7-day climbing the Alpamayo mount

Your adventure begins with a private transfer from Huaraz to the mountain village of Cashapampa, located at 2,900 meters (9,514 ft). The scenic drive takes around 3 hours and passes through picturesque Andean farmland and mountain valleys nestled between the Cordillera Negra and the Cordillera Blanca.

At Cashapampa, we meet our mule drivers and load the gear onto donkeys. We begin our trekking route by ascending through the Santa Cruz Valley, a classic route surrounded by towering peaks and lush vegetation. After approximately 4–5 hours of trekking, we arrive at Llamacorral Camp, our first overnight site surrounded by peaceful mountain landscapes.

Highlights:

• Scenic drive through rural Andean communities
• Begin the Santa Cruz trail with views of waterfalls and native flora
• Camp under the stars in a high Andean valley

After breakfast, we continue trekking deeper into the valley. This segment is shorter and gentler, lasting about 3 to 4 hours, allowing for better acclimatization. We pass by turquoise glacial lakes such as Jatuncocha and Ichiccocha, framed by snowcapped peaks.

We arrive at Alpamayo Base Camp, situated in a wide, grassy valley with flowing streams, spectacular alpine views, and basic infrastructure including outhouses. The rest of the day is for rest and preparation.

Highlights:

• Beautiful lakeside hiking and wildlife spotting
• Breathtaking views of Mount Alpamayo and its sister peaks
• Settle into a scenic and serene base camp

Today, we transition from trekking to alpine climbing terrain. We ascend steeply from base camp, following a rocky moraine ridge that leads us across glacial boulders and rock slabs. After about 3 hours of hiking, we reach Moraine Camp, a compact area with limited space for tents located near the glacier.
Depending on group strength, weather, and conditions, we may choose to continue straight to High Camp on this day.

Highlights:

• Enter the glaciated alpine environment
• Enjoy panoramic views of surrounding peaks
• Sleep near the edge of the glacier under a clear Andean sky

From Moraine Camp, the trail becomes more technical. We cross snow slopes and ascend a 300-meter couloir leading to the Col between Alpamayo and Quitaraju. This section, often icy and steep, is considered one of the most technical parts of the expedition.

Upon reaching the col, we make a short descent to the sheltered site of High Camp, perched above the glacier. Here, we rest early and prepare equipment for the summit push.

Highlights:

• Challenging alpine ascent across snow and ice
• Reach the col with commanding views of the Cordillera Blanca
• Rest and acclimatize for summit day

The big day starts in the dark, around 2:00 AM. Roped up, we climb the famous southwest face of Alpamayo, an elegant fluted ice wall that rises approximately 360 vertical meters. This is a technical ascent, often requiring front-pointing and solid ice-climbing skills.

After several pitches, we reach the summit ridge of Alpamayo, often considered the most beautiful mountain in the world. Take in the incredible 360° views before beginning a careful descent back to High Camp.

Highlights:

• Experience world-class technical ice climbing
• Reach the summit of one of the most iconic peaks in the Andes
• Witness breathtaking sunrise views from the top of the world

After a late breakfast, we begin descending the route through the glacier and back down the moraine to reach Base Camp, where a well-deserved lunch will be waiting. The afternoon is free to rest, reflect, and celebrate your achievement with the team.

Highlights:

• Descend with views of the magnificent Alpamayo summit
• Celebrate a successful summit in a relaxed mountain setting
• Final night in the tranquility of the Andes

Our last trekking day takes us back down the Santa Cruz Valley, retracing our steps past turquoise lakes and towering cliffs. After 4–5 hours of hiking, we arrive at Cashapampa, where our private transport will take us back to Huaraz.
Upon arrival, enjoy a warm shower, a celebratory dinner, and perhaps a night out in town with your team.

Highlights:

• Scenic descent through one of the most beautiful valleys in Peru
• Farewell to the Cordillera Blanca
• Time to relax and reflect on an unforgettable mountaineering experience