We begin with hotel pick-up in Huaraz between 3:00 and 3:30 a.m. and drive toward Carhuaz before taking the road east into the Cordillera Blanca. After registering at the Huascarán National Park checkpoint, we continue through the Ulta Valley and ascend in zigzag until reaching Punta Olímpica, the starting point of the climb. After gearing up and receiving a short safety briefing from our certified guides, the ascent starts around 6:00–6:30 a.m. The first section follows a steep, rocky moraine on the south face of Contrahierbas, taking approximately 2 hours to reach the edge of the glacier. Here, we put on crampons, rope up with the guide, and continue the climb for 45 minutes to 1 hour until reaching the summit of Nevado Mateo (5,150 m).

At the top, we enjoy a short break to admire the stunning panoramic views and take photos. The descent follows the same route, taking about 2.5 hours back to Punta Olímpica, where our transport awaits. We return to Huaraz, with arrival estimated between 2:00 and 3:00 p.m.