Winter Mountaineering Workshop - Technical Course and Ascents in Cordillera Blanca

Technical training expedition in the Cordillera Blanca that combines an ice climbing and rescue workshop with the ascent of two summits over 5,000 meters: Yanapacha and Huarapasca..

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June to August (Winter)

Intermediate

11 Days

Master ice climbing and glacier safety by ascending two 5,000 meter mountains in Peru.

This is not a conventional classroom course; it is a total immersion in the high mountains. The Winter Mountaineering Workshop in Real Conditions is designed for those looking to make the leap to autonomy in glacial and technical terrain, combining academic instruction with the experiential experience of a real expedition in the majestic Cordillera Blanca of Peru. During 11 intensive days, we will transform theory into vital practice, surrounded by the most impressive landscapes of the Andes..

The program is meticulously structured to ensure proper technical and physiological progression. We started in the rock climbing paradise of Hatun Machai, where at 4100 meters above sea level we will perfect rope maneuvers and acclimatize the body.. Afterwards, we move to the heart of Huascaran National Park, establishing our base camp at the foot of the snow-capped peak. Yanapacha. Here, the glacier becomes our classroom: you will learn about safety placement, assembly of snow and ice meetings, self-arrest, glacier roping and critical crevasse rescue maneuvers. .

The ultimate goal is the supervised autonomy. Unlike a traditional guided tour, in this workshop you will make the decisions. During the ascent of Yanapacha, you will apply what you have learned by managing the team, while the guide acts as a safety monitor.. The workshop culminates with the ascent to the snow-capped mountain Huarapasca, a challenge that combines lengths of snow, ice and glacier transit, consolidating your skills as a complete mountaineer.. It is the perfect opportunity to learn by doing, under the tutelage of experts and in an environment of unparalleled beauty.

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( From start to summit )

Route planning

Day 1: Meeting in Huaraz

We met in the city of Huaraz, the heart of mountaineering in Peru. This day is dedicated to the presentation of the group, review of general logistics and preparation for the adventure that begins..

Day 2: Transfer to Hatun Machai and Acclimatization

We head towards Hatun Machai, located at 4100 masl. This incredible rock forest is a world class sport climbing sector. We will dedicate the day to rock climbing and begin our process of acclimatization to the altitude. We will spend the night sleeping in a tent under the stars..

Day 3: Sport Climbing and Return

We continued climbing throughout the day at Hatun Machai, perfecting belay and movement techniques. In the afternoon, a private transfer will take us back to the comfort of Huaraz to rest..

Day 4: Logistics and Preparation

Day dedicated to last minute shopping, thorough review and preparation of technical equipment. We continue with the active acclimatization process in the city and its surroundings..

Day 5: Approach to Yanapacha Base Camp

We travel by private vehicle to the Quebrada de Llanganuco (approx. 3 hours). From there, we make a 3-hour trek to the base of Yanapacha. After setting up camp, we will give a theoretical class on specific equipment, knots and expedition logistics. .

Day 6: Glacier Ice School

Only 15 minutes from the camp we access the glacier. The day focuses on ice climbing techniques, use of crampons and technical ice axes in vertical terrain..

Day 7: Safety and Rescue Maneuvers

Intensive day of work on the glacier. We will practice roping, safety placement, assembly of snow/ice meetings (abalakovs), self-arrest and crevasse rescue protocols. .

Day 8: Ascent to the Yanapacha snow-capped peak

We put to the test everything we have learned. We will make the ascent to the summit of Yanapacha. In this stage, the guide will supervise that the participants handle themselves safely and autonomously, leading the first or second as appropriate. At the end of the day, we return to the camp, disarm and return to Huaraz..

Day 9: Recuperative Rest

Free day in Huaraz to rest, recover energy and enjoy the local gastronomy after the first ascent..

Day 10: Ascent to Nevado Huarapasca

Early morning departure by transfer. After a short approach, we start climbing Huarapasca. The route includes 2 to 3 technical pitches of snow and ice, followed by a glacier transit and a last climb before the summit. In the afternoon, transportation takes us back to Huaraz..

Day 11: End of the Expedition

Day of return to Lima and connection with international flights or following destinations.

( we add to your experience )

Expedition coverage

Services included

Professional guide and mountain instructor.
Group technical equipment and kitchen equipment for common use.
Private transfers to Yanapacha, Huarapasca and Hatun Machai.
All meals during the stay in the mountains.

Services not included

Lodging in the city of Huaraz.
Meals in the city of Huaraz.
Entrance permit to Huascaran National Park.
Personal technical equipment and mountain clothing.

Price

1 person: USD 3300.
2 to 3 people: USD 2400 each.
4 or more people: USD 2100 each

( All you need to know )

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to acclimatize to the altitude?

Although the program is designed to have an adequate acclimatization, we recommend arriving a couple of days earlier to Huaraz to further improve our physiological adaptation..

Is it better to carry a credit card or cash in Peru?

Although in almost all places cards are accepted, we recommend carrying cash because it is difficult to withdraw cash at ATMs in daily amounts and it is easy to change any currency into Peruvian soles..

Is it very cold in the mountains of the Cordillera Blanca?

Although without underestimating the environment, being in glaciers in tropical/temperate zones, we will be less cold than at similar altitudes in the Southern Andes (Patagonia or Mendoza)..

How do I get from Lima to Huaraz?

Nowadays there are daily flights from Lima, although we also have the option of the bus, which takes approximately 8 hours.

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