From Ancash: Climbing to Snowy Peak Mateo |Full Day|

The Ancash region of Peru is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, and the opportunity to conquer the snow-capped Pico Mateo is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. This full-day adventure promises an exhilarating ascent, as climbers navigate rocky terrain and icy glaciers, culminating in breathtaking summit views at an impressive altitude of 5,150 meters. With experienced guides and essential climbing gear provided, adventurous souls can embark on this challenging yet rewarding journey, seeing the grandeur of the Peruvian Andes. But what awaits those brave enough to take on this thrilling expedition?

This experience made our list of the 11 Best Full-Day Tours In Huaraz.

Key Points

• Climb to the stunning 5,150-meter summit of Pico Mateo in Peru’s Ancash region, with a full-day adventure including transportation, guide, and climbing gear.
• Experience a challenging ascent on rocky terrain and icy glaciers, requiring previous climbing experience and good physical condition.
• Enjoy breathtaking views from the summit and take a scenic 3-hour drive from Huaraz to the starting point at Punta Olímpica.
• Tour offered in both English and Spanish, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Restrictions apply for certain age and health conditions to ensure safety during the climb.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Overview

The activity, "Climbing to Snowy Peak Mateo", offers a full-day adventure in the stunning Ancash region of Peru.

Reaching an impressive altitude of 5,150 meters, this challenging climb takes adventurers to the summit of Pico Mateo. The activity is priced from $134.00 per person and includes round-trip transportation from Huaraz, an experienced mountain guide, and all necessary climbing gear.

Participants must have previous climbing experience and be in good physical condition, as the route involves traversing rocky terrain and icy glaciers.

Cancellations can be made up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and the activity is offered in both English and Spanish.

Location and Altitude

Ancash, a captivating region in Peru, sets the stage for the "Climbing to Snowy Peak Mateo" adventure.

This exhilarating activity takes place at the impressive Pico Mateo, standing tall at an altitude of 5,150 meters. Nestled within the Ancash region, this glacial peak offers a challenging yet rewarding experience for outdoor enthusiasts.

The journey begins in the town of Huaraz, where participants embark on a three-hour drive to the starting point at Punta Olímpica. From there, the ascent begins, navigating through a rocky, vertical moraine before reaching the glacier and summiting the peak.

The breathtaking views from the top are a testament to the natural beauty of this Andean wonder.

Tour Duration and Pricing

This climbing adventure to Snowy Peak Mateo spans a full day, from the early morning departure in Huaraz to the late afternoon return. The tour costs from $134 per person and includes round-trip transportation, an experienced mountain guide, all necessary climbing gear, park entrance fees, and a first aid kit. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour is offered in English and Spanish.

Duration	Departure	Return
1 day	3:00-3:30 AM	3:00-4:00 PM

The tour’s physical and age requirements ensure the safety and enjoyment of participants. Climbers must have prior experience and be in proper physical condition for this challenging high-altitude ascent.

Cancellation Policy and Languages

Frequently, the tour operator offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This policy provides flexibility for those who may need to change their plans at the last minute.

The tour is available in both English and Spanish, catering to a diverse range of participants. With guides fluent in these languages, communication during the climb is seamless, ensuring everyone can fully understand the instructions and safety protocols.

This inclusive approach makes the experience accessible to a wider audience, allowing more adventurers to conquer the snowy peak of Mateo.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Departure and Transport

The early-morning departure from Huaraz kicks off the day’s adventure, as participants embark on a 3-hour drive to Carhuaz and then Punta Ol??mpica. The journey takes them through scenic landscapes, offering a glimpse of the region’s natural beauty before the real challenge begins.

Departure	Transport	Duration
3:00 – 3:30 a.m.	Drive to Carhuaz, then to Punta Ol??mpica	3 hours
Ascent begins at 5:30 a.m. after equipping	Climb moraine (rocky, vertical path) for approx. 2 hours to glacier	Glacier ascent takes 1.5 to 2 hours
Descent takes approximately 2.5 hours back to transport	Return to Huaraz by 3-hour drive, ending tour between 3:00 – 4:00 p.m.	–

Ascent to the Summit

After the drive to the starting point at Punta Olímpica, participants begin the ascent to the summit of Pico Mateo.

The group starts the climb at 5:30 a.m., following a rocky, vertical moraine path. This initial ascent takes around 2 hours to reach the glacier.

Participants then equip themselves with mountaineering gear, including crampons, ropes, and ice axes, before tackling the glacier. The glacier ascent takes an additional 1.5 to 2 hours.

Once at the summit, the group spends a few minutes taking photographs before beginning the 2.5-hour descent back to the transport.

Descent and Return

Following the summit stay, the descent back to the transport commences. The descent via the glacier takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, with the group carefully navigating the icy terrain.

Upon reaching the moraine, the party will:

1. Remove their mountaineering gear, such as crampons and ice axes.
2. Descend the rocky, vertical path for around 2 hours.
3. Finally, the group will board the transport for the 3-hour drive back to Huaraz, arriving between 3:00 and 4:00 p.m.

The descent is a crucial part of the journey, requiring the same level of caution and skill as the ascent to ensure a safe return.

Requirements and Restrictions

Not all individuals may be suitable for this climbing expedition to Snowy Peak Mateo. The activity has several physical requirements and restrictions to ensure the safety and success of the trek. Participants must have prior experience in climbing and be in appropriate physical condition. The activity is not recommended for those with vertigo, pregnant women, people with recent surgeries, or individuals over 70 years of age.

Physical Requirements	Age Restrictions
No vertigo	Not suitable for pregnant women
Appropriate physical condition	Not suitable for recent surgeries
	Not suitable for individuals over 70

Health and safety are paramount, and the tour operator will provide the necessary mountaineering gear and a first aid kit for the expedition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Option to Rent Mountaineering Gear?

Yes, the activity includes the necessary mountaineering gear like boots, crampons, harnesses, ice axes, helmets, carabiners, and ropes, which are provided to participants as part of the package. So there’s no need to rent additional gear.

Can I Join as a Solo Traveler?

Yes, travelers can join the Climbing to Snowy Peak Mateo activity as solo participants. The tour provider accommodates individual travelers and can assist with renting any necessary mountaineering gear for the climb.

What Is the Difficulty Level of This Climb?

This climbing activity has a moderate to challenging difficulty level. It requires experience in mountaineering, appropriate physical conditioning, and the ability to handle vertical moraine terrain and glacier ascents. It’s not suitable for inexperienced climbers or those with vertigo.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

No, there doesn’t appear to be an option to extend the tour duration. The itinerary clearly states the activity is a "Full Day" tour with a defined schedule from departure to return to Huaraz.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks?

Yes, participants can bring their own food and snacks for the tour. The inclusions mention that personal gear should include snacks and water, so bringing one’s own provisions is allowed and encouraged for the day-long activity.

Recap

Scaling the majestic Pico Mateo in Peru’s Ancash region offers an unforgettable adventure. Expert guides lead the way through rocky terrain and icy glaciers, culminating in breathtaking summit views at 5,150 meters. This full-day excursion, with round-trip transportation and necessary equipment, caters to experienced climbers seeking an exhilarating challenge amidst Peru’s stunning landscape.

You can check if your dates are available here: