PISCO SUMMIT
5,752
See the world from the Balcony of the Cordillera Blanca
The summit with the best view of all
The summit of Nevado Pisco is considered «The Balcony of the Cordillera Blanca» due to its extraordinary 360° view of almost the entire Cordillera Blanca.
From its peak, the view is considered one of the best in the Andean world: a panorama of giants like Huascarán (6,768 m), Huandoy, Chopicalqui, and Artesonraju.
Technical specifications
| Details | Specification |
|---|---|
| Expedition Name | Ascent of Nevado Pisco — West Summit |
| Maximum Altitude | 5752 m / 18,871 ft |
| Duration | 3 Days / 2 Nights (A minimum of 3 to 4 days of acclimatization in Huaraz is recommended) |
| Technical Difficulty | PD (Moderately Difficult). Perfect for beginners in good physical condition with no prior experience in technical climbing. |
| Location | Cordillera Blanca, Huascarán National Park, Peru. Access via the Llanganuco Valley. |
| Season | May – October |
| Available Dates | July 24-26, 2026. Want a different date? Inquire about a private expedition. |
Why is Mataraju with us?
- Yes, its original name is Mataraju, but it later became known as Nevado Pisco.
- This mountain has a special, almost mystical, history with us. In our early days, we climbed this summit for the first time, a summit we had previously seen in dreams. Standing there, the feeling of being home was so intense that it brought us to tears, a kind of emotional outpouring we’ve never experienced since.
- It’s a summit we hold dear.
- And we always work with our staff of UIAGM/AGMP certified guides: the highest international standard of mountain guide certification, present at every step of the glacier.
Detailed Itinerary
This itinerary begins after your recommended acclimatization period in Huaraz (3100m). At least two days of prior high-altitude hiking (Laguna Churup, Laguna 69, or equivalent) is recommended.
Day 1. Huaraz (3100m) – Cebollapampa (3900m) – Pisco Refuge (4765m)
- Early morning transfer by private vehicle from Huaraz, traveling through the scenic Llanganuco Valley and its famous lagoons.
- Check in at the Huascarán National Park checkpoint in Cebollapampa (3900m).
- Ascent trek (approx. 3-4 hours) to Pisco Refuge (4765m), strategically located below the moraine.
- Dinner and rest at the campsite.
Day 2: SUMMIT DAY: Refuge – Pisco Summit (5752m)
- Wake up early (approx. 1:00 am). Light breakfast.
- Begin the ascent in the dark. First, climb the moraine (2 hours) to the glacier.
- Get your gear on and ascend roped up the glacier, avoiding crevasses and progressing at a steady pace.
- At dawn, reach the summit of Pisco (5752m). Time to enjoy the unparalleled views.
- Careful descent to Base Camp (4600m) and rest.
Day 3: Refuge – Return to Huaraz (3100m)
- Celebration breakfast.
- Break camp.
- Hike back to the vehicle and return to Huaraz. End of the expedition.
Investment and what it includes
Investment for your climb:
$650 USD per person.
Important:
- Price based on a group departure.
- Next confirmed date: July 24-26, 2026.
- Contact us to inquire about other scheduled dates.
- If you would like a private expedition, please contact us.
What’s Included
- UIAGM/AGMP Guide: Internationally certified Official Mountain Guide—the highest standard in the profession.
- Private transportation: Round-trip transfers between Huaraz and Quebrada Llaca.
- Muleteers and pack animals.
- Group technical equipment: Climbing ropes, ice axes, ice screws, emergency communication radio, and first-aid kit.
Not Included
- Accommodation and meals at the Pisco Refuge.
- Huascarán National Park entrance fee (mandatory for foreign tourists).
- International flights and accommodation in Huaraz before and after the expedition.
- Meals in Huaraz on the days before and after the expedition.
- Personal high-altitude equipment: Boots, warm technical clothing, glacier glasses, ice axe, crampons. (Available for rent from us).
- Tips.
Requirements to participate
- Good general physical condition.
- No prior experience in glacier or ice climbing is required. The guide will teach basic crampon and ice axe techniques directly in the field.
- A minimum of two days of acclimatization in Huaraz (3100m) is required before the start of the expedition. Completing at least one prior high-altitude trek (Laguna Churup, Laguna 69, or equivalent above 4000m) is recommended.
- Ability to carry your personal backpack (8-12 kg) during the ascent and descent.
- A positive attitude, willingness to follow the guide’s instructions at all times, and respect for the natural environment of Huascarán National Park are essential.
The Balcony of the Cordillera Blanca awaits you.
