Exploring the White Mountains: Huaraz’s Full Day Snowy San Mateo Tour

Imagine waking before dawn, packing your warm layers, and heading out for a day that promises stunning mountain panoramas and an authentic taste of Andean life. For $120, this full-day experience takes you through the rugged terrains surrounding Huaraz, culminating in an exhilarating trek to Nevado Mateo — a high-altitude wonder with glaciers, lakes, and views that will leave you breathless.

What we love about this tour is how it combines adventure with cultural insight. The drive through the scenic Callejón de Huaylas, and the visit to the Punta Olimpica Tunnel at 4,736 meters above sea level, sets the tone for an epic day. The second highlight is the safety and professionalism of the guides, who are not only certified but also eager to share their knowledge about the local environment.

A possible consideration is the early start — leaving Huaraz at 3:00 am — which might be tough for light sleepers or those less accustomed to high-altitude travel. However, for adventure seekers and nature lovers, this is a chance to see the mountains in a rare, quiet dawn light.

This tour is ideal if you’re eager for spectacular mountain vistas, glacier views, and a well-guided trek. It’s best suited for active travelers who don’t mind a moderate challenge and are prepared for high elevations.

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Key Points

Stunning mountain views: Includes peaks like Huascarán, Chopicalqui, and Contrahierbas.
Full-day adventure: From early morning departure to afternoon return, packed with scenic stops.
Expert guides and safety gear: Certified professionals ensure a secure experience.
Authentic experience: Combines natural beauty with cultural insights along the way.
Moderate difficulty: Suitable for those comfortable with 2.5 hours of trekking at high altitude.
Breathtaking photo opportunities: Lagoons, glaciers, and panoramic mountain vistas everywhere you turn.

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The Journey to Nevado Mateo: A Detailed Breakdown

Early Departure and Scenic Drive

The day begins with a 3:00 am pickup at Plaza de Armas in Huaraz, setting the stage for a long but rewarding journey. We loved the way the drive unfurls through the Callejón de Huaylas, a lush valley flanked by towering peaks. This drive isn’t just transportation; it’s part of the adventure, offering glimpses of local life and stunning landscapes. The roughly 2.5-hour trip to Punta Olimpica Tunnel is a highlight, especially as you cross the highest trans-Andean tunnel in the world at 4,736 meters.

Crossing the Punta Olimpica Tunnel

Once at the tunnel, your guide — with a friendly demeanor and expertise — will give safety instructions and gear briefing. You’ll put on helmets, harnesses, and boots, preparing for the ascent. From this point, the scenery becomes even more dramatic. The air is thinner here, so altitude awareness is key.

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Ascending to Nevado Mateo

The ascent involves a well-marked zigzag path that leads you toward the glacier. Our guide performed the roping system, a safety measure that gave us confidence even on rocky or icy sections. You’ll use crampons and an ice axe once on the glacier — the equipment is supplied but you’ll learn how to use it properly. During the climb, expect to see spectacular views of surrounding peaks like Huascarán South and North, Chopicalqui, and Ulta. These mountains seem to rise directly from the clouds.

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Reaching the Summit

The effort is rewarded as you reach the summit, where the panoramic views are nothing short of spectacular. You’ll see lagoons like Pacllash and Chacllacocha, with the entire Ulta ravine spreading out beneath you. The sunrise, if timed well, will paint the snow-capped peaks in a golden hue, creating photo moments that will stay with you forever.

Descending and Return

After soaking in the views and capturing some photos, the descent follows the same route. The guide ensures everyone’s safety, and the group’s pace is manageable. The bus waits at the bottom to return us to Huaraz, arriving around 3:00 pm, tired but exhilarated.

What’s Included and What Not

The cost covers transportation, a certified mountain guide, safety equipment, and a box lunch — all essentials for a day of high-altitude trekking. However, you’ll need to pay a small entrance fee (30 soles or about $9 USD), and breakfast and additional meals are not included, so plan accordingly. Personal expenses, souvenirs, or extra activities are also on you.

The transportation is shared, which keeps costs reasonable and offers an opportunity to meet fellow travelers. The group size tends to be moderate, ensuring personalized attention from guides. The early start is a trade-off for the spectacular scenery, but it’s worth it if you love catching the mountains in their quiet, dawn-lit glory.

The Experience for Different Travelers

This tour is a great fit if you’re physically active and enjoy mountain landscapes. It’s especially appealing for those seeking a full-day adventure with professional guidance, rather than a self-led trek. The moderate difficulty means you should be comfortable with a 2.5-hour hike at high altitude, and the altitude itself might be a challenge for some. But don’t worry — the guides are experienced and attentive to safety.

It’s perfect for travelers eager to see iconic peaks and glaciers up close, and for anyone wanting a memorable story to tell from the Andes. If you’re interested in photography or simply love mountain views, this trip offers ample opportunities for stunning shots.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

In our opinion, this tour offers outstanding value for the price. You get a full day of guided exploration, breathtaking vistas, and the thrill of reaching near 5,200 meters. The scenery, including glaciers and lagoons, is stunning enough to justify the early start and effort. The guides’ professionalism and safety measures make this accessible even for those who aren’t expert trekkers.

If you’re craving a high-altitude adventure with spectacular mountain views and cultural insights, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a guided experience that takes the stress out of planning, while still offering genuine encounters with the Andean landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the drive from Huaraz to Nevado Mateo?
The drive takes approximately 2.5 hours from Huaraz to the Punta Olimpica Tunnel, crossing scenic landscapes along the way.

What should I bring for the trek?
Bring a passport or ID, a cap or chullo, layered clothing (long sleeve shirt, polar sweater, down jacket), trekking pants, wool gloves, sunglasses, sunblock, and a small backpack to carry essentials.

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
It’s considered moderate difficulty, with some rocky and icy sections, but guides provide instructions and equipment. Comfort with high-altitude trekking is recommended.

Are meals included?
A box lunch is provided, but breakfast and other meals are not included. You can buy additional food in Huaraz or pack snacks.

What is the best time of day to see the sunrise?
The sunrise occurs during the ascent, so early morning is best for catching the first light hitting the peaks — a truly memorable sight.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making this a flexible option if your schedule shifts.

In The Sum Up

This Full Day Snowy San Mateo Tour in Huaraz offers an incredible combination of spectacular mountain scenery, professional guiding, and cultural richness. It promises an adventure that’s both physically rewarding and visually stunning, with ample opportunities for photography, wildlife sightings, and quiet moments in nature.

It’s most suitable for active travelers who appreciate rugged landscapes and don’t mind an early start. If you’re seeking a memorable high-altitude experience that showcases some of Peru’s most iconic peaks, this tour delivers. Just prepare for the altitude, dress warmly, and bring your sense of adventure.

Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a spirited explorer eager to see the Andes from a new perspective, this day in Nevado Mateo will surely be a highlight of your trip to Huaraz.