NEVADO MATEO, at 5,150 meters (16,896 feet), is considered one of the easiest peaks to climb in the Cordillera Blanca and one of the best mountaineering objectives for acclimatization or physical preparation before attempting higher and more technical summits. The ascent does not involve highly technical climbing, making it an excellent introduction to high-altitude mountaineering for beginners and less experienced climbers who want to enjoy a true alpine experience in the Peruvian Andes.From the summit, climbers are rewarded with one of the most spectacular panoramic views in the Cordillera Blanca, including nearby peaks such as Huascarán, Chopicalqui, Chacraraju, Contrahiervas, Ulta, and even the distant but iconic Alpamayo, among many other impressive Andean summits.
Day 1: Huaraz – Transfer with private transportation to Punta Olímpica (4,800 m / 15,790 ft) – Trek to the beginning of the glacier (5,000 m / 16,450 ft) – Ascent to the summit (5,150 m / 16,940 ft) – Return to Punta Olímpica – Transfer with private transportation to Huaraz
Optional
If you wish, we can arrange & include in the program budget, hotel accommodations in Lima and Huaraz (please let us know your preferred hotel), as well as transportation to travel between Lima – Huaraz – Lima either by bus with Cruz del Sur or by flight with LATAM Airlines. Just let us know your preferences.
Is it for me?
Ideal for basic, intermediate & advanced-level climbers.
This beautiful peak is perfect for adventure enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable mountain experience and an exciting high-altitude journey.
Best suited for experienced and adventurous climbers who can adapt to higher altitudes and longer expeditions, as it requires excellent physical condition and proper acclimatization.
Restrictions
Not recommended for pregnant women.
Not recommended for climbers with heart conditions.
Not suitable for climbers with knee problems, as the climb requires good physical fitness and endurance.
Adicional notes:
Experience Required & Some Important Notes
Please note: The Climbing Nev. Mateo starts and ends in Huaraz. Please refer to the travel program for detailed information on how to travel to Huaraz.
This program: Is suitable for first-time climbers
Physical conditions: A good level of physical fitness, strong mental stamina, and the ability to perform intense physical activity for several consecutive days are required.
Previous basic mountaineering experience is not required, and prior backpacking experience is highly recommended
Altitude: High-altitude climbing affects everyone differently, and reduced performance is common. To support proper acclimatization, climbing days are generally kept short, and rest days are prioritized. Our gradual acclimatization program helps trekkers or climbers progressively regain strength and improve performance.
These summits are suitable for basic, intermediate and advanced-level climbers.
Trek & Climb Schedule: We will be active in the mountains for approximately full day, with an average of 4–5 hours of hiking & climbing.
Huaraz is at 3,050m/10,030 ft. Because of this, we highly recommend staying in Huaraz a few days before trekking departure to get a good acclimatization.
We highly recommend spending at least 2- or 3-days doing day hikes or day tours around Huaraz to allow for a gradual acclimatization process to the altitude and to help avoid altitude sickness.
DON’T let fear of altitude sickness stop you from enjoy your climbing expedition. Altitude sickness is an illness caused by exposure to low air pressure, which many people experience at high altitudes. Exerting yourself at high altitudes, especially if you have not been properly acclimated, can cause it, but with proper preparation, & gradual ascend you can be ready for the climbing expedition.
Guiding Ratio: In Peru, we climb with a 3:1 climber-to-guide ratio to ensure the individual attention needed during training and throughout the climbs.
Acclimatization Hikes
Proper acclimatization to altitude is essential before undertaking any Climbing expeditions in the Cordillera Blanca or Cordillera Huayhuash, in order to avoid loss of energy or altitude-related illnesses. Climbing above 5,000 meters is physically demanding, even when the terrain is not steep or highly technical. For any peak-climbing expedition in the Cordillera Blanca, we strongly recommend a minimum of 2–3 days of acclimatization before the ascent.
Acclimatization for Climbing
All climbing Expeditions programs in the Cordillera Blanca are physically demanding, as you will spend most of the time at elevations between 4,000 and 5,000 meters, with rapid altitude gain shortly after departing from Huaraz. Proper acclimatization is essential to reduce the risk of altitude-related illness.Our expeditions are carefully designed with a gradual acclimatization program to help your body adjust safely to the altitude. We recommend following the itinerary as planned. If you have extra time, arriving earlier is highly advisable so you can spend at least one full day resting and recovering from your journey before the expedition begins
We can also organize acclimatization day hikes for you—just let us know in advance.
Suggestions for Responsible Trekkers
If you are planning to visit our region, making the most of your experience starts with taking care of your health. The best way to enjoy the Andes safely is by following a proper acclimatization process as soon as you arrive in this high-altitude environment. This helps prevent altitude sickness and ensures a more comfortable and enjoyable journey. From our experience, your safety and well-being are always the top priorities, so you can feel confident and at ease while exploring far from home. We recommend a gradual acclimatization plan such as the following:
Day 1 — Easy hikes
Laguna Wilcacocha
Laguna Llaca
Laguna Parón
Laguna Rocotuyoc
Laguna Radian
Day 2–3 — Moderate hikes
Laguna Churup
Laguna 69
Laguna Hualcacocha
Following this step-by-step approach will help your body gradually adapt to the altitude, allowing you to fully enjoy your trekking experience with greater safety and comfort.
Itinerary · day by day
Detailed itinerary
Detailed day-by-day route with altitude, distances and campsite information.
LEGEND:
B
Breakfast
S
Snak
L
Lunch
T
Tea time
D
Dinner
Huaraz - Transfer with Private Transportation to Punta Olimpica at 4,800 m / 15,790 ft – Trekking to Begin of Glacier at 5,000 m / 16,450 ft – Ascent to Sumit 5,150 m / 16,940 ft – back to Punta Olimpica - Transfer with Private Transportation to Huaraz
approx. 4 hours (round trip)Transfer
approx. 2.6 kilometers (round trip)Trek
approx. 4–5 hours walk & ascend (round trip)Climb
approx. 9–10 hours totalDuration
Our climbing day begins with an early pick-up from your hotel in Huaraz at approximately 2:20–2:30 a.m. Then we drive north through the beautiful Callejón de Huaylas Valley toward the town of Carhuaz. From Carhuaz, we continue east along a paved mountain road through the scenic Ulta Valley until reaching the Punta Olímpica parking area at an altitude of 4,800 m (15,790 ft), the starting point of our climb to Nevado Mateo.
From the parking area, we will hike along a rocky trail toward the base of the glacier. Once there, we will put on our climbing equipment, including crampons, harness, helmet, and rope, before beginning the ascent of Nevado Mateo via its north face. The climb follows several snow slopes with a short but exciting ice section before reaching the summit. From the top, we will enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding peaks of the Cordillera Blanca. After a short break for photos and to admire the scenery, we will descend along the same route back to the parking area. At the end of the trek, we begin our return journey to Huaraz. Arriving at Huaraz around 1:00 and 2:00 p.m.
For private services, drop-off will be at your hotel
For group services, the tour ends near the Plaza de Armas.
Meals
S
OvernightHuaraz · hotel
3,050 m / 10,030 ft
The Itinerary above is just and suggested program. We are flexible you are completely free to build your own program, according to your necessity and preferences
Include · Not include · extras · what bring
Services of the itinerary
What is included in the cost?
Premium Experience
Private Service
Pre-departure briefing: One of our team members will come to the hotel to provide detailed information about the climb of Nevado Mateo. During this meeting, any questions or special requests regarding the climb can be addressed. The briefing will take place strictly at the scheduled time, 24 hours before the trip begins.
Private transportation for climbing Nevado Mateo: Round-trip private transportation between Huaraz – Punta Olímpica / Punta Olímpica – Huaraz. For groups of up to 3 participants, a 4×4 vehicle is used. Larger groups travel in a comfortable, modern van, depending on group size.
Private service includes – Hotel pick-up and drop-off: We provide pick-up and drop-off at your hotel according to the trip program. Pick-ups and drop-offs are included only for hotels located in the downtown area. For hotels outside the downtown area, additional charges may apply depending on the location.
Bilingual mountain guide: An experienced international bilingual mountain guide, certified by AGMP, UIAGM, and IFMGA, will accompany you on the climb of Nevado Mateo. Your guide will ensure your safety, comfort, and peace of mind, allowing you to fully enjoy the climb without worry.
Medical kit and safety: Our crew will carry a complete first-aid kit, and all climbing guides are trained in first aid. Your guide will always have a personal first-aid kit and oxygen to handle basic emergencies such as altitude sickness, traveler's diarrhea, cuts, or scrapes. If necessary, we will evacuate you promptly and ensure you receive proper treatment at a clinic or hospital.
Group climbing gear: All essential group climbing equipment and protective hardware are provided, including ropes, snow pickets, ice screws, and all other supplies necessary to ensure a safe and well-supported summit attempt.
Technical equipment: Personal climbing equipment, including crampons, harness, ice axes, and helmet (4 items per person).
Emergency oxygen bottle: (optional).
Radio and cell phone communication: Our main priority is always the safety of our clients and team. All guides are trained for the most common problems on the mountain. In case of an emergency, we use cell phone coverage where available and radio communication to contact our office in town, ensuring everyone feels safe and supported.
We will create a lifetime experience for you.
Standard Choice
Group Service
Pre-departure briefing: One of our team members will come to the hotel to provide detailed information about the climb of Nevado Mateo. During this meeting, any questions or special requests regarding the climb can be addressed. The briefing will take place strictly at the scheduled time, 24 hours before the trip begins.
Transportation: Group transportation provided for the climb of Nevado Mateo, including round-trip service between Huaraz – Punta Olímpica – Huaraz.
Group size: Typically 3–9 participants, often combined from different tour operators.
Group service includes – Hotel pick-up: We provide pick-up from your hotel according to the trip program. Pick-ups are included only for hotels located in the downtown area. For hotels outside the downtown area, additional charges may apply depending on the location.
Guides: A mountain guide will accompany you on climbing day. Your guide will ensure your safety, comfort, and peace of mind, allowing you to fully enjoy the climb without worry.
Technical equipment: Personal climbing equipment, including crampons, harness, ice axes, and helmet (4 items per person).
Group service: The tour ends near the Plaza de Armas in Huaraz.
What doesn't included
Transfer in lima (lima airport – lima hotel – airport (arrival & departure day)
Booking Ho(s)tel for accommodation in lima
Transfer in lima (lima hotel – bus station to Huaraz – lima hotel (arrival & departure day)
Booking Bus or flight ticket to transfer from (Lima – Huaraz – Lima)
Transfers in Huaraz (transfer from Huaraz airport or bus station – Huaraz hotel – Huaraz bus station or airport (arrival & departure day)
Acclimatization program around Huaraz (laguna Paron, laguna Rocutuyoc, Glaciar Pastoruri + laguna 69, Laguna Churup or another similar hikes)
Entrance fee ticket or trekking permits (30 soles per participant) valid for 01 day
Meal and beverages during the stay in Huaraz (breakfast – lunch & dinner)
Personal Climbing equipment for the ascents of Mateo (Climbing Boots, Snow Gloves, Sun Glasses and Other Items .. see the the item what to take)
Breakfast during the climb: take some crackers, energy bars, bar of chocolate, etc.
Take enough money for the lunch average of 15 – 20 soles per person
Miscellaneous expenses: Breakfast, lunch, dinner during your stay in Huaraz
Extra Snacks during the trip
Additional expenses:
Optional excursions
Phone calls, internet access, laundry service and other personal expenses
Personal first aid kit: Recommended for your safety and comfort during the trip.
What to bring
Clothing & Layers
Approaching or hiking shoes: A good pair of hiking shoes is the most important piece of gear for your trek expedition. Poorly fitting shoes can lead to lost toenails, painful blisters, and sore feet. Choose footwear that fits well and is already broken in. As a guideline, B0 or B1-rated shoes are advisable. There are many reliable brands on the market, including Millet, Salewa, La Sportiva, The North Face, Simond, Lowa, and others.
Climbing boots: for most non-technical 5,000–5,500 m peaks, a B2-rated mountaineering boot is the sweet spot: stiff enough for semi-automatic crampons (C2), warm enough for glacier travel and alpine starts, but still comfortable for long approaches. B2 boots typically have a rear heel welt for hybrid crampons. Best lightweight B2 option: La Sportiva, Scarpa, millet, lowa, Quechua or many other similar.
Socks: We recommend bringing a pairs of socks for your approach shoes. Many people also prefer wearing a thin liner sock underneath, as it can help reduce friction, prevent blisters, and improve overall comfort
Underwear
Quick-drying base layers: A synthetic base layer is recommended over cotton or wool for better moisture management. Long sleeves are preferable for added protection and warmth.
Lightweight cotton or synthetic pants: Cotton or synthetic hiking pants are suitable for trekking and provide comfort and flexibility & moving around camp
Mid-layer: A medium-weight fleece or synthetic insulated jacket for warmth and layering. (such as: PrimaLoft, Polar Tec, or merino wool).
Down or micro-down jacket: Suitable for cold conditions and high-altitude temperatures providing essential warmth in cold conditions (optional but highly recommended).
Lightweight waterproof shell jackets (e.g., Gore-Tex): are highly recommended for protection in cooler conditions. Reliable brands include Patagonia, Mammut, Eider, Millet, Marmot, Symonds, and others. (this can be rented in Huaraz)
Waterproof over-trousers (e.g., Gore-Tex): pants with side zippers are highly recommended. It’s also worthwhile to have lightweight synthetic climbing pants with a durable finish. Slightly stretchy fabrics like Schoeller are ideal for comfort and mobility. Reliable brands include Patagonia, Mammut, Eider, Millet, Marmot, Symonds, and others. (this can be rented in Huaraz)
Warm wool or synthetic hat: A lightweight, packable hat made from wool or synthetic materials is essential. It should be easy to fold and store in your backpack when not in use.
Balaclava or Neck gaiter: A medium-weight wool or synthetic neck gaiter is highly versatile. It provides protection from the cold and wind and can also be used as an ear warmer or face covering when needed.
Sun glasses: Essential for high-altitude trekking around Huaraz, where UV intensity is strong and glare from snow is significant. Choose any brand you prefer, but ensure they provide high UV protection. Category 3 lenses are recommended for trekking.
Gloves: For climbs of any summits in Cordillera Blanca, you want gloves that balance warmth, waterproofing, dexterity, and durability with ice axes/ropes. A very common setup is:
A pair lighter softshell glove for the approach and warmer sections
A pair insulated Gore-Tex shell glove for summit day and cold mornings. (this can be rented in Huaraz)
Gaiters: Gaiters are required for most climbs in the Cordillera Blanca to protect your boots and feet from fresh snow, moisture, and debris.
Climbing Equipment
Climbing Helmet: A climbing helmet is recommended for all peak ascents to ensure your safety.
Harness: A harness with adjustable leg loops is recommended, large enough to fit comfortably over all layers of clothing. Be sure it includes a belay loop.
Regular Ice Axe: A standard mountaineering ice axe is suitable for climbs such as Pisco, Urus, Ishinca, and Vallunaraju, among others.
Crampons with Anti-Balling Plates: These rubber or plastic plates attach beneath crampons to prevent snow from building up in soft conditions. Alpine crampons are recommended.
Water Bottles: Two / 1-liter wide-mouth water bottles are recommended, such as those from Nalgene
Sunscreen: A high-quality sunscreen is important for protection against strong UV exposure at altitude.
Lip Balm: Lip balm with UV protection is recommended to prevent dryness and sun damage.
Thermos: An optional 1-liter stainless steel vacuum thermos is useful for keeping drinks warm during summit days and cold evenings.
Specific Equipment
Trekking poles: Hiking or trekking poles are very useful, ideally in a compact three-section design. Good poles help reduce impact on your knees and joints. We recommend lightweight, adjustable models, as they are easy to store and versatile. Brands such as Black Diamond and Leki are excellent choices.
Daypack: A 25–30 liters backpack is needed to carry spare clothing, snacks, a camera, and water during day hikes or climbing days.
Personal first aid kit: We recommend carrying a small, well-prepared personal first aid kit including sterile dressings, antiseptic cream, gauze, bandages, rehydration sachets, zinc oxide tape, and anti-inflammatory pain relievers such as ibuprofen or aspirin. It is also advisable to bring paracetamol and acetazolamide (Diamox) for the prevention and treatment of mild acute mountain sickness (AMS) symptoms. For digestive issues, include loperamide for diarrhea, and antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin or Bactrim for bacterial stomach infections (only if prescribed by your doctor). Additionally, we suggest carrying a small roll of adhesive tape and cough drops for basic relief during the trek.
Extra service available upon Request
Optional: If you wish, we can arrange & include in the program budget:
hotel accommodations in Lima (please let us know your preferred hotel)
Bus or flight ticket booking to travel (Lima – Huaraz – Lima) either by bus with Cruz del Sur or by flight with LATAM Airlines. Just let us know your preferences
Hotel accommodation booking in Huaraz
Price & More details
Prices & Booking
Season:
Begin of April – End of October
We organize this full day Climb Nevado Mateo either on a private basis or group version. This day Climb is suitable for individual travelers, groups of friends, families, adventure companies, and tour leaders who wish to experience high-altitude touring in the Cordillera Blanca with professional local support. All trips are operated with fully qualified local guides, ensuring safety, quality logistics, and authentic Andean Mountain experiences. Please feel free to contact us to discuss the itinerary and your preferred travel dates. We will be happy to prepare a personalized quotation, with no obligation.
Cost on private service with version of camping support:
These prices are not valid during Holy Week or the Peruvian Independence Day holidays (July 25–31). Please check availability and updated rates for these dates via WhatsApp or email. Prices are generally higher during these peak periods due to increased demand and domestic tourism.
These prices are not valid during Holy Week or the Peruvian Independence Day holidays (July 25–31). Please check availability and updated rates for these dates via WhatsApp or email. Prices are generally higher during these peak periods due to increased demand and domestic tourism.
Loooking for a personalized experience?
We can tailor the itinerary and services to your specific needs. Contact us for a custom quote and dedicated logistics planning.
Add-Ons & Extras Not Included in the Budget
Enhance your climbing expedition with the following optional services and upgrades. These can be arranged and added to your program upon request.
ServicePrice
Hotel accommodation in Lima
Please let us know your preferred hotel category or name
On request
Hotel Package in Huaraz – San Sebastián (***) Single Room
Standard single room, includes breakfast and excellent location
From USD $ 60
per night
Hotel Package in Huaraz – San Sebastián (***) Double Room
Standard double room, includes breakfast and excellent location
From USD $ 90
per night
Bus ticket booking (Lima – Huaraz – Lima)
Round-trip ticket with Cruz del Sur Bus Company
From USD $ 60
per participant
Flight ticket booking (Lima – Huaraz – Lima)
Flights with LATAM Airlines. Prices vary depending on availability at the time of booking
On request
Sleeping bag rental
Rated from –10°C to –25°C, professionally cleaned
USD $ 10–15
per day
Trekking poles rental
Lightweight and adjustable
USD $ 10
per day
Single tent upgrade
Subject to availability
USD $12
per day
Satellite phone rental
Subject to availability
USD $20
per day
Lima airport transfers
Private transfers can be arranged
On request
Huaraz airport or bus station transfers
Private transfers can be arranged
On request
Booking & payment policy:
To confirm your reservation about your Huayhuash trek, a deposit of 25% of the total program price is required at the time of booking. The remaining balance must be paid in cash upon arrival in Huaraz, no later than 48 hours before the expedition begins. We offer a flexible cancellation policy. If your plans change, please contact us as early as possible so we can discuss available options and rescheduling possibilities.
Payment Methods:
Cash in Huaraz
Recomended
Not additional fees.
Bank transfer
Accepted, a USD $60 bank fee applies.
Credit/Debit card
Accepted; a 6% processing fee applies.
Western union
Transactions incur a commission of 3% to 5%.
Early Booking
5%
Discount
Early Booking Discount
A 5% discount is offered for reservations made 5 months in advance of the expedition start date. The discount is applied to the total program price.
Students & groups of 6+ — Eligible for special group discounts.
Private service:
100% Private & Safety-Guaranteed
We offer 100% guaranteed private multi-day treks for any group size. Enjoy a comfortable, highly personalized experience with flexible itineraries tailored for your safety, acclimatization, and overall enjoyment. All departures are 100% guaranteed, once the reservation has been confirmed
Group service:
We offer shared group tours and want to be transparent about how this type of service operates. Group departures are coordinated with different companies and hotels in Huaraz, bringing together participants of various nationalities. Groups typically consist of 15– 18 people, with the aim of sharing transportation and operational costs. Participants are required to adapt to the group’s pace. Each group is led by one professional guide in Spanish. The guide usually leads the hike, while participants walk at their own rhythm; however, the group must remain together and follow the established schedule. Breaks and stops are made at designated points and apply to the entire group.
The Premium Difference:
From the very beginning, ANDES ADVENTURE HOLOIDAYS E.I.R.L, has focused on delivering premium, personalized trekking experiences — rather than low-cost, high-volume tours.
Professional Operations
Careful logistics and responsible operations designed for high standards of service and uncompromised safety.
Premium Gear & Transport
Top-quality camping and safety equipment, along with reliable modern private transportation.
Small Group Sizes
Maximum 8 participants to guarantee a personalized, comfortable, and highly attentive experience.
Expert Local Staff
Highly experienced bilingual mountain guides, mountain cooks, and dedicated local staff.
Our pricing reflects the true cost of operating professionally and responsibly, ensuring a high standard of service, safety, comfort, and authentic life time experiences.
Adicional notes:
Acclimatization Hikes
Proper acclimatization to altitude is essential before undertaking any Climbing expeditions in the Cordillera Blanca or Cordillera Huayhuash, in order to avoid loss of energy or altitude-related illnesses. Climbing above 5,000 m is physically demanding, even when the terrain is not steep or highly technical. For any peak-climbing expedition in the Cordillera Blanca, we strongly recommend a minimum of 2–3 days of acclimatization before the ascent.
Acclimatization for Climbing
All climbing Expeditions programs in the Cordillera Blanca are physically demanding, as you will spend most of the time at elevations between 4,000 and 5,000 m, with rapid altitude gain shortly after departing from Huaraz. Proper acclimatization is essential to reduce the risk of altitude-related illness.
Our expeditions are carefully designed with a gradual acclimatization program to help your body adjust safely to the altitude. We recommend following the itinerary as planned. If you have extra time, arriving earlier is highly advisable so you can spend at least one full day resting and recovering from your journey before the expedition begins
Booking Considerations
The Peruvian general sales tax (I.G.V) 18% is not included in the rate shown
The cost shown does not include the cost of the pre-payment transaction for early booking.
How to book this climbing expedition program: you can make a reservation by sending us an email or using the reservation form provided on our website or via WhatsApp.
Booking Confirmation: To confirm your booking with us, you must make a deposit of 25% of the total price. The remaining balance must be paid in cash upon arrival in Huaraz, strictly 48 hours before the tour begins
Once you have made the deposit, please send the payment voucher via email or WhatsApp. If you booked online, kindly message us on WhatsApp so we can stay in contact, coordinate your briefing, and provide useful recommendations for your trek program.
Fast and Easy Communication: All emails are answered as soon as possible to ensure fast and easy communication.
Communication Options: We offer several ways to stay in touch with us. You can contact us through online chat, WhatsApp, Instagram, or via the email on our website. Simply fill out the reservation form or send us an email to ensure easy and personalized communication with our team.
Climbing Mateo: For non-technical or easy difficult (F) summits, we use a 3:1 client-to-guide ratio, meaning a maximum of three clients per guide. Due to the technical nature of the route, larger groups (more than three clients) will be accompanied by additional guides as required. We believe that maintaining a lower client-to-guide ratio significantly increases overall safety during the climb.
Summit Grading
Nevado Mateo = 5,150 m / F
Grade = F mostly glacier travel, suitable for first time climbers, but physically demanding
Nevado Mateo (5,150 m) is graded (F) and involves easy snow climbing, making it suitable for beginners who want to gain experience in high-altitude mountaineering. However, despite the moderate technical level, the climb is physically demanding due to the altitude. It is considered one of the most important training mountains in the Cordillera Blanca, combining a relatively accessible approach with an excellent snow-covered glacier, that is ideal for practicing, climbing course. From the summit, climbers are rewarded with spectacular views of the Huascarán massif and many of the most beautiful and aesthetic peaks of the Cordillera Blanca.
Climbing Routes
On our website and in our informational PDFs, we generally describe the normal (standard) routes used to climb each mountain
Nevado Mateo – Normal Route: north Slope
Nevado Mateo is a relatively easy peak, suitable for beginners. However, it is important to complete a proper acclimatization process before attempting the summit and to be in good physical condition. This route is straightforward and accessible for those who are fit and well-acclimatized, using a standard ice axe for climbing. It offers an excellent opportunity to practice basic mountaineering techniques in a stunning high-altitude environment.
Important Note: Conditions on all peaks in the Cordillera Blanca change frequently, from year to year, even from month to month. The route descriptions we provide are based on the most recent season, and should be considered referential only, By the time of your ascent, both route conditions and mountain features may have changed significantly. but mountain conditions can vary significantly due to weather, glacier retreat, and other natural factors. Because of rapid glacier changes and global warming, route descriptions in guidebooks may become outdated within a year or more. Always rely on updated information from local guides before attempting any expedition.
Guiding Certifications
The guide who will accompany you is a bilingual professional, an expert in mountaineering with extensive experience, and holds international certifications including UIAGM, IFMGA, and AGMP.
Physical Conditioning
Tips for Climbing Nevado Mateo
It is advisable to be in good physical condition before starting these ascents. You will enjoy the climbs much more if you are well prepared. We recommend running, cycling, going to the gym, or jogging for about 30 minutes a day at least three times per week for three months before your trip. Hiking uphill and downhill with a backpack weighing 10–15 kg is also highly recommended, ideally in variable weather conditions to strengthen your legs and improve endurance. Prior physical conditioning is important. Activities such as rock climbing, mountaineering practice, and glacier travel training are also very beneficial.
Remember that if you are well acclimatized and in good physical condition, you will truly enjoy the climbing experience
Climbing & Travel Times
climbing hours
The climbing times indicated are approximate and based on the average pace of our previous expedition groups. Individual climbing speeds may vary, with some climbers moving faster and others more slowly.
Approximation trek routes.
Access roads to and from the trekking routes are generally unpaved dirt roads. In some sections the roads can be rough and bumpy, which means travel times may be slower than expected.
Typical Climbing Day Routine
If you have climbed in the mountains before, you will find that the daily routine is quite similar. In our climbing programs, the day usually begins at 7:00 a.m. with breakfast. On summit days, however, the schedule is different. The start time depends on the specific mountain and route, but we typically begin the ascent around 1:00 a.m., although it may sometimes be earlier or later depending on conditions.
Best Time
Begin of May – begin of September: Considered the best time, suitable for taking scenic pictures of landscape with blue sky. Besides are ideal months for adventure lovers, who want to practice, mountaineering & other outdoor pursuits.
October – November (intermediate season): months in which sometimes after 2:00 pm you can have rain in the afternoon.
December – March (rainy season): mixed weather, sunny & cloudy, which means sometimes sunny during the day and rain in the afternoon. Take your precautions (wear rain clothes & poncho).
Weather
The weather in the mountains is highly variable. Even during the dry season (May–September), rain can occur due to the effects of global warming and climate change. Daytime temperatures can range from warm to very cold, and above 4,000 m, conditions may include rain, strong winds, or snow. For detailed forecasts, you can check: Mountain-Forecast: https://www.mountain-forecast.com/
