From Huaraz || Climbing Nevado Mateo in Cordillera Blanca ||

From Huaraz || Climbing Nevado Mateo in Cordillera Blanca ||

Imagine waking up in the early hours of the morning, the air crisp and the promise of adventure hanging in the cold. For those of us drawn to Peru’s towering peaks, the climb of Nevado Mateo offers a fulfilling challenge that combines breathtaking scenery with a tangible sense of achievement. Starting from Huaraz, this tour takes you on a day trip that’s perfect for beginners and seasoned climbers alike, especially if you’re eager to stand atop a five-thousand-meter mountain with panoramic views.

At a cost of $115 per person, this experience is a solid investment for a full day of mountain adventure. What we truly appreciate is how well it balances guided expertise, authentic mountain scenery, and accessibility—making high-altitude mountaineering more approachable. Two standout details: the chance to see the sunrise over the Cordillera Blanca and the opportunity to look down on Cancará lagoons from the summit.

A potential consideration is the early start time at 3:00 am, which might be a challenge if you’re not an early riser or prefer a more relaxed pace. Also, you’ll need to carry some personal clothing and gear, but the tour provides high-quality equipment. This tour is best suited for those with a taste for adventure, some physical fitness, and a willingness to embrace the mountain’s unpredictable conditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Accessible High-Altitude Climb: Suitable for beginners and experienced climbers, with guided support.
• Early Morning Start: Adventure begins pre-dawn, offering spectacular sunrise views.
• Expert Guidance Included: Certified guides ensure safety while sharing mountain insights.
• All Equipment Provided: Helmets, crampons, boots, and gloves are included for a seamless climb.
• Limited Group Size: Small groups (max 10) help personalize your experience.
• Value for Money: For $115, you get transportation, guide, equipment, and a memorable summit.

The Itinerary and What You Can Expect

Early Departure and Scenic Drive

The day kicks off at 3:00 am, with a comfortable pickup from your hotel. From there, it’s about 2.5 hours of scenic driving northeast towards the snow-capped peaks of the Cordillera Blanca. You’ll pass through charming towns like Carhuaz and Shilla, and venture into the vast expanse of Huascarán National Park—a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its dramatic landscapes.

This early start might seem tough, but it’s worth it for the chance to see the mountains waking up. The drive alone offers views of snow-dusted peaks and lush valleys, setting the tone for the day ahead. The vehicle is permitted into the park, saving you the hassle of navigating public transportation.

Approaching the Base and Preparing for Climb

Around 6:00 am, you’ll arrive at Punta Olímpica, where the real adventure begins. The group will hike along a moraine for approximately an hour, soaking in the landscape of glaciers and jagged peaks. This part of the trail is straightforward and helps acclimate your body for the climb.

At the glacier’s edge, your guide will help you put on crampons and other technical gear—all provided—readying you for the ascent. The guide’s experience is invaluable here, ensuring your safety and helping you navigate the icy terrain.

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Climbing to the Summit

The climb itself takes about an hour to reach the top, where you’ll be greeted with views of Contrahiervas and the Cancára lagoons—small, shimmering bodies of water that contrast beautifully against the snow and ice. The summit offers a great vista and the thrill of standing atop a five-thousand-meter mountain.

The descent follows the same route, allowing you to absorb the changing views as you go. The entire summit experience, from base to top, is a mix of physical challenge and awe-inspiring scenery. A hot drink is offered before the climb, warming you up and giving you a bit of comfort before the ascent.

Return and Relaxation

After descending, you’ll hop back into the vehicle around 2-3 pm, heading back to Huaraz. Expect to arrive by approximately 4:00 pm, tired but triumphant, with plenty of stories and photos to take home.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This trip includes an experienced high mountain guide—crucial for safety and local knowledge—plus transportation permits into Huascarán National Park. You’ll also get mountain equipment like helmets, harnesses, ice axes, crampons, and sturdy La Sportiva boots. The guide will also provide a hot drink to warm your spirit before the climb.

However, you’ll need to cover the $30 park entrance fee yourself, and bring your own personal clothing—such as mountain pants, a down jacket, or Gore-Tex gear. The tour emphasizes that you should be prepared for cold and possibly wind, even if the weather seems clear in the valleys.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re looking for a moderate challenge in a stunning setting, this climb is a solid choice. It’s especially great for beginners wanting to test their mountain legs or anyone who appreciates a guided experience that takes care of the technical details. The small group size offers an intimate atmosphere and personalized guidance, which many travelers appreciate.

This experience suits those who are comfortable with early mornings, physical activity, and are eager to see spectacular mountain vistas. If you’re after a more relaxed day or don’t wish to carry personal gear, you might prefer less physically demanding options, but for a true high-altitude adventure, this really hits the mark.

Practical Considerations and Tips

• Physical Fitness: While not the most demanding climb, ascending to 5,000 meters requires some stamina and a good attitude toward altitude.
• Clothing: Layering is key; bring thermals, a warm jacket, gloves, and hat. The tour provides essential gear, but personal clothing is up to you.
• Timing: The early start means you’ll need to be ready for a very early wake-up, but it allows you to enjoy the sunrise and beat the crowds.
• Weather: Mountain weather can be unpredictable—be prepared for cold, wind, or sudden changes.
• Booking: The tour is limited to 10 participants, so booking in advance ensures your spot.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour For You?

If you’ve ever dreamed of reaching a high-altitude peak in a stunning mountain range, this climb offers a manageable yet rewarding challenge. It’s a fantastic way to experience Cordillera Blanca’s drama without the need for multiple days or advanced technical skills. The inclusion of expert guides and quality equipment makes this experience safer and more accessible.

It’s a perfect adventure for moderately fit travelers with an interest in mountain scenery and a sense of adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or an enthusiastic beginner, the chance to stand atop Nevado Mateo and take in the spectacular views is a memory worth making.

FAQ

What is the starting time for this tour?
The tour typically departs around 3:00 am, but you should check availability for exact times, as they can vary.

What should I wear?
Bring personal clothing suitable for cold weather, such as thermal layers, a down jacket, gloves, and a hat. The tour provides technical gear like helmets and crampons.

How long does the climb take?
The ascent to the summit takes roughly an hour, with extra time for preparation, breaks, and enjoying the views.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, it is designed to be accessible for those with some fitness and a willingness to embrace high-altitude conditions, guided by experienced professionals.

Are meals included?
The tour offers a hot drink before starting, but no other meals are included, so consider bringing snacks.

What is the cost?
$115 per person, which covers transportation, guides, equipment, and a hot drink.

What is not included?
You need to pay the S/30 park entrance fee and bring your own personal clothing.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

This guided climb of Nevado Mateo offers a perfect mix of challenge, scenery, and expert support, making it a worthwhile choice for travelers eager to add a mountain summit to their Huaraz journey. Prepare well, set your alarm early, and get ready for an unforgettable high-altitude adventure in the Cordillera Blanca.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby