Nido de Condores - 18,330ft/5.590m Climbing to Nido

The climb to Nido de Condores is typically done twice, once as a day hike from Base Camp, for acclimatization, and once to camp. A more agressive schedule will eschew the intermediate camp of Plaza Canada and make Nido the first high camp. The trail to Nido is very steep, although not technical. There are actually a number of sites around Nido proper which are used since there is a large level area to the left of the trail, south of the ridge, as well as the ridge itself and some saddle shaped areas more to the right. The decent from Nido to base camp after the acclimatization hike is swift, although it will not seem so for most hikers exhausted from the climb up. Climbers typically ascend via a series of switchbacks, which make the ascent managable, and descend via more directly vertical paths of scree. Going downhill, the scree is very gentle on sore knees and tired muscles.

Nido is not without its charms. It is the first opportunity to see the view at the other side of the mountain. There are several glacier-covered peaks in view, some of which are incredibly steep and dramatic. Sunset is also a spectacle not to be missed in fine weather.

Nido camp            Sunset

-> to Berlin Camp

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