ACONCAGUA 2026

INTERNATIONAL EXPEDITION FOR LUNG TRANSPLANT PATIENTS

 

ABOUT THE PROJECT

Aconcagua 2026 is an unprecedented high-altitude expedition involving lung transplant patients and medical staff from across Europe. The expedition is scheduled for 11 to 29 January 2026 and aims to demonstrate what is medically possible after a lung transplant.

Participants will attempt to climb Aconcagua (6,960 m) in Argentina – the highest peak in the Americas and one of the Seven Summits. The project combines physical challenge, scientific research and public relations work.

 

PARTICIPANTS

  • Up to 50 participants (approx. 15 transplant recipients and 35 accompanying persons)
  • From 8 countries
  • Including doctors, nurses, physiologists, filmmakers and researchers

 

GOALS

  • Inspire and encourage transplant recipients
  • Promote organ donation worldwide and raise awareness
  • Conduct scientific research on high altitude and lung transplant physiology
  • Document the journey through professional film and media recordings

 

EXPEDITION SCHEDULE

Arrival in Mendoza: 11 January 2026

Briefing and preparation: 12–13 January

Trekking and ascent: 14–28 January

Return journey: 29 January 2026

COST ESTIMATE (PER PARTICIPANT)

  • Expedition logistics (Furtenbach Adventures): €6,090
  • Hypoxic tent rental (5 weeks): €1,200
  • International flights (estimated): €1,600
  • Climbing permit: €850
  • Rescue insurance: €650
  • Equipment (if necessary): €2,000
  • Estimated total cost: €11,500–12,000 per person

 

ADDITIONAL PROJECT COSTS

  • Film production: €50,000–60,000
  • Scientific equipment, logistics, insurance: €100,000
  • Total budget: ~€700,000

 

REQUIREMENTS FOR PATIENT PARTICIPATION

  • 1 year after lung transplant
  • Normal lung function (e.g. ergospirometry ≥100%)
  • Experience with high altitudes (>3,000 m)
  • No serious comorbidities
  • Medical clearance certifica

 

CONTACT & SUPPORT

Dr. Peter Jaksch

Medizinische Universität Wien

E-Mail: peter.jaksch@meduniwien.ac.at

Spenden & Sponsoring über: Verein Lunge Aktiv

IBAN: AT65 12000 10018987577

BIC: BKAUATWW

 

PARTNERS & SPONSORS

  • Medizin: ISHLT, ESOT, ERS, ÖGP, MUW, ATX
  • Unternehmen: Sanofi, Chiesi, Novartis, Biotest, Paragonix, Therakos, bioMérieux
  • Öffentlicher Sektor: Österreichisches Sportministerium, Hochegg-Krankenhaus
  • Veranstalter: Furtenbach Adventures GmbH

 

MEDIA & PUBLIC RELATIONS

  • TV documentary
  • Social media campaign: @AktivLunge
  • Press coverage in several countries
  • Conference presentations (medical/scientific)

 

WHY SPONSOR?

  • Unique visibility in the fields of health, science and adventure
  • International media exposure
  • Clear focus on innovation, hope and organ donation
  • Engagement with a motivated, multinational medical community