An almost compulsory ritual for most expeditions is to pay a visit, before attempting the ascension of Aconcagua, to the Mountaineers’Graveyard where many of America’s colossus’ casualties lie. The graveyard occupies a small plot located on the southern edge of the Argentinian-Chilean, Mendoza to Santiago, motorway ,at a distance of 1,5 km from Puente del Inca and 6 km from Penitentes.
At the graveyard, expeditioners render silent homage to the men and women who lost their lives while trying to conquer America’s highest peak. A Christian white cross on a small mound dominates the place, set amidst a valley that winter covers with about two metres of snow. Those intent on the great feat of reaching the summit , elevate a prayer from this peaceful place, asking that “Güssfeld lucky star” illuminate and protect them. Administrative responsibility and political jurisdiction on the graveyard lies with Las Heras Municipality.

This site is dedicated to the memory of my son Gonzalo Diego Lopez R.I.P 21-1-1983 / 16-2-2001 www.gonzalodlopez.com.ar and 114 climbers died in Aconcagua