3 mountain ulta trek: Los Cedros, Alpamayo and Colcabamba

Trekking Los Cedros, Alpamayo and Colcabamba

3 mountain ulta trek: Los Cedros, Alpamayo and Colcabamba

12 Days / 11 Nights

This circuit offers spectacular mountain panoramas of the Cordillera Blanca and the tropic’s highest peaks.

On the way we observe native communities and pre-inca and Inca archaeological remains. While enjoying the colorful high Andean flora, we learn about the use of these plants as medicine by local people.

We admire the sight of Huascarán (6768 m), Chopicallqui (6354 m), Huandoys (6395 m; 6356 m; 6166 m; 6070 m), Hualcán (6122 m), Chinchey (6222 m), Palcaraju (6274 m), and Tocllaraju (6034 m).

Itinerary

Your adventure begins with a scenic bus ride from Lima to Huaraz, the heart of the Peruvian Andes. Traveling along the Pan-American Highway, you’ll journey past coastal deserts and fertile valleys until reaching Pativilca. From here, the road winds upward into the highlands via the Pativilca–Huaraz route.

As you ascend, enjoy breathtaking views of the Conococha Lake at 4,100 meters above sea level and the impressive Cordillera Blanca and Cordillera Negra. This spectacular entrance into the Callejón de Huaylas Valley marks your arrival in one of the most iconic mountain regions of South America.

Upon arrival in Huaraz (3,100 m), known as the “Capital of Mountaineering and International Friendship,” you’ll check in at your hotel and have the rest of the day to rest or explore the town at your own pace.

🛌 Overnight stay in a hotel in Huaraz.

Highlights of the Day:

  • Scenic journey from Lima to Huaraz via coastal and highland landscapes
  • Views of Conococha Lake and both the Cordillera Blanca and Negra
  • Arrival in the iconic Callejón de Huaylas Valley
  • Overnight stay in Huaraz, gateway to the Peruvian Andes

After breakfast, we set off by private transport along the stunning Callejón de Huaylas Valley, passing charming Andean villages and enjoying sweeping views of the Cordillera Blanca, home to Peru’s highest tropical peaks—Huascarán (6,768 m) and Huandoy (6,395 m).

Our drive takes us to Molinopampa, the entrance to the dramatic Pato Canyon, where the adventure on foot begins. From the traditional village of Hualcallan, we start our hike gradually uphill through picturesque farmland and past the archaeological site of Hualcallan, a place that offers insights into pre-Inca civilizations and local cultural heritage.

Continuing along scenic mountain trails, we reach Huishcash Camp at 4,250 meters above sea level, where we spend our first night under the stars in the heart of the Andes.

🍽️ Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Overnight at campsite in Huishcash (4,250 m)

Highlights of the Day:

  • Panoramic drive through the Callejón de Huaylas Valley
  • Views of iconic snow-capped peaks: Huascarán and Huandoy
  • Visit to the archaeological ruins of Hualcallan
  • First night of camping in the high Andes at Huishcash (4,250 m)

After an energizing breakfast, we continue our adventure along an ancient pre-Inca trail, gradually ascending toward the mesmerizing Cullicocha Lakes (4,625 m). This section offers a truly dramatic landscape with turquoise glacial waters reflecting the snowy Santa Cruz Peak (6,259 m), one of the iconic summits of the Cordillera Blanca.

From the lakes, we begin the climb to the impressive Cullicocha Pass at 4,850 meters above sea level. As we reach the top, we’re rewarded with panoramic views of the Milluacocha Glacier (5,480 m) and the surrounding peaks.

Along the way, we pass prehistoric agricultural terraces, remnants of ancient civilizations that once thrived in this high-altitude terrain. The day ends with a scenic descent to Ruinapampa, where we set up camp at 4,800 meters.

🍽️ Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Overnight at campsite in Ruinapampa (4,800 m)

Highlights of the Day:

  • Hike along ancient pre-Inca trails
  • Stunning views of Cullicocha Lakes and Santa Cruz Mountain
  • Cross the scenic Cullicocha Pass (4,850 m)
  • Discover ancient pre-Inca terraces in the highlands
  • Camp surrounded by dramatic Andean landscapes at Ruinapampa

After breakfast, we continue the journey through the Alpamayo Gorge, following the path alongside the roaring Alpamayo River. As we hike, we spot ancient agricultural terraces on the opposite side of the valley — a testament to the region’s rich cultural heritage.

The trail gradually ascends toward the Alpamayo Base Camp, located at 4,600 meters above sea level. Upon arrival, we set up camp and take a short hike to the stunning Jancarurish Lake, nestled at the foot of Alpamayo, often referred to as “the most beautiful mountain in the world” for its perfect pyramidal shape and glistening ice walls.

In the afternoon, there’s time to relax and soak in the breathtaking alpine scenery, preparing for the next stage of the trek.

🍽️ Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Overnight at Alpamayo Base Camp (Jancarurish, 4,600 m)

Highlights of the Day:

  • Scenic ascent through the Alpamayo Valley
  • Views of prehistoric terraces across the river
  • Reach the spectacular Alpamayo Base Camp
  • Explore Jancarurish Lake and admire the iconic Alpamayo Peak (5,947 m)
  • Relax and acclimate surrounded by glacier-covered giants

After an energizing breakfast, we begin our ascent toward the impressive Kara Kara Pass (4,830 m.a.s.l), one of the highlights of the trek. From the top, we’re rewarded with panoramic views of Quitaraju (6,036 m), Santa Cruz, Alpamayo, Jancarurish (5,578 m), and Tayapampa (5,657 m) — a spectacular concentration of glaciated giants.

We then descend into the lush Mayobamba Gorge, before starting another moderate climb to Mesapata Pass (4,500 m.a.s.l), offering views of the stunning Pucahirca mountain group (6,100 m) and the striking east face of Alpamayo.

Finally, we descend through the wild and scenic Tayapampa Valley, where we reach our Huillca campsite, nestled at 4,000 meters above sea level.

🍽️ Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Overnight at Huillca Camp (4,000 m)

Highlights of the Day:

  • Cross the breathtaking Kara Kara Pass (4,830 m)
  • View majestic peaks: Quitaraju, Santa Cruz, Alpamayo, Tayapampa
  • Explore the remote Mayobamba and Tayapampa Gorges
  • Witness the pristine Pucahirca range from Mesapata Pass
  • Camp under the stars at the peaceful Huillca Valley

We start our day with an ascent to the Yanajanca Pass (4,600 m.a.s.l), a high-altitude crossing that brings us closer to the eastern face of Pucahirca, one of the most striking peaks in the Cordillera Blanca. From here, we enjoy a breathtaking view of the hanging glacier that tumbles down its rugged face.

Our route continues along the base of this magnificent mountain toward the serene Sactaycocha Lake (4,056 m.a.s.l), a hidden gem surrounded by dramatic alpine scenery. We then descend into the Quiswar Gorge, a narrow valley filled with native vegetation and traditional Andean culture.

Passing through the picturesque highland village of Jancapampa, we arrive at our campsite at 3,500 m.a.s.l, nestled in a wide open valley with sweeping views of the Pucahirca massif.

🍽️ Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Overnight at Jancapampa Camp (3,500 m)

Highlights of the Day:

  • Ascend the scenic Yanajanca Pass (4,600 m)
  • Hike alongside the imposing Pucahirca Glacier
  • Discover the peaceful Sactaycocha Lake
  • Walk through the authentic Andean village of Jancapampa
  • Camp beneath towering glaciers and open skies in Jancapampa Valley

After breakfast, we continue our journey through the heart of the Andes, crossing the traditional village of Pingospampa, where time seems to stand still and the local Quechua culture thrives in its purest form.

We then begin our steady ascent toward the Tupa Tupa Pass (4,400 m.a.s.l), a high mountain crossing that rewards us with panoramic views of the iconic Taulliraju peak (5,850 m.a.s.l) and the mighty Pucahirca massif. The scenery at the pass is dramatic, with steep rock faces and snow-covered summits all around.

From the pass, we descend into the lush Quisuar Gorge, where native vegetation and glacial streams accompany our route. The day ends at the beautiful Huecrococha Lake (3,950 m.a.s.l), a tranquil alpine lake surrounded by towering ridgelines, where we set up our camp for the night.

🍽️ Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Overnight at Huecrococha Camp (3,950 m)

Highlights of the Day:

  • Cross the charming Andean village of Pingospampa
  • Hike up to the scenic Tupa Tupa Pass (4,400 m)
  • Enjoy stunning views of Taulliraju and Pucahirca peaks
  • Descend through the Quisuar Gorge
  • Camp beside the peaceful and pristine Huecrococha Lake

We begin the day with a scenic ascent to the Alto Pucaraju Pass (4,650 m.a.s.l), one of the highest and most rewarding viewpoints of the trek. As we climb, we are surrounded by some of the most iconic summits of the Cordillera Blanca, including Taulliraju, Paria, and the majestic Chacraraju.

The effort is handsomely rewarded with sweeping 360° panoramic views of towering snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and vast glacial landscapes. It’s a perfect spot for photos and reflection.

From the pass, we descend along an ancient pre-Inca trail, surrounded by native flora and stone-paved paths that echo the footsteps of ancient Andean civilizations. Our descent leads us to the Paria Valley, where we set up camp at 3,800 m.a.s.l in a peaceful setting framed by rugged mountains and open skies.

🍽️ Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Overnight at Paria Camp (3,800 m)

Highlights of the Day:

  • Ascend to the breathtaking Alto Pucaraju Pass (4,650 m)
  • Enjoy stunning views of Taulliraju, Paria, and Chacraraju peaks
  • Walk along a historic pre-Inca trail
  • Set up camp in the scenic and remote Paria Valley

We start the day descending along the lush and peaceful Huaripampa Gorge, surrounded by native vegetation, waterfalls, and the calming sounds of nature. As we hike, we pass through the charming Andean villages of Colcabamba (3,300 m.a.s.l) and Challhuá (3,560 m.a.s.l), where traditional mountain life continues much as it has for centuries.

From Challhuá, the trail begins to ascend again until we reach Molinopampa, our final camp of the expedition, set at 3,650 m.a.s.l. The views along the way are spectacular, with the majestic Contrahierbas Mountain (6,030 m.a.s.l) rising in the distance—an awe-inspiring backdrop as we conclude our trek through the heart of the Cordillera Blanca.

🍽️ Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Overnight at Molinopampa Camp (3,650 m)

Highlights of the Day:

  • Trek along the beautiful Huaripampa Gorge
  • Visit traditional villages like Colcabamba and Challhuá
  • Final campsite in the remote valley of Molinopampa
  • Spectacular views of Contrahierbas (6,030 m.a.s.l)

Today we begin our ascent along the Keshu Gorge, walking through forests of queñua trees, a resilient species native to the high Andes. This section of the trail is rich in biodiversity and offers a unique opportunity to appreciate the Andean highland ecosystem.

As we gain altitude, we approach the Ulta Chico Gorge, a less-traveled route that offers solitude and raw mountain beauty. Our day ends at the Mirador campsite (4,200 m.a.s.l), a stunning lookout point with panoramic views of the surrounding glacial peaks.

From this high vantage, we can observe ice avalanches cascading from the mighty Contrahierbas Glacier—a powerful reminder of the ever-changing Andean landscape.

🍽️ Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Overnight at Mirador Camp (4,200 m)

Highlights of the Day:

  • Scenic trek through queñua forests in Keshu Gorge
  • Stunning campsite at Mirador (4,200 m.a.s.l)
  • Observe glacial avalanches from Contrahierbas
  • Quiet and remote trail through the Ulta Chico Gorge

On our last day of trekking, we ascend to the Ulta Chico Pass (4,850 m.a.s.l)—the final high point of this epic journey. From here, we’re rewarded with breathtaking views of some of the most iconic peaks in the Cordillera Blanca, including Contrahierbas (5,960 m), Ulta (5,875 m), and the majestic Chopicallqui (6,354 m).

After enjoying this final panorama, we begin our descent into the Ulta Gorge, following a well-marked trail with changing scenery as we gradually lose altitude. At the end of the trail, our private transport will be waiting to take us back to Huaraz, where a comfortable hotel stay awaits.

🍽️ Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
🚐 Private transfer to Huaraz included

Highlights of the Day:

  • Trekking across Ulta Chico Pass (4,850 m.a.s.l)
  • Panoramic views of Contrahierbas, Ulta, and Chopicallqui
  • Scenic descent into the Ulta Gorge
  • Return to Huaraz after a challenging and rewarding expedition

After a well-deserved rest and a relaxing breakfast at the hotel, it’s time to say goodbye to the Andes. We provide a transfer from the hotel to the bus station for your return journey.

You will take a comfortable regular bus from Huaraz to Lima, traveling through the scenic valleys and coastal landscapes of northern Peru. This marks the end of your unforgettable adventure through the Cordillera Blanca.

🚌 Transport included: Hotel transfer + regular bus Huaraz–Lima
🍽️ Meal included: Breakfast

Highlights of the Day:

  • Farewell breakfast in Huaraz
  • Comfortable bus journey to Lima
  • Scenic route through Andean valleys and coastlines

What’s included:

  • Hotel in Huaraz.
  • Transfer Lima – Huaraz – Lima in regular bus (non-stop buses with air conditioning, chemical toilette, TV, lunch on board, hostess).
  • Private car transfers in Huaraz: bus station – hotel – bus station.
  • Private car transfers to all starting and returning points to/from the hiking destinations.
  • Bilingual trekking guide.
  • First class trekking services: Cook and full meal in the mountains, according to program.
  • Donkeys and donkey drivers, and a Horse.
  • Sleeping tents (for 2 or 3 persons each), kitchen, dining and toilette tents.
  • Air mattress.
  • All cooking gear and dining equipment.
  • First aid group kit.
  • Entrances fees to the National Park.
  • Upon return from Huaraz transfer from the bus station to the hotel or to the airport.

Not included:

  • Hotels in Lima.
  • Dinners in town.
  • Personal expenses: camping gear, specific medicines equipment, phone calls, extra meals, drinks, tips and others of personal nature.

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Important

Don’t forget to pack:

  • Backpack with rain shelter.
  • Sleeping bag.
  • Clothing for warm and cold climates like a waterproof jacket. Rain pants and lightweight pants.
  • Trekking shoes. Slippers or sandals (for showers).
  • Woollen or synthetic socks and a sweater.
  • Long- and short-sleeved  shirts.
  • Rain poncho and a hat.
  • Sunscreen, insect repellent, disinfecting alcohol and gel, water bottle and sterilizing tablets, toiletries and toilet paper.
  • Camera (wrapped in plastic bag).
  • Flashlight and batteries.
  • Some snacks like chocolate bars and dry fruit.
  • Original passport, original ISIC student card and extra money in soles.
  • Since the weather can be very cold and moist, your clothes – once gotten wet – won’t dry at night. So take some clothes to change.

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Tour Related:

4 Days/ 3 Nights

Climb Pisco Mountain – 4-Day Guided Expedition in the Cordillera Blanca

Take your adventure to new heights with our 4-day guided climb to Pisco Mountain (5,750 m), one of the most iconic and accessible peaks in Peru’s Cordillera Blanca. This climb is the perfect introduction to high-altitude mountaineering, offering a rewarding challenge with breathtaking alpine scenery, expert support, and unforgettable Andean landscapes.

Begin your journey in Huaraz, the adventure capital of Peru, and travel through the stunning Llanganuco Valley, home to the famous turquoise lakes Chinancocha and Orconcocha. From there, your trek ascends gradually, giving you time to acclimatize as you make your way to Pisco Base Camp and then on to Moraine Camp, located just below the glacier.

The summit day is an early start, but the reward is unparalleled. As the sun rises, you’ll stand at 5,750 meters above sea level, surrounded by snow-covered giants like Huascarán, Chopicalqui, Artesonraju, and Alpamayo. This 360° view from the top of Pisco is a highlight that will stay with you forever.

Perfect for both beginner and intermediate climbers, this tour includes professional bilingual guides, camping equipment, meals, and mule support—you focus on the climb, we take care of the rest.

Highlights:

  • 🚐 Scenic drive through the majestic Llanganuco Valley with glacier lakes and towering peaks.
  • 🏕️ Camp under the stars at high-altitude sites with panoramic mountain views.
  • 🧗 Cross glacial moraines and rocky terrain en route to Moraine Camp (4,765 m).
  • 🌄 Summit at sunrise with awe-inspiring views of the Cordillera Blanca.
  • 💪 Great acclimatization peak before attempting higher climbs in the Andes.
  • 🧭 Fully supported expedition with expert guides, gear, and mules included.

3 Days/ 2 Nights

🌄 3-Day Tour to Lake Llanganuco & Chavín de Huántar – From Huaraz

Looking for a short but unforgettable escape in the Peruvian Andes? This 3-day tour from Huaraz is the perfect mix of natural beauty, history, and culture.

Explore the breathtaking Lake Llanganuco, located in the heart of Huascarán National Park, where turquoise glacial waters reflect the snow-covered peaks of the Cordillera Blanca. Visit charming towns in the Callejón de Huaylas, discover local crafts in Tarica, and connect with the cultural heritage of the region.

Continue your adventure with a guided visit to the mysterious Chavín de Huántar, one of Peru’s most important pre-Inca archaeological sites, recognized by UNESCO for its historical significance. Walk through ancient stone temples, ceremonial plazas, and underground labyrinths that date back over 3,000 years.

Whether you’re acclimatizing for a longer trek or looking for a meaningful short trip in the Andes, this tour is a perfect way to experience the highlights of Ancash in just a few days.

📍 Duration: 3 days / 2 nights
🚐 Starts and ends in: Huaraz
🌿 Destinations: Lake Llanganuco, Chavín de Huántar, Callejón de Huaylas
Ideal for: Cultural travelers, acclimatization, short trips

Book now and uncover the magic of Peru’s highlands with expert local guides and unforgettable views.

2 Days /1 Night

Discover the Heart of the Colca Valley with an Authentic Cultural Experience!
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture of the Colca Valley on this 2-day adventure. Witness the majestic flight of the condors, explore ancient Inca terraces and ruins, and relax in the healing waters of Yanque’s hot springs. Stay with a welcoming local family, savor homemade traditional meals, and experience the warmth of Collagua hospitality. A perfect blend of nature, culture, and adventure awaits you! 🌄✨

Why Choose This Tour?

  • Authentic Experience – Connect with the local culture by staying with a local family and sharing traditional meals.
  • Stunning Nature – Witness the majestic flight of the condors and the breathtaking views of the Colca Canyon.
  • Cultural Immersion – Learn about the history, customs, and daily life of the Collagua communities.
  • Adventure and Relaxation – Combine exploration with relaxation in the hot springs of Yanque.

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