, there are several gear shops that mostly sell, but also rent gear. Plastic boots, crampons and axes are all no problem, but you may end up having to buy some clothing. The stuff there is good quality, not as cheap as it should be in those shops, but OK. A bit out of the way, but good, is: http://www.chamonix-outdoor.com.ar/

In reply to Damo:

Hi there Damo - thanks very much for the info, those two websites have everything I'll need so will give them a ring so it's not all last-minute. Buying some stuff will be fine, could do with re-stocking some mountain clothing anyway... I've a bit of time in Mendoza so can have a wander down Las Heras as well, have the rather strange luxury of having an overland truck at my disposal for those out of town places too!

Thanks again, this is all very much appreciated - all the best, Sam