Amazing 15-day trek at Cordillera Huayhuash

Your adventure begins with a scenic bus journey to Huaraz, the gateway to the Cordillera Blanca and the trekking capital of Peru. Upon arrival, our local representative will be waiting at the terminal to welcome you and provide a comfortable transfer to your hotel.

This first day is perfect for resting and acclimatizing to the high altitude (3,052 m / 10,013 ft). You’ll have free time to explore the town, sample some traditional Peruvian dishes, or simply relax and prepare for the days ahead.

🏔️ Highlights:

• Private transfer upon arrival in Huaraz
• First glimpses of the Peruvian Andes
• Free time to acclimate and enjoy the mountain town atmosphere

After an early breakfast at the hotel, we begin our journey north through the picturesque Callejón de Huaylas, following the course of the Santa River between the Cordillera Blanca and Cordillera Negra. Along the way, we’ll make scenic photo stops at viewpoints selected by our experienced driver or upon request.

Our first main stop is Yungay (2,500 m / 8,202 ft), a historic town with a poignant past. From here, we ascend into the Llanganuco Valley, where you’ll be treated to awe-inspiring views of Huascarán, Peru’s highest mountain at 6,768 meters (22,205 ft). As we climb, the snow-capped peaks loom closer, offering incredible photo opportunities.

Upon reaching the stunning Llanganuco Lake, famous for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and surrounded by towering peaks and queñua forests, we’ll take a short walk along the shore and to the end of the valley to fully appreciate its beauty.

Afterward, we descend back to Yungay and continue to Caraz (2,290 m / 7,513 ft), the northernmost town in the Callejón de Huaylas, where we’ll enjoy a delicious lunch featuring local cuisine.

In the afternoon, we return to Huaraz for a well-deserved rest.

🏔️ Highlights:

• Scenic drive through the Callejón de Huaylas with multiple photo stops
• Stunning views of Huascarán, the tallest mountain in Peru
• Visit and walk around the beautiful Llanganuco Lake
• Lunch in Caraz, a charming mountain town
• Cultural and natural immersion in the Cordillera Blanca region

Today we begin our overland journey from Huaraz to Cuartelwain, gradually ascending through high-altitude landscapes as we acclimatize further for the upcoming trek. Our route follows the highway south until we detour at Quebrada Carpa, passing through Pachacoto, a small Andean settlement.

One of the day’s highlights is a visit to the Puya Raimondii forest, where you’ll see the world’s largest flowering plant—an endemic species of the Andes that can reach up to 10 meters (33 ft) in height. This area also offers impressive panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks of the Cordillera Blanca, within Huascarán National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

We continue climbing to cross Huarapasca Pass (4,780 m / 15,682 ft) and then Yanashallash Pass (4,680 m / 15,354 ft), from where we can admire the contrasting mountain ranges of the Cordillera Blanca, Huayhuash, and Huallanca.

Descending from the pass, we drive through the Huallanca community and follow the San Juan River, crossing the Cuncush Pass (4,750 m / 15,584 ft) before reaching our destination: the Cuartelwain campsite (3,900 m / 12,795 ft), located in a serene Andean setting.

Lunch will be served en route. Overnight at our scenic mountain camp.

🏔️ Highlights:

• Scenic high-altitude drive through the Cordillera Blanca
• See the Puya Raimondii, the world’s tallest flowering plant
• Panoramic views of Huascarán National Park and surrounding mountain ranges
• Cross multiple Andean passes over 4,700 m for acclimatization
• Camp overnight in Cuartelwain, gateway to the Huayhuash trek

After a hearty breakfast at camp, we begin our first full day of trekking through the stunning Cordillera Huayhuash. The trail gradually ascends through pristine alpine landscapes until we reach Cacananpunta Pass (4,700 m / 15,420 ft), offering breathtaking 360° views of the surrounding valleys and jagged peaks.

From the top of the pass, you’ll witness an important natural divide: the continental watershed that separates rivers flowing to the Amazon Basin from those heading west to the Pacific Ocean.

As we descend toward the Mitucocha Valley, towering summits such as Jirishanca Chico, Jirishanca Grande, Rondoy, and Ninashanca dominate the skyline. Our scenic campsite is nestled near the shimmering Mitucocha Lake, a tranquil spot perfect for rest and reflection after the day’s hike.

Trekking time: approx. 6 hours
Distance: 5 km (3.1 mi)
Campsite altitude: 4,200 m / 13,780 ft

🏞️ Highlights:

• Cross the Cacananpunta Pass (4,700 m) with panoramic mountain views
• Walk along the continental divide between the Pacific and Amazon basins
• Camp near the spectacular Mitucocha Lake
• Views of iconic peaks: Jirishanca, Rondoy, and Ninashanca
• Acclimatize gradually in pristine Andean scenery

Today’s scenic hike begins with a steady ascent toward the Carhuac Pass (4,600 m / 15,090 ft), offering exceptional views of the majestic Jirishanca Chico and the towering peaks of Yerupajá, Siula Grande, Sarapo, and Toro—some of the most iconic summits in the entire Cordillera Huayhuash.

The trail winds through a high-altitude plateau of puna grasslands, a unique Andean ecosystem rich in biodiversity. As we descend toward our campsite beside Carhuacocha Lake, we’re treated to one of the most stunning vistas in the Andes—glacial peaks reflected in the mirror-like waters of the lake.

Carhuacocha is considered by many trekkers to be one of the most breathtaking spots on the entire route.

Trekking time: approx. 7–8 hours
Distance: 8 km (5 mi)
Campsite altitude: 4,200 m / 13,780 ft

🏞️ Highlights:

• Cross the scenic Carhuac Pass (4,600 m)
• Spectacular views of Yerupajá, Siula Grande, Sarapo, and Jirishanca
• Trek through the vast puna grasslands
• Camp beside the awe-inspiring Carhuacocha Lake, surrounded by glacier-capped peaks
• A photographer’s paradise and a top highlight of the trek

After several days of high-altitude trekking, today is a well-deserved rest day at the stunning Carhuacocha Lake, one of the most picturesque locations in the Huayhuash Circuit.

Enjoy a late breakfast and take the day at your own pace. You can choose to simply relax and soak in the incredible scenery, or explore the surrounding area on your own. Optional activities include fishing in the lake, visiting the nearby Siula Lake, or hiking up to spectacular viewpoints that offer panoramic vistas of Siula Grande, Yerupajá, and the glacial valleys.

This is a perfect moment to recharge, reflect, and appreciate the serene beauty of the Andes.

🏞️ Highlights:

• Free day to rest and acclimate
• Optional visit to Siula Lake
• Opportunity to fish in Carhuacocha
• Explore surrounding trails and viewpoints
• Marvel at uninterrupted views of iconic Andean peaks

Today’s trek is one of the most scenic sections of the Huayhuash Circuit, offering breathtaking views of rugged peaks, alpine lakes, and remote valleys.

We begin our ascent toward the Carnicero Pass at 4,750 m.a.s.l., following a spectacular trail that passes by a series of shimmering glacial lakes. To our right, the snow-capped giants of the Cordillera Huayhuash tower above us.

After reaching the narrow mountain pass, we begin our descent into a stunning valley and arrive at our campsite near Jurau, nestled in a quiet, highland landscape inhabited by local herding communities. From here, we enjoy panoramic views of iconic peaks such as Trapecio, Carnicero, and Jurau.

⏱️ Time: Approx. 8 hours
📏 Distance: 9 km

🏔️ Highlights:

• Traverse the Carnicero Pass at 4,750 m.a.s.l.
• Walk alongside turquoise glacial lakes
• Spectacular vistas of Trapecio, Carnicero, and Jurau
• Discover remote Andean valleys and spot highland wildlife
• Camp in one of the most remote and peaceful sections of the trek

Today we continue our journey deeper into the Peruvian Andes, beginning with a gentle walk past the seasonal herder settlement of Huayhuash. From here, we ascend gradually to the Huayhuash Pass (4,580 m.a.s.l.), where the dramatic peaks of the Cordillera Huayhuash give way to sweeping views of the Cordillera Raura to the south.

Along the way, enjoy striking vistas of Mount León Huacanan, Quesillojanca, and the rugged profile of Puscanturpa. The scenery shifts as we cross into a quieter and more open high-altitude landscape.

Our descent leads us to the serene Lake Viconga, where we set up camp for the night. The area is known for its thermal springs, making this an ideal place to relax and soak after several days of hiking.

⏱️ Time: Approx. 7–8 hours
📏 Distance: 8 km

🏔️ Highlights:

• Scenic views from Huayhuash Pass at 4,580 m.a.s.l.
• Panoramas of Cordillera Raura, León Huacanan, and Puscanturpa
• Visit to the traditional Huayhuash herder settlement
• Camp near the peaceful Lake Viconga
• Optional visit to natural hot springs for post-hike relaxation

Today’s route takes us to the highest pass of the entire trek, making it one of the most memorable days of the expedition. We start with a moderate ascent that lasts around 3 hours, slowly gaining altitude as we approach the Cuyoc Pass (5,000 m.a.s.l.), surrounded by breathtaking views of the towering Cuyoc Mountain nearby.

Upon reaching the summit, take time to appreciate this spectacular high-altitude vantage point, offering sweeping panoramas of both the Huayhuash range and the wild valleys beyond. From here, we begin a steep descent along a dusty and rocky trail into the remote Guanacpatay Valley, where the terrain softens and we find lush highland meadows — a perfect spot for lunch.

In the afternoon, we continue hiking through open fields before reaching our peaceful campsite in the Guanacpatay Valley at 4,300 m.a.s.l., surrounded by silence and untouched beauty.

⏱️ Time: Approx. 7–8 hours
📏 Distance: Approx. 10 km

🏔️ Highlights:

• Crossing the highest pass of the trek (approx. 5,000 m.a.s.l.)
• Majestic views of Cuyoc Mountain
• Scenic descent into the isolated Guanacpatay Valley
• Lunch in a tranquil high-altitude meadow
• Overnight in a serene and remote Andean setting

We begin our descent at 8:00 AM, following a gentle and gradual downhill trail, making this one of the easiest trekking days. The path winds through the scenic Guanacpatay Valley, offering expansive views and a peaceful ambiance as we head toward lower altitudes.

Around midday, we stop for lunch at the confluence of the Guanacpatay and Huayllapa rivers, a beautiful and quiet spot ideal for a short rest. Afterward, we continue our hike along a rocky trail following the Huayllapa River, surrounded by steep canyon walls and lush highland vegetation.

By late afternoon, we reach Huayllapa, a remote and traditional Andean village located at 3,700 m.a.s.l. Nestled in a narrow valley and accessible only by foot, Huayllapa is a living example of Andean resilience and culture. Despite its isolation, the village has a charming spirit — with small shops offering basic supplies, cold sodas, and beers.

Tonight, we’ll camp in the local football field, right in the heart of this mountain community, offering a unique cultural immersion and a glimpse into the local lifestyle.

⏱️ Time: Approx. 5–6 hours
📏 Distance: Approx. 10 km

🏔️ Highlights:

• Easy downhill hiking through scenic valleys
• Lunch at the river junction of Guanacpatay and Huayllapa
• Visit to the remote mountain village of Huayllapa
• Unique camping experience in a traditional Andean town
• Access to local shops and refreshments

Today’s route begins with a challenging ascent as we make our way toward the Tapush Pass at 4,800 m.a.s.l. The first part of the hike includes around 5 hours of steady uphill, winding through alpine meadows and rocky terrain. While demanding, the panoramic views along the way — including jagged peaks and glacial valleys — make the effort worthwhile.

Upon reaching Tapush Pass, take a moment to enjoy the breathtaking scenery that stretches across the northern Huayhuash range. Afterward, the trail becomes gentler with a 2-hour descent on a smoother path that leads us to our campsite at Cashpapampa (4,600 m.a.s.l.).

You’ll arrive at camp in the early afternoon, giving you time to rest and reflect — from this point, you’ll begin to feel the satisfaction of nearing the completion of the full Huayhuash Circuit.

⏱️ Time: Approx. 7 hours
📏 Distance: Approx. 10 km

🏔️ Highlights:

• Challenging but rewarding ascent to Tapush Pass (4,800 m)
• Incredible panoramic views of the northern Huayhuash mountains
• Descend into a peaceful high-altitude campsite at 4,600 m
• Feeling of achievement as you approach the final stretch of the trek

After breakfast, we begin a moderate ascent to Yaucha Pass (4,800 m.a.s.l.), a journey that takes around 2 hours. Upon reaching the pass, you’ll have time to rest, take photos, and admire the panoramic views of the northern Huayhuash peaks.

We then descend along the Huacrish ravine, a trail that takes us through dramatic high-altitude scenery. After a couple of hours, a breathtaking view opens up — the emerald waters of Jahuacocha Lake nestled at the base of Jirishanca, Yerupajá, and Rondoy mountains.

Our campsite is located beside Lake Jahuacocha (4,066 m.a.s.l.), one of the most iconic spots on the Huayhuash Circuit. From here, you may even witness thundering avalanches cascading from the glacier-hung slopes of Jirishanca.

Nearby, you’ll find a small shepherd’s hut owned by Mr. Delao Huaranga, a local who often welcomes trekkers with cold sodas or beer — a rare treat at this altitude. He’s also known to share stories of mountain life and sheep herding, offering a unique cultural touch to this unforgettable setting.

⏱️ Time: Approx. 5–7 hours
📏 Distance: Approx. 11 km

🏔️ Highlights:

• Ascend the scenic Yaucha Pass (4,800 m)
• First views of the iconic Jahuacocha Lake and Yerupajá & Jirishanca peaks
• Optional cultural encounter with a local shepherd
• Spectacular natural amphitheater with possible glacial avalanches

Today is a rest and exploration day at the breathtaking Jahuacocha Lake. After several days of challenging trekking, this is your chance to unwind or enjoy optional excursions at your own pace.

Your guide will offer several alternatives, including:

• A short hike to Solterococha Lake, located higher up the valley with spectacular views of the glaciers
• Fishing in Jahuacocha (optional, depending on season and permits)
• Leisure walks around the lake to spot Andean wildlife or simply take in the beauty of the landscape
• Relaxing by the water and enjoying the silence of the Andes

Passengers will have arranged box lunches the day before with the team, and dinner will be freshly prepared by our cooks in the evening, allowing you to recharge before the final stage of the trek.

⏱️ Time: Flexible (depending on the chosen activity)
📏 Distance: Varies

🏔️ Highlights:

• Free day to rest or explore the Jahuacocha Valley
• Optional hike to Solterococha with glacier views
• Chance to observe local flora and fauna
• Peaceful lakefront setting for relaxation or reflection

On our final day of the Huayhuash trek, we begin with a morning ascent to Pampallamac (4300 m), where we’ll enjoy one last panoramic view of the majestic Cordillera Huayhuash. It’s a perfect moment to reflect on the incredible journey we’ve shared through one of the most beautiful mountain ranges in the world.

A few meters below the pass, we’ll enjoy our last outdoor lunch, surrounded by silence and scenery. Then we begin our final descent to the village of Llamac, arriving around 3:00 or 4:00 PM.

Llamac is more than just the endpoint of the trek—it’s the hometown of our muleteers, including Justino Basilio and his team. Here, you’ll learn about Andean life, agriculture, and local customs, and may even explore the region’s hidden craft traditions.

Mrs. Rosario Huaranga, daughter of Mr. Delao from Jahuacocha and wife of Mr. Basilio, creates and sells authentic handwoven textiles: blankets, ponchos, and sheets made with natural wool and dyed using native plants. These one-of-a-kind pieces reflect the artistry and spirit of the Andes.

After resting in Llamac, we depart around 4:00 PM, following the Llamac River to Timpoc, where it meets the Pacllon River. Then, we begin a gradual ascent toward Chiquián via the Ainin River, arriving around 5:00 or 6:00 PM. From here, a 3-hour drive takes us back to Huaraz, crossing once again the Conococha Pass (4500 m).

Upon arrival in Huaraz, we’ll transfer you to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.

⏱️ Time: 6–7 hours hike + 3-hour drive
📏 Distance: ~14 km hike
🏔️ Altitude: Max 4300 m / Min 3300 m

🏁 Highlights:

• Final breathtaking view of the Huayhuash Range from Pampallamac
• Visit to Llamac, home of your local support team
• Opportunity to purchase authentic Andean handicrafts
• Return to Huaraz for overnight accommodation

After an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Andes, today marks the end of our adventure. At the agreed time, our team will transfer you to the bus station for your journey back to Lima.

We hope you leave with extraordinary memories, new friendships, and a deep connection to the breathtaking landscapes and warm-hearted communities of the Cordillera Huayhuash.