Beginner Mountaineering Course
Beginner Mountaineering Course
No prior experience with crampons, ice axe, or rope use in the mountains? Sign up for our beginner mountaineering course in the Cordillera Blanca! You will learn essential basic techniques alongside a certified mountain guide and, upon completion, have the opportunity to summit your first 5,000-meter peak. This 3-day course includes training in crampon and ice axe techniques, crevasse rescue, rappelling, belaying, and the use of ice screws. The experience culminates with an ascent of a 5,000m peak such as Vallunaraju or a similar summit.
Itinerary
Day 1:Huaraz – Llaca Valley – Moraine Camp
We drive east and uphill from Huaraz for about 1.5 hours on an unpaved road into the Llaca Valley (4,470 m). Here we put on our backpacks and begin a steep ascent of approximately 3 to 4 hours to Moraine Camp (5,000 m). The first two hours are on hard, steep terrain, after which the route becomes easier and gradually leads to the camp. Throughout the ascent, we enjoy breathtaking views of the nearby Nevado Ocshapalca, the city of Huaraz, and the Cordillera Negra. At night, the lights of Huaraz far below create a magical atmosphere from Moraine Camp. In the afternoon, we practice rope work, knots, and climbing techniques.
Day 2:Moraine Camp – Glacier – Moraine Camp
First, we climb for about 30 minutes over moraine rocks before reaching the glacier, where we receive a full day of instruction. Today we learn basic techniques and safety skills for first-time climbers or those with little mountaineering experience.
Day 3:Moraine Camp – Vallunaraju Summit – Moraine Camp – Huaraz
A long day begins as we start our ascent between 1:00 and 2:00 a.m., climbing over the moraine to reach the glacier. The ascent toward the summit (5,686 m) is steady but not very steep. The final 60 meters are steeper and more exposed. Here, you will practice and reinforce the techniques you have learned. After taking summit photos, we return to Moraine Camp to pack up our tents and descend into the Llaca Valley, where our transportation back to Huaraz will be waiting.
What's Included
- Transports according to the tour program
- Official and experienced mountain guide (Spanish / English)
- Porter for group equipment
- All meals during the course
- Tent (2 or 3 persons)
- Ropes and group equipment
- First aid kit and oxygen
What's Not Included
- First breakfast, last dinner
- Personal equipment and personal expenses
- Entrance fees to Huascaran National Park
- Medical treatment
- Return travel costs in case of early termination of the course
- Travel acciden and health insurance
- Flights and hotel
- Tips (optional)
- Technical equipment
FAQ
? Which shoes are suitable for this course?
Suitable shoes are those designed for high-altitude trekking, ice climbing, and expeditions. These types of boots have a special sole that makes bending the shoe nearly impossible. Combined with their extremely durable construction, they are highly torsion-resistant and therefore fully compatible with crampons. For use at higher altitudes, they are often additionally insulated. Depending on the type of boot, you may also need “regular” trekking shoes for the hike up to Moraine Camp.
? Rental equipment or your own gear?
If you already have your own equipment, it definitely makes sense to bring it with you. If something is missing, it can be booked additionally.
Climbing List
Our recommendation
Technical Equipment
Are you missing something? We can provide the detailed program and everything you need for a great day of expeditions, check each trip for detailed information on prices and offers we have for groups and dates or contact us for a personalized trip and you will be able to fully enjoy. The personal technical equipment and expedition clothing that we can provide you at no cost will depend on whether we have an available warehouse, which is why it is important to book in advance and check what we can provide you.
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