Climbing in Nevado Copa

If you want to start in the extreme sport of climbing, the Nevado Copa is ideal to get to know the terrain that the great Cordillera Blanca has in store for us. It also exposes us to the adversities of its climate, which represents a great adventure.

The Nevado Copa, located within the Callejón de Huaylas in Ancash, with its incredible altitude of 6,188 meters above sea level, surprises us with mixed sections of rock and ice that form a breathtaking landscape. It is located in the Hanka or Cordillera region and can be seen from the city of Huaraz. This snow-capped mountain is also known as Chucushcaraju, which means “the snow-capped mountain with a hat”.

Climate in Nevado Copa:

The climate in this part of Ancash is cold, dry, and temperate. Sometimes the temperature drops significantly, causing frost that tourists face as part of the experience. The best months to travel and climb this great snow-capped mountain are June, July, and August.

Route to reach Nevado Copa:

From the city of Huaraz, take public transportation to Marcará, about 24 km away; the journey takes no more than 30 minutes. The next step is a short bus ride. About 3 km from Marcará is Chancos, the next stop. From Chancos, head towards Vicos in about 10 minutes. From there, start the mule track towards the snow-capped mountain, also to appreciate the Lejiacocha lagoon. This stretch is 5 km long and takes about three hours to complete.

Ascent route for climbing:

From the Lejiacocha lagoon, head to the campsite located at 5,200 meters above sea level, passing through a rocky area of about 400 meters. After camping, head west with extreme caution, as rockfall is very common. Make sure to wear a helmet. The slope is approximately 40°C to 45°C. The view from the summit is heavenly, as you can see the large glacial plateau that the snow-capped mountain has.

Technical Data of Nevado Copa:

What to bring for climbing in Nevado Copa?

• Sleeping bag.

• Sun hat, fleece hat.

• Waterproof pants and jackets.

• Ice gloves.

• Ice goggles.

• Headlamp.

• First aid kit.

• Sunscreen.

• Lip sunblock.

• Insect repellent.

• Water bottle.

• Down jacket.

• Windbreaker jacket.

• Harness.

• Ice axe.

• Climbing boots.

• Crampons.

• Helmet.

• Ropes, stakes, etc.