Things to consider
- Experience: how much climbing have you done in the past? Do you know how to belay or abseil?
- Time: do you want a half day excursion, or a multi-day trip?
- Location: do you want views of the vast Patagonian steppe, or an impressive mountain backdrop?
- Guide: do you want to hire a guide so you can try some more adventurous routes?
Where to go Climbing in Patagonia
Rock Climbing in Frey
Looming granite spires of immaculate rock, ice blue lagoons and the peace that only a 4 hour walk in can bring, Frey is an immense climbing wonderland for anyone seeking an …
Rock Climbing in El Chalten
The epicentre of Patagonian climbing, El Chalten is home to a vast number of routes on many climbers' bucket lists. From big mountain multi-pitch routes to easier mountaineering…
Rock Climbing in Piedra Parada
Home to over 300 sport climbing routes from f4 to f9a+, as well as various multi-pitch trad routes up its iconic pinnacle, Piedra Parada is a climber's paradise, perfect …
Charlie says
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I spend every weekend climbing, and take multiple climbing trips abroad each year. So I was super excited to go and climb in Patagonia, and it certainly didn't disappoint! The highlight for me was the amazing granite multi-pitch routes at Aguja Frey. With lovely technical moves and beautiful mountain views, what's not to love?!
Charlie Low Climbing Specialist
Types of Climbing
Multi-pitch climbing
Multi-pitch climbing is the linking of several sections of climbing via belay points to enable the ascent of a longer route. The iconic towering granite spires of Patagonia make the perfect playground for any multi-pitch climber. From easier, non-committing and shorter routes up Aguja Frey to epic winding climbs with committing walk-ins for only the most experienced climbers, there is something for almost every level of climber in Patagonia. If you have a specific rock climbing goal in mind, the more time you have the better, as weather can be unpredictable and you may need to wait for a good window.
Sport climbing
Although Patagonia is typically known for its adventurous mountaineering and impressive multipitch climbs, there is a plethora of really good quality sport climbing in a number of areas around Patagonia. A few days sport climbing could be perfect if you have a bit less experience but are keen to sample the Patagonian rock.
Mountaineering
The Patagonian Andes are the perfect playground for any mountaineer. Whether you want to don ice axes and crampons to tackle a demanding technical ascent, or summit your first volcano, Patagonia is the place to do it.
Our favourite climbing trips
What our customers think
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Getting to the summit of Madsen & rock climbing, bouldering and just doing life with our guide - amazing!
Julie & Nic Hawaii November 2016
Climbing in Patagonia: Your Questions Answered
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When should I go?
The best time for climbing in Patagonia is summer; in winter there is usually too much snow for technical rock climbing. Typically the climbing season runs from November - February/March, depending on whereabouts in Patagonia you will be climbing.
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How long do I need?
Trips can run anywhere from a half day to two weeks or longer, so you can make it as short or long as you want! As the weather in Patagonia can be finnicky, it is best to plan a few extra days for a climbing trip, as a shorter trip could be cancelled due to bad weather.
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Do I need to be experienced?
You don't need to have any climbing experience although this will affect the kind of trip you will be able to do. If you have no previous belaying experience, you will only be able to do single pitch routes, or alternatively, you could consider organising a longer trip where you can learn basic belaying and abseiling skills before attempting a multi-pitch route. If you already have experience belaying and abseiling, you will have a lot more options open to you.
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What equipment do I need?
The equipment you will need to bring will depend on the kind of trip you do. If you are only planning to do a half day excursion, then all equipment will be included. However if you are planning a multi-day trip, you will usually need to bring your own shoes and harness. All ropes and other technical equipment will be provided by the guide, and usually helmets and crampons too (though we would recommend checking this when you book).
Swoop Says
Ready to plan your Patagonia adventure?
Whatever your budget, group size, length of stay, preferred activity or appetite for adventure, we can help.