Full Day of Ice Climbing: Master Verticality in the Andes
Ice Climbing: The Art of Defying Gravity
Huaraz is known as the “Mecca of Mountaineering in South America,” and there’s no better place in the world to have your first experience with vertical ice than on the glaciers of the Cordillera Blanca. This full-day ice climbing course has been structured to break down the barrier of fear and replace it with technique and confidence. Unlike conventional trekking, ice climbing requires a complete connection between your mind and your movements. Every swing of the ice axe and every kick of the crampon must be precise. At Andina Travel Peru, we believe this experience not only prepares you for 6,000-meter peaks, but also equips you with resilience and teamwork skills that you can apply to all aspects of your life.Itinerary
We begin the day with a pick-up from your hotel in Huaraz. After the introductions and a brief check of your personal equipment, we’ll depart in our private transport for the “dead ice” areas or accessible glacial tongues (usually in the Punta Olímpica or Pastoruri sectors, depending on seasonal conditions). During the journey, your guide will explain the geography of the area and the importance of glacier conservation.
Upon arriving at the base of the practice area, we will begin with an Introduction to Technical Equipment. Here you will learn that a crampon is not just an accessory, but an extension of your feet, and that the technical ice axe is your vital traction tool. We will teach you how to properly put on your harness and helmet, and how to understand the safety systems (ropes and carabiners) that will keep you safe at all times.
We begin with Basic Progression Technique. Before climbing vertically, we must learn to walk. You will practice the “French walk” and the use of the front points of your crampons. You will learn how to position your body to optimize energy and how to plant your ice axe securely. This warm-up phase is essential for building confidence before tackling the wall.
We’ll take a well-deserved break to recharge. You’ll enjoy a nutritious box lunch with a stunning view of the ice walls. It’s time to share your thoughts with your companions and look ahead to the route we’ll be climbing next.
The moment of truth has arrived. Using the top-rope technique, you’ll face vertical ice walls. Here, you’ll put your hand-eye coordination to the test: ice axe swing, crampon kick, leg thrust. You’ll feel the adrenaline rush of being suspended on the ice and the satisfaction of reaching the top of the wall. You’ll also learn belaying techniques and how to descend safely (abseiling).
We’ll finish the practice with a group activity. Your instructor will provide personalized feedback on your progress. We’ll take some final group photos before heading back to Huaraz.
Arrival in the city. We’ll drop you off at your hotel with tired muscles but renewed spirits, having successfully completed your first day of technical climbing.
Include
- Transportation Logistics: Terminal/hotel pickup and round-trip private transportation.
- Preparation: Pre-trip acclimatization tours (see options).
- Elite Instruction: Certified professional guide/instructor (UIAGM/AGMP).
- Meals: Energy-rich box lunch and purified water.
- Premium Personal Equipment: Rigid ice boots, technical crampons, ice axes, harness, and helmet.
- Group Equipment: Dynamic ropes, locking carabiners, slings, and ice screws.
- Safety: Specialized first-aid kit.
Not Included
- Entrance ticket to Huascarán National Park.
- Travel or accident insurance (mandatory for high-risk activities).
- Hotel in Huaraz and meals not mentioned.
- Tips for the instructor.
Recommendations
For this activity, layering is your best ally against the glacial cold:
- Technical Clothing: Thermal base layer (ideally merino wool), stretchy trekking pants, and a waterproof jacket (Gore-Tex).
- Insulation: A fleece jacket and a good-quality down jacket (650-850 fill power) for rest periods.
- Sun Protection: SPF 40+ sunscreen, category 4 sunglasses (essential to prevent snow blindness), and lip balm.
- Accessories: Waterproof gloves (Gore-Tex), a wool hat, and thick wool socks.
- Hydration: A 1-liter water bottle and some extra snacks (chocolate or nuts).
Frequently Asked Questions
No, this course is designed for absolute beginners. Our instructors will teach you everything from scratch.
Yes, it requires a moderate level of fitness. You’ll be using your legs and arms for traction, and walking at altitude.
It’s very safe under the supervision of our UIAGM-certified guides. We use top rope systems, which means that if you slip, the rope will catch you immediately.
Technical climbing requires private logistics and a low student-to-guide ratio to ensure safety and personalized learning.
Yes! At Andina Travel we take care of your pickup from the moment you arrive in Huaraz to ensure a smooth experience.
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