Piuquenes Pass (Andes Crossing)

Following the historic path used by the Army of the Andes in 1817, this 6-day trans-Andean expedition traverses the central cordillera from Mendoza, Argentina, to the Cajón del Maipo in Chile. The route crosses two significant high-altitude barriers—Portillo Argentino (4,330m) and Paso Piuquenes (4,030m). Hikers move through a high desert landscape of volcanic rock, vast glacial valleys, and the powerful Tunuyán River. The terrain consists primarily of rocky mountain paths, loose scree on the steeper pass approaches, and high-altitude plateaus where exposure to wind and sun is constant.

The landmark that defines a city. While most visitors take the cableway, hikers know that the true magic of Table Mountain is earned on its slopes. This guide covers the two highly recognizable routes: Platteklip Gorge (the 'Stairway to Heaven') and India Venster (the adventurous 'Backdoor'). Reaching the flat-topped summit at 1086m offers 360-degree views of the Atlantic, the Twelve Apostles, and the vast city below.