The Ecuadorean Andes has a favourable weather condition influenced by the low pressure systems coming from the Amazon basin and due to its position of the Andean range on the Equator. Ecuador is one of the few privileged countries in the world to offer climbing all year round, having two main seasons; one season between May and September when clear skies but strong winds influence the mountain ranges , and the second season offering easier climbing conditions between October and March when dominant winds and pressures drop allowing glaciers to recover with light snowfall or drizzle.
The climate and weather of the Cordillera Blanca are determined by the relationship between the moist air coming from the Amazon basin to the East and the drier desert air to the West. Except when disrupted by events such as the El Niño ocean current the year the divides into a dry season a wet season. The main climbing season is during the dry season which runs from May to September. During this period the weather cycle is very stable with several days of good weather followed by one of two of bad.
The main factor that controls the Bolivian climate are the Trade wind systems and the Andes. Temperature in the altiplano is a function of altitude, both in average levels and daily ranges. the average of 10 degree C at 4000 m /13200 ft can reach to 20 degree C by noon to then fall to -15 degree C at night. Arctic conditions prevail at 6000m / 19800ft. The Cordillera Real (Royal Range) climbing season runs from end of April until the first days of October.
Aconcagua being the highest summit in the Southern Hemisphere which is influenced by the Pacific Ocean visible as well from there. The Weather forecastre is classically based on four phenomena: cloudiness, barometric pressure, intensity of wind and wind direction. Wind data will be very affected in the Aconcagua by orography and differential exposure of the camp sites therefore conditions on Aconcagua change constantly. The climbing season is very short from November to March though the best months are December to February.
Be prepared for a wide range of temperatures, from freezing nights to snowy and windy conditions, to bright sunshine intensified by the high altitude. This wide fluctuation in temperature makes it important to bring everything on the equipment list.
PLEASE NOTE: Every effort will be made to keep to an itinerary, but as this is Outdoor Adventure Expedition in a remote mountain region, we cannot guarantee it. Weather conditions, road conditions, vehicle breakdowns and the health of climbers can all contribute to changes.
|
