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Mount Aspiring / Tititea

climber with Mount Aspiring - Tititea in the background

Mt Aspiring - 3027 metres

Mt Aspiring lies approximately 180 kms south west of Aoraki/Mount Cook, in Mount Aspiring National Park.

Mount Aspiring (Tititea) at 3027 metres is the highest peak in the region, rising 2500 metres from the Matukituki Valley floor. Its classic symmetry has led it to being dubbed "the Matterhorn of the Southern Alps".

A 5-day "expedition"

Mt Aspiring is approached as a short "expedition", with 5 days for the attempt. This provides time to work around weather, and to get in and out of the mountains.

We fly all parties into the mountains, maximising potential climbing time, and increasing chances of making the summit. Alpine Guides offers 1:1 and 1:2 ratio guided climbing options, which suit novice or more experienced alpinists.

Routes Guided - we offer 2 options

Route 1: The North West Ridge ››

The standard route normally takes over 10-12 hours return from Colin Todd Hut (1800 metres).

The route involves travel across glaciated terrain, pitched climbing, and a 1220m vertical ascent. See route map ››

Ratio 1:1 package option

Experience Required:

Basic alpine climbing ability
High level of fitness
Make for a great follow-up trip after our Mountain Experience Course

Ratio 1:2 package option

Experience required:

Previous alpine climbing experience
High level of fitness
Minimum experience should be equivalent to our Technical Mountaineering Course

Route 2: The classic South West Ridge ››

Accessed via the Bonar Glacier - a bivy is normally required. The descent route is usually by the NW Ridge, to Colin Todd Hut. Total time 12-14 hours. See route map ››

Experience required: SW Ridge

A solid level of alpine climbing experience
High level of fitness
Minimum experience should be equivalent to our Technical Mountaineering Course

Morning light on the SW Ridge

Season: November - April

Scheduling and booking

No fixed departure dates for Mt Aspiring. Instead you can choose the start dates of the trip to suit your travel plans (subject to guide availability). Advance bookings are essential.

Pricing: Summer 2009/10

1:1 Ratio package NZ$3850 per person

1:2 Ratio package NZ$2650 per person

Cost includes: helicopter access, transport Mt Cook to Wanaka (if required), food, accommodation, a range of technical equipment, Alpine Guides Technical Manual