An accessible one-day glacier climb from Huaraz to the 5,150 m summit of Nevado Mateo. Expect a long alpine day—moraine approach, short glacier roped sections, and sweeping Cordillera Blanca views.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Pre-dawn in Huaraz feels thin and electric: vans line up at 3:30 AM, breath visible in the chill as guides check harnesses and crampons. The road north slices past Carhuaz and Shilla, and by Punto Olimpia the mountains loom—glacier shoulders gleaming under a high Andean sky. Nevado Mateo rises to 5,150 m, a compact ice cap on the spine of the Cordillera Blanca that rewards early risers with broad valley views and the stillness of cirques and moraine.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
12 hours
Fitness Level
Moderately fit: regular cardio or hiking experience helps; ability to maintain steady pace at altitude is required.
Wildlife
History
The Cordillera Blanca has long been home to Quechua communities; the park was created to protect its unique alpine ecosystems and cultural landscapes.
Conservation
Glaciers in the Cordillera Blanca are retreating due to climate change; sticking to marked routes and carrying out waste helps protect fragile high‑altitude environments.
Reserve your spot on the Tour Climbing Nevado Mateo | Your First 5,150 m Summit | 12 Hours today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize first
Spend at least 48–72 hours in Huaraz or above 3,000 m before the climb to reduce risk of acute altitude sickness.
Bring personal snacks
The tour includes a picnic lunch but high-calorie snacks and electrolytes help maintain energy during the ascent.
Trust the rope team
Roped glacier travel is standard; follow your guide’s commands and keep spacing to limit crevasse risk.
Sun and eye protection
High-altitude UV is intense—use high-SPF sunscreen and glacier sunglasses to prevent snow blindness.
Insulated mountaineering boots
Provides ankle support and glacier-boot compatibility for crampon fitting.
Three-layer clothing system
Wicking base, insulating mid-layer, and a waterproof shell manage rapid weather shifts.
Glacier sunglasses and sunscreen
Protects eyes and skin from strong high-altitude UV and reflective snow.
Hydration system and high-energy snacks
Maintains energy and helps prevent altitude-related dehydration and headaches.