If you’re dreaming of standing atop a 16,896-foot (5150-meter) peak with sweeping views of the Cordillera Blanca, this full-day tour from Huaraz might just be your ticket. For $140 per person, you’ll join a small group or private guide to make a relatively accessible mountain summit, with all safety gear and guidance included.

The standout features here are the breathtaking vistas from the summit—where you can gaze over giants like Huascarán and Chopicalqui—and the convenience of professional assistance and equipment that makes this climb suitable for beginners. However, bear in mind that this is a high-altitude trek, so some acclimatization beforehand is advisable.

This adventure suits travelers eager for a moderate challenge with an easy-to-reach mountain offering incredible views without the need for technical climbing skills. If you appreciate well-organized excursions that blend scenic beauty with a touch of physical activity, you’ll find this tour well worth considering.

Key Points

Accessible High-Altitude Climb: Suitable for beginners, with full gear provided.
Stunning Views: Panoramic vistas of Nevado Mateo and surrounding peaks like Huascarán.
Early Start: Begins with pre-dawn pickup for optimal viewing conditions.
Expert Guidance: Bilingual guides ensure safety and local insights.
All-Inclusive: Includes breakfast, snacks, and climbing gear.
High Altitude Awareness: Requires acclimatization and physical readiness.

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Introduction to the Nevado Mateo Climb

Starting from Huaraz, a hub for outdoor adventures in the Andes, this full-day excursion takes you on a scenic drive to the base of Nevado Mateo, a mountain that’s as accessible as it is impressive. For just $140, you get a comprehensive experience that includes transportation, gear, a guide, and the thrill of reaching a significant summit with stunning panoramic views.

What makes this trip appealing is how it balances effort with reward. Unlike technical climbs requiring years of experience, Nevado Mateo is categorized as an easy hike to a high elevation, making it attractive for those who want a taste of mountain climbing without the complexity. The tour emphasizes safety and comfort, providing all necessary equipment, meaning you can focus on enjoying the scenery and the sense of achievement.

A couple of key perks stand out. First, the early start (departing around 2:45 AM) means you’re hitting the trail in the cool pre-dawn hours, giving you the chance to soak in spectacular sunrise views. Second, the bilingual guides make the experience accessible whether you’re a Spanish speaker or English-speaking traveler.

One possible drawback is the high altitude—at over 5,000 meters, some may experience altitude sickness if not properly acclimatized. So, travelers should prepare accordingly. This tour is best suited for those in decent physical shape and eager to enjoy a moderate yet memorable mountain experience.

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How the Day Unfolds

Early Morning Pickup and Drive to Ulta Valley

Your adventure begins well before sunrise, with a pickup from your hotel in Huaraz. The journey north to the Ulta Valley takes roughly two to three hours, but it’s part of the charm as the landscape shifts from city streets to rugged mountain scenery. As you ascend, the crisp air and panoramic vistas start to build anticipation.

Once in the Ulta Valley, at Punta Olimpica, you’ll find the base of Nevado Mateo at roughly 15,420 feet (4700 meters). Here, you’ll likely have a quick breakfast and gear up, preparing for the hike ahead.

The Ascent: Hike through Moraine and Reach the Summit

The hike itself is designed to be manageable—passing through moraines and rocky terrain—yet it leads to one of the best viewpoints in the area. The guide, who will provide personal climbing equipment such as crampons, harnesses, and helmets, ensures safety and comfort.

The climb to the summit takes around 2-3 hours, depending on your pace, but the effort is well worth it for the panoramic sweep of the surrounding peaks. Once at the top, at 16,896 feet, you will be rewarded with extraordinary views of the snow-capped peaks of the Cordillera Blanca, including Huascarán, the highest peak in Peru.

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The Descent and Return

After soaking in the views and taking plenty of photos, you’ll descend back to the base, then return to Huaraz. The whole day runs about 12 hours, so be prepared for an early and full schedule. It’s a demanding day, but the sense of accomplishment and the scenery make it memorable.

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What Travelers Love About This Tour

Feedback consistently highlights the stunning views as the main allure. As one reviewer put it, “We loved the way the summit provided breathtaking vistas of the mountains that look like they’re straight out of a postcard.” The opportunity to stand on a mountain top with minimal technical skill required is a rare gem in high-altitude trekking.

Another aspect travelers appreciate is the well-organized logistics—the tour handles transportation, gear, and guiding, allowing you to focus on the experience. The bilingual guides are often praised for their professionalism and friendly attitude, making the entire day more enjoyable and informative.

What to Keep in Mind

Despite its many positives, this tour isn’t for everyone. The high altitude can cause discomfort, so proper acclimatization is vital. Also, the early start might be challenging for some, especially after a late night or if you’re not an early riser.

While the tour covers all the essentials, it’s essential to bring warm clothing, windbreaker, sunglasses, hiking shoes, sunscreen, rain gear, gloves, waterproof shoes, snow clothing, and a hat. The weather in the mountains can change rapidly, so packing appropriately is key.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Pickup and Drive (Pre-Dawn)

Starting at 2:45 AM or similar, depending on the day, the tour begins with a hotel pickup in Huaraz. The drive north into the Ulta Valley is scenic, with the landscape gradually transforming from the city to rugged mountain terrain. As you leave behind the lights of Huaraz, the anticipation builds.

Base of Nevado Mateo

Arriving at Punta Olimpica, you’ll find a small breakfast stop. This is where the real preparation begins—fitting gear and getting ready for the hike. The guide will brief your group on the route, safety protocols, and altitude considerations.

The Hike to the Summit

The hike through moraine and rocky terrain is designed to be manageable for beginners, yet exhilarating. The group will pass through striking glacial formations and rocky landscapes, gaining elevation gradually. The path is not technically difficult but requires a good level of fitness and comfort at high altitudes.

Reaching the Top

Once at the summit, you’ll be provided with time to marvel at the panoramic views—a sweeping vista of snow-capped giants including Chopicalqui, Contrahierbas, and others. Many reviews mention how the visual payoff justifies the early morning effort.

Return Journey

After taking in the scenery and snapping photos, you’ll descend back to the base, where the bus waits to take you back to Huaraz. Expect to arrive late afternoon or early evening, tired but inspired.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $140 per person, the tour provides a full-day experience packed with transportation, professional guidance, safety equipment, and meals. The inclusion of climbing gear—such as crampons and helmets—means you won’t need to rent or bring your own, which simplifies packing and planning.

Compared to more technical climbs, Nevado Mateo offers accessible high-altitude views without hefty price tags or advanced skills, making it a fantastic option for those new to mountain trekking. The trip also delivers breathtaking scenery that rivals more challenging climbs, making it a worthwhile splurge for nature lovers.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This excursion is perfect if you want to experience high-altitude mountain views without technical climbing. It’s ideal for beginners or those wanting to test their physical limits in a safe environment. Travelers with some acclimatization and good health will enjoy the day most.

If you’re short on time but craving a full day of adventure, or if you want to see extraordinary vistas of the Cordillera Blanca, this trip fits the bill. It’s also well-suited for travelers who prefer organized, guided experiences that handle logistics and safety.

The Sum Up

For those seeking a well-organized and spectacular mountain experience in Huaraz, the Nevado Mateo climb ticks many boxes. It offers a manageable challenge that rewards you with panoramic views and a sense of achievement. The included equipment and professional guidance make it accessible, even for less experienced hikers.

While it’s a long day, the early start and high-altitude summit are part of what makes this experience special. The views are truly picture-perfect, and the sense of standing atop a mountain with snow-capped giants stretching in every direction is something you’ll carry home.

This tour provides excellent value for the cost, especially given the scenery, safety, and guidance involved. It’s best suited for travelers ready to handle altitude, looking for a moderate but memorable adventure in the stunning Peruvian Andes.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, Nevado Mateo is considered an easy hike to a high summit, suitable for beginners with good fitness and proper acclimatization.

What should I bring for the climb?
Bring warm clothing, windbreaker, sunglasses, hiking shoes, sunscreen, rain gear, gloves, waterproof shoes, snow clothing, and a hat. Weather can change rapidly at this altitude.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a bilingual guide, a basic first aid kit, breakfast and snacks, personal climbing gear, and group equipment like ropes and anchors.

Are meals provided?
Yes, breakfast and a snack are included as part of the tour. Food and drinks not mentioned are on you.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts about 12 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the late afternoon or evening.

Is a reservation necessary?
Yes, booking in advance is recommended. You can cancel up to 24 hours beforehand for a full refund, and options are available to reserve now and pay later.

What about altitude sickness?
Since the tour takes place over 5,000 meters, some travelers might feel ill. Proper acclimatization before the trip is highly recommended to enjoy the experience fully.

Is the tour private or in groups?
Both options are available, with small or private groups providing a more personalized experience.

If you’re eager to see spectacular mountain vistas without technical climbing skills, this Nevado Mateo tour is a solid choice. It combines adventure, scenic beauty, and professional guidance in one well-organized package.