4-Day Expedition Of Nevado Chopicalqui From Huaraz

Cordillera Blanca

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Highlights

Expedition to Nevado Chopicalqui (6,354 m) in the Cordillera Blanca

Trekking and technical climbing in the Andes, the world's highest tropical mountain range

Panoramic summit views of the Cordillera Blanca

Suitable for experienced climbers with alpine skills

Huaraz, Cordillera Huayhuash

mountaineering, photography, camping

Group Tour

4 Days

Hard

English, Spanish

Description

Embark on a thrilling 4-day mountaineering expedition to Nevado Chopicalqui, located in the breathtaking Cordillera Blanca of the Andes. This trek offers a blend of trekking and technical climbing, rewarding climbers with stunning views from the summit. With its challenging ascents and glacial paths, Chopicalqui is ideal for seasoned climbers equipped with alpine skills. Experience close-up views of this majestic mountain range, with overnights in beautifully situated camps.

Itinerary

Day 1: Huaraz (3100 m) - Transfer via Quebrada Llanganuco - Ascend to Chopicalqui Moraine Camp (4900 m)
- Morning: Depart from Huaraz (3,100 m) after breakfast. We begin with preparations of the mountaineering equipment.
- Transfer: Travel by private transport for 3-3.5 hours, passing through Quebrada Llanganuco and heading toward the Chopicalqui Base Camp (4,350 m).
- Trekking: Upon arrival at Base Camp, we begin our ascent towards the Moraine Camp (4,900 m), which will take approximately 5 hours.
- Overnight: Stay at Moraine Camp. Meals included: Lunch and Dinner.
Day 2: Moraine Camp - Ascend to Chopicalqui High Camp (5350 m)
- Morning: Begin the day with an ascent over the rocky moraine, then continue on the glacier, crossing crevasses and navigating the slopes.
- Climb: Reach the High Camp (5,350 m) after approximately 5-6 hours of glacier travel.
- Overnight: Stay at High Camp. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Day 3: High Camp - Ascend to Chopicalqui Summit (6345 m) - Descend to Base Camp (4350m)
- Summit Day: Early morning ascent towards the summit of Chopicalqui (6,345 m), crossing seracs, crevasses, and challenging technical sections. The final stretch involves a 75º-80º slope that may require some climbing up to 8-10 meters.
- Summit: Reach the summit for panoramic views of the Cordillera Blanca before beginning the descent.
- Descent: Return to High Camp or Moraine Camp, then continue down to Base Camp (4,350 m), which takes 10-13 hours.
- Overnight: Stay at Base Camp. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Day 4: Base Camp Chopicalqui - Transfer via Quebrada Llanganuco - Huaraz
- Morning: After breakfast, prepare for the return journey. Trek from Base Camp (or Moraine Camp) to the highway.
- Transfer: Board the private bus and head back to Huaraz, saying goodbye to the beautiful Llanganuco Valley.
- Afternoon: Arrive in Huaraz and check into the hotel for overnight accommodation. Meals included: Breakfast and Lunch.
This itinerary provides a detailed schedule for the ascent of Chopicalqui, with overnight stays in Moraine Camp, High Camp, and Base Camp, as well as stunning views from the summit of one of the most challenging peaks in the Cordillera Blanca.

What's Included

Peruvian qualified and experienced local guide/s

All meals during the tour

Camping tents (2 persons)

Porters Chopicalqui (2 pax 1 porter)

1 Cook and helper (from 6 pax )

Kitchen equipment

Transportation as tour schedule / Huaraz

What's Excluded

International flights to Lima / Peru round trip

Transfer from the airport for bookings of individual flights with different times of arrival / departure

Exit tax at the airport in Lima

Travel accident and health insurance

Luggage insurance and trip cancellation

Meals in restaurants in Lima and Huaraz

Personal expenses

Acclimatization Tour

Entrance fees to the Huascaran National Park

Transfer from the Hotel to the airport and bus station

Domestic flight Airline ticket LC-Peru

Hotel Casa Andina 2 nights in Lima

Hotel San Sebastián 4 nights in Huaraz

Pick up at the airport in Lima to the Hote

Personal equipment (such as boots, ice ax, crampons, harness, sleeping bag, mat, Goretex, etc.)

Tips

Know Before You Go

Before embarking on the 4-day Chopicalqui climb, it’s essential to be well-prepared, not only in terms of physical fitness but also with regard to logistics, safety, and the environment. Here are important things to know before you go:

1. Physical Preparation

Chopicalqui (6,345 meters / 20,814 feet) is a challenging climb suitable for experienced climbers who are physically fit and accustomed to high-altitude environments.

Acclimatization: Prior to the climb, it's essential to acclimatize properly in Huaraz (3,100 meters) and other areas at higher altitudes (4,000-5,000 meters). This will help prevent altitude sickness.

Fitness: Prepare for strenuous physical activity, including glacier travel, ice climbing, and long summit days. Regular cardio, strength training, and hiking at altitude are recommended.

2. Altitude Considerations

Altitude Sickness: The altitude of Chopicalqui presents a risk of altitude sickness, even for experienced mountaineers. Symptoms can include headache, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. Be prepared to recognize and manage altitude sickness, and inform your guides immediately if you experience symptoms.

Hydration and Rest: Drink plenty of water and take regular breaks to allow your body to adjust to the thinning air.

3. Gear and Equipment

Essential Gear: Ensure you have all required mountaineering gear, including crampons, ice axe, helmet, and a high-quality sleeping bag rated for -10°C (14°F) or colder temperatures. Many items may be available for rent, but confirm with the guide company.

Personal Safety: The technical sections of the climb require expertise in ice climbing and glacier travel. If you are unsure about your experience, consider additional training before the trip.

4. Weather and Climate

Variable Conditions: Weather in the Cordillera Blanca is highly variable and can change rapidly. Be prepared for cold temperatures, strong winds, and the possibility of snow. It’s important to follow the guidance of your guides on when and how to manage different weather conditions.

Summit Day: Summit day typically involves early starts and extended hours of climbing. Be prepared for challenging conditions at the summit, including a steep section with 75°-80° slopes.

5. The Itinerary

Day 1: Travel from Huaraz to the Chopicalqui Base Camp. It includes trekking through the scenic Quebrada Llanganuco and a 5-hour climb to Moraine Camp.

Day 2: Climb to the High Camp on the glacier, crossing crevasses and technical sections.

Day 3: Summit day, requiring a full day of strenuous climbing, ice climbing, and glacier navigation. Descend to Base Camp after summiting.

Day 4: Return to Huaraz after breakfast and a descent to the highway via the Quebrada Llanganuco.

6. Food and Hydration

Meals: Meals are provided during the climb (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner), with a focus on high-energy food. You’ll need to bring additional snacks like energy bars, nuts, and chocolate.

Water: It is crucial to stay hydrated during the climb. Carry a hydration system or water bottles, and treat water if needed.

7. Risk and Safety

Guides and Support: This is a technical climb, and it's essential to have an experienced guide. All guides are typically certified in high-altitude mountaineering and rescue techniques.

Rescue Plans: Your guides will have an emergency plan in case of any issues, including altitude sickness, injury, or severe weather. Communication devices (such as satellite phones) may be available for emergencies.

8. Travel and Logistics

Getting to Huaraz: You can fly into Lima and take a bus or private transport to Huaraz (approximately 7-8 hours).

Accommodation: You will stay in a hotel in Huaraz before and after the climb. During the climb, you’ll camp in mountain base camps at progressively higher altitudes.

Transportation: Private transport is provided from Huaraz to the base of the mountain and back.

9. Environmental Responsibility

Leave No Trace: The Cordillera Blanca is a delicate and protected environment. Always follow the Leave No Trace principles to minimize your environmental impact.

Waste Management: Carry all waste out of the mountains, including toilet paper and used hygiene products. Your guide will provide instructions on how to manage waste at high altitudes.

10. Cultural Considerations

Respect Local Culture: Huaraz is home to indigenous communities with rich traditions. Always show respect for local customs and people, particularly when traveling through small villages or interacting with local guides.

11. Insurance

Travel Insurance: Ensure you have travel insurance that covers mountain climbing, including rescue and evacuation costs at high altitudes.

Rescue Insurance: It is highly recommended to purchase rescue insurance, especially for high-altitude expeditions like Chopicalqui. This insurance can cover any potential evacuation from the mountain.

By knowing these essential details, you can better prepare for your Chopicalqui 4-Day Climb, ensuring a safe, enjoyable, and successful experience. Always communicate closely with your guides, and never hesitate to ask for advice or assistance.

Highlights of the Cordillera Blanca. The highest tropical mountain range in the world, the Cordillera Blanca is part of the spectacular Andes that form the spine of South America. A mecca for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, the region boasts over 50 peaks that exceed 15,000 feet, 700 glaciers and 300 lakes.

About Chopicalqui Peak: Chopicalqui is the third peak of the Huascarán Massif, also located in the Cordillera Blanca, between the two peaks of Huascarán and Contrahierbas. With an elevation of 6,345 meters, it is the fifth highest mountain in the department (administrative region) of Ancash, and the fourth highest in the Cordillera Blanca. It is a demanding mountain with some technical climbing and this requires previous climbing experience.

Ascent of Chopicalqui (20,847 ft.)/(6354 m) via the classic Southwest Ridge, On the summit of Chopicalqui many consider this to be the best view in the Cordillera Blanca.

Chopicalqui is appropriate for people with significant experience and alpine skills - managing rope and crampons on snow and ice walls and with good safety technique. In some years there can be steep sections of ice climbing that require the use of two ice axes and previous experience in their use is recommended.

What To Bring

For a successful and safe expedition to Chopicalqui, it's essential to bring the right gear and equipment. Here is a comprehensive list to ensure you're fully prepared for the 4-day climb:

Clothing:

1.Base Layer:

Thermal underwear (top and bottom)

Moisture-wicking socks (several pairs)

2.Mid Layer:

Fleece or insulated jacket

Light down jacket

3.Outer Layer:

Waterproof and windproof jacket (Gore-Tex or similar)

Waterproof and windproof pants

Hard-shell pants for glacier travel

4.Climbing Gear:

Climbing harness

Helmet

Ice axe

Crampons (compatible with your boots)

Carabiners (locking)

Rappel device (e.g., ATC)

5.Footwear:

Mountaineering boots (rigid, waterproof, and insulated)

Lightweight trekking shoes (for the approach and descent)

Gaiters (to protect against snow and rocks)

6.Headwear:

Warm hat (for camp and summit)

Balaclava or face mask (for summit day)

Sun hat/cap (for lower elevations)

7.Gloves:

1 pair of lightweight gloves (for trekking)

1 pair of medium-weight gloves (for glacier travel)

1 pair of insulated gloves (for summit day)

8.Socks:

Wool or synthetic socks (several pairs)

Camping Gear:

1.Sleeping Bag:

Sleeping bag rated for -10°C (14°F) or lower

Sleeping bag liner (optional, for added warmth)

2.Sleeping Pad:

Inflatable or foam pad for insulation from the cold ground

3.Tent:

Lightweight, 2-person mountaineering tent (provided by the guide company)

4.Camping Stove and Fuel:

Small, lightweight stove (usually provided by the guide company)

Fuel canisters or liquid fuel (check with the guide)

5.Cooking and Eating Utensils:

Small cooking pot

Eating utensils (spork, bowl, cup)

Water bottle or hydration system (at least 2 liters capacity)

6.Headlamp:

With extra batteries (important for early morning starts)

Personal Equipment:

1.Backpack:

A 30-40 liter daypack for summit day

A larger backpack (50-60 liters) for your overnight gear

2.Waterproof bags:

To keep gear dry, especially in the glacier camp

3.Sunscreen:

High-SPF (SPF 50 or higher) for face and lips

4.Sunglasses:

High UV protection (Category 4 recommended for glacier glare)

5.Toiletries:

Toothbrush, toothpaste, small towel, etc.

6.Personal Medications:

Bring any necessary prescription medications

Basic first-aid items (band-aids, blister treatment, pain relievers)

7.Camera (optional):

Small, durable camera to capture the stunning views

Technical Gear (usually provided by the guide, but check):

1.Rope (for glacier travel)

2.Ice screws (for belaying)

3.Snow pickets and other technical climbing tools

4.Fixed ropes (for certain sections of the climb)

Miscellaneous:

1.Snacks:

High-energy food like granola bars, nuts, chocolate, etc.

2.Cash:

For tips or any unforeseen expenses

Important Notes:

Altitude Sickness: Ensure you have taken necessary precautions to avoid altitude sickness, such as acclimatization days and medications.

Communication: Carry a satellite phone or personal locator beacon if not provided by the guide company.

Weather: Be prepared for cold, windy, and sometimes wet conditions. The weather can change quickly at high altitudes.

By bringing the right gear and equipment, you can enjoy a successful and safe ascent of Chopicalqui. Ensure all gear is tested and in good condition before departure!

Meeting Point

Huaraz, Perú

Cancellation Policy

For cancellations upto 2 days before the tour -

Refund of 80% of the tour price.

Price

Adult
1 to 16	/person
Child
1 to 16	/person
This is a group tour

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4-Day Expedition Of Nevado Chopicalqui From Huaraz

Highlights

Description

Itinerary

Day 1: Huaraz (3100 m) - Transfer via Quebrada Llanganuco - Ascend to Chopicalqui Moraine Camp (4900 m)

Day 2: Moraine Camp - Ascend to Chopicalqui High Camp (5350 m)

Day 3: High Camp - Ascend to Chopicalqui Summit (6345 m) - Descend to Base Camp (4350m)

Day 4: Base Camp Chopicalqui - Transfer via Quebrada Llanganuco - Huaraz

What's Included

What's Excluded

Know Before You Go

What To Bring

Meeting Point

Cancellation Policy

Price

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4-Day Expedition Of Nevado Chopicalqui From Huaraz

Highlights

Description

Itinerary

Day 1: Huaraz (3100 m) - Transfer via Quebrada Llanganuco - Ascend to Chopicalqui Moraine Camp (4900 m)

Day 2: Moraine Camp - Ascend to Chopicalqui High Camp (5350 m)

Day 3: High Camp - Ascend to Chopicalqui Summit (6345 m) - Descend to Base Camp (4350m)

Day 4: Base Camp Chopicalqui - Transfer via Quebrada Llanganuco - Huaraz

What's Included

What's Excluded

Know Before You Go

What To Bring

Meeting Point

Cancellation Policy

Price

Check Availability Hide

Starting from

Can't Find the Perfect Tour? Tailor Your Dream Trip!

Create your own adventure!

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