Expedition to the Uruguayan team’s plane
Visit the extreme place where an airplane accident inspired the Alive book and film.
Are you ready to follow the tracks of this story? In 1972, an airplane taking the Uruguayan rugby team crashed in the Andes mountain range. The survivors were left isolated in the high mountains. They endured extreme weather, food shortage, the constant death of their teammates, waiting for a rescue that never arrived. Finally, two of them crossed the mountains, reached Chile, and made what seemed impossible come true.
Are you passionate for trekking and exploration? Do you dare to reach the spot of the accident? Join this expedition and cross the Valle de las Lágrimas. Walk along trails, rest in mountain shelters, cross rivers on foot or on horseback, climb for hours, and find the remains of the plane. Feel the thrill of walking around a landscape as beautiful as it is extreme. Live this adventure at El Sosneado, province of Mendoza.
Geographic location: Province of Mendoza, Cuyo region.
How to get there: The city of El Sosneado, where the expedition starts, is located 140 kilometers away from San Rafael. From there, take Ruta Provincial 144, then Ruta Nacional 40, and finally Ruta Provincial 101.
Altitude: you will reach 3,600 meters above sea level.
Climate: Semi-arid, with scarce rainfall and a wide temperature range.
Recommended length of stay: 4 to 7 days.
Recommended clothing and gear: Technical mountain climbing gear, prepared for strong winds and sharp temperature changes.
Tips: Check with local operators the different options for this expedition, which may vary as regards number of days and kind of services.