Climbing Nevado Mateo

We start our day by picking you up from your hotel situated in the city of Huaraz or meeting at the designated gathering spot. From there, we set off on an approximately two-and-a-half-hour journey northeast of Huaraz, traveling through scenic routes that wind through valleys and charming villages.

Our route takes us through Carhuaz, famous for its artisanal ice cream, and the tranquil town of Shilla before we enter the majestic Huascarán National Park, a protected area that boasts some of the highest and most breathtaking mountains in the Andes.

Our ultimate destination is Punta Olímpica, a high-altitude mountain pass that offers stunning views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks and glaciers. Here, we will park and prepare for the hike while the guide conducts a safety briefing and gear check.

The first segment of our trek involves an approximately one-hour hike over rocky terrain, crossing the glacier's moraine. As you progress, you will be captivated by a surreal landscape where rugged rock formations contrast with the sparkling white ice.

Upon reaching the glacier base, it's time to gear up with crampons, harnesses, and ropes—vital equipment to ensure safety during the ascent. The guide will secure the group with ropes and provide final instructions before we commence the climb.

Now comes the most exhilarating part: ice climbing to the summit, a challenge that takes about an hour. As we ascend, the sense of achievement intensifies, and the views become increasingly spectacular. The blend of physical exertion, crisp mountain air, and the vastness of the landscape will make you feel like a true mountaineer.

Finally, we reach the summit of Nevado Mateo (5,150m), where you will be greeted with an absolutely breathtaking panoramic view. Dominating the scene is the impressive Nevado Contrahiervas, while in the distance, the stunning Cancará Chico and Grande lagoons shine in brilliant turquoise, set against the snowy backdrop.

This is the ideal moment to take a deep breath, capture unforgettable photos, and savor the satisfaction of conquering one of the most accessible peaks in the Cordillera Blanca.

After spending time at the summit, we begin our descent along the same path, carefully following the guide’s instructions to ensure a safe return. Once back at the glacier base, we remove our technical gear and hike back to our vehicle at Punta Olímpica.

From there, we board our transport back to Huaraz, where you can relax and relive the most thrilling moments of this unforgettable adventure.