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Huayhuash Trek, Peru: All You Need to Know About Hiking in the Cordillera Huayhuash

Last Updated on November 18, 2022 by Audrey Scott

Doing the Huayhuash Trek in the Cordillera Huayhuash in Peru had been a dream of ours for over a decade. Although our expectations were high, the reality of our experience far exceeded them: eight high mountain pass crossings, surrounding peaks of 6,000+ meters (20,000+ feet), turquoise alpine lakes, stunning glacier-covered mountains, and a diversity of landscapes. Each day felt like a different experience, a new discovery. After answering endless questions about planning, organizing and preparing for a Huayhuash trek, it’s time to share it all in this Huayhuash Trekking Guide.

Huayhuash Trekking Guide

Many people have never heard of the Cordillera Huayhuash since the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu usually get all the tourist and adventure travel attention in Peru . However, this small sub-range of the Peruvian Andes packs a huge punch for its size. Although only 30km long it includes six peaks over 6,000 meters (20,000 ft.) and features spectacular panoramic views of scores of high snow-covered peaks from different perspectives.

It’s not a coincidence that the Cordillera Huayhuash, together with the Himalayan Mountains in Nepal and India , is often listed among the top in the “best places in the world to trek” lists. Yes, it's that stunningly beautiful.

Huayhuash Trekking Guide

Here's why the Huayhuash Trek is one of the best treks we've ever done and why we continually recommend it. Writing this Huayhuash Trekking Guide brings back excellent memories and makes us want to return to explore even more.

How to use this Huayhuash Trekking Guide: This article is intended to be comprehensive. It contains all the information we wish we'd found when we researched and planned our own Huayhuash Trek. It includes all you need to choose, organize, pack for and enjoy trekking in the mountains of the Cordillera Huayhuash. Plus, it outlines what to expect day by day on the Huayhuash Trek. If questions remain, leave a comment so that others may benefit from the answer and information.

Table of Contents

Peru Covid Travel Update

Peru is open to travelers and you can find all of the Covid travel and entry requirements on this official website . In addition to filling out a health declaration in advance, you will need to show proof of vaccination or testing to enter the country.

Currently (February 2022), the local communities along the Huayhuash treks are open for foreign visitors and camping, but some may have special requirements to enter. Be sure to check in advance with your trekking agency or tour operator. In addition, for safety and health reasons many trekking agencies are limiting group tours and are focusing mostly on individual tours.

Choosing a Huayhuash Trek

Huayhuash treks fall roughly into two categories: short (4-7 days) and long (8-14 days). If you have the time, we recommend choosing a route that is 10-12 days through the Cordillera Huayhuash. This length of circuit can provide a complete Huayhuash experience and deliver more views and stunning landscapes than you thought possible in one trek.

Classic Huayhuash Trek (8-14 days)

Longer treks will take you over more mountain passes in a full circuit so you can appreciate some of the high peaks from multiple angles. Each day includes at least one, and sometimes two, mountain passes ranging from 4,000+ meters/ 13,000+ feet up to 5,050m/16,570 feet. It is recommended to do three acclimatization hikes in and around Huaraz before embarking on one of these treks (see below for details).

Huayhuash Trek Guide, Day 4

We chose a 10-day Huayhuash trek and were very happy with the route, pace, difficulty and overall experience. We met other trekkers who had done an 8-day trek, but we found their route cut out some of our favorite vistas.

Short Huayhuash Treks (4-7 days)

Also known as Mini Huayhuash Treks, these shorter routes intend to provide trekkers a sort of “best of” sample of the Cordillera Huayhuash in a shorter period of time. These routes tend to focus around Lake Jahuacocha or Lake Carhuacocha and cross over several 4,000+ meter / 13,000+ feet mountain passes. Although not as challenging as the full Huayhuash Trek, these treks still require prior acclimatization in and around Huaraz.

Note: If you don’t think that you have the time, physical endurance or strength to do one of the Huayhuash Treks, consider one of the Santa Cruz treks in the nearby Cordillera Blanca. As we understand, these treks still include stunning scenery but are shorter and less physically demanding.

What to Expect on a 10-day Huayhuash Trek: Day by Day

  • Our Route: Matacancha – Mitucocha – Carhuacocha Lake – Huayhuash – Viconga – Huanacpatay Valley – Huayllapa Village – Gashpapampa Valley – Jahuacocha Lake – Llamac Village
  • Total Hiking Distance: 70.4 miles / 113 km
  • Number of Days: 9 nights/10 days, including a van transfer to the trailhead from Huaraz on Day 1 and return to Huaraz on Day 10.
  • Maximum Altitude: 5,050 (16,570 feet)
  • Season: May – early September (dry season)
  • Difficulty: Medium-Difficult

Note: The itinerary outlined below is the one that we took. Although the route is the same, some of our campsites and overnights may differ slightly from some of the classic 10-day Huayhuash Trek itineraries. Together with our guide, we decided to adjust the itinerary so that we would climb up to San Antonio Pass on the morning of Day 7 vs. the afternoon of Day 6. This meant that we spread out the campsites after that a bit differently and did not have two nights at Lake Jahuacocha — a deliberate itinerary adjustment which was preferable to all of us.

We calculated distances and times using an exercise app. While fairly accurate, there may be some small differences than if we'd used a more sophisticated GPS device.

Day 1: Drive from Huaraz to Matacancha (4,150 meters / 13,615 feet)

This is a driving day (7 hours) from Huaraz to get you to the trailhead so that you ready to start hiking the next day. You go through some beautiful scenery, including some overlooks with views of the Cordillera Huayhuash and a drive over the Cuncush Pass (4,750 meters/15,580 feet).

Day 2: Matacancha – Cacanan Pass – Mitucocha

Once at the trailhead, you’ll have time to unload all the gear, learn how to set up your tent, enjoy views of Mount Rondoy (5,870 meters / 19260 feet) and eat a hearty dinner before turning in early for the night.

  • Hiking Distance: 5.66 miles / 9.1 km
  • Number of hours hiking: 5 hours
  • Maximum Altitude: 4,700 m (15,420 feet)

This day begins with a steep zigzag ascent to Cacanan Pass (4,700 m/15,420 ft) which marks the continental divide (all rivers east of it flow towards the Amazon and all on the west flow towards the Pacific Ocean). Enjoy a snack and rest at the top before descending into a green valley where you may find a few vicuñas (related to llamas) grazing high in the hills or vizcachas (animals which look like a rabbit crossed with a squirrel) dashing around.

Huayhuash Trekking Guide, Day 2 Campsite

You’ll also have your first view of some of the snow-covered high peaks of Ninashanca (5,607 m), Jirashanca (6,094 m) and Jiraschanco Chico (5,445 m). The trail continues past the small village of Janca to the campsite near Lake Mitucocha at the foot of Mount Jirashanca.

Day 3: Mitucocha – Carhuac Pass – Carhuacocha Lake

  • Hiking Distance: 6.5 miles / 10.5 km
  • Number of hours hiking: 5.5 hours
  • Maximum Altitude: 4,650 m (15,255 feet)

The walk up to Carhuac Pass (4,650 m) is rather gentle and takes around three hours. You’ll be rewarded at the top with the first view of Mount Yerupaja (6,634 m), Peru’s second highest peak and the highest of the Cordillera Huayhuash. On the way down towards Lake Carhuacocha you’ll pass some Incan ruins and another small village.

Huayhuash Trek Guide

The campsite is on the shore of the lake and features a stunning panoramic view of the snow-covered peaks of Yerupaja, Yerupaja Chico (6,121 m), Siula Grande (6,344 m) Jirashanca and Jirashanca Chico (5,446 m).

Day 4: Carhuacocha Lake – Siula Pass – Huayhuash

  • Hiking Distance: 8.5 miles / 13.7 km
  • Number of hours hiking: 7 hours
  • Maximum Altitude: 4,800 m (15,750 feet)

Wake up before sunrise, grab a cup of coca tea and climb to the top of the hill behind the campsite to watch the light transform the nearby snow-covered peaks as the sun rises. The reflection of the snow-covered peak in the lake is like a mirror, perfectly still and crisp. Mother Nature puts on a beautiful show as the colors change to pink and orange.

Huayhuash Trekking Guide

This is a beautiful morning walk that winds its way past the turquoise alpine lakes of Grangrajanca (4,245 m), Siula (4,290 m) and Quesillococha (4,332 m). As you rise in altitude to reach Siula Pass (4,800 m) more layers of mountains and lakes appear.

Huayhuash Trekking Guide

It’s a steep and rocky ascent to the pass, but you’re rewarded with views of Mount Carnicero (5,960 m), Jurau (5,600 m) and the eastern side of Siula Grande (6,344 m). Enjoy a picnic lunch here before descending to the campsite near Huayhuash.

Huayhuash Trek Guide, Peru

Day 5: Huayhuash – Portachuelo Pass – Viconga (Hot Springs)

  • Hiking Distance: 7.3 miles / 11.75 km
  • Maximum Altitude: 4,750 m (15,585 feet)

The day begins with a relatively easy ascent to Portachuelo Pass (4,750 m). Enjoy a snack at the top with views of the snow-covered mountains of the Cordillera Raura. The descent is long and steady, passing through green valleys filled with wildflowers and perhaps a llama, alpaca or two.

The Viconga campsite is at the foot of Mount Cuyoc (5,550 m). This campsite is the one place along the trek where you'll have an option to bathe.

Huayhuash Trek in Peru, Day 5

Note: There are several hot spring pools near the campsite. We highly recommended you enjoy them thoroughly, both to bathe and to relax your muscles in the warm water. There is a small pool for washing with soap and then two other pools to soak in once you’re clean.

Day 6: Viconga – Cuyoc Pass – Pampa Cuyoc

  • Hiking Distance: 5 miles / 8 km
  • Number of hours hiking: 4 hours
  • Maximum Altitude: 5,000 m (16,404 feet)

This relatively short day includes Cuyoc Pass (5,000 m), the first of the trek’s two 5,000+ meter mountain passes. This is a relatively long switchback ascent through rocky, high desert terrain. The panoramic views from the top are spectacular and include a sort of “best of” the Cordillera Huayhuash, including Jurau, Sarapo (6,127 m), Siula, Yerupaja, Rasac (6,017 m), Tsacra (5,548 m) and Huacrish (5,622 m).

Huayhuash Trek, Cuyoc Pass Descent

Descend to Pampa Cuyoc at the base of San Antonio Pass (5,050 m) for lunch and a relaxing afternoon. There are optional short hikes to nearby hills for anyone who still wants to stretch their legs.

Huayhuash Trekking Guide, Day 6

Note: Many itineraries include an optional climb up to San Antonio Pass on the same day with an overnight at Huanacpatay campsite. Together with our guide, our group opted to hike up to San Antonio in the morning when the skies were clearer and we had more energy.

Day 7: Huanacpatay Valley – San Antonio Pass – Huayllapa Village

  • Hiking Distance: 11.7 miles / 18.8 km
  • Maximum Altitude: 5,050 m (16,570 feet)

Begin this day with a steep climb up the scree and rocks to San Antonio Pass (5,050 m), the highest pass of the trek. Take your time at the top to enjoy the best viewpoint of Mount Siula Grande (of “ Touching the Void ” fame) and nearby alpine lakes. You may also spot a few condors flying about, searching for prey.

Huayhuash Trekking Guide, San Antonio Pass

Descend the same way and continue on the trail through a series of green valleys and cultivated fields to Huayllapa village. After you set up camp in one of the school fields, enjoy a walk through the village.

Note: this is the only set of shops and services you will come across on the trek. Someone in our group had his hiking shoes repaired here as one of the soles had begun to fall off.

Day 8: Huayllapa Village – Tapush Pass – Gashpapampa Valley

  • Hiking Distance: 7.2 miles / 11.6 km

Leaving the village behind the trail takes you up to a high plateau that rises gradually up to Tapush Pass (4,800 m). You’ll have glacier-covered Mount Diablo Mudo in front of you for much of the way up to the pass. Views over Lake Susucocha (4,740 m) are revealed at the top. Enjoy the wildflowers, birds and views of the Cordillera Blanca in the distance as you descend into Gashpapampa Valley for the night. Once you reach camp, bundle up since this was a pretty cold night and morning for us.

Huayhuash Trekking Guide, Day 8

Day 9: Gashpapampa Valey – Yaucha Pass – Cerro Huacrish – Jahuacocha Lake

  • Hiking Distance: 5.8 miles / 9.3 km
  • Maximum Altitude: 4,850 m (15,910 feet)

Each time you think that the views and the moment can’t get any better, they do. Take it slow and enjoy.

Huayhuash Trekking Guide, Day 9

The day begins with a slow and steady scree-covered ascent which takes you up to Yaucha Pass (4,850 m), the final high mountain pass of the trek. As you come over the pass you have an incredible panoramic view of Cordillera Huayhuash’s highest peaks, decked out in glaciers and snow-covered. Talk about dramatic. Keep your eyes out for condors here as well.

Huayhuash Trekking Guide, Day 9

Continue on to Cerro Huacrish with another beautiful view to both the giant peaks of the Cordillera Huayhuash on the right and Cordillera Blanca and Huallanca on the left. Just sit and take it all in. Finally, as you descend towards Lake Jahuacocha you’ll reach another ridge that overlooks the turquoise lakes below surrounded by mountains.

There is one last very steep descent through pastures and grazing cows to get to the campsite near the shores of Lake Jahuacocha. Watch how the light and the reflection on the lake of the surrounding mountains changes throughout the day.

Huayhuash Trek Guide

Since we had free time in the afternoon we did an optional hike out to Solteracocha Lake (3.6 miles / 5.8 km) that took two hours. Climb up to the rim above the lake and just enjoy the deep turquoise color of the alpine lake and the surrounding snow-covered peaks.

Day 10: Jahuacocha Lake – Pampa Llamac Pass – Llamac Village – Huaraz

  • Hiking Distance: 8.85 miles / 14.25 km
  • Number of hours hiking: 4.5 hours
  • Number of hours driving: 5 hours
  • Maximum Altitude: 4,300 m (14,110 feet)

This is the last day of hiking and although it isn’t as dramatic as the day before, it's still pleasant and features a relatively easy walk out to Llamac Village. You’ll be able to catch one last view of the Cordillera Huayhuash peaks from Pampa Llaman Pass (4,300 m) before descending through villages and high desert to the village. The vehicle will be waiting there to take you back to Huaraz (about a 5-hour drive).

Best time to do the Huayhuash Trek

The trekking season in the Cordillera Huayhuash and Cordillera Blanca begins mid-to-late May and runs until September. This is the dry season and also considered “Andean summer.” The high tourist season is July and August. During this time you'll have clearer weather, but the lack of rain means that the mountains will dry and brown throughout the season.

We did our trek mid to late May; we felt it perfect timing. We had a bit of rain at the very beginning of our trek, but the mornings were clear and the rains only usually began in the afternoon after we'd already set up camp. After a few days, the rains stopped altogether and we had perfect weather.

Because it was still early in the trekking season, trails and campsites were not crowded. Mountains remained green and lush since the rainy season had just ended.

If you can time it, try your Huayhuash trek during the shoulder season from mid-May to early June.

Huayhuash Trekking Guide, When to Go

The low and rainy season is from October to April with the highest rain in January – March. Many high passes are still snowed in from December to March, so that that might make it impossible for trekkers and the donkeys to be able to pass. There is also the risk of landslides during this time which might wash out the trails and hillsides. There have robberies of independent trekkers during this time as are alone with no other people around, so it's not recommended to trek independently in the off season.

Because of all this we recommend timing your trek between May and September or early October.

Huayhuash Trek Difficulty and Conditions

The following information is based on our own personal experiences on a 10-day fully-supported Huayhuash trek. Support included a trekking guide, cook, donkey wranglers, and a team of donkeys to carry our gear, camping equipment, food and trash.

We added information for independent trekkers where available.

Huayhuash Trek Difficulty

We’d categorize the difficulty of the 10-day Huayhuash Trek we did as medium-high, leaning more on the high side of the range. This is because of its daily high mountain pass crossings (4,000+ meter/13,000+ feet), sleeping at high altitude and distance.

Don't let the elevation frighten you away. Our trekking group included people from their late 20s to a 74-year-old (who had both knees replaced within the last three years). We all had prior experience hiking and doing multi-day treks, but none of us were hard core mountain climbers. We'd all simply done our acclimatization treks in and around Huaraz — that's what makes the difference.

Huayhuash Trek Group

While this implies that special training is not required for the Huayhuash trek, you ought to be relatively active and in good physical shape before taking it on. You should be either be accustomed to or prepared for multi-day treks with steep, slow uphill climbs at high altitude.

Not a Technical Trail

The classic Huayhuash trek we did was not technical. To do it, we didn't need special equipment (e.g., climbing ropes, crampons, or other mountain climbing fittings). We do recommend using walking or trekking poles , however. They provide stability and balance and take some of the pressure off your knees and joints, especially on the steep descents.

Huayhuash Trek Guide, High Alpine Peaks

Huayhuash trekking trails in the mountains are well-maintained and for the most part are relatively easy to follow. There are a couple of streams or rivers to cross, and depending upon the time of year you may need to take your shoes off or consider using river sandals. That’s all part of the fun.

Dealing with Altitude on the Huayhuash Trek

You will reach some high altitudes during the Huayhuash trek. The highest point on our trek was 5,050 meters / 16,570 feet at San Antionio Pass. Each day, we crossed mountain passes ranging from 4,000 – 5,000 meters / 13,000 – 16,500 feet. And, we were often sleeping around 4,000 meters / 13,000 feet. Understanding how your body responds to altitude and how to best manage your response to it is important for your enjoyment of this trek.

Huayhuash Trek, dealing with altitude

At altitude, our advice is to take it slow and steady on the uphill. Our guide, Edgar, was a hiking zen master at this – he would start our group out slow in the morning, especially if we had a steep ascent, so that our bodies could wake up and adjust. If you think you’re going ridiculously slow, then it probably means you are at the right pace. Trekking is like meditation The slower you move, the more likely you are to enjoy what's around you. And the more successful you will be.

Huayhuash Trek, Peru - stunning mountain views

It’s better to proceed deliberately and slowly with fewer breaks than to move quickly and wear yourself out so that you need to recuperate with frequent and longer stops. At high altitude this is even more important in order to avoid getting sick and to maintain your energy levels.

In addition, drink LOTS of water as your body needs more liquids at altitude. I would usually drink a liter of water at breakfast before we even began walking, just to have a bit of “hydration reserve.” It’s recommended to drink at least two to three liters a day at high altitudes like this.

Note: If you really suffer from altitude sickness you can also consider taking Diamox. We have avoided taking it by using natural methods (e.g., water, walking slowly, etc.), but we do know people who have benefited from taking it in small doses. Be sure to talk with your doctor first about its side effects, including the additional water you must drink when taking it.

Rain and weather conditions on the Huayhuash Trek

We'd been warned about rain because the timing of our trek coincided with the end of the rainy season (mid-May). We arrived prepared with waterproof ponchos, jackets, and pants. Mornings were usually clearest and at the beginning of our trek, it rained during a couple of afternoons. But we didn’t find the the weather a hindrance to our enjoyment. Only once on the trail were we forced to pile on all the serious rain gear. All other times, the rain arrived only after we'd set up camp, which included a waterproof dining tent.

Carry a waterproof cover for your day pack. Protect any valuable electronic gear like smartphones or cameras in a dry bag or multiple Ziploc plastic bags. All our gear was carried by donkeys, and all the bags were wrapped in multiple layers of plastic tarp to protect them from rain. In addition, we packed our clothes, sleeping bags and other important items in an additional layer of plastic bags.

If you are trekking independently and carrying all your gear with you, you must carry a good waterproof cover for your backpack and use Ziploc or other waterproof bags to keep everything dry inside in the case of heavy rain.

Note: If you monitor weather forecasts and apps, we recommend you consider taking them with a grain of salt. For us, forecasts for the Huayhuash (Ancash) mountain area predicted alpine weather armageddon right up until the moment we began our trek. Reality turned out to be quite different (see the photos). For those of you who book a Huayhuash trek and are freaked out by weather reports — just as we had been — and you find yourself tempted to cancel, seriously reconsider. If you book with a trekking company, as we did, check in with them for a bit of a local weather report reality check.

Food Along the Huayhuash Trek

If you do a fully-supported trek as we did, there's absolutely no chance for you to go hungry on the Huayhuash trek. Our group had its own cook and he created some incredible meals for us using a simple camping kitchen and limited ingredients.

Food along the Huayhuash Trek tour

On most days we were served three full meals, with lunch and dinner usually each consisting of 3 courses (e.g., soup or salad, main dish and dessert). On days where the schedule and route was a little tighter, we were given sandwiches as a picnic lunch.

Each morning we we were given bags of treats (e.g., chocolate, quinoa bars, biscuits, fruit, etc.) to ensure we never got hungry on the trail between meals. We always had a mid-afternoon tea and snack break at the campsite. There were always treats and surprises each day.

If you are vegetarian or have food restrictions (e.g., gluten, dairy, etc.), alert your trekking company and guide in advance so they can prepare accordingly.

Independent trekkers will need to carry and cook their own food, of course. There are a few big grocery stores in Huaraz that can supply you with basic ingredients, but if you have a specific type of camping food or brand that you prefer then you should probably bring that from home. Please clean up after yourself! We saw too many empty discarded cans of tuna and other food containers along the trail. That's just rude and disrespectful.

Clean Water Along the Huayhuash Trek

We were provided ample amounts of clean water (i.e., boiled for a certain period of time to kill germs) each morning by our cook and the support team. This is what we drank throughout the day as we walked. Our goal was to drink a minimum of two to three liters of water each day.

Of course, there are lots of mountain streams where you can gather water to drink throughout the trek. We carried water purification drops with us in case we needed to use water from a stream or other source. We never had to use them because clean water had already been prepared for us.

Huayhuash Trek Campsites and Sleeping Arrangements

You’ll be camping and sleeping in tents throughout the Huayhuash trek. There are no real homestays or other sleeping options, except in Huayllapa where there are some family guest houses. We slept in two-person tents (provided by the trekking agency). Although these tents were not huge, we had enough space to sleep and position our belongings on the edges of the tent.

By the time we arrived at the campsite each day, our tents were usually already set up for us by the support team. We were very thankful for this little bit of luxury after a long day of hiking.

Huayhuash Trek - Tents, Camping and Community Campsites

Local communities manage the campsites along the different Huayhuash trekking routes. This community-based system is relatively new. It used to be that trekkers could pretty much pitch their camp anywhere, and for free. Understandably, local people got a bit tired of people using their lands, and often not cleaning up after themselves. Communities weren't seeing any financial benefit from tourism development in the region. A system was then set up to compensate the local communities for use of their lands and also to help share some money and benefit from tourism and trekking growth.

Campsites are still pretty basic and located in remote areas, so don’t expect services or shops. In general, you’ll find a place to pitch tents and an outhouse (or two) on the edge usually consisting of a drop toilet or a toilet bowl without water. With the exception of the hot springs near Lake Viconga on Day 5, there is no running water at the campsites. Expect to trek without showers. (Note: if you are on a fully-supported trek like the one we took, you will likely be provided a bowl of hot water in the morning for washing.)

Each community collects a fee from each person (usually $3-$8/person) who stays at a campsite and uses its facilities. You’ll often find an individual or family visiting early in the morning to collect the money. You’ll receive a receipt for your payment.

We heard stories of some trekkers trying to arrive late or pack up early to avoid paying these community camping fees. Just don’t. It’s disrespectful and it creates problems between trekkers and local people, making it difficult for future visitors wishing to enjoy the area.

Organizing a Huayhuash Trek

A Huayhuash trek can be done either independently (e.g., without a guide) or through a trekking agency (e.g., fully supported with a guide, cook, assistants, donkeys to carry gear, etc.). Decision factors include your trekking experience and physical shape, skill at reading trekking maps, budget, weather, and preference. Let's examine these.

Hiking the Huayhuash Trek Independently

Although you won’t see trail markers along the route you can usually pick up trails pretty easily based on their use by trekkers, donkey trains and local shepherds. This means that if you have a lot of experience doing multi-day treks, reading trail maps, using a GPS and hiking at high altitude then you should be able to safely do the Huayhuash trek independently.

Some advantages of trekking Huayhuash independently including being able to create and adjust your own route and setting your own pace. The cost will be much lower as you are not paying for a support team, guide, etc. However, you should still stay at community campsites and pay the required fees so as to respect local people and local community regulations.

However, there are some other considerations. Trekking independently means that you’re carrying all your own camping gear, food, clothing, and more. Since the only real village with shops is Huayllapa, you should expect to carry 7-8 days of food with you. All of this weight adds up and can get heavy, especially when you’re going over a 5,000+ meter / 16,500 foot mountain pass. We saw some trekkers struggle with their packs and the extra weight.

In addition, we also met some trekkers who were lost as they thought they were following one circuit, but ended up on another. Our guide would usually help to steer them in the right direction or offer a short cut to help them get back on track. While this may not sound like a big deal on the surface, it can be quite stressful when you only have a limited amount of food with you and the weather around you is changing as the day wears on.

For more on trekking Huayhuash independently check out this guide .

Choosing a Huayhuash Trek Tour

Given the length, distance and high altitudes of the Huayhuash trek, we knew we wanted to do it supported – with a guide, cook, support team, donkeys to carry our gear. Our goal was to enjoy the walk, including the stunning mountain landscapes and being immersed in nature without worrying about getting lost, carrying all our gear, or struggling to cook or set up our tent each night.

We were and are thrilled with our choice.

Having a local trekking guide provided us with the peace of mind that we were always on the right path. (Some of you may remember, we have a history of getting lost in mountains ).

Our local guide, Edgar, knew everything about the Cordillera Huayhuash from leading trekking and mountain climbing groups there for over 17 years – all the local legends of the peaks around us, wildlife, birds, flowers, natural medicines, and more. As he was Quechua he could also provide context and information about indigenous culture, growing up in the mountains, and changes he’d witnessed over his lifetime.

Huayhuash Trek tour, donkeys carrying gear

While doing the Huayhuash trek independently may save you some money and allow you more flexibility in route and pace, our experience proved to us beyond a doubt that the benefits of doing a supported trek with a guide, cook, support team and donkeys far outweighs the costs.

Choosing a Huayhuash Trekking Agency

If you do as we did and work with a trekking agency for a supported Huayhuash trek, the next step is trying to figure out which trek to choose based on the route, level of comfort, budget, and schedule you're looking for.

Booking a Huayhuash Trek in Advance

Because we had a limited window of time to do our 10-day Huayhuash Trek we needed to book our trip in advance. When I began to search around and contact different trekking agencies in Huaraz I found that prices varied quite a bit and could be very expensive, especially if there wasn’t an existing group departure for the dates I wanted.

A bit discouraged, I continued to search, focusing on trekking companies which already had existing trek departure dates that fit our schedule. That’s when I found Quechuandes Travel and Adventure Agency recommended on some traveler and trekker forums and their open group departures calendar ( usually on their Facebook page ).

They had a departure date for the 10-day Huayhuash trek we wanted to do during our limited time window. From the first communication with Marie, the co-owner, I was impressed by the transparency of information, pricing and details. I also appreciated that she was explicit that the price was the same whether we booked in advance or as a walk-in. And, we felt that price was fair to all parties — to us, to the company, and to the guides — from the beginning.

We paid a deposit (50%) to secure our spots for that departure date (Note: Transferwise offered the best rates for this international wire transfer so if you’re new to the service use this link to get a free $500 international transfer ). The remainder we paid in cash when we met in person in Huaraz a few days prior to the trek departure.

Another thing that impressed me about Quechuandes were the materials they sent in advance. They focused on sustainable tourism — the environment and conservation, being respectful of local culture, understanding local socioeconomic issues. You could tell that this information was not copied from the internet, but created after years of experience working with the local communities and in these mountains.

Regardless of which operator you choose to take you on the Huayhuash Trek, select one which works with local guides and support staff, pays fair wages, and operates in a responsible and respectful way towards the environment and local people.

Booking a Huayhuash Trek in Huaraz

If you have a flexible schedule, it’s also possible to book your Huayhuash trek directly in Huaraz, the city which serves as the base for all treks in Cordillera Huayhuash and Cordillera Blanca. There are heaps of trekking agencies around, many with signs outside indicating upcoming trek departures and availability.

You can walk around, meet with different trekking agencies, ask about price and services, and then make a decision. If the price sounds too good, it might be. Ask questions to be sure of what you’re getting for your money. We witnessed other groups on the trail whose food options appeared limited and whose tents and donkeys looked worse for wear.

It’s worth it to spend a bit more for the comfort of a trained guide and cook, and to know that the staff are receiving fair wages and the animals are well cared for.

As the Huayhuash Trek has become more popular these last years many departures are already filled up so you may not be able to get on the trek for the time period you'd like. So if you have any sort of limited schedule it's best to book in advance.

Price of a Huayhuash Trek Tour

Current (2019) costs for for the 10-day Huayhuash Trek with Quechuandes (minimum of 5 people in the group) is $70/day or $700 for the full trek. The maximum group size was eight persons. Given the level of support and service we received we felt this was a very fair price, and it was much lower than many other similar trekking agencies.

The tour and price included:

  • private transport to the trailhead (Matacancha) and from the end (Llamac)
  • a certified mountain guide, cook, muleteer (donkey handler), and assistant
  • donkeys to carry gear (up to 8kg per trekker), food, cooking equipment, etc. + emergency horse
  • food, snacks and clean water
  • 2-person tent and sleeping mat. If you wanted a private tent, that was an additional fee

The tour price did not include sleeping bags or community campsite fees (approx. 200 soles/ $60 per person for ten days). I rented my Marmot down -10 C sleeping bag from Quechuandes for 20 soles/$6 per day ($60 total). Dan was able to borrow a sleeping bag from a friend in Berlin, but otherwise he would have rented one from them as well. It is essential you carry a proper alpine sleeping bag on this trek.

Renting Trekking and Camping Gear in Huaraz

You can arrive in Huaraz without any trekking or camping gear and be outfitted with all that you need pretty quickly either through renting or buying. Quechuandes, the trekking agency that we used, rents out a large selection of gear (that’s where I rented my -10 C down Marmot sleeping bag). Many other trekking agencies offer the same.

In addition, there are quite a few shops in town specializing in trekking gear where you can buy new or sometimes even used clothes or other items. A couple on our trek bought used fleece jackets and waterproof pants from Huaraz all of which served them well.

Leaving your luggage behind during the trek

Most accommodation and tour operators/trekking agencies will allow you to leave your big bags or luggage with them for the time that you're doing the Huayhuash trek. We left our big backpacks at the hotel in Huaraz we were staying at prior to the trek and then picked them up on our return. Although we haven't heard of any problems with luggage and theft, it's always best to securely lock your bags for their time in storage.

Acclimatization hikes around Huaraz before the Huayhuash Trek

Especially if you’re coming from sea level (e.g., Lima) or low altitudes, it's a wise (if not essential) idea to spend a couple of days acclimatizing in Huaraz (3,050 meters / 10,000 feet) and doing a few acclimatization day hikes. This means hiking to a higher altitude during the day and then sleeping at lower elevation at night (e.g., Huaraz).

Huayhuash Trek Guide, Acclimatization Hikes

For the Huayhuash Trek with its daily high mountain passes, at least three acclimatization hikes are recommended prior to setting off. Marie from Quechuandes essentially told us we had to do a minimum of three acclimatization hikes before starting the Huayhuash trek. This may sound a bit extreme, but we get it. She’s trying to ensure that trekkers identify any problems they may have in advance and be sure they are fully prepared so they can mitigate risks and enjoy the trek to the fullest.

In fact, we met a group of women on an 8-day Huayhuash trek who did not do any acclimatization treks. They were hurting the first couple of days and looked miserable. Don’t do that to yourself. Don't sabotage your trek for the sake of saving a couple of days. It's a poor decision. Altitude sickness is no joke. It’s not fun and it can become very dangerous. It’s better to take the time to acclimatize properly before departing on the long trek. Not to mention, the acclimatization hikes are all pretty fabulous and enjoyable in their own right.

Marie sent us this list of suggested acclimatization treks . After talking with her we chose the following acclimatization day hikes to help prepare us for the Huayhuash Trek.

Lake Wilcacocha Acclimatization Hike

Distance: 11.9 km / 7.4 miles Walking time: 3.5 hours Max elevation: 3,700 meters / 13,140 feet

This is a simple and easy hike near Huaraz. It's a good one to begin with. It features a steady incline for a couple of hours along a dirt road until you reach Lake Wilcacocha at the top. The lake itself is not particularly impressive, but there is a nice overlook so you can get a feel for the countryside around.

Huahuash Trek Guide, Acclimatization Hikes

To get there, take the Route 10 or Route E collectivo (public bus) from near the Huaraz central market (corner of Raymondi and Hualcan streets). It costs around 2-3 soles ($0.60-$0.90) per person. Let the driver know that you want to get off near Laguna Wilcacocha. After getting off the bus, cross the small bridge and you’ll see a sign at the trailhead.

Lake Rajucolta Acclimatization Hike

Distance: 16.6 km / 10.3 miles Walking time: 5 hours, 20 minutes Max elevation: 4,270 meters / 14,010 feet

This is not one of the typical acclimatization hikes, but it came recommended by Marie. We really enjoyed it. It’s a nice walk that isn’t too difficult at the beginning, but increases in difficulty as you climb up to the lake. Mount Huantsan, the 3rd highest peak in the Cordillera Blanca (6,395 m / 20,980 ft), guides the way and serves as a stunning backdrop to Laguna Rajucolta.

Huayhuash Trek, Lake Rajucolta acclimatization hike near Huaraz, Peru

There were no other hikers on the trail the day we went. We and two other hikers going on the same Huayhuash trek as us had the whole place to ourselves, with the exception of a few shepherds and their flocks of animals. Highly recommended.

The Laguna Rajucolta hike requires private transport with a 4×4 vehicle to get there and back as the roads get rough after turning off the main road. The drive takes around 1.5-2 hours from Huaraz. We hired a driver through Quechuandes for around 220 soles ($66) for the entire car (4-5 persons). He dropped us off at the trailhead in the morning and then waited for us all day to return.

Laguna 69 Hike

Distance: 13.8 km / 8.6 miles Walking time: 4 hours, 45 minutes Max elevation: 4,600 meters / 15,090 feet

This is one of the more popular day hikes in the Huaraz region, and for good reason. Located in Huascaran National Park in the Cordillera Blanca, this hike climbs up to Laguna 69, a beautiful alpine lake with Mount Chacraraju (6,112 meters / 20,052 feet) as a backdrop. The views on the path up are also pretty stunning and spectacular. Be sure to allow and take time to look around and enjoy them. There are some challenging, steep ascents. But, that’s also what makes it an excellent acclimatization hike and preparation for the Huayhuash trek.

Huayhuash Trek, Laguna 69 Acclimatization Hike

The easiest way to organize the Laguna 69 hike is to buy a “tour” in Huaraz that essentially includes bus transportation with a guide. We bought ours from Quechuandes for 35 soles / $10.50 per person and had an early morning 5AM pickup at our hotel. You’ll stop for breakfast along the way. If you don’t have a packed lunch with you already, your breakfast stop is also an opportunity to buy lunch for the hike. The entrance fee for Huascaran National Park is 30 soles / $9 per person.

Laguna 69 Hike in the Cordillera Blanca, Peru

Where to stay in Huaraz

There is certainly no shortage of places to stay in Huaraz . We stayed at El Jacal Classic before and after our trek. It is located a few blocks from the main square and downtown area, so it is both conveniently located and quiet. Request a room that is not at the top of the stairs as it can get a bit loud with people coming and going. Breakfast is served on the rooftop, which has a great view.

If you are hiking with Quechuandes they also offer the Quechuandes B&B now for clients that looks like a great option for staying in Huaraz before and after your trek.

They are accustomed to trekkers, so it's no problem to leave your luggage there when you're off in the mountains.

What to pack for the Huayhuash Trek

Check out our full Ultimate Trekking Packing List with all the details on what to bring with you on a day or multi-day trek like the Huayhuash Trek (or anywhere else). However, we offer a customized Huayhuash Trek packing list to ensure you have what you need, yet don't overpack.

We suggest you ask your trekking agency and perform some independent research about the temperatures at night during the time of your trek. This will determine how many layers you'll need to carry and the weight your jacket(s). For example, temperatures dipped to -10 C / 14 F during a couple of the nights and early mornings on our trek so we were very thankful to have extra layers of long underwear, fleece and more.

As mentioned above, tents and sleeping pads were provided by Quechuandes.

You really don’t need much in this department. Don’t worry about packing clean clothes for each day, as everyone is just wearing the same thing or repurposing the same clothes each day. Here’s what we suggest:

  • 1-2 pairs of trekking pants : We're both been using Clothing Arts Travel Pants ( for men and for women ) as our go-to trekking pants these last few years. They hold up well on multi-day treks in terms of hiding dirt, drying quickly, not getting stinky. We find the additional secure pockets useful on treks for keeping phones, money, tissues and other things handy.
  • 2-3 short-sleeved t-shirts: Preferably quick-dry or regular cotton ( his and hers quick-dry t-shirts).
  • 1 long-sleeved travel/trekking shirt : This is useful not only as a layer of warmth in the chilly mornings when you first start hiking, but also as protection for your arms from the strong sun ( his and hers ).
  • Hiking shoes: We both recently shifted to wearing Oboz Sawtooth hiking boots. The insoles and support for your feet are really good, and the shoes are sturdy and can stand up to some tough terrain. In addition, Oboz plants a tree for every pair of shoes sold so you can feel good that your purchase is going towards reforestation and environmental projects. Men's Obuz Sawtooth Hiking Shoes: Buy at REI | Buy at Backcountry | Women's Obuz Sawtooth Hiking Shoes: Buy at REI | Buy at Backcountry
  • 1 set of evening clothes for dinner and sleep sleep: T-shirt, long pants (or pajama bottoms), socks. To ensure these remain dry, pack them in a plastic bag or other impermeable container inside your backpack.
  • Underwear : Usually one pair for every day of the hike. Here are recommended men's boxer shorts and women's underwear
  • Hiking socks: I love SmartWool hiking socks as my first pairs lasted me almost seven years of heavy usage. If you prefer a thinner sock check out their ultra-light line. I often wear a sock liner together with wool hiking socks.
  • Bathing suit: For the hot springs on day 5 of the hike.
  • Fleece jacket : For cool nights or sleeping (can double as a pillow, too).
  • Waterproof rain jacket : For this trek I upgraded to a NorthFace Climatech technology waterproof jacket and I love it. It not only provided protection against the rain and cold, but the jacket material is very breathable so it didn't feel like a sauna inside when I used it. Highly recommended.
  • Waterproof poncho: This long backpack poncho goes over you, your backpack and most of your legs so it really provides great protection from the rain.
  • Waterproof pants: Pick up a pair of light pull-on biking waterproof/water resistant pants . They fold up into a small bag so they barely take up any room or weight in your backpack, but keep you quite dry when the clouds open up.
  • Light down jackets: These can be stuffed into a tiny cinch bag and are so light that you can carry them with you in your day pack. We used these for warmth and comfort at night when temperatures drop. Dan loves his seamless ultra-light down jacket from Uniqlo .
  • Flip-flops or river shoes: These are useful for the evenings when you want to get your feet a break from hiking shoes or you need to run to the outhouse in the middle of the night. Women's River Shoes | Men's River Shoes

Other Trekking Gear

  • Sleeping Bag : This needs to be comfort rated to at least -10 C / 14 F. I rented my heavy duty down sleeping bag from the trekking agency, Quechuandes. If you are looking to buy a sleeping bag for your trek, one of the guys in our trekking group used this North Face 3-in-1 One Bag Sleeping Bag and found it warm enough and comfortable. Dan was looking at this Hyke & Byke Eolus 0 Degree sleeping bag before one of our friends lent him one to use. It was recommended and seemed like a good price.
  • Refillable water bottle: Bring with you 1-2 refillable water bottles and/or a water bladder so that you always have at least one liter of water on you at all times. You'll be able to refill your bottles with clean water in the morning before you leave for the day and when you get to camp in the afternoon. If you really want to play it safe consider carrying with you a SteriPEN or sterilization drops .
  • Trekking poles: We highly recommend using trekking poles for this trek, especially for the steep downhill sections. We'll usually share one walking stick set of two so each of us uses one stick. However, most people in our group used two poles each. This set of travel-friendly walking sticks fold up easily for luggage and assemble quickly when on the trail.
  • Waterproof backpack cover : You never know when a rainstorm will hit, so it’s essential to keep a rain cover for your backpack close at hand. We also put electronics and other items in plastic or zip-loc bags inside the backpack as a extra protection for them.
  • Quick-dry travel towel : To dry off after showers, and also after a swim. Hang it on the outside of your backpack in the morning so it dries quickly in the sun and air as you move.
  • Silk sleep sack : To provide an extra layer of protection and warmth between you and the sleeping bag.
  • Headlamp : None of the campsites have electricity so a headlamp is essential for finding your way to the toilet and to sort through your stuff at night in your tent.
  • Silicone earplugs : A precaution in the case your camp has a snorer.

Toiletries and Health Kit

You'll have access to hot springs to bathe on day 5, but for the rest of your trek you'll receive a small bucket of hot water either first thing in the morning or in the evening to wash your face and other basics.

  • Soap, toothbrush, toothpaste and dental floss : The basics.
  • Sunscreen : The higher the SPF, the better. You're at high altitudes for most of this trek where it's much easier to become burned. Keep applying sunscreen.
  • Sunglasses: At high altitudes the sun is super strong so go for sunglasses that will protect your eyes vs. be fashionable.
  • Hand sanitizer: To be on the safe side, especially for lunch and snacks on the trail.
  • Pack of tissues: You will be provided with a roll of toilet paper, but it’s always a good idea to carry a pack of tissues in case of messes, spills or emergencies.
  • Duct tape : Very effective for hot spots and blisters on your feet. Also consider picking up some Compeed , which is magic when you already have blisters.
  • Medical Kit (for emergencies): Band-Aids , anti-bacterial gel (for cuts), rehydration powders, ciprofloxacin/azithromycin (or another medication against stomach bacteria), Tylenol (anti-headache/aches), Immodium (or some sort of “stopper” if you get diarrhea), tea tree oil (great to apply to mosquito bites) Note: all these are easily and inexpensively purchased at local pharmacies, including in Huaraz from where you depart for the trek.

Electricity and Charging Batteries

None of the campsites have electricity. Prepare yourself for not having access to electricity during the trek. Some tips to handle this and further your battery power.

  • Put your smartphone on airplane mode. There is no connectivity along the trek anyhow, so don't waste your phone’s battery power trying to find a network.
  • We brought a solar powered power bank and used it to charge our smartphones, when necessary.
  • Consider buying a phone case that doubles as an extra battery. Here’s an example for our iPhone X battery case . It provides another 1-1.5 charges.
  • Take an extra camera battery or two.
  • Don’t spent time reviewing your images on your phone or camera, as this will drain your battery power quickly.

Conclusion: Huayhuash Trek, A Trek of a Lifetime

Yep. For us, there's no way to oversell our experience on the Huayhuash Trek. During the trek, we felt the kind of deep decompression we feel whenever we head into the mountains on a long walk. The sense of accomplishment — individually and shared with a group of fun people — is profound. The memories, as we write this piece and flip through one stunning, astounding image after another, are still fresh.

All that's left now is for you to give it a try. Any questions, ask them in the comments. And if you decide to do it, let us know how you get on.

About Audrey Scott

9 thoughts on “huayhuash trek, peru: all you need to know about hiking in the cordillera huayhuash”.

Very helpful. I’m planning a trip to Peru in late April–mid May 2020, and want to hit Cordillera Blanca. I’m an Alaskan, thus somewhat used to high mountains, but these altitudes are a bit higher! All of your advice is good.

Yes, the altitudes in the Cordillera Blanca are pretty high! But, if you acclimatize properly in advance and go slowly, you should be fine. Have a great trip!

We are doing a supported trip in early July. Our goal is to arrive to Huaraz on a Saturday evening. Leave for Huayhuash on Tuesday. We are aware we have to drive first for about 4-5 hrs from Huaraz to access the trail head. We are planning on spending those 2 full days acclimating. We live in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Our elevation is 6500 ft. We are in good physical condition, I just want to know if 2 days of acclimating will be enough? What are your thoughts?

Great to hear that you’re planning to do the Huayhuash Trek later this year. It’s impossible for me to know exactly about whether 2 days of acclimatizing will be enough, but given that you already live at some altitude and are used to doing physical/outdoor things I think you’ll probably be OK. I would talk with the trekking agency you’re using for their acclimatization hike recommendations, but I would try and do the Laguna 69 hike on your 2nd day of acclimatization as this will push your body and help prepare you for the altitudes to come on the Huayhuash trek. Perhaps do the Lake Rajucolta hike (or similar) on the first, which would be a bit more of a challenge than the Lake Wilcacocha hike. Remember to take it very slow and drink LOTS of water.

Have a great trek!!

Fantastic recommendation. Did the trip include the cost of food? Who designs the menu?

Thank you very very much. Very inspiring and I am psyched to go with my brother and our two 15 yr old sons in June 2020

Our supported Huayhuash trek highlighted here with Quechuandes did have all food included as part of the price. This included not only breakfast, lunch and dinner, but also a bag of snacks (e.g., nuts, quinoa bars, etc.) to carry each day. Food was excellent and done by the designated cook on the trek – a mixture of Peruvian (e.g., causa) and European/American standards (e.g., pasta, mixed vegetables, etc.). If you have any food allergies (e.g., gluten-free) or restrictions (e.g., vegetarian/vegan) let the trekking agency know in advance so that they can adjust their shopping and menus accordingly.

Have a great trek this summer with your sons and brother!! It’s challenging, but so rewarding and beautiful.

Fantastic details in your blog. My trip June 2020 postponed. Hoping to make Huayhuash a reality sooner then later. Thanks for all the details.

Sorry to hear that you had to postpone your June 2020 trip. Huayhuash will still be waiting for you when it is safe again to travel. It is such a beautiful area and the trek is truly fabulous.

Hi all. Just to comment about doing it out of season. I did it in February, the worst month for weather. And it was doable! Definitely lost out on views sometimes and it rained most afternoons – making it cold! But we saw no other trekkers and still had fun! Just a heads up for anyone who can’t choose when they are in Peru!

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The Huayhuash trek: a high-elevation Eden

Agnes Rivera

Aug 7, 2018 • 5 min read

huaraz huayhuash trek

Take your adventure to the next level with a hike on the Huayhuash circuit © Michael Mellinger / Getty Images

More demanding than southern Peru’s Inca Trail and lesser known than neighboring Cordillera Blanca , the Cordillera Huayhuash suits most better as a postcard image than pursuable feat. From extreme altitudes to breathtaking (sometimes literally so) views, hiking the complete Huayhuash circuit has been noted as one of the most physically and emotionally challenging treks in the country, but also one of the most rewarding.

A panoramic shot of craggy snow-covered peaks with a blue glacial lagoon in the valley © Michael Mellinger / Getty Images

Whether you opt for the full 130km (81 miles) Huayhuash route or one of the many partial hikes, you’ll surely be dizzy with elation (if not elevation) once the adventure comes to an end.  But as any long-distance hiker will tell you, it’s all about taking it one step at a time. Take the following tips into consideration when planning your trip:

Nature wins

What does one of the best alpine treks in the world look like? Peru ’s version is a treasure trove of turquoise lakes and thermal springs, barricaded by an army of jagged mountains doused in pristine snow. Along the way, local guides will proudly point out Yerupajá, Peru’s second highest peak (6635m, or 21,768 ft), and can take you to the ridge of Cerro Huacrish for a near panoramic view of the full circuit. Like the condors that hover nearby, you’ll get a bird’s eye view of alpine meadows and extensive grassy fields dotted with sheep, alpaca and other members of the camelid family.

A trekker walks with green hills and rocky peaks in front of them © Diamirstudio / Getty Images

Know where to start

Depending on time and physical restraints, there are various lengths of looping routes to choose from, most of which begin in the small village of Llámac. A popular option is the four-day trek, often referred to as 'mini Huayhuash'. This moderate trek won’t disappoint in terms of stunning views seen from the west side of the mountain range. Of course, to experience the range in all its glory, one must commit to hiking the complete Huayhuash circuit. This route is typically done in just short of a fortnight (10-12 days) at a pace of five to eight hours a day. Since roads to the initial campsite, Quartelhuain, were paved relatively recently, hikers have been known to use this as a starting point; however this would shave off some time and distance from the actual full circuit.

Donkeys graze as the sun hits a snow Huayhuash peak in the background © Kesterhu / Getty Images

We’d all like to be pointed in the right direction every now and then, especially on a hike. Proof of its rugged qualities, Huayhuash is devoid of posted signs for visitors, so even experienced hikers often end up hiring local guides or travel companies to aid in navigation. Find a guide in Huaraz or put it off until you arrive at villages like Llámac or Pocpa where locals will be eager to lead the way (for a fee). Local guides are going to give you the added value of a deeper and more connected understanding of the mountains, from the meaning behind their Quechua names to the flora and fauna nestled in the high altitude. At a minimum, hikers are encouraged to hire a mule driver ( arriero ) and a pack animal to lighten the load.

A nighttime shot of two lit-up tents in the foreground with a starry sky in the background (Milky Way visible) © Kesterhu / Getty Images

Highs climbs, low temps

Snow-capped mountains above, dry plains below. The stunning juxtaposition of colors and natural landscape found in this region of Peru is what keeps hikers coming back. Though recent years have seen some uncharacteristically heavy rain and snowfall in the mid-year months, the prime hiking season is May-September – chilly yet dry. Pack plenty of layers, a good sleeping bag and tent in order to be prepared for temperatures that can drop as low as -10 ° C (14 ° F) when the sun goes down. Help shake off those chills and ask your guide to take you to the Rio Pumarini hot springs, a warm reward when you reach the Viconga campsite near the halfway point.

Have a tight feeling in your lungs and uneasiness in your stomach? Altitude sickness is prevalent on this undulating trail that nears 5000m at its highest and never dips below 4000m. Even those who take caution by pacing themselves and staying hydrated can be affected, so take it as an friendly reminder to slow down and enjoy the moment.  

Image of a mountain range valley with two turquoise lakes © Michael Mellinger / Getty Images

Keep it together

For well over a decade, the mountain range has been considered a reserved zone though it is not a national park. Communities in the surrounding area are in charge of keeping their respective campsites clean, and while they do the best they can, there have been issues around littering more recently. Strong winds can easily cause food wrappers to flutter, so a floorless ‘cook’ tent can act as a lightweight shelter or windbreaker to keep items from blowing away (and a stove flame from blowing out).

Small fees are required at each campsite, but be sure to spend time talking to the locals to learn more about the surrounding area and culture. Though campsites will be populated by only a few fellow hikers at most, it’s common to pass quite a few shepherds and cattlemen that live in these secluded areas of the Andean range. Perhaps not until you reach Huayllapa, on the second half of the trek, will you realize for just how long you’ve been disconnected; this is where you can replenish supplies. At the end of the trek, share any leftover food or gear that’s no longer of service to you with your guides or residents of Llámac.

Though infrastructure remains below some tourists’ expectations, now is the time to venture to Huayhuash and, with the guidance of locals, challenge yourself to truly step into nature.

How to get there:

From Lima , the city of Huaraz can be reached by an eight-hour bus ride with companies like Oltursa or MovilTours . LCPerú offers daily flights between the capital city and Huaraz, with a flight time of just under one hour. It’s recommended to spend at least a full day in Huaraz in order to acclimate to the elevation. From the city center you can catch a ride on the bus Turismo Nazario in order to arrive at the village of Llámac (a five-hour ride) where you can begin your hike.

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Cordillera Huayhuash – Epic South American Circuit Trek (Travel Guide)

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The Cordillera Huayhuash Circuit is known to be one of the most challenging and most beautiful treks in South America . 

This guide will help you plan your Huayhuash trek, whether you’re going independently or with an experienced guide or trek operator.

Cordillera Huayhuash Circuit Overview

The Cordillera Huayhuash Circuit is a 68 mile / 110km trek through a remote region of the  Peruvian Andes . Elevations on this trail reach upwards of 16,600 feet/ 5,060m.

The region was made famous by the tragic mountaineering book (and film)  Touching the Void . It is a survival story of a climber who falls into a crevasse after his partner is forced to cut the rope, then has to save himself. Don’t worry though. There is no mountaineering involved on the trail.

The appeal of the Cordillera Huayhuash Circuit is in the scenery. This region is brimming with turquoise alpine lakes, craggy snow-covered peaks, open green fields, misshapen multi-colored mountainsides, and fire-hued sunsets.

It takes anywhere from 7-14 days to complete the Huayhuash circuit, with 10 days being the average pace. There is only one village where you can resupply along the way. Otherwise, it’s entirely a wilderness experience. Be fully equipped with all the gear you need to sleep, cook, and stay warm and dry in the mountains.

The Cordillera Huayhuash region is not nearly as popular of a destination as it’s Cordillera Blanca counterpart. While you will likely see a few other groups every day, it is certainly not a busy destination.

If doing this trek independently, you will arrive via public transportation to Pocpa. From there it takes a few hours to walk to the start of the trail. Alternatively, you could arrange transport with a trekking agency.

It is better to bring backpacking snacks from home for the trek, as the options at the grocery store are limited. If you’re on an extended trip and not beginning from home, perhaps you could do your food shopping in Lima.

There are no permits required for the Cordillera Huayhuash Circuit. However, there are nine different communities charging fees for land use. The total price for all the fees adds up to about 205 soles ($62).

Cordillera Huayhuash Trek Facts

  • The distance of this trek is 68 miles / 110km and takes 7-14 days to complete. Most people hike in a clockwise route.
  • The maximum altitude on the circuit is 16,600 feet/ 5,060m. There is a total of 18,700 feet/ 5,700m of vertical uphill walking.
  • Difficulty is strenuous. It’s a high-altitude, wilderness hike with drastic elevation changes.
  • Best months to hike the Huayhuash circuit are May- September.
  • Guides are not mandatory, but are recommended for inexperienced trekkers.
  • No permits required. There are campsite and land use fees that amount to a total of 205 soles/ $62.

What to expect while trekking the Cordillera Huayhuash circuit

Typical itinerary, huaraz: 2-3 nights.

The city of Huaraz sits at 10,000 feet/ 3,050m. I recommend spending several nights here in order to start acclimatizing. Take a bus out of town and do a day hike to further help with acclimatization. 

Additionally, if you have any extra belongings you don’t want to take on the trek, you can store them at your hotel or hostel. 

Day 1: Quartelhuain

Catch the 5 am bus from Huaraz to Chiquian. The bus company is called El Rapido . From Chiquian, take the 8 am bus to Pocpa. Once you’ve arrived in Pocpa, it takes several hours of walking along the road to reach Quartelhuian. Spend the night there.

Day 2: Mitucocha Camp

Elevation gain: 1,706 feet/ 520m

It’s a relentless climb up to Cacananpunta first thing in the morning. Then a mellow hike down to the campsite. While this is a short day, I recommend staying at Mitucocha Camp. It’s better to ease into the trek than do two big climbs on the first day in the backcountry.

Day 3: Carhuacocha

Elevation gain: 1,400 feet/ 430m

The climb up Carhuac is rewarded by views of snow-capped peaks on the descent. The campsite is beside an alpine lake and is an excellent spot to catch some sunset photos of the lake and mountains. This campsite is not very large, so expect to be in close proximity to any other trekkers.

Day 4: Huayhuash

Elevation gain: 1,300 feet/ 400m

Today is one of the most spectacular days as far as scenery goes. There are several alpine lakes that act as mirrors to the surrounding peaks.

You can even jump in one if you’re feeling bold and not afraid of the cold. Expect to hear and see giant chunks of ice breaking from the surrounding cliffs and crashing to the ground. 

Day 5: Viconga

Elevation gain: 1,380 feet/ 420m

Today is just as scenic as all the rest, but perhaps the highlight of this day is the Viconga campsite. There is a hot spring for weary trekkers to soak in while enjoying the surrounding mountains. The man-made concrete tubs are filled with natural hot spring water, and it’s the perfect way to end a long day.

Day 6: Cuyoc Camp

Elevation gain: 2,330 feet/ 710m

This is the biggest elevation gain of the hike so far. However, it’s not as steep as previous climbs and you should be well acclimatized by now. Take it slow. You’ll be rewarded at the top with views of peaks and colorful mountains.

Day 7: Huatiaq

Elevation gain: 2,525 feet/ 770m; however, there will be additional elevation gain if you choose to take the scenic route in the morning

The guidebook suggests two days to reach Huatiaq from Cuyco Camp, but it is possible to do in one. This is also the day you can go to Huayllapa to resupply. You can start your morning by choosing your route: a more scenic, uphill climb. Or an easier walk down the valley if you’ve had enough of stunning mountain scenery.

There’s a small shop in Huayllapa where you can buy basic supplies. They don’t have anything too extravagant; just Ramen noodles, oatmeal packets, and packages of cookies.

After visiting the village, start the steep climb up to the campsite.

Day 8: Incahuain

Elevation gain: 2,750 feet/ 840m

This is the last full day of trekking the circuit. There are two passes today, and after you can choose to do a ridgeline walk if you want to get some bonus views. The ridgeline is not too difficult, so you might want to give it a go. Finally, after more alpine lake views, you descend down to your final campsite of the trek.

Day 9: Llamac

Elevation gain: 1,100 feet/ 340m

Set off early if you’re planning on taking public transportation back to Huaraz. The bus leaves around 11:30am. There is one final low pass to get over, then you hike down into the village of Llamac.

Things You'll Need for Your Cordillera Huayhuash Trek

Gear checklist.

  • Backpack (about 50L)
  • Trekking poles
  • Tent  (there are no trees for tying tarps or hammocks)
  • Sleeping bag , around 20 F (-7C) and a  sleeping pad (in case you aren't hiking with a tour operator)
  • Camp stove  and fuel canister, can be purchased in Huaraz
  • Water bottles, capacity for 2-3L 
  • Water treatment method
  • Navigational equipment: map, compass, guidebook,  GPS or SmartPhone
  • Hiking clothes
  • Trail runners /  hiking boots
  • Rain jacket
  • Down jacket / warm synthetic layer
  • Long-sleeve base layer shirt
  • Base layer bottoms
  • Warm hat and  gloves
  • Sunscreen and  trekking sunglasses

You're welcome to check out our multi-day hiking list  for more helpful ideas on what to pack for Cordillera Huayhuash. 

Recommended Guidebooks and Maps

Peru’s Cordilleras Blanca & Huayhuash: The Hiking & Biking Guide is the most comprehensive resource on the circuit.

Please Note: The latest version of this guidebook will go on sale on Amazon on 1 September 2023 . So, make sure you're first in line to buy it!

You can also download the maps.me maps of the region, since a lot of the trail is marked on the app.

If you’re trekking without a guide, we recommend buying a map at one of the trekking shops in Huaraz. 

Please Note : It’s important that hikers who go without the assistance of a guide and mules are aware of what they’re getting into. This is a high-altitude trek through a remote region of the Andes with no road access. Should something go wrong, it would not be easy for help to arrive. 

Hikers must be fully equipped with enough food to last until the village of Huayllapa. The threat of acute mountain sickness is real, and hikers should have an understanding of symptoms and treatment.

Furthermore, there are no trail signs and sometimes the path is not obvious. Trekkers should have a basic understanding of navigation and carry a map, compass, and GPS or SmartPhone with the regional maps downloaded for offline use.

Cordillera Huayhuash FAQs

When is the best time to hike cordillera huayhuash.

May to September are the best times to hike the Cordillera Huayhuash Circuit.

The weather is cold, but dry. Expect frost on your tent every morning and have layers accessible during the day.

The other months of the year are the wet season, and the passes will likely be difficult to cross because of snow.

What can I expect on a typical Cordillera Huayhuash trek? 

There are no permits for this trek but bring enough money for the land use fees. They amount to 205 soles ($62).

Take the local buses to get to the trailhead. Arrange your ticket the day before at the El Rapido bus station in Huaraz.

The bus to Chiquian leaves at 5am, and from there you will catch a different bus to Pocpa. On the last day of your hike, catch the 11:30am bus out of Llamac.

Either bring food for the trek from home or buy it in Lima, as Huaraz does not have many good options for backpacking food.

How difficult is the Cordillera Huayhuash Circuit Trek?

The Cordillera Huayhuash Circuit is an extremely difficult trek, especially if you are planning to self-navigate and carry your own gear.

While the distances may seem small, keep in mind that it is at a high altitude with drastic elevation changes.

Furthermore, there is no easy way to get out should you experience symptoms of acute mountain sickness.

Therefore, it is crucial that you take several days to acclimatize in Huaraz and do a day hike before beginning the circuit. 

Is it safe to hike the Cordillera Huayhuash Circuit alone?

In terms of is the region safe for tourists, yes, very much so. In terms of if the mountains are safe for you personally, this really depends on your experience.

Ask yourself these questions:

  • Do you feel comfortable navigating your own way in the mountains? 
  • Have you gone on a backcountry trip of similar length before?
  • Do you have experience hiking at high elevations? 

If the answers are yes, then you are probably ready. 

Where do I find water along the Cordillera Huayhuash Circuit?

All of the Cordillera Huayhuash campsites have water sources, and there are streams throughout the day as well. Just be sure to fill up before you start up the passes, as you might hike several hours between water sources during the day.

Is acute mountain sickness a risk with Cordillera Huayhuash?

Yes. Do proper research ahead of time on what the symptoms of mountain sickness are and be aware of how to treat it. You can read about acute mountain sickness.

Do I need travel insurance for Cordillera Huayhuash?

If you plan to hike Cordillera Huayhuash Circuit, make sure that you are adequately insured for up to 4,000m. Get a quote from  World Nomads .

Do I need to know Spanish for Cordillera Huayhuash?

Not necessarily, but it is helpful if you learn a few Spanish phrases. While traveling around Peru, it will be a challenge to get around if you are only trying to speak English.

Once on the trail, you really don’t need to speak to that many people other than the locals who collect land use fees. If you don’t know Spanish, don’t let it be a deterrent to coming to Peru. Just be ready to have a tough time.

You may also like...

See our detailed guide to South American mountain ranges . Or check out our country hiking guides below.

  • Best Hikes in Chile
  • Best Hikes in Argentina
  • Best Hikes in Ecuador
  • Best Hikes in Mexico
  • Quilotoa Loop Trail
  • Best Hikes in South America
  • Climbing Chimborazo
  • Best Hikes in Patagonia

Also see our detailed Mountain Guides or explore our Hiking Tours available exclusively on Mountain IQ .

References :  BBC Travel ,  Lonely Planet ,  Wikipedia

How-Hard-Is-Cordillera-Huayhuash-Trek-in-South-America

About the author 

Megan Maxwell

Megan is a long-distance hiker, blogger, author, and outdoor professional. She has travelled all over the world in search of mountains and unique trails. She found her love of hiking on the Appalachian Trail back in 2012 and since then has hiked in the Himalayas, the Andes, and a few countries in Europe. On her blog, Mountains with Megan she provides information on hiking and backpacking all over the world.

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08 Nov Peru’s Huayhuash Trek: Ultimate Guide by a Solo Female Traveler

Tres Lagunas / three lakes mirador / viewpoint on Huayhuash trek in Peru

Named one of the 10 most beautiful treks in the world, the Cordillera Huayhuash circuit should absolutely be on your Peru itinerary. While this bucket list hike is not for the faint of heart, the magnificent views of snow-capped peaks, turquoise glacial lakes, rocky terrain, and mind-blowing views pay off all the challenges of the trail. Over 5-12 days you’ll push your strength and test your stamina for one of the most rewarding and immersive adventures through the Andes Mountains.

In this guide I highlight everything you need to complete Huayhuash as a part of a guided-group. Anyone looking to tackle this trek can find this post useful, but I especially added some perspective and tips for solo female travelers: because solo traveling doesn’t mean you can’t have an adventurous trip. So buckle up, for your adventure girl summer in Huayhuash!

What's in this post

Click to skip ahead

About the Huayhuash Trek

  • Where is the Cordillera Huayhuash
  • Trail details
  • How many days is the trek?
  • Distance & elevation of the trail
  • Difficulty of the trek
  • Who can complete Huayhuash?

What to Expect

  • What’s included & not included in a guided trek
  • Privacy & safety as a solo female traveler

Huayhuash 8 Day Itinerary

Finding a group & booking trek.

  • When to book
  • Private group vs. random group
  • My recommended tour operator

When is the best time to hike Huayhuash

How to prepare for huayhuash.

  • Physically & with the altitude
  • Packing List

Other Random Tips for the Trek

Travel insurance for the trek, how to get to huaraz, other resources for your trip.

Cordillera Huayhuash in Huaraz Peru

ALL ABOUT HUAYHUASH

Huayhuash refers to the mountain range known as Cordillera Huayhuash which is a bunch of mountain peaks grouped together. The trekking circuit takes you up and around them, seeing the icy peaks from different angles, enjoying the glacier lakes around them, and the valleys below.

Where is the Huayhuash Trek?

The Cordillera Huayhuash is a part of the Andes Mountain Range in central Peru, about 200 km north of Lima. To begin the Huayhuash circuit, you’ll start in Huaraz , a city that acts as a hub to begin some of Peru’s most impressive hikes and treks including Huayhuash.

→ Check out my guide to Huaraz here

huaraz huayhuash trek

Trail Details:

How many days is the huayhuash trek.

The traditional Huayhuash circuit is meant to be 8-12 days. The most popular route is 8 days, which is what I did, so I’ll refer to it throughout this post. There’s also a 5 day option for those looking for a shorter route but you won’t complete the full circuit and will miss the panoramic view of the entire range – for that reason I don’t recommend it unless you’re short on time.

Distance & Elevation: How long is the Huayhuash trek and what altitude do you reach?

During the 8 days Huayhuash Circuit you’ll hike about 130 km / 80 miles and reach elevations as high as 5,050 m / 16,568 ft. This is the highest elevation, but every day will include one mountain pass at or over 4,700 m / 15,419 ft and you’ll camp at higher elevation as well.

The map of the circuit is shown below on AllTrails (which is roughly accurate) but when you discuss with tour operators they should give you a map and explain the hiking details of each day since there can be slight variations.

How difficult is the Huayhuash trek?

As I’m sure you can guess, Huayhuash is labeled a difficult trail for the average person and I would agree . Personally, it was doable for me but that’s easy to say in hindsight sitting in a coffee shop typing this. During the trek it took a lot of determination, physical stamina, and mental fortitude.

The Huayhuash circuit is difficult for many reasons, not just trail distance, but for the high altitudes and stamina to span over the whole trip. Every day you’ll complete a mountain pass (the highest pass reaching 5,050 m / 16,568 ft) and the entire trip is over 4,000 meters.

For the unaware sea-level dwellers, hiking at higher altitudes is 10x more difficult than at sea level. There’s less oxygen for your lungs which can introduce other complications depending on how your body reacts. Additionally, weather can be unpredictable so high up, and you may need to hike or sleep through hail or even snow. What’s more, how your body and mind copes to these conditions over 8 days can also be an additional challenge.

huaraz huayhuash trek

On the other hand, while being in shape will make your life easier, you don’t have to be a professional trekker or someone who grew up in Colorado summiting peaks on weekends to do the Huayhuash trek. And unless you’re out of shape, you don’t need to do any official training beforehand either. Now, I do recommend acclimating and completing a few day hikes at high altitude prior. But other than that, this is not like a summit or technical trek which requires training. 

In actuality, Huayhuash is not that technical of a trail, it’s just putting one foot in front of the other –  which admittedly may be easier said than done. But as long as you have the appropriate gear, the mental fortitude, are properly acclimated, and are in decent physical shape, you should be able to complete it. 

For context, I’m a moderately fit person, meaning that I’ve always been able to engage in more physical activities like hiking but I wasn’t working out regularly at the time of my trek and low key I would get out of breath from just running up stairs in Huaraz. During Huayhuash, I was the slowest in my group because I had difficulty breathing, especially during ascents. 

However, I was able to keep up more or less, always arriving within 20 minutes or so from the rest of the group and they were always patient enough to wait. And even if I took longer, I think it would have been ok. Everyday the hiking was tailored so there was more than enough time to complete the trail and we frequently arrived to camp at midday. There were also slower groups than us. So while I think Huayhuash is a difficult trek as a whole, the daily hikes are doable if you’re acclimated, in decent shape, and confident – I say go for it.

huaraz huayhuash trek

Who can complete the Huayhuash trek?

So ultimately, who can complete Huayhuash? That’s a difficult to specifically define, and ultimately it’s a question only you can truly answer for yourself. I saw older people doing it who were much slower than me (but did it); I also knew a professional rugby player who was struggling as much as me; but I also saw people who looked physically less strong who were absolutely killing it. Ultimately a lot has to do with how you react to the altitude and your mental stamina.

If you’re unsure if you should do the trek or not, my advice is to take all the information I’ve said into consideration, check out the itinerary and then do some day hikes in Huaraz or even the Santa Cruz trek to gauge how you fare.

When you do decide to do Huayhuash, be confident with yourself.  My advice for any challenging activity is to go into it without hesitation, saying to yourself, “I can and will do this, even if it’s difficult.”

huaraz huayhuash trek

Huayhuash 8 day trek itinerary

Below is what you can expect day-to-day during an 8 day guided trek of the Cordillera Huayhuash. This is based off the itinerary I was given and completed.  There may be slight variations if you go with a different company and definitely if you plan to trek on your own.

Day 1: Just drive

On the first day, there’s absolutely no hiking involved. Around 9/10 AM you’ll be picked up from your hostel /hotel in Huaraz and then drive about 5 hours to the first campsite. Along the drive you’ll stop in a small town called Llamac at a local restaurant for lunch. Menu del dia is about 10-15 soles and not included, so make sure to bring cash.

The first day is a great time to get acquainted with your group, especially if you don’t know anyone and get a taste of the camping situation for the next week. 

Cordiller

Day 2: Here We go

Bright and early you’ll begin the first day of trekking Huayhuash. It begins immediately with ascent to the first mountain pass. Depending on your mindset and how you’re dealing with altitude, it can be a breeze or quite difficult.

What I mean to say is that *most* people find it easier of all the passes because it’s a fresh start. I, on the other hand, found it difficult because I think starting is the hardest part of any trek. When you run into tiredness it’s all too easy to think, omg this is just the start how will I last . Obviously I completely discourage from thinking like this and rather to remember its a marathon not a sprint; you got this.

After the first pass, there is a second one but because its so gradual you don’t even feel like you’re doing a mountain pass.  There’s also a lot of flat and down portions. Overall,  Day 1 of Huayhuash is longer and covers a lot of ground but you’ll be rewarded with a stunning campsite at the foot of a glacier lake.

Day 2 stats:

  • 18 kilometers (11.2 miles)
  • 1,100 meters (3,608 ft) in elevation gain
  • Roughly 7 hours of hiking

Two people trekking Huayhuash near day 2 campsite with glacial lake

Day 3: The Three Lakes

On Day 3 you’ll begin a flat walk around the lake you camped beside and towards the first of three new lakes  that you’ll see. At this first lake you can hike up to the ridge to see a stunning view of the blue water.

From here you’ll begin the mountain pass ascent. This is a pretty difficult one, but it does really pay off in views. Halfway through the incline, you’ll be rewarded with one of the most beautiful parts of the Huayhuash trek: Mirador de Tres Lagunas or the Three Lakes Viewpoint. 

But you’re not done yet, after you take lots of photos and have a snack, you’ll continue the ascent up to the mountain pass. This is when I had to stick my airpods in so Bad Bunny could help me get up and over this bad boy.

After the mountain pass it’s all down and or flat to the next campsite.

Day 3 stats:

  • 16 kilometers (10 miles)
  • 700 meters (2,296 ft) in elevation gain
  • 6-7 hours hiking

Woman poses in front of glacial lake during Peru's Huayhuash trek

Day 4: The hardest day

You wanted to know which day is the most difficult?  This is it. On Day 4 of the Huayhuash trek you’ll have the highest mountain pass at roughly 5,050 m, and then later you may or may not complete a second one at 5,000 m. To explain, I’ll tell you about my experience.

We started the first ascent which I’ll admit was so freaking hard. It didn’t help that it began with fog so thick you couldn’t see far in front of you which eventually turned into a windy snow storm. This meant  with a group spaced out, hiking at different paces, I felt pretty alone at the back until our chef caught up and hiked with me (they make sure no one is left behind, and I was last).

At the top of the first pass you should have amazing views, however I wouldn’t know too much since we could barely see… After the pass though it’s down all the way to the campsite. Again, we only got glimpses of the views during descent,  but if you have a clear day this should be an incredible scenery of blue lakes and brown, outlandish mountain peaks. 

huaraz huayhuash trek

For as difficult as this mountain pass is, it doesn’t take too long and you’ll be at the campsite for lunch. Actually, because of the snow storm my group was so cold we barely stopped at all and made it to camp by 11 AM!  For this reason, our guide gave us the option: do you want to do the second mountain pass, San Antonio, later that afternoon or the next day? It’s  (in my opinion) THE most beautiful view of the whole trek, and our guide felt he could easily predict from the campsite if it would be clear at the top so we’d have nice views. He said if we waited until the following morning to do it, we might not be so lucky.

So, my group decided let’s go for it . We digested lunch and waited around for the clouds to clear. At about 3 PM, our guide said everybody up, it’s time , and we started the second ascent to San Antonio pass.

The climb there is only 1.5 hours but rough. I mean it’s really, really steep. But don’t give up because when you take the final steps and those mountains come into view, it’s one of the most rewarding feelings. 

Day 4 Stats:

  • 15 – 20 kilometers (9 – 12 miles)
  • 700 – 1300 meters (2,296 – 4,265 ft) in elevation gain
  • 5 – 8 hours of hiking

huaraz huayhuash trek

Day 5: A Breeze

If you’re like my group who completed San Antonio pass on Day 4, then you can expect Day 5 to be an absolute breeze. The hike doesn’t involve any mountain passes, it’s simply hiking down and flat all the way to the next campsite which is in a village, in a school’s grass “stadium.”

We arrived very early around 11 AM and practically had a much needed rest day that involved showering, laying in the sun, reading, playing soccer together and bonding over some drinks and games. I think we all needed this day to recover a bit and bond even more as a group. 

Make sure to bring cash for this day if you want to have a shower or buy snacks and drinks.

Day 5 Stats:

  • 16 kilometers (9.94 miles)
  • -1000 meters (-3,280 ft) in elevation gain 
  • 4 hours of hiking

huaraz huayhuash trek

Day 6: Back up we go

In hiking, you may know that unless you’re at the end of the trail, what goes down usually has to go back up. So you guessed it, on Day 6 starting at 3,500 meters you’ll hike up and over a mountain pass at 4,800 meters.

With a 1,300 meter elevation gain, I was pretty nervous for this day but it actually ended up being the easiest ascent for me the whole trek. Probably something to do with feeling energized after an easy previous day, knowing that we only had two days more, and having a very hungover and slow guide.

However, this may have been a personal experience and a product of expecting the worst from such a big altitude gain. I would still rate this as a pretty difficult day.

Day 6 Stats:

  • 13 kilometers (8 miles)
  • 1,300 meters (4,265 ft) in elevation gain
  • 6-7 hours of hiking

huaraz huayhuash trek

Day 7: An impressive Panoramic View

As I mentioned, I personally think San Antonio pass was the most beautiful view, but Day 7 comes as a close second. In fact, all tour companies will tell you it’s the most impressive day, and I have to say I would not want to miss this. 

You know the drill, another day another mountain pass. I personally thought this one was pretty cool, even on the way up the rocky terrain felt other-wordly. Further along at the top, you’ll walk along the ridge of the pass and enjoy a 360 panoramic view of the cordillera.

huaraz huayhuash trek

As you walk it just keeps getting better as your campsite slowly comes into view. It’s then a very steep descent down, a time my knees were very thankful for my hiking poles. 

At the campsite you can continue on to the highest of the lagunas; my group opted to lay in the sun and drink beer instead.

Day 7 Stats: 

  • 500 meters (1,640 ft) in elevation gain
  • 5 hours hiking

huaraz huayhuash trek

Day 8: The final day!

Last day of the Huayhuash trek! Before you embark on a steep downhill though, you have one final mountain pass to complete. As you reach the top, it’s a wild feeling to know that you did it and bittersweet as you head down. 

At the bottom you’ll wait for a bit and then have the same drive back to Huaraz. 

A recommended end to your itinerary is to do as my group did, which was enjoy dinner and drunk karaoke that night before parting ways. After 8 days spent together, your group will nearly be family and it’s worth celebrating your trekking success together.

Day 8 Stats: 

  • 15 kilometers (9.3 miles)
  • 700 meters (2,296 ft) up and then 800 down to the bus

huaraz huayhuash trek

WHAT TO EXPECT TREKKING THE CORDILLERA HUAYHUASH

What's included in a guided trek:.

Most tour operators include the same for the Huayhuash trek: a licensed guide with a first-aid kit, camping equipment including tents, sleeping mats, and sleeping bags, all of your meals provided (except for the first lunch at the restaurant in Llamac), all transportation, and mules to carry a bag with your belongings. Some tours (like with Krusty Hostel /Huayhuash Expeditions) will also include the park entrance fee and an emergency horse to ride just in case.

What’s not included is any clothing, hiking poles , hiking boots , travel insurance , personal items and a water bottle – although boiled water is provided throughout, you just need to bring a bottle.

In terms of weather, expect it all. At night and in the morning you can guarantee it’s going to be frigid, with temperatures at or below freezing. During the day you can guarantee you’ll have everything from hot, to cloudy, to cold, to hail, and maybe even a snow storm (if you’re lucky like me…). My group joked that every day in our backpacks we needed clothes for all seasons, and the story of our lives was stripping and adding layers every other hour. 

This is just how the climate is at high altitude, but to ensure the best weather it’s best to complete Huayhuash during the winter/dry season. More on that later. Regardless, it’s best to be prepared with different types of clothing and layers. Also, more on that farther down.

woman on Huayhuash trek wearing warm clothing

If you’re doing Huayhuash as a guided trek then you don’t need to worry about eating ramen and dehydrated food the whole trip. Group trips include a cook and so you’ll be spoiled by having all meals cooked for you. 

In terms of food options, I would say you can expect pretty decent meals, however repetitive, with plenty of carbs and protein to sustain you for the week. Vegetarian options should be available, but make sure and double check before booking with a group and letting them know.

During my Huayhuash trek for breakfast we mostly ate bread with butter and jam accompanied with either cereal & yogurt, pancakes and once shakshuka. For lunch it varied between pasta or rice dishes with a protein and once ceviche. And for dinner, we always started with a hot soup followed by the main dish of also pasta or rice with a protein. Additionally, snacks for the trek were provided every morning (always cookies, a chocolate bar and one fruit) and after hiking we always had a tea time accompanied by a snack of usually popcorn but once chips and guacamole (my favorite day!!). 

So if you’re wondering, should I bring any food? The answer is that you don’t need to bring anything substantial BUT if what I just described isn’t to your liking then I would definitely pack some extra snacks. Personally, I packed some nuts and candy gummies for everyday just in case I was ever hungry or wanted a sugar boost.

Cordillera Huayhuash weather

As you can imagine, during Huayhuash you won’t be staying anywhere luxurious. You’ll be camping in tents throughout the entire trip except for one night where a hostel is optional. I was worried about being really cold, but my tour company, Huayhuash Expeditions, provided excellent tents and sleeping bags. Combined with the warm layers I packed, I was pretty toasty while sleeping.

Fortunately, at every campsite there are toilets; not always the most clean, but they did provide some privacy compared to having to try and shit outdoors in the fear that someone can see you. 

In terms of showers, there aren’t any except for on Day 5  when you either camp in the village or stay in the hostel available. To freshen up throughout the trek, I brought wet wipes and after every day of hiking I would wipe myself down before putting on my clean pajamas or camp clothes.

huaraz huayhuash trek

Privacy & Safety as solo female traveler:

Because you’ll be in a group, you don’t have to worry too much about safety during the Huayhuash trek. It’s unlikely you’ll ever be completely alone or encounter animals, and should you get injured there’s a first aid kit and emergency horse available. I also recommend getting travel insurance just in case.

But if you’re joining a random group as a woman alone, you may also be thinking what about the people in my group and what about sharing a tent with a stranger.   This is a valid concern since you never really know and unfortunately uncomfortable situations can arise anywhere, especially when sleeping next to someone you don’t know.

If you’re really worried, it may be possible to request a private tent, however I actually do not recommend this because sharing a tent can actually be really fun (you have someone to laugh with through the suffering of cold mornings) and having another person in the tent can keep you warm at night. 

Instead I recommend pairing up with another woman if you can. When booking your group, you can request to see the list and ask if there’s another solo female traveler.

However, if this is not an option, then try to pair up with someone you feel most comfortable around. When I did Huayhuash, there were two other women in my group but they both came with their partner so I knew immediately I was going to have to share a tent with one of the other five guys in my group. Not to sound psycho, but rather honest, I totally scoped them out on the drive there and as we were setting up first camp. Of course you can’t know a person after an hour or two, but talk and make friends and whoever seems like someone you vibe with (and honestly feel safe around) that’s who you ask to share a tent with. Use the spidey senses ladies.

As a disclaimer, I want to finish this section by saying all the men in my Huayhuash group were respectable people who I all really liked. However, I’ve been in other uncomfortable situations in the past so it seems worth it to mention this “tip” for those who may be worried about it.

Woman standing in front of 3 lakes viewpoint at Cordillera Huayhuash in Huaraz Peru

HOW TO FIND A GROUP & WHERE TO BOOK YOUR HUAYHUASH TREK

When to book your trek.

It’s tempting to think that for a big trek like Huayhuash you should book it in advance on the internet in order to save your spot. But I actually really discourage this. Rather, I suggest arriving in Huaraz a little earlier, not only to acclimate and enjoy other day trips, but also to book your trek there in person .

By waiting to book in person you have the opportunity to meet others and possibly form your own trekking group, plus it’s WAY cheaper in Huaraz. For most tours in Peru, when you book online vs. in person it’s almost always a double price difference. Huayhuash is no different. Online you’ll find the Huayhuash trek for upwards of $700 USD or more, while in Huaraz you can join a group for $380 – $500 USD. 

Private vs. random group

When booking Huayhuash, you have two options: first to form your own group of friends and book a private group, or second to join a random group of other travelers. While I met a lot of friends in Huaraz to join me for day trips, I didn’t meet anyone interested in the 8 day Huayhuash trek and so did the second option by joining a random group.

While this sounds daunting especially as a solo traveler, don’t be discouraged if this happens to you too. My group was so incredible and we bonded so much through those 8 days. I really couldn’t have asked for a more hilarious and supportive group of people of whom I’m still in contact with later on.

Guided group tour of Cordillera Huayhuash in Peru

The best tour company for Huayhuash

There are many tour operators in Huaraz who offer the Huayhuash trek. After shopping around a ton, I found that the best option was booking through Krusty Hostel which uses Huayhuash Expeditions . They were highly recommended and had the cheapest price at 1500 soles, roughly $380 USD (for whatever reason, this price applied only when I booked through Krusty Hostel, not when directly whatsapping a Huayhuash Expeditions guide  who gave me a much higher price).

After trekking with Huayhuash Expeditions for both Santa Cruz and Huayhuash, I can say I was extremely pleased with the gear, my guide, the group, and the entire experience. They included a few extras compared to other companies like a spacious duffle bag so you can bring plenty of warm layers, an emergency horse and the entrance fee to the park. 

My guide for Huayhuash was also patient, encouraging and professional. Plus, Krusty Hostel is a popular place to book tours so you have a good chance at being paired with fun people and fellow backpackers. Like I said, I had the best group I could have possibly asked for, especially going into it not knowing a soul. We were practically family by the end of the week.

Horse at a mountain pass on the Cordillera Huayhuash trek in Peru

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO DO HUAYHUASH

The best time to do the Huayhuash trek is from May to September. This falls during Peru’s winter but it’s also dry season which means you’ll mostly avoid rain and snow during hiking. Of course at high altitude, you never know with the weather, but during these months the conditions are generally best.

San Antonio pass ono the Cordillera Huayhuash trek in Peru - the most beautiful view on the trek

HOW TO PREPARE FOR THE HUAYHUASH TREK

Physically & with the altitude.

As I mentioned previously, I didn’t really do any “technical” training for Huayhuash, however I did several high altitude hikes to prepare. I really believe this made a huge difference for my stamina and definitely acclimating. 

Some recommended day-hikes you can do are Laguna Churup, Laguna 69, Laguna 513, and Laguna Llaca. The 4-day Santa Cruz trek is also a great way to prepare if you have the time. You can learn more about all these hikes in my Huaraz guide here .

But whichever you choose, if you’re coming from sea level I would recommend 3 days to acclimate in Huaraz and to do a few other physical activities before Huayhuash.

huaraz huayhuash trek

And by the way, if you’re wondering wtf is acclimating… Let me explain. Basically there’s less oxygen at higher altitude levels and your body needs time to get used to functioning while using less oxygen aka acclimatization. Especially if you’ve never been at a higher altitude like this, you can expect feeling more fatigued much easier, having headaches, getting dehydrated quicker and if you get altitude sickness you can have other symptoms like nausea and diarrhea.

Even after acclimating in Huaraz, you still might feel symptoms during the Huayhuash trek. The best you can do is pack medication to treat symptoms (listed below), stay really hydrated, and hike slowly listening to your body. If you get really sick, of course tell someone in your group and your guide.

huaraz huayhuash trek

What to Pack for Huayhuash

If you’re joining a guided group, the company should provide all the equipment like a tent, sleeping mat, sleeping bag, and food. Therefore you’re really only responsible for bringing clothes & personal items.

Here’s what I recommend bringing along with links if you’re looking for suggestions:

  • Waterproof hiking pants
  • Long sleeve shirt(s)
  • Short sleeve shirt(s)
  • Pullover or hoodie
  • Thermal base layers for nighttime 
  • Sweater, pants, socks (authentic alpaca wool from Peru is a good option! They have so many cute sweaters, ponchos, hats gloves, & scarves in Huaraz)
  • Jacket for warmth
  • Rain jacket
  • Beanie , gloves , neck gaiter
  • Baseball cap
  • Supportive hiking boots
  • Hiking socks
  • Reusable water bottle
  • First aid kit  
  • Altitude medication (Acetazolamide, or Diamox – very different from solely a supplement), imodium , nausea meds , ibuprofen , & electrolytes
  • Microfiber towel
  • Pillow (for camping)
  • Flashlight and/or head lamp
  • Hiking poles (bring your own or rent them in town)
  • Kindle (a lot of downtime in the afternoons)
  • Supportive backpack – the mules will carry your bigger bag (a duffel should be provided) but you’ll carry a day pack of water, extra layers and snacks while hiking
  • Waterproof backpack cover
  • Camera gear to capture the amazing views!
  • Portable charger and/or solar charger – no outlets during the trek
  • Wet wipes to freshen up after the hike
  • Any toiletries – keep it to a minimum but for skincare I suggest bring your hydrating routine because high altitude and harsh winds dry out your skin so much
  • Toilet paper (seriously don’t forget this)
  • Diva cup (it’s not fun being reliant on tampons in the wilderness)
  • Hand sanitizer

The most important thing is having layers to stay warm at night, and with the duffle bag provided you don’t have to worry about light clothing to carry so don’t hold back on the fleece. 

Also note that you don’t need a fresh hiking outfit for every single day. It makes much more sense to re-wear clothes which sounds gross but everyone does it so F it. To feel clean it’s more important to bring a change of undergarments, undershirts, socks, and to never mix what you sleep in with what you hike in.

Huayhuash day pack backpack for the trail

Random tips for Huayhuash

Saving your battery.

You won’t have any access to outlets during the Huayhuash trek, so if you want your phone/camera fully charged for photos then make sure to conserve your batteries. You can do this by keeping your phone in airplane mode at all times (there’s no service or wifi anyways), turning your phone off at night, putting anything with batteries in your sleeping bag at night (the cold drains batteries) and by using your camera/phone as little as possible. 

Throughout Huayhuash, I used my phone and camera to take photos and that was about it. I didn’t even waste precious battery flipping through photos. Also if you have a portable charger , definitely bring this.

In combination with my portable charger and conserving my batteries, I was able to have enough charge on my camera and phone for the full 8 days. It’s crazy how much it lasts when you’re not scrolling through Tik Tok all the time…

huaraz huayhuash trek

Optimize Your Day Pack

During the day you don’t have access to your big bag, so make sure anything you may need while hiking is in your day pack. This includes water, snacks, clothing in case of a weather change such as a rain jacket or extra layer, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, tampons/diva cup, toilet paper/tissues, and altitude meds should you get sick while hiking.

Bring something to keep you entertained

Tough mornings of hiking are usually followed by slow afternoons during Huayhuash. With no wifi in the middle of the wilderness, you might even find yourself being bored – in a good way. I entertained myself by hanging out with my group, reading, and sometimes doing yoga. 

I would anticipate this time and bring something like a book or Kindle , journal and pen, a deck of playing cards or another game, or maybe pre-downloading some movies on your phone. Personally, I didn’t watch anything on my phone because I wanted to conserve battery for photos but if you have a big enough portable charger or don’t care much about photos you could do this. I did however pre-download music and podcasts for listening which use less battery.

huaraz huayhuash trek

Hike at your own steady pace

I mentioned it before, but I was by far the slowest in my trekking group. However, I stopped caring because I soon found that if I tried to keep up with other’s pace, I just got really tired and had to take a long break to catch my breath. It was much more sustainable to keep my own steady and consistent pace.

When you hike Huayhuash, remember it’s a marathon not a sprint. Do you, just keep going.

Figure out hairstyles that work for you beforehand

8 days of trekking with no showering can make your hair really annoying especially if it’s long. I anticipated this and brought a headband, plenty of hair ties so I could braid it, and a hat. I also washed it the night before leaving so that it was the most fresh to start. I recommend doing the same and finding hairstyles that work for you, keeping in mind your hair will be dirty a lot of the time.

Wet wipes to stay clean

Like I said, you’ll only have a shower one night out of the 8 days so if you’re like me and hate feeling dirty, bring wet wipes to freshen up. There’s also no trash around and you don’t want to litter, so bring a plastic bag to put dirty wipes in.

TRAVEL INSURANCE for huayhuash

Travel insurance is always a must to cover things like trip cancellation or changes, lost or stolen items, and medical emergencies. When doing adventurous activities like the Huayhuash trek, I would say it’s even more essential.

The problem with travel insurance while trekking is that most insurance companies have a cut off for any activities above a certain altitude. Usually around 3 or 4,000 m, well below the altitudes of the Huayhuash trek. Meaning, if you get injured during the trek, they won’t cover your bills.

For that reason I recommend World Nomads travel insurance which is made specifically for adventurous backpackers – specifically their Explorer package.

→ LEARN MORE ABOUT WORLD NOMADS TRAVEL INSURANCE COVERAGE HERE

huaraz huayhuash trek

How to Get to Huaraz to start Huayhuash

As I mentioned, the Huayhuash trek begins in Huaraz, Peru which is about 400 km (250 miles) north of Lima. Most people traveling to Huaraz from outside Peru will first need to fly into Lima then go to Huaraz.

Huaraz doesn’t have an airport so the only way to get there is to drive yourself or take a bus (the most popular and most practical option for most).

HOW TO GET TO HUARAZ FROM LIMA

To get to Huaraz from Lima, you can take an 8-9 hour bus. It’s possible to depart during the day, but the most popular option is to book a night bus so you can sleep (hopefully) the entirety of the trip. 

There are a number of bus companies to book with such as Movil , Civa and Cruz del Sur . For easy booking and comparing prices, you can search and book your ticket on Busbud .

When choosing your ticket, note there are different seating options based on seat reclining degrees and other factors. For example, cheaper seats only recline 140 degrees whereas premier seats recline 180 degrees, similar to a bed for better sleep – a game changer on those overnight trips.

Ticket prices are typically around S/100 ($25 USD) depending on when you book and which seat you choose.

After arriving in Huaraz by bus, you can walk or take a taxi to your accommodation.

If traveling the other way from Huaraz to Lima, the process is the same.

HOW TO GET TO HUARAZ FROM TRUJILLO

To get to Huaraz from Trujillo, you can also take an 8 – 9 hour overnight bus which can be booked with Movil or Linea . For easy booking and comparing prices, you can search and book your ticket on Busbud .

When choosing your ticket, note there are different seating options based on seat reclining degrees and other options. For example, cheaper seats only recline 140 degrees whereas premier seats recline 180 degrees, similar to a bed for better sleep – a game changer on those overnight trips.

Ticket prices are typically around S/65 ($17 USD) depending on when you book and which seat you choose.

After arriving in Huaraz, you can walk or take a taxi to your accommodation.

If traveling the other way from Huaraz to Trujillo, the process is the same.

→ Also Read My Complete Guide to Huaraz Peru

huaraz huayhuash trek

And that’s it! If you’ve made it this far, thank you for reading. This was a long and extensive guide for the Huayhuash trek, but I really wanted to answer all the questions I had myself, especially as a solo female traveler, before completing this challenging trek. 

If you found this helpful or end up completing Huayhuash yourself, I’d love it if you leave a comment so I can congratulate you. This is a bucketl ist item you should absolutely be proud of.

Make sure to check out my other resources for Peru and South America. Happy traveling!

More Resources for Your Trip to Huaraz:

Accommodation recommendations.

Budget $: Krusty Hostel . A comfortable B&B that was very helpful in booking all tours and meeting other people. Search for availability here.

Mid-Range $$: Selina . Stylish and comfortable stay with dorm & private rooms available  in addition to a spacious kitchen, yoga studio and courtyard. Search for availability here.

If these aren’t available or to your taste, you can search more on Hostelworld and Booking.com

Flight to Peru

Flights to Peru are typically cheapest to Lima, and this is the closest international airport to Huaraz. To get the best prices I recommend using Skyscanner . 

Bus to Huaraz

To find the best prices and most convenient trip to Huaraz, I recommend searching on BusBud .

Travel Insurance

I recommend WorldNomads  for adventurous backpackers in Peru. You can search for coverage here .

Things to do in Huaraz

There are many day trips to do in Huaraz such as Laguna Paron, Pastoruri Glacier, Nevado Mateo, Laguna 69 & more. Read my full Huaraz guide here to learn more about these trips & more.

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Tony The Tiger

Great report, Caroline! I am officially a fan of your site now 🙂

One question, when you booked the tour through Krusty Hostel, so you were physically at the Hostel not through their website, correct?

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Caroline Rose

I realized I’m replying super late, so I apologize to you Tony. But for anyone else who may read this – fyi, I did book in person at the hostel. They should have a Whatsapp number too though that you can message to book activities ahead of time if you wish.

'  data-srcset=

Hi! Thanks for such a thorough guide with awesome photos. A question about booking through Krusty – are the tours leaving daily? I only have 11 days I could spend in Huaraz and wondering if it’s worth the risk of not booking in advance, in case the tours are full or they don’t have enough people, etc.

The one day excursions should leave every day, although you should double check with them. However, the longer excursions such as Santa Cruz or Huayhuash trek usually leave on a particular day when it works for guides or when there’s a big enough group. So if you have a limited amount of time you should definitely check in beforehand with them to see if their scheduled trip works with your timing.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

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Huaraz , Treks

The Cordillera Huayhuash Trek

Everything to know about one of the most beautiful alpine treks!

huaraz huayhuash trek

Possibly the best alpine trek in the entire world, the Cordillera Huayhuash trek has become well-known among outdoors enthusiasts for its sheer mountain peaks, pristine glacial lakes, and encounters with traditional Andean culture.

In recent years the Peruvian government has invested in infrastructure and security measures which have made the area much safer. Huayhuash is gaining popularity among tourists in recent years, but it’s still not as well-known as treks in other regions of Peru, so the natural environment remains mostly unspoiled. That’s what makes it perfect for those who want to experience the Andes at their most peaceful and picturesque.

Did you know: Peru Hop was setup by 2 Irish guys in 2013 and has been voted #1 Travel Company in Peru for 2024 – Click here for more info .

However, in past years, this route was considered fairly dangerous and hikers would occasionally die on the trek. Not only was the region a stronghold for the Maoist-inspired Shining Path guerrillas, but the trails themselves were often considered hazard and unsafe as well.

About the Trek

With a length of about 130km (81mi) and elevations as high as 5,490m (18,012ft), trekking the Cordillera Huayhuash is not for the faint of heart. The weather can often be extreme and hypothermia is a possibility. In addition, those unaccustomed to high elevations could develop altitude sickness, a condition which causes symptoms such as headache, nausea, loss of appetite, and trouble sleeping.

To be clear, this trek is difficult and sometimes dangerous, so the full trek should be attempted only by experienced hikers. Anyone hesitant to commit to the full distance of the classic circuit also has the choice of several different shortcuts which can reduce the length of the hike by several days.

cordillera huayhuash

For those who decide they are up to the challenge, Huayhuash will have many rewards in store. The entire path is above the treeline, giving visitors a panoramic view of gorgeous mountainous landscapes at all times. Aside from the main 130km circuit, there are also a number of optional side treks, including climbs of Pumarinri and Diablo Mudo.

Visitors are also treated to pleasant natural hot springs about halfway through the route. Wildlife to spot on the trek includes the condor and more than 60 other species of birds, as well as the vicuña (a wild relative of the alpaca) and vizcacha (a type of chinchilla resembling a rabbit). All of this combines to create a setting which can only be described as utterly sublime.

Taking a Tour vs Going Solo

The safest and easiest way to complete this trek is to book a guided tour from the many local providers in the region. Though doing the trek on your own is certainly possible, it’s not recommended to attempt this unless you have ample experience hiking in high altitude, adequate equipment, lots of food, and a solid command of Spanish and/or Quechua. It’s definitely possible to get yourself in trouble on this route (either with local people or with natural hazards on the path), and you will need to be able to fend for yourself in isolation if something goes wrong.

If you do decide, against our advice, to do this trek without purchasing a guided tour, it is essential to hire pack animals such as mules or donkeys to carry a large amount of food and supplies that are needed for such a long trek. Hiring pack animals can be arranged while in Huaraz.

cordillera huayhuash

When to Do the Huayhuash Trek

The best months to hike the Cordillera Huayhuash are May through September when the weather is dry but cold (during the wet season there can be snow which blocks the mountain passes). Make sure to always keep current with weather updates before you depart and be aware of how changes in the weather could affect your ability to complete the trek.

For booking treks in Peru, we highly recommend using Find Local Trips , a booking and tour comparison website designed to help you find the best tours and activities in South America.

How To Get To The Cordillera Huayhuash

The most popular departure point is Huaraz, a city of 127,041 in north-central Peru, about 8 hours by car or bus from Lima. There are many direct buses operating daily from Lima to Huaraz, including Oltursa, Movil Tours, and many others. There are also flights operated by LC Peru.

huaraz huayhuash trek

From Huaraz, It’s possible to hire private transport to bring you all the way to the first campsite, Cuartelwain. It’s also possible to take a public bus from Huaraz to the town of Llamac, as long as you don’t mind walking along a dirt road for several miles from Llamac to reach Cuartelwain.

The Classic route

Here is an example of a typical route through the Cordillera Huayhuash, this one taken from Huayhuash.com . Most companies will also allow you to add extra days of rest or to reduce the length of the trip via shortcuts on the trail.

Day 1: Huaraz – Llámac – Cuartelwain 4170m Day 2: Cuartelwain – Qaqanan pass 4750m – Mitucocha 4230m Day 3: Mitucocha – Carhuac pass 4600m – Carhuacocha 4138m Day 4: Carhuacocha – Carnicero pass 4630m – Huayhuash 4330m Day 5: Huayhuash – Portachuelo pass 4750m – Viconga 4400m Day 6: Viconga – Cuyoc pass 5000m – Guanacpatay (Elefante pampa) 4450m. Day 7: Guanacpatay – San Antonio Pass 4990m – Cutatambo 4250m Day 8: Cutatambo, visit the base camp and glacier of Siula Grande mount, route of Joe Simpson. Day 9: Cutatambo – Huayllapa 3500m Day 10: Huayllapa – Tapush pass 4800m – Qashpapampa 4500m. Day 11: Qashpapampa – Yaucha pass 4750m – Jahuacocha 4070m Day 12: Jahuacocha – Pampa Llámac pass 4300m – Llamac – Huaraz

Cordillera Huayhuash Trek - Map of Cordillera Huayhuash

What to bring

  • Walking shoes and socks
  • Regular pants
  • T-shirts (long-sleeved and short-sleeved)
  • Trekking boots
  • Warm sleeping bag
  • Waterproof pants and jacket
  • Sunglasses and sunscreen
  • Baseball cap or bandana
  • Fleece for extra warmth
  • Warm hat and mittens

The above equipment should be sufficient if going on a guided tour (double-check with your specific provider). If arranging your own trek, you will also need tents, cooking equipment, and enough food and water to last the entire trek, at the very least. In this case, it is recommended that you consult with an expert or someone else who has already completed the trek to help you create an appropriate list of supplies.

Trekking Fees

Each region of the Huayhuash is managed by the specific community that lives in the area. Each community charges an entrance fee to their grounds. This entrance fee will cover different things depending on the community. For some, it only covers usage of the trail. Others include campsites, toilets, and even night patrol guards. If you choose to take a guided trek with a tour provider, these fees may or may not be included–this should be clarified with the specific company.

cordillera huayhuash

Llámac: Cuartewain and a part of the Jahuacocha camping site S/. 20.00 Pocpa: S/. 10.00 Queropalca: Mitucocha and part of the Carhuacocha camping site S/. 40.00 Quisuarcancha: Part of the Carhuacocha camping site S/. 20.00 Tupac Amaru: Huayhuash camping site S/. 20.00 Uramaza: Visit to Viconga lake and hot springs S/. 20.00 Huayllapa: Viconga, Guanacpatay, Cutatambo and Huatiaq camping sites S/. 40.00 Pacllon: Qashpapampa and part of Jahuacocha camping sites S/. 20.00

There is also a charge of S/.1.50 per night for each pack animal (donkey, horse or mule) for grass consumption.

After you finish

The best way to continue your adventure after completing the Cordillera Huayhuash circuit is to head back to Lima and book a trip with Peru Hop. This bus service will take you from Lima across all of southern Peru and even to further points in Bolivia. Peru Hop is a hop on hop off style bus, so if you decide that you really like a certain spot or you want to do some extra activities or side trips, it’s no problem at all–your itinerary is completely flexible.

If you want to check out some of the absolute best treks in Peru, then check out our list of the best treks in Peru to explore some of the best options for you to explore and challenge yourself with.

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Hike Huayhuash: Our Guide to Peru’s Most Beautiful Trek

Hike Huayhuash and get away from it all. Man in red coat hiking green mountain with brown mountain in background.

Blue, green, and turquoise lakes. Icy peaks, flowing rivers, and glaciers. And often not a human in sight. This is your experience if you hike the globally-recognized Huayhuash.

What is Huayhuash?

Huayhuash is a private conservation area managed by local communities. It’s recognized as one of the best hikes in the world. And with only 5-7,000 visitors a year , it’s much less crowded than the Inca Trail (which sees 500 people a day !).

Huayhuash is already well-known in trekking circles, and mountain biking is available now, too.

I think the best part of Huayhuash is that you can create your own adventure. Itineraries vary from three to eighteen days. They are generally moderate to moderately strenuous, so you don’t have to be an expert mountaineer to enjoy Huayhaush.

The crazy thing is, the Huayhuash mountain chain is only 30km (19 miles) long. Yet it includes 3 departments in Peru, campsites at 4,000 meters (13,000 feet) above sea level, hot springs, turquoise lakes, glaciers, and the country’s second tallest mountain.

Why Hike Huayhuash?

Unlike most hikes in the Andes, this landscape here is more open. Because of that you’ll get amazing views of the mountain chain as you walk and rest at campsites. That’s also why Huayhuash is considered one of the world’s best hikes. Highlights include the three lakes, all different colors, and Peru’s second tallest mountain, Yerupaja. Yerupaja is 6,635 meters (21,800 feet) tall.

The movie Touching the Void (based on a true story) takes place in Huayhuash, too. You’ll get up close with the mountain that Joe Simpson and Simon Yates scaled, Siula Grande.

Plus if you hike Huayhuash you’ll directly contribute to local communities who manage the campsites. And you’ll see cool wildlife like llamas, alpacas, viscachas, Andean foxes, and condors.

Last but not least, this hike is more affordable than its more famous competition in Southern Peru .

But Huayhuash is just as good… perhaps better.

Itineraries in Huayhuash

Again, Huayhaush really is a create-your-own-adventure, which is unique for a hike that’s so highly regarded. There are options for all types of budgets and expectations.

To do the WHOLE hike, there are 15-18 day itineraries. But more visitors take a 9-10 day option or the “mini” 7-day hike. Each of these includes the main attractions of the full 18-day hike. Finally, consider a 3-day hike if you’re short on time, funds, or aren’t sure about a longer trek.

Almost all of these start in Llamac in Ancash department and include the view of three lakes. Campsites are usually at over 4,000 meters (13,000 feet) above sea level.

Most Common Itineraries for Huayhuash

  • 3 days: 15-20 km (9-12 miles). You’ll see a few of the major spots, all in the department of Ancash.
  • 7 days: This is the “mini” version and is considered the minimum amount of time to see most of Huayhuash, and it changes depending on visitor preference.
  • 10 days: Generally 110-115 km (about 70 miles); check out the sample itinerary below for more details!
  • 15-18 days: This is the full Huayhuash hike and the only way to see everything.
  • NOTE: All of these include one or two passes at over 4,000 meters (13,000 feet) a day and start in the village of Llamac in Ancash

Alternative Hiking Options for Huayhuash

Some hikes start in the thermal baths in the department of Lima and include the Raura mountain range, which is adjacent to Huayhuash. A few tour companies offer archaeology-based hikes, and several center on mountain climbing.

9-Day Example Itinerary

The most common itinerary for Huayhuash is 9-11 days. That’s because you see all the “big” attractions and aren’t going to be rushed . This is a moderately strenuous trek which includes several 8-9 hour long hikes.

You start off in Huaraz ( Ancash’s hiking capital and 8 hours from Lima ). From there it’s a 2 hour ride to Chiquian, and from there 1 more hour to Llamac.

Llamac is where trek begins.

From Llamac it’s a forty minute walk to Pocpa, and a further 1.5 hours to the campsite. Another option is to continue hiking uphill to Cuartelhuain for the night.

Start getting used to early mornings! At 7 am start the 2 hr uphill walk to Cacananpunta Pass, located at 4,750 meters or 15,580 feet above sea level. By lunchtime the hiking gets easier and you camp at Mitucocha.

Mitucocha is next to a river and you’ll chill with views of snowcapped mountains from the green valley.

Hike Huayhuash- river with rocks with green shore and snowcaps in background.

This is another 5 hour day of hiking. Today the tallest point is Yanapunta Pass, at 4,650 meters, or 15,260 feet. If you haven’t started, consider coca tea for the altitude.

You end up at Carhuacocha lake to camp for the night.

Yanapunta pass on Huayhuash Hike. People walking on yellow mountain with snowcaps in distance.

It’s the first big day! That’s because you’ll walk for 8 hours, see the 3 lakes, and go over Siula Pass , next to the infamous Siula Grande.

Siula Pass is the tallest pass of the hike so far at 4,785 meters (15,700 feet). From there you’ll get an awesome view of the three lakes and mountain range behind them.

Afterwards it’s all downhill to the Huayhuash campsite.

huaraz huayhuash trek

This is a day of hiking for 5 hours to Viconga, where you can soak in hot springs. In case it’s not obvious, NEVER pass up a chance to soak in hot springs during a long, cold hike!

You’ll also go over Portachuelo Pass, which is about the same height as Siula, and end up at an altitude of 4,350 meters (17,560 feet) to camp for the night.

Nigh sky with starts and lit up tents below.

By now you might be used to getting up at 7am and walking for hours. Which is exactly what you’ll do today. The total hiking time today is about 8 hours.

You’ll summit Cuyoc Pass at 5,000 meters (16,400 feet). From there you’ll view the whole Huayllapa valley and head on down to the campsite. If you have energy go to the Antonio lookout. From there you can view the entire mountain chain .

For three hours you’ll walk to the town of Huayllapa, the first place you can buy limited food and supplies.

Rest up, make some phone calls, or just chill in town, because afterwards it’s 4-5 hours of slogging uphill to the campsite at 4,235 meters (13,900 feet).

This is the longest day. You’ll hike for roughly 9 hours and go over two passes that are over 4,700 meters (15,400 feet) high. At the second pass, you’ll have lunch and enjoy one last great view of Huayhuash.

Hike Huayhuash- person dwarfed by large brown and yellow mountains and blue sky.

Today’s short and 80% of the walk is downhill. You’ll finish at the town of Pacllon. From Pacllon take a bus back to Chiquian and then Huaraz.

Tents on green shore next to river with snowcaps in background.

Afterwards, rest up, eat, and bask in the knowledge that you did the most awesome hike ever.

Start thinking of how to brag to those people who could’ve come but didn’t :)

How to Prepare

How to prepare physically to hike huayhuash.

Since Huayhuash is a multiday trek and the passes you’ll cross are incredibly high, it’s important to be in good hiking shape and to acclimatize to the altitude.

You can acclimatize in the city of Huaraz and take day hikes from there. First I’d take it easy in Huaraz for a couple of days since the city itself sits at 3,000 meters or 10,000 feet. Before arriving, make sure you’re in good shape and able to take on a long, sometimes strenuous hike. Practice makes perfect, so get in plenty of hiking back home beforehand.

Day Hikes from Huaraz

photo of man sitting on boat surrounded by mountains in Huascaran National park

The best hikes from Huaraz include:

  • Churup: a glacial lake and a hike that is 6 km (almost 4 miles) total. It’s 3 km up, then 3 km downhill.
  • Huascaran National Park: You can hike for hours among snowpeaks, crystalline lakes, and the famous quenual tree forest in this beautiful park.
  • Lake 69: Just like Churup, this is a completely uphill climb to a glacial lake. But the trek for Lake 69 is twice as long at 12 km (7.5 miles).
  • Paron: This lake is the largest in the Cordillera Blanca mountain chain and generally less visited than Lake 69 and Churup. The hike is 20 km (12 1/5 miles) and you may want to spend the night in nearby Caraz to get an early start.
  • Pastoruri: Pastoruri may be the easiest glacier to visit ever! You’ll spend a few hours on a bus to take the hike , which lasts about an hour.
  • Rajucolta: A 7-km (4.3 miles) hike to a beautiful glacial lake
  • Wilcacocha: 7.6 km or 4.7 miles is all you need to find yet another amazing glacial lake near Huaraz!

Huaraz is a cool town with lots of backpackers and hikers. So it’s easy to find a guide, information on how to arrive to trails, and hiking buddies.

Always stay well-hydrated at these altitudes. Avoid alcohol and caffeine initially, and consider an over-the-counter medicine to avoid altitude sickness.

Finally if you want to try a shorter multi-day hike to prepare for Huayhuash I recommend Santa Cruz, yet another hike recognized as one of the best in the world !

Glacier with person approaching. Pastoruri

How to Prepare Mentally for Huayhuash

Whether you think you can or can’t, you’re probably right (Henry Ford).

Remember it’s tents outside every night when you hike Huayhuash. There are no showers and toilets are waterless. So, it’s, ahem, rustic .

If you’ve prepped enough physically, you’ll know. And just knowing may be enough. Of course, who you go with is crucial. When the air is thin, the weather cold, and my legs tired, I always want the most positive people around me.

Finally, just enjoy the hike. It’s not a race, and instead of rushing through and tiring out on Day 4, take your time and set a good pace.

How to Book Huayhuash

Responsible tourism professionals.

Our friends, Hombres y Montañas (Men and Mountains) have worked in Huayhuash for generations. They are a family company and are professionals in responsible tourism.

Connect with them on Facebook to find out more and make a reservation.

Best time of the Year to Hike Huayhuash

May to September is the best time to hike Huayhuash because the rainy season has ended by about mid-May. The best time to go is late May and June . The vegetation will still be green and it doesn’t get as cold at night as in July or August, which are also the most popular months for trekking in the area.

Avoid traveling in the rainy season from November-April, when landslides are common and accommodations can be hard to find.

Where to Stay & Eat in Huaraz

The backpacker classic in Huaraz is Churup.

Cafe Andino and California Cafe are spots to check out for relaxing with a good book and coffee or coca tea.

There are lots of options for Peruvian food and nightlife, with 13 Buhos perhaps the best spot to grab a drink.

What to bring

The essentials.

Obviously, trekking equipment (and climbing gear if that’s your thing). For a hike similar to the one above, you should have this equipment at a minimum:

  • Backpack with water cover
  • Rain poncho, especially if it’s not June-September
  • Rainproof tent
  • Sleeping bag
  • Waterproof hiking shoes or boots
  • 2 pairs of hiking pants
  • A couple of short sleeved shirts (the weather can get surprisingly warm)
  • 2 long sleeved shirts
  • 1 set of pajamas
  • A bathing suit for Viconga and its hot springs
  • Down jacket
  • Sandals to let your feet breathe when not hiking
  • Quick dry travel towel
  • Toiletries, including sunscreen and hand sanitizer
  • Medicine kit
  • Straw filter or similar products
  • Travel medical isurance
  • Snacks! Coca leaves are great for altitude too
  • A GPS if going alone

Nice-To-Haves

You may want to consider these, depending on your preference and how much you want to bring.

  • Solar charger for smartphone
  • Extra camera batteries
  • Trekking poles
  • Sleeping pad
  • Emergency oxygen

TIPS: It’s common to rent equipment in Huaraz, or to even buy used equipment. Most agencies provide some or most of the equipment written above.

Sunset over lake and snowcapped mountains. Hike Huayhuash

The temperature goes down to 0-2 C (32-36 F) at night and is coldest in July. But it goes up to 20C (68F), even at high altitudes, at daytime.

Expect lighter rainstorms in May and Oct. From June through September, known as “Andean summer”, you can get clear blue skies all day, every day.

Huaraz gets up to 20C (68F) during the day and will go down to 5-6C (40’s F) at night.

How to Get There

Buses leave regularly from Lima to Huaraz all day. The trip takes 8 hours. Huaraz has an airport but flights are not always regular.

From the north, buses from Trujillo and Chiclayo go to Huaraz, too.

The cost of hiking Huayhuash is going to depend on a lot of factors , especially number of days and what’s included. Depending on price, agencies may provide 3 square meals a day, a tent, sleeping bag, a team to carry supplies, cooks, entrance to the communities’ campsites, and transportation.

Having said that huge caveat, you can expect to more or less pay these amounts for Huayhuash:

  • 3-day tour: $300
  • 9-11 days: $500-650
  • 15-18 days: Up to $1,400
  • Personalized 152km (95 mile) hike: $4,000

If going alone, make sure you pay each community for using the trail and campsites. Remember that only ONE community (Huayllapa) has shops, so you’re not restocking daily.

And expect to pay in cash.

These communities provide the following campsites:

  • Huayllapa:  Viconga, Guanacpatayand Huatiaq
  • Llámac:  Cuartewain and Jahuacocha 
  • Pacllon:  Qashpapampa and Jahuacocha  
  • Pocpa:  Pocpa
  • Queropalca:  Mitucocha and Carhuacocha
  • Quisuarcancha:  Carhuacocha
  • Siula Grande : Base camp
  • Tupac Amaru:  Huayhuash 
  • Uramaza:  Viconga lake and hot springs  :)

Huayhuash is among the best hikes in the world, and it’s way less crowded than Peru’s most famous hike, the Inca Trail .

Definitely consider it if adventure is in your blood. Just make sure to acclimatize to the altitude and to prepare your body first.

Again, the mountain chain’s preservation depends on local communities , so be sure to leave no trace and respect the people and wildlife. To get the most out of your trip and hike Huayhuash, check out our partners at Hombres y Montañas Huayhuash ( Facebook ). These guys are responsible tourism professionals who focus on adventure tourism in Ancash.

Unless otherwise noted, all photos by our friend Erick Bernabe from Hombres y Montañas. Muchas gracias, Erick!!

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Author: Brad

Obviously, I love Peru, and I love writing. I'm from the great state of Delaware. Very opinionated on punk rock and proper arm wrestling techniques. Grateful for each reader and hope to have brightened your day just a bit. Thanks for visiting my site!! View all posts by Brad

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Huayhuash. com

Cordillera huayhuash circuit, classic trek.

Going down to Cutatambo, base camp of Siula Grande Cordillera Huayhuash

Considered by many adventure and nature lovers, as one of the most spectacular trekking circuits in the Andes. It goes all over whole the Cordillera Huayhuash in 12 days, crossing passes between 4600m and 5000m, camping near to the lakes located under the snow-covered peaks, following trails that take us to viewpoints from where the views of the landscapes are even more impressive, visiting legendary places such as the base camp of Siulá Grande mountain, well known because here took place the epic mountaineering story of Joe Simpson 'Touching the void'; besides observing the daily activities of the settlers who live in the mountain chain; as well as the great diversity of flora and fauna that we find in this region.

  • - The classic circuit, also is considered one of the 10 best hiking circuits in the world.
  • - One of the wildest mountain ranges in the Andes, where is located the second highest mountain in the tropics, Yerupajá 6634m .
  • - Visit whole the mountain range with the escort of a Local crew.

Hirishanka mountain, below Mitucocha lake

Day 1: Huaraz - Llámac - Cuartelwain 4170 m

At indicated time, pick up in the hotel and transfer to Cuartelwain 4150 m / 13 615 ft, we arrive there after of 5 hours. This will be our first camp.

Day 2: Cuartelwain – Qaqanan pass 4700 m - Mitucocha 4230m

After breakfast, we start walk up to Qaqanan pass 4700 m / 15 419 ft, we get to the pass after of 3 hours; then we go down to the East side of Cordillera Huayhuash, after to have walked 2 hours more we get to the next campsite on the shores of Mitucocha lake 4250 m / 13 944 ft; below of Hirishanca and Rondoy mounts.

Walking in Carhuacocha Cordillera Huayhuash

Day 3: Mitucocha - Carhuac pass 4650 m - Carhuacocha 4138 m

At indicated time we take the trail to Carhuac pass 4650 m / 15 256 ft. where we get after of 2.5 hours, from this pass we have a nice view of Yerupaja chico, Yerupaja and Siula mounts; then we walk down 2 hours more to get to Carhuacocha lake 4150 m / 13 615 ft, where we set up our tents on its shores.

Day 4: Carhuacocha - Siula pass 4850 m - Huayhuash 4330 m

This day we depart early for Siula pass 4850 m / 15912 ft, we walk along the shores of Carhuacocha lake, on the way we visit Three lakes (Qanrajancacocha, Siulacocha and Quesillococha), we always will have the view of Hirishanca chico, Yerupaja and Siula mounts; after of 4 hours we reach the pass, from this point we have a panorama of the most snow covered peaks of East side of Cordillera Huayhuash specially of Siula mountain. After resting and having taken the photos we walk down to Huayhuash campsite 4300m / 14 108 ft, where arrive after of 3 hours more.

Taking pics the three lakes in the Cordillera Huayhuash trekking circuit

Day 5: Huayhuash – Portachuelo pass 4750 m - Viconga 4400 m

At indicated time after breakfast we depart for Portachuelo pass 4750 m / 15 584 ft, we get to the pass after of 2 hours, this pass is the boundary between the Cordillera Huayhuash and the Cordillera Raura; from the oass we walk down among Ichus (grass plant that lives over 4000 m / 13 123 ft in the Andes), on the way is possible to see llamas and alpacas (Andean camels); we pass near to Viconga lake and we get to our campsite after of 2 hours more, our campsite will be located at 4400 m / 14 436 ft, near to the hot springs.

Day 6: Viconga - Cuyoc pass 5000 m - Guanacpatay (Elefante pampa) 4450 m.

We head to the highest pass, Cuyoc 5000 m / 16 4040 ft, we get there after of 3 hours, this pass is located between Cuyoc and Pumarinri mounts, from this point we have nice views of Cordillera Raura and part of Cordillera Huayhuash too. From the pass we descend to Guanacpatay valley and we set our campsite at 4400 m / 14 436 ft, after to have walked down around 1.5 hours.

Day 7: Guanacpatay – San Antonio Pass 4990 m – Cutatambo 4250 m

San Antonio viewpoint Cordillera Huayhuash

After breakfast we depart for San Antonio, a viewpoint located at 5000 m / 16 404 ft, we get to that point after of 2.5 hours, this point is unique, because from there we have the nicest views of Carnicero, Jurao, Siula Grande and Yerupaja mounts as well as Jurao and Siulacocha lakes. After resting and having taken the photos, we go down to Cutatambo valley 4250m / 13 944 ft, our next campsite where we get there after of 2 hours more.

Day 8: Cutatambo, visit the base camp and glaciar of Siula Grande mount, route of Joe Simpson.

This day we depart for Gran Vista viewpoint 5000 m / 16 404 ft; on the way we visit the base camp and glacier of Siula Grande mount, made famous by Joe Sympson in his book “Touching the void”, and later made ​​into a film with the same name; we get to the viewpoint in 4 hours walking, after to have seen very close the famous mountain, walked around the lake near to the glacier and having taken the photos we return for the same path to the campsite.

Day 9: Cutatambo - Huayllapa 3500 m

At indicated time after breakfast we depart for Huayllapa village 3500 m / 11 483 ft, we take the path near to the river and walk down for around 3.5 hours through the valley of the same name among native trees and shrubs of the region, getting in Huayllapa we can get some sodas and beers.

Day 10: Huayllapa - Tapush pass 4800 m - Qashpapampa 4500 m

Yahuacha viewpoint Cordillera Huayhuash

From Huayllapa village we depart for Tapush pass 4800 m / 15 748 ft, we get there after walking around 3.5 hours, from this pass we can see some a part of Cordillera Blanca (Tuco mountain), after a break we go down to Qashpapampa 4500 m / 14 764 ft, located below Diablo Mudo mount, many times used as base camp to climb the mentioned peak, we get to the campsite after of 2 hours more.

Day 11: Qashpapampa - Yaucha pass 4800 m - Jahuacocha 4070 m

At indicated time after breakfast we depart for Yahucha pass 4800 m / 15 748 ft, we get there after of 2.5 hours, from this pass we have a spectacular view of the West side of Cordillera Huayhuash, among the snow covered peaks to see are: Ninashanca, Hirishanca, Yerupaja Chico, Yerupaja 6634 m / 21 765ft (the second highest peak of Peru after of Huascaran 6768m / 22 205 ft), Rasac, etc. After restinh and having taken photos we go down by Huacrish valley to Jahuacocha lake 4070m / 13 353 ft, we get there after of 2.5 hours more. Our tents will be set up near to the shores of Jahuacocha lake, having an impressive view of the mounts of this part of the mountain range.

Day 12: Jahuacocha - Pampa Llámac pass 4300m – Llamac - Huaraz

Last trekking day, we depart for Pampa Llamac pass 4300m / 14 108 ft, we get there after of 3 hours, Pampa Llámac is the last viewpoint of the Huayhuash circuit, from this place we can see by last time very close the mounts of Cordillera Huayhuash; after we descend to Llamac village 3300 m / 10827 ft, in of 2 hours more. In Llamac a car will wait for us to take back us to Huaraz city.

Other options:

• It is also possible to have rest days in Carhuacocha and/or Jahuacocha where you can walk around the lakes to do some fishing. Another option for those in search of more extreme adventure is to organize a climb of Pumarinri (5465m) or Diablo Mudo (5350m). These are two moderate peaks that can be climbed with just one extra day. If you are interested you’ll need to bring basic mountaineering equipment along with you (climbing boots, crampons, ice axe, harness, and rope) and a mountain guide.

Classic circuit map

Map of the Classic Huayhuash circuit

  • Altitude profile

Aktitude profile of Huayhuash circuit

If you are interested in this tour and/or you need furhter information CONTACT US

How difficult is this trek?

The 12-day trek is considered the most difficult of all the routes that there are in the Cordillera Huayhuash, due to the fact that it is carried out in places above four thousand meters and almost every day cross passes above 4600 m / 15091 ft, even some days we reach up to 5000 m; It is well known that in high places the level of oxygen is lower, so breathing becomes quite slow and one gets tired easily; so it is recommended to be in good physical condition and train before coming. Regarding the trail in most of the route is wide, it is the same used by pack animals (donkeys, horses and llamas); except for some shortcuts which lead us to viewpoints that few know and offer us more interesting views, which are not very marked.

The best season for the 12-day trek is from May, which is the month when the dry season begins until the end of September; because the first days of October fall the first rains; even during the months of the dry season (May - September), we have some rainy days, but in general, during the full 12-day journey, it is not normal that the bad weather exceed 2 days, so it is recommended always to carry the waterproof clothing.

Clothing and accessories

It will depend on the way you want to make this circuit, if you are going to be part of a guided tour with a travel agency, we recommend you read our list of recommended equipment; otherwise, if the hiking is going to be carried out independently, to the suggest list you must to add tent, stove, kitchen utensils and everything necessary to camp in remote areas.

Acclimmatization

There are two factors that are very important to make this trek, one is to be in good physical condition and the other acclimation; it is recommended before leaving for this destination to spend at least 2 days in places above 3000m; usually the departure point for this trek is Huaraz city; from here there are many options to make day trips for that purpose. For those who have in mind to visit Cusco, Machu Picchu or another destination located above 3000 m / 9844 ft, they are recommended to start for those destinations because it will serve as acclimatization to make after the Cordillera Huayhuash circuit.

Trekking permit

The trekking route that we call as the classic circuit, is the one that runs through most of the Cordillera, that implies that we visit more areas managed by the communities settled along the mountain range; the payment made to the communities by use of the campsites and visit their territories vary from 15 to 50 soles, in the 12 day trek every passenger must to pay 220.00 Peruvian Soles.

Huayhuash campsite

Guided tour vs independent

As the area to visit is remote, it is recommended to take a guided tour, since in those tours there will always be a Trekking Guide who knows very well the place and more people in the crew like: Camp Cook, Assistant and Arriero (Horseman), besides transport the equipment and food for 12 days is very difficult, so the use of pack animals (donkeys, horses and llamas) are necessary. The fact to be part of a guided tour allows to the passenger dedicate just to walk and enjoy the views, because he/she will have everything arranged during the trekking days, the meals will be prepared, the tents will be set up and set down by the crew; in the case of emergency the Trekking Guide arranges everything to evacuate if the problem is serious with a member of the party.

For people who want to do independently, of course they can do it, there is no restriction; but they must come prepared and have experience in multi-day treks; they can organize it in their own way, by carrying their luggage themselves or by hiring at least one Horseman and some pack animals to help with the luggage.

Until 2005 some incidents were reported, some of them serious, where groups of thieves in their desire to steal the belongings of tourists killed some of them; thereafter, the village communities began to administer the territories that correspond to them, they were organized to take care of and also charge in their respective areas; from that date until now no serious cases have been reported, except for the loss of some belongings, which some visitors leave outside the tents at night. Of course, it is always necessary to take the precautions, it is recommendable to walk in pairs; because as the area is remote and some paths are narrow, especially those that lead to the viewpoints; you can suffer falls; and the fact of having company will help asking for help, especially for those who do the trek independently.

Recommended reading

Climbs and Treks in the Cordillera Huayhuash of Peru

Peru's Cordilleras Blanca & Huayhuash: The Hiking & Biking Guide

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AndinoTrek

Huayhuash Classic Trek

The Huayhuash Classic Trek is one of the most beautiful treks in the world. With this route you can discover the most impressive areas of the Cordillera Huayhuash in just 8 days. We camp by the most beautiful lakes with impressive views of the largest mountains in the range, including the second highest peak in Peru, Yerupaja, the famous Siula Grande and many more. We hike up 7 passes, including the highest with over 5000m altitude.

Trip Duration     8 Days

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  • FAQs & Reviews
  • Trekking around the Cordillera Huayhuash – one of the most beautiful treks in the world
  • Untouched mountain landscapes, intensely glaciated
  • Dreamlike campsites you will remember forever
  • Crossing 7 high altitude passes
  • Views to Yerupaja Grande (6634 m)

Character The circuit of the Cordillera Huayhuash lasts 8 days, almost always moves at altitudes over 4000m and overcomes at 170 km distance 7 passes between 4300 and 5000m.

Requirements Surefootedness, a head for heights, a good physical condition, team spirit and willingness to leave your comfort zone. You should have hiked in the mountains already. In preparation for this trip, we recommend conditioning and extensive walks. There are many high passes, some over 5’000 m. The hiking times per day are between 4 to 9 hours and can vary depending on the condition of the group and weather. The height differences to be overcome in the climb are a maximum of 900 m, in the descent maximum 1150 m per day.

Best Season The best trekking season in the Andes is from April to October, with rainy season in between. It is usually sunny and warm during this time. Due to the altitude, the nights can be quite cold (to minus 5 ° C).

Extra Time We offer this trip also as 10 days challenging trek or combined with the climb of Diablo Mudo mountain. Tailor-made programs are available upon request. Contact us!

  • Transports according to itinerary
  • Qualified and experienced guide (Spanish/English)
  • Cook and assistant
  • Donkeys and donkey driver
  • All meals during the trek
  • Good quality high mountain tent (2 or 3 person)
  • Sleeping Mattress
  • Dining tent, table and chairs
  • Cooking utensils
  • First aid kit and oxygen
  • Meals in Lima and Huaraz
  • Entrance fees to the Cordillera Huayhuash
  • Alcoholic drinks
  • Personal equipment
  • Medical care or insurance
  • Emergency rescue or evacuation
  • Additional expenses as a result of leaving the trek early
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips (optional)

Our trekking adventure in the Cordillera Huayhuash begins. You are picked up from your hotel and we head south of Huaraz crossing the villages of Chiquian and Llamac. During our drive we pass traditional Andean towns with typical Quechua homes and rich farm land. After 6.5 hours of driving we arrive to our first campsite Matacancha (4150m). Before dinner you have some time to explore the area around the campsite and get ready for the next day.

Driving time: 6.5 hours Meals included: Packed lunch, tea time, dinner

Today we start hiking early and we reach Cacananpunta pass (4700m) after 2.5 hours. We hike back down to 4500m always enjoying views over Jirishanca (6126m) and Rondoy (5883m). Then we hike 2.5 hours up to Carhuac pass (4650m) from where we have good views of the beautifully stunning peaks of Yerupaja, Siula Grande and Jirishanca. From this vantage point, we descend to our next campsite at Carhuacocha Lake (4100m). On this campsite we have mountains all around us: Yerupaja Grande (6634m), Yerupaja Chico (6515m), Siula (6356m), Jirishanca (6126m).

Hiking time: 9 hours Meals included: Breakfast, packed lunch, tea time, dinner

This route takes you close to the most bizarre peaks and glaciers of the Cordillera Huayhuash and is the most scenic stage of the trek. From the western shore of the Carhuacocha lake, a gentle ascent to Lake Siula (4290 m), past the ice break of the glacier that descends from the Nevado Sarapo (6143 m) to the next lake (4650 m) and finally Siula pass (4950 m), a fantastic outlook with overwhelming summit panorama. We descent to the next campsite called Huayhuash.

Hiking time: 8 hours Meals included: Breakfast, packed lunch, tea time, dinner

The ascent to Portachuelo Pass (4750 m) is again dominated by magnificent mountain panoramas, this time on the ice-covered peaks of the southern Cordillera Huayhuash. Descent to the largest lake and the southernmost point of the trek, Laguna Viconga (4400 m). Here we have the opportunity to relax and swim in the hot springs right at the campsite.

Hiking time: 7 hours Meals included: Breakfast, packed lunch, tea time, dinner

Today starts a long and challenging day, we hike to the highest pass of the trek, Cuyoc Pass (5000m). We climb the steep path to reach the pass and finally enjoy the magnificent view of the surrounding high mountains. Two mountains are very close to us on both sides, Pumarinri (5’465m) and Cuyoc (5’550). We slide down a sandstone slope and then continue our descend over a section of rock until the Huanacpatay and Cuyoc Valleys meet. From here, it’s a 525m climb to the San Antonio viewpoint at 5’000m that proves its worth with stunning views of numerous peaks and a pair of lakes of the eastern Cordillera Huayhuash. We descend to our campsite at Huanacpatay (4’300m) with its views of the snow-capped Puscanturpa (5’447m) and Sueroraju (5’442m).

Today we descend with a zig-zag trail where the river transforms into a waterfall that cascades down in giant steps into a green picturesque valley. From here we enjoy a pleasant hike to the village of Huayllapa (3600m). Then we hike up a steep path of 4 hours to reach our next campsite Huatiac (4’350m) with beautiful views of the mountains around us.

Hiking time: 8 Hours Meals included: Breakfast, packed lunch, tea time, dinner

A long day with two challenging passes. First a rocky trail to Punta Tapush (4800 m). Again magnificent views, even on the slightly recessed Nevado Diablo Mudo (5’223m). We descend via the Gaspapampa Valley and Susucocha Lake (4’470m) with its diverse bird species. The final and partly steep and difficult ascent for the day is to Yaucha Pass at 4’850m. Finally descending to  Jahuacocha lake (4150m). We camp next to the lake and enjoy the majestic mountains surrounding us.

Our final day in the Huayhuash and we leave the campsite trekking east via the Jahuacocha Valley trail that continues along a water pipeline.  Then it is a long descent back to the Llamac valley and the village of Llamac. From there we drive back to Huaraz.

Hiking time: 5 hours Driving time: 4 hours Meals included: Breakfast, lunch

huaraz huayhuash trek

One of the most beautiful campsites of the trek: Carhuacocha

huaraz huayhuash trek

Sunset with views to the Cordillera Huayhuash

Camping During the trek, you spend the night in two-person tents. The selection of camp sites depends on the reachable water points and takes into account – as far as possible – scenic spots. In the Cordillera Huayhuash there are countless dream camps on highland lakes at the feet of snow-capped peaks.

Meals During the trek we pay attention to a healthy and high-calorie diet. Breakfast and dinner are cooked warm. For lunch, a box lunch is served. We can prepare vegetarian dishes on request.

Transport We use minivans or comfortable 4×4 off-road vehicles, depending on the group size. 

Luggage Donkeys carry your luggage during the trek, you only carry your daypack.

Group Size Should we not reach the minimum group size of 9 trekkers, we charge an extra fee to guarantee the departure.  If you by then not agree to trek in a smaller group, we can still give you back the full deposit payment.

  • 5-8 pax: +300 USD per person
  • 2-4 pax: +500 USD per person

Private Group Service All our trips can also be booked as private group service with tailor-made itineraries and trip inclusions. Contact us!

  • Bag to load on the donkeys
  • Head torch (with spare batteries)
  • Well-worn in hiking boots
  • Down jacket
  • Rain jacket or poncho
  • Fleece or warm pullover
  • Comfortable clothes (quick dry, merino)
  • Trekking trousers
  • Long thermal underwear (merino)
  • Cap, gloves
  • Sunhat, sunglasses, sunscreen (min factor 40)
  • Hiking poles
  • Sleeping bag -10° comfort
  • Toilet paper and wet wipes
  • Personal medication travel kit
  • Water bottle and water purification pills
  • Extra Snacks (your favorite chocolate)
  • Extra money
  • How do I prevent altitude sickness?
  • Are there any toilet facilities during the trek?
  • Are there any showers at the campsites?

Some basic rules: 

  • Do not climb too fast, allow several days for a gradual acclimatization
  • It can be very useful to take a break at around 3,000 m for a few days
  • Drink more than enough water
  • Do not drink any alcohol
  • Cure infections and other diseases beforehand
  • Do not take sleeping pills
  • Carbohydrate-containing foods, as they consume less oxygen than fats and proteins
  • Drink coca tea or chew coca leaves

Yes, there are very basic toilet facilities at the campsites of the trek.

No, there are no showers at campsites. The only option is at the Viconga hot springs where you can swim and relax.

LEAVE YOUR COMMENT

huaraz huayhuash trek

Trekking & Climbing Tours in Huaraz, Peru

Camping Multi-day trek Huayhuash Classic Trek

World-beautifull trek for a reason huayhuash classic trekking circuit.

  • Similar Tours

What's included

  • All Cooking equipments
  • All cooking utensils
  • All meals during the expedition
  • Assistant guide for large groups
  • Camping equipments
  • Certified English-speaking trekking guide
  • Emergency horse
  • Experienced mountain cook
  • First aid kit, supplementary oxygen, radio.
  • Pick up from your hotel in Huaraz
  • Private transportation round trip
  • Unlimited drinkable water
  • Accommodation in Huaraz
  • Altitude acclimatization hikes
  • Any additional expenses beyond what is included
  • Huayhuash entrance fee
  • Medical insurance and emergency insurance
  • Personal equipment/accessories for the trip
  • Personal expenses
  • Services not specifically stated in the itinerary
  • Sleeping Bag
  • The first breakfast and last dinner
  • Tips to guide and driver

Huayhuash Classic Trek

Outline Itinerary (11 days)

1: Huaraz (3,100m) – Cuartelhuain  (4,170m) 2: Cuartelhuain – Mitucocha (4,270m) 3: Mitucocha – Carhuacocha (4,138) 4: Carhuacocha – Huayhuash (4,350m) 5: Huayhuash – Viconga (4,385m) 6: Viconga – Cuyoc (4,492m) 7: Cuyoc- Cutatambo (4,265m) 8: Cutatambo – Huayllapa (3,490m) 9: Huayllapa – Gashpapampa (4,530m) 10: Gashpapampa – Jahuacocha (4,060m) 11: Jahuacocha – LLamac (3,250m) – Back to Huaraz

The Majestic Golden Mountain Vistas

our comprehensive circumnavigation tour, the Huayhuash Classic trek. Starting in Cuartehuain, this thrilling journey takes you through the prominent features of the majestic Huayhuash mountain range . From the northeast side, our meticulously designed itinerary seamlessly transitions along the eastern flank, revealing awe-inspiring vistas that capture the majestic beauty of sunrise. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to stay at enchanting campsites like Mitucocha and Carhuacocha, creating unforgettable memories on your extraordinary journey.

Sunrise in Carhuacocha lake in Huayhuas trek

The Captivating Trio of Lakes on the Western Side

As we forge ahead, during days 4 and 5, we will be bestowed with unparalleled panoramas of the resplendent trio of lagoons nestled within Paso Siula, juxtaposed against the backdrop of the commanding Cordillera Huayhuash. Moreover, our trail gracefully meanders through the magnificent expanse of the Vinconga lagoon, which stands as the largest jewel adorning this circuit.

siula viewpoint in huayhuash trek

Subsequently, on the southern side of the Cordillera Huayhuash, a serene respite awaits where you will have the privilege of indulging in the tranquil embrace of the Viconga hot springs, harmoniously nestled amidst the rugged mountainous terrain.

The Enchanting Panorama from Santa Rosa’s Viewpoint.

Moreover, the expedition takes a transformative turn as we pivot towards the western frontier. Here, we embark on an ethereal passage through the lofty passes of Cuyoc and Santa Rosa or San Antonio. This remarkable journey grants us unparalleled vistas that stand as a testament to nature’s grandeur, adding an unforgettable dimension to our Huayhuash classic trek.

Santa rosa View point-Huayhuash trek

The Spectacular Splendor of Jahuacocha

Descend we shall, as we traverse towards the sole settlement embraced by this circuit, Huayllapa.  Along this path, a sense of anticipation builds, leading us to the unveiling of the crowning jewel of this odyssey: the resplendent Jahuacocha Campsite. Here, the heavens themselves grace the canvas, orchestrating a symphony of colors that transforms the skies into an awe-inspiring spectacle during the most enchanting sunset.

morning view in Jahuacocha in huayhuash trek

However, before we reach this utopian view, a moment of contemplation awaits at the Huacris viewpoint. This serene pause allows us to immerse ourselves in a panoramic tapestry that showcases the Cordillera Huayhuash in all its resplendent glory, with its crystalline lakes and the captivating valley of Jahua.

Huaraz Town (3100 m) / Cuartelhuain (4,170m)

Departure from Huaraz town in a private vehicle  at the scheduled time ( 8-9 am) toward our first camping spot, "Cuartelhuain." After 2.5 hours of tarred road, we turn onto the dirt road with our first views of the Cordillera Huayhaush in the distance. After a further 3 hours, we arrive at Cuartelhuain campsite. We set up camp on the riverbanks. The relaxed afternoon closes our first-day journey enjoying the sunset moments in Huayhuash.

Cuartelhuain (4,170m) to Mitucocha (4,270m)

Our journey begins with a 3-4 hour ascent, culminating in crossing the Cacanapunta Pass at 4,690m. From this vantage point, we will receive rewarded breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and mountains of Cuncush Valley. As we descend, we see the Caliente Valley, including its marshes and hot springs that flow into the Atlantic Ocean. Continuing, we traverse the granite block of Cerro Chincana and pass through the Tuctupampa plain, arriving at the picturesque shores of the Janca River (4,720m). Here, we will set up camp.

Mitucocha (4,270m) to Carhuacocha (4,138m)

Trek to our next campsite, "Carhuacocha 4,138m," after enjoying a delicious breakfast at our second campsite. Our trek takes us through Wayac Valley, a gradual ascent to the Carhuac Pass/Yana Punta at 4,630m. Along the way, we will have the opportunity to stop and appreciate the stunning alpine landscapes of Huayhuash. After the ascent, we continue our trek through Yanayana Valley, where we will pause for lunch and may even catch a glimpse of the local vizcachas. From here, we begin our descent to the turquoise waters of Carhuacocha Lake, situated at an altitude of 4,270m. This idyllic location serves as our next campsite and offers unparalleled views of the surrounding mountains  

Carhuacocha (4,138m) To Huayhuash (4,350m)

As dawn breaks, the sun rises slowly, casting a kaleidoscope of colors on the icy giants reflected in the smooth waters of Carhuacocha Lake. While the packed mules depart along a separate trail, we embark on today's trek, following the edge of the lake as we ascend the valley wedged between three lakes (Gangrajanca, Siula, and Quesillacocha) to the base of Mount Siula Grande. Along the way, we'll have panoramic views of the valley, with its rugged mountains and shimmering lakes. After reaching the Siulapunta Pass at 4,830m, we'll have a vast, sweeping vista. Continuing, we descend with views of a verdant marsh teeming with Andean birds, eventually arriving at Carnicero Lake. From there, it's just a few more kilometers until we reach the Huayhuash campsite, at 4,350 m—night near the local farming Quechua families, a testament to the area's rich cultural heritage.  

Huayhuash (4,350m) to Viconga (4,385m)

After breakfast, we embarked on a gentle ascent that led us to the Portachuelo de Huayhuash pass at 4,350m. We enjoyed stunning views of the Raura mountain range with its softly carved peaks and immense glaciers. Although Raura is not a heavily visited area, it will give us great mountain scenes. We descend briefly through a small swamp and a grass-covered plain before reaching Lake Viconga, the largest lake of our trek, at 4,453m. Here we encounter some Andean wildlife, such as Llamas and Alpacas, and a local family specializing in sheep farming. We continued with a light ascent that would afford us even better views of this impressive lake. After a few switchbacks and some level stretches, we arrived at the Viconga hot springs, ideal for a relaxing and therapeutic bath. We camp here for the night.  

Viconga (4,385m) to Cuyoc (4,492m)

Our day's journey commences with a 3-hour ascent to the Cuyoc Pass at 4,950m, where we are rewarded with a sweeping panoramic view. Two mountains, Pumarinri (5,465m) and Cuyoc (5,550m) flank us on either side, while the iconic Siula Grande comes into view in the distance. After a brief respite to navigate a sandstone slope, we traverse a plateau blanketed in this region's typical Ancush plant species. Our descent leads us to the juncture of the Huanacpatay and Cuyoc Valleys, situated at 4,495m, where we will spend the remainder of our day relishing in the stunning sunset vista.

Cuyoc (4,492m) to Cutatambo(4,265m)

We begin our ascent towards the San Antonio Pass after a short flat section. The trail is steep and rocky, but as we make our way up through the channeled valley, you will have stunning views of the colorful Antushcancha hill. Once we reach the highest point of the pass, we are rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of the western side of the snow-capped Siula Grande, Yerupaja, and Sarapo mountains, as well as the Jurao and Sarapococha lakes shimmering at the base of these immense peaks. Descending from the pass, we make our way down a steep slope to the tranquil Jurao Lagoon at 4,343m, where we can take a well-deserved break. From there, we continue towards our Cutatambo camp.

Cutatambo(4,265m) to Huayllapa (3,490m)

We will descend through the Calinca Valley, following the path of the Calinca River. This part of the trek will take us away from the mountain range and into the small town of Huayhuash, where we will have the opportunity to interact with the locals. As we descend, the slightly sloping trail will give our legs a well-deserved break. Along the way, we will pass through several livestock areas and posts before finally reaching Huayllapa village at (4,390m), the place where we will camp.

Huayllapa (3,490m) to Gashpapampa (4,530m)

The trek to Gashpapampa campsite begins with a gradual but lengthy ascent through the Milo Valley, during which we will cross some streams. After a few hours of challenging uphill hiking, the trail will become less steep as we progress through the Huatiac Valley, and we begin to see the snow-capped peaks of Rajucollota and Tapush. We will continue up the rocky slope to reach Tapush Punta High Pass at 4,770 meters, a remote and picturesque spot. From there, we will descend through the Gashpampa Valley, and on our way downhill, we can appreciate the SusuCocha lagoon (4,740 m) and its diverse species of birds before continuing to our final destination Gashpapampa campsite  

Gashpapampa (4,530m) to Jahuacocha (4,060m)

After breakfast, we continue our journey through the Angocancha Valley to ascend to the last highest pass of our journey. After several hours of steep walking, we arrive at the Llaucha Punta pass, located at 4,850 meters, from where we can enjoy impressive views of the mountains on the northwestern side of Huayhuash. Next, we continue along the crest of the hill, which offers us a panoramic view all the way until we reach the Huacrish Viewpoint (4,750 m). After enjoying the impressive views, we descend a steep slope to our camp in Jahuacocha (4,050 m)  

Jahuacocha (4,060m) to Llamac (3,250m)- Huaraz town

On our final day in the Huayhuash and we leave the campsite trekking east via the Jahua Valley trail that continues along a water pipeline. Before descending, we enjoy our final panorama of the Huayhuash glittering in the distance and bidding us farewell. The descent is to the village of Llamac at 3,250m from where we return to Huaraz with private transport (5 hours).  

Huayhuash classic 11 days trek : Period  may-Sept 2024

The price listed below is per person

6+ pax USD 950.00 per person 5   pax USD 993.00 per person 4   pax USD 1100.00 per person 3   pax USD 1362.00 per person 2   pax USD 1815.00 per person 1   pax USD 3180.00 per person

  • We offer escorted treks in both English and Spanish
  • If you would like to join a group, we open a group with a minimum of 2 participants to ensure the departure on your desired date. The final price will be determined based on the final group size. Please note that fixed group departures are subject to availability. Kindly contact us for more information.
  • For those seeking a more personalized experience, we also provide private tour departures. These can be arranged on any date,

More about Cordillera Huayhuash

User reviews & comments.

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Eden Davies

my experience with Akilpo for the Huayhuash trek was nothing short of excellent. Their exceptional service, knowledgeable guides, seamless organization, and commitment to sustainability make them the go-to agency for anyone looking to embark on this incredible adventure. I highly recommend their services and look forward to booking with them again for my future travel endeavors.

mayo 25, 2023

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Michiel Van Dijk

Our tour took place in this breathtaking Huayhuash, showcasing the majestic beauty of snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and serene landscapes. The chosen trail was diverse, providing a perfect balance of challenge and awe-inspiring views. It was an absolute treat for my family.

octubre 31, 2022

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Magda Köhler

the Huayhuash Circuit was a transformative adventure that pushed my limits, rewarded my efforts, and connected me with the raw beauty of the Andean wilderness. The pristine landscapes, the camaraderie among fellow trekkers, and the expert guidance of our knowledgeable guides made this journey truly unforgettable. If you have a passion for nature and a desire for personal growth, I wholeheartedly recommend embarking on the Huayhuash Circuit. It is an experience that will leave you with a deep appreciation for the wonders of our planet and a sense of accomplishment that will stay with you long after the trek is over.

octubre 29, 2022

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the best tour ever! thank to this great staff of Akilpo, no words (this was a very professional company). thanks a lot for the great experience.

octubre 10, 2022

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Huayhuash Trek (via Trapecio)

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huaraz huayhuash trek

  • Huaraz – Huayhuash Trek
  • Individual Tours in Peru

The Huayhuash trek on the mountain range is one of the most beautiful treks in the world – and it’s easy to believe.

The villages Pocpa and Llamac are usually the trailheads for this trek.

The entire length of the Cordillera Huayhuash ranges only 30 km but within its compact area lays amazing towering peaks. At almost every turn, you come face to face with glistening vertical walls of ice, snow and rock. Beautiful lakes, different kinds of birds and keep an eye out for the massive Andean Condors and for Siula Grande 6,344 m.s.n.m , the site where the popular book and motion picture “Touching the Void” took place!

  • Entrance Fee: Camping fees (This varies per year, please ask current rate, approx. 260 soles
  • Maximum altitude : 5200 Meters (Santa Rosa pass).
  • Location: Cordillera Huayhuash.
  • Average temperature : Between 13° C – 23° C during the day/ -3°C to – 1°C at night.
  • Distance: 70 Km
  • 06 Days/ 05 Nights
  • April to October
  • Easy-Moderate

huaraz huayhuash trek

Travel Program

Day 1: huaraz - transfer cordillera huayhuash at 9:00 am – via chiquian village -camp matacancha camp (4150 m).

Leaving Huaraz at 9am, arrive to the first campsite at 3pm aŌer a lunch stop in Chiquian. There is no hiking on the first day. After arriving, relax and enjoy the view of Rondoy mountain and the valley, where there is often spectacular sunsets.

Driving  4 hours approx 

Overnight Camping

Hiking  5 Hours approx

 B/L/D

Day 2: Camp Matacancha Camp (4150 m) - Mitucocha - Trekking Punta Carhuac Pass (4640 m) - Laguna Carhuacocha (4200 m)

Hiking  8 Hours approx

Day 3: Camp Carhuacocha - Trekking Siula Pass (4950 m) / Laguna Quesillococha - Huayhuash Camp (4450 m)

Day 4: huayhuash camp - trekking to pass trapesio (5041 m) / elefante camping over (4400 m).

Wake up early for the Trapesio pass at 5,041m, with an optonal 40 extra minutes of hiking to reach the glacier Then descend while passing 5 beautiful lakes to reach the campsite Elefante Camping at 4,400m. Approximately 6-7 hours of hiking to reach the campsite. It is also optional to hike 2 hours from the campsite to San Antonio pass at 5,100m.

Hiking  7 Hours approx

Day 5: Camp Elefante - Trekking up to the Pass Santa Rosa (5100 m) - Trekking Down to Village Huayllapa at (3487m)

Day 6: from village huayllapa - with public transport to the city of barranca and return to huaraz, or you also have the option of continuing to go to lima.

Waking up at 1am in Huayllapa, say goodbye to the staff and take a car to Barranca on the coast. From Barranca there is an option to go by bus back to Huaraz or conƟnue to Lima. Both the bus to Huaraz or Lima are not included in the price of the trek.

Overnight  Hotel

Hiking  No more hiking

Driving  8 hours approx 

 B/L/-

Included meals: B =breakfast; L =lunch; D =dinner

What's Included

Services included in the prices:.

  • 5 MEALS PER DAY: (breakfast, snack, lunch, tea time, dinner).
  • BREAKFAST: Omelet, pancake, fruit salad, serial, scrambled eggs… coffee, tea, milk, chocolate, butter, jam, cheese etc.
  • SNACK: fresh fruit, chocolates, crackers, cookies, sweets drinks.
  • LUNCH: salads, soups, rice, chicken, coca tea.
  • TEA TIME: different hot drinking’s, coffee, tea, milk, chocolate, crackers, popcorn, and Tequeños.
  • DINNER: different kind of soups, salads, main courses, pasta, chicken, trout, beef, vegetarian options available, dessert, hot wine
  • One free acclimatization tour, you can choose; ( lake Paron , Lake 69 , Glacier Pastoruri ) Information: www.huaraz.viajes
  • One free night at Hotel Valery; www.hotelvalery.pe
  • Entrance Fee Huayhuash community (250.00 soles) per person
  • Tent Superior (04 season) special for Huayhuash trek
  • Sleeping mat: Size, 200 cm X 60 cm X 5 cm
  • Kitchen tent
  • Dining tent
  • Certificated Trekking guide: (Speaks English and Spanish)
  • Certificated cook
  • Donkey driver
  • Emergency Horse
  • 05 Kilos personal Luggage for the Donkeys
  • Kitchen and dining full utensils.: Chair, table, stove, gas, plates, caps, forks
  • First aid kit
  • Private transport
  • Hot water every day in the morning to clean up your hands and face
  • Boiled water to fill your bottle every day
  • For traveling with us we give you a gift: A cap, a buffet and a t-shirt

Not included:

  • Personal Trekking gear.
  • First day breakfast.
  • Travel accident and health insurance.
  • Transfer – Airport/hotel/airport /🕸️🕸️bus station/Hotel – Lima.
  • Bus ticket Huaraz/Lima.
  • Travel luggage and Travel cancellation insurance.
  • Not mentioned food (restaurant) and beverages.
  • Personal Spending.

We Recommend To Bring :

  • Hiking boots.
  • trekking socks (synthetic fibers).
  • Hat for cold weather (fleece or other).
  • microfiber shirts and thermal.
  • Trekking pants.
  • Sunglasses.
  • Day Backpack or advance 20-30 liters.
  • down Jacket.
  • waterproof jacket (Gore-Tex or other) seasonal.
  • Waterproof Pant (Gore-Tex or other) seasonal.
  • Waterproof Layer seasonal.
  • Headlamp (with extra batteries and bulbs).
  • Sunscreen (lips and skin).
  • Personal First Aid Kit.
  • Photographic Material.
  • Wash bag and towel.

Hiking poles.

Toilet Paper.

What to Bring

What to Bring or take fo Day Hiking and Technical Equipment for Climbing Expedition

This equipment list is compiled to provide you with adequate help when choosing your equipment for a climb. Most items are required. Please consider each of them and make sure you understand the function and exclusive use for mountaineering, before substituting or removing items from this list. Please note that this list has been carefully annotated by the organizer. Remember that mountaineering, climbing or mountain expeditions tours is an extreme, risky sport, therefore everything related to it is of great attention.

Equipment Trekking

huaraz huayhuash trek

Equipment Mountain

Dressing appropriately for the mountains can make the difference between a pleasant trip and a really uncomfortable one. Clothing must provide the right degree of temperature, perspiration and be well ventilated. Preferably cotton clothing should be avoided, as in humid conditions they absorb body heat.

In general, the weather conditions in in the Andes of South America can vary from day to day and even throughout the day. Therefore, clothing must be versatile.

Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions you may have regarding the necessary equipment.

→ If you need to rent mountain equipment click here :

Prices & Dates

PRICE (USD)

TRAVEL STATUS

01 MAY 2024 / 06 MAY 2024

01 JUN 2024 / 06 JUN 2024

01JUL 2024 / 06 JUL 2024

01 AUG 2024 / 06 AUG 2024

  • Sin­gle Sup­ple­ment (I want my own room and tent) – $000 on request.

Please note: Insurance for emergency evacuation is required for this trip. Call for more details.

» Additional dates available upon request » Rates may vary from July 26th to 31th for the national holidays

Prices (per person):

Deposit for reservations: — USD (– EUR) ✓ Full payment 40 days before. No refund if you cancel less than 30 days!

3% early bird discount when booking 6 months prior to departure 2024

Legend Booking-information: EZZ Single room supplement 🟢 On this trip, places are still available. 🟡 On this trip, only a few places left. 🔴 This trip is sold out / closed.

huaraz huayhuash trek

Juventino Albino Caldua

Expert guide certified by IVBV - UIAGM - IFMGA Co-Founder, Peru Expeditions

  • WhatsApp: +51 943 081 066
  • E-Mail: [email protected]

huaraz huayhuash trek

Hans Honold | Certified Mountain and Ski Guide

For a trip with a Professional Certified Mountain Guide from abroad with your own language that you speak, please request us to get in touch. We have guides working for our company from all over the world who are members of IVBV/UIAGM/IFMGA Certified Guides.

  • Tel: +49(0)7344 929144-0

huaraz huayhuash trek

It is very important to have accident coverage for trekking and climbing mountains, more if you go a technical mountains over 6 thousand meters, we oblige and recommend buying travel insurance with our partner Global Rescue, you get the peace of mind that the finest medical, security evacuation, field rescue, intelligence and telehealth.

  • Tel: +1 (617) 459-4200

Only $1000 deposit to book

Pay over time, interest free

No booking fee, no change fee

24/7 support

Accommodations

Scroll through our exclusive accommodations for this trip below. Although very unlikely, we will be able to make substitutions when necessary. The comfortable accommodations that guests stay in every night offer comfort, the level that these options are are 3 stars and some hostels in some towns of first class quality to make your stay very pleasant. *These exact accommodations are not guaranteed. In some cases, alternative accommodation of similar quality and location can be used.

Peru: Hotel Conde de Lemos Arequipa

Best mountain tents – luxury service – premium overnight in camping, peru: hotel rumi wasi in chivay, peru: hotel conde de lemos puno, peru: hotel inca wasi plaza cuzco, peru: hotel puma, peru: hotel rubi, peru: hotel churup, peru: hotel valery, peru: hotel kamana, maps & downloads.

  • Weather Forecast
  • Location on Google Maps
  • Detailprogramm [DOC/PDF]

Frequently Asked Questions

What our travelers or clients always ask questions before joining our trips, tours & expeditions, read all the information provided here.

Suggested FAQs

What experience and how fit do i need to be to climb this mountain is this program suitable for children or older people.

For our mountain climbing trips: If they are easily accessible mountains: For easy-climb mountains, well, you don’t need much experience, but if you already want to climb mountains above 6,000 meters and the conditions become more difficult, we recommend if you already want to go through mountains above 6,000 meters, have a basic or intermediate course for a good preparation. It is very important to be physically, technically and psychologically prepared.

Regarding the preparation of children: Everything will depend on which mountain you want to climb with your children, once you are clear on which of our tours or mountains you want to go with your children, we can give you some advice or see how to prepare them before going with they.

Regarding older people: It all depends on the condition of experience and how well the person is in health, on many occasions older people are the best to walk in the mountains because they have more experience, so it is always good to ask and find out about their experience of older participant. If you have any other questions, please contact us. For calls or inquiries to this number: +51 943 081 066

Will I need to bring any technical equipment of my own? Is it possible to rent equipment, and if so, what would be the approximate cost of that?

In all our trekking or mountaineering trips we do not include personal equipment in our prices, so you have to have your own equipment: Personal equipment (such as boots, ice ax, crampons, harness, sleeping bag, mat, Goretex, etc. ) and also within each page of the trips that we sell is a small list so you can see it on our website.

Our company can also rent the materials that you would need for your trip, see the list here on our website: https://peru-expeditions.org/equipment-rental/ . For calls or inquiries to this number: +51 943 081 066

Are there any other special requirements such as permits/insurance/vaccines that I need to consider before the tour?

Safe and effective vaccines are available that provide strong protection against serious illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. Billions of people have been vaccinated against COVID-19. Getting vaccinated is one of the most important things you can do to protect yourself against COVID-19, help end the pandemic and stop new variants emerging.

We also recommend having accident insurance, we always recommend. We are Partners –Global Rescue. If you have any other questions about the trip we can schedule a date for a calling via WhatsApp. For calls or inquiries to this number: +51 943 081 066

What experience do I need to have? How fit do I need to be? Is this program suitable for children or older people?

To do long-distance hiking you need to at least train or do some tours such as visiting lagoons to get the experience and feel comfortable with what you do, it is always good before doing a long-distance hiking tour to test yourself so as not to be with the problems of altitude sickness during the trekking, and if you travel with children it is good to first train them before taking them, if they are accompanied by an adult of legal age, they must do a good acclimatization before going on the long-distance tour or with high altitude camps If you want to know or learn more advice, we can schedule a call via WhatsApp to clarify your doubts. For calls or inquiries to this number: +51 943 081 066

How far in advance should I start training and what kind of training do you suggest?

The preparation is according to what type and what technical level you want to go and climb a trek or mountain, the preparation will always gain experience little by little.

For this type of demanding or technical climbing sports, it is recommended to do some summits above 5 thousand meters beforehand and have good knowledge of high mountain technical equipment such as the use of technical ice axes, ice screws, correct use of crampons, and of course all the technical material. For more information, we can schedule an appointment to be able to explain in more detail everything about the mountain equipment and the preparations prior to joining our outings. For calls or inquiries to this number: +51 943 081 066

What is the average distance and altitude gain that we will hike each day?

Every day we have active walks around approximately 4, to 5 sometimes 6 hours of walking, everything is according to your pace and physical condition of each person, in each of our travel programs you will find more detailed information, and if If you need more information about each day of the travel program, we can schedule a call via WhatsApp to clarify your doubts or questions, for this please contact us. For calls or inquiries to this number: +51 943 081 066

Will there be porters to help to carry group and personal equipment?

In our trips, either hiking or mountaineering: Depending on the type or destination of the trip that you are going to book, in some parts of the treks you go with mules or donkeys or sometimes with horses, and within the mountain trips, the approach camps are also They go with mules or donkeys, but there are some stretches where pack animals can no longer reach. In this part, our logistics is fully supported by the porters.

Who are the porters? They are people from the area who were born and live in the heights of the towns, they are very strong and are very acclimatized, the reason is that after the tourist season ends they dedicate themselves to agriculture and livestock for that reason they are people They are used to the altitude and have lived in nature all their lives and they are happy to be in the mountains together with our expeditions. For calls or inquiries to this number: +51 943 081 066

How will accommodation and meals be handled during the trek?

About accommodation or meals during the tour: Well, depending on the type of tour, when the tour is a classic cultural tour or a city tour, we eat during the route in tourist restaurants and sleep in category hotels that the client has requested.

If the tour is with camps and trekking: During the activity, logistics we include the service of Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner with traditional and typical meals of the region where you are going to travel with us, during the night we stay in tents, and we have a special tent for the kitchen and another for the dining room.

If the trip is at altitude or in the mountains: We bring special high mountain food, It are quicker meals to cook and we provide complete logistics such as Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner, and we sleep in special 4-season high mountain tents, with the best tents. If you have any questions or concerns, we can schedule an appointment via Whatsapp to clarify all your doubts and give you better information so that your trip is an unforgettable tour.

What is the guide-to-client ratio to climb this mountain?

In mountains above 5000 meters: A local guide takes a maximum of 3 clients = Ratio 3pax = 1 local guide

In technical mountains: In large-big mountains we manage the travel policy, a guide and a maximum of 2 clients = Ratio 3pax = 1 local guide. For calls or inquiries to this number: +51 943 081 066

What is the best time of the year to climb this mountain?

For all the trips that we offer within our main tourist destinations such as South America and Central America, also including the ascent of the 7 continents and the 7 highest peaks of each continent, on each page of our website for each trip we indicate that month or what season to travel, then please read the information you find in our travel offers for each tour. If you have any other questions you can contact us by WhatsApp with one of our travel experts. Thank you so much. For calls or inquiries to this number: +51 943 081 066

Do I have what it takes to succeed on this expedition?

In the interest of the team’s enjoyment and success, we work with every single guest to ensure they are properly prepared and ready for this expedition. We pride ourselves on vetting every member to make sure that the team can bond and succeed together. It really sucks to be grouped with members that are much faster, or much slower, than you are. No one wants to the weakest link on a trip like this. By setting expectations and a solid training plan, we work to insure maximum cohesive success. Use this trip as an exercise motivator, and we will succeed together with style.

How can I get to the trailhead/meeting point?

For the pick-ups of each trip, depending on the place or the trip that you are going to make with us, the meeting point is always at our office, in one of our trips we pick you up where you are staying or staying, or in some cases a A representative of our company will pick you up and then ship you to your transport to continue with your destination of the tour or trip you have booked with us. If you wish to request more information, do not hesitate to contact us. For calls or inquiries to this number: +51 943 081 066

What is the best time of the year for this hike?

What happens in the event of bad weather.

About the meteorological conditions of the climate, we try to organize the trips of each tour in the best season to have the best views and enjoy the selected trip but sometimes even is good season we can have bad weather, in this case on hiking or treks trips The complications are minimal, but when this happens during high-altitude climbing expeditions, the complications can become very difficult, that is why the bosses or leaders of the local guides must always make the most correct decision for the safety of our passengers, so we always recommend listening to the best advice from the local guide assigned for each tour. If you have any other questions please contact us. For calls or inquiries to this number: +51 943 081 066

Can I join a group?

We as a local company and connoisseurs of tours have departures on different dates. The best thing to do is to join a travel group to take care of your budget, and of course you can join our groups, but on trips like mountaineering we recommend going in small groups. To join a group, ask us for the dates and we will send you the necessary information to be able to join any of our trips.

Why go in a private trip: For trips whether trekking or high mountains, going privately is the most recommended option, but the costs are more expensive. So, if one joins a group, the prices will be more reasonable. In the mountains, the only disadvantage is if you are in a wall with another partner and if one of the participants gets tired or gets sick. In this case, you have to abort or cancel the summit and return together. For more information, contact us. We can schedule a call via WhatsApp to clarify all your questions.

In a mountain, for example, if 3 people go and one of the participants falls ill on the route, for security reasons they have to cancel or abort the summit or return all together. The same in a technical mountain if the climbing partner gets sick they all have to return, for these reasons sometimes it is better to go private only because for a single person the costs are more expensive for the same reason that the trip would already be private .

For more information please contact us. For calls or inquiries to this number: +51 943 081 066

Additional information

Vaccinations, first aid kit, why choose us, join a group.

VISA NEEDED

Citizens traveling for tourism purposes are exempt from the visa requirement for up to 90 days. 

The passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of return to the country.

There are some countries that have some restrictions on the visa to be able to visit some countries in the world, for this important information request us to be able to give you more exact information, since the information changes every year and then to be able to provide you for more accurate updated information,   →  contact us!

CURRENCY EXCHANGE DEPENDING ON WHERE YOU ARE:

Local money | $1 = 000 | EUR 1 = 000 = Let us to know which destination would you like to travel to so we can send you the current information of the day to your → E-mail, or by WhatsApp.

Local currency is exchanged on site. You can change both dollars and euros, the two currencies are the most used. We recommend taking bills of different denominations.

ATMs are available in the larger cities. Attention! We avoid dollars from the years 1996-2006 (some series from these years are not accepted at all). It is better to take dollars issued after 2006 to better the most recent of the current year.

VACCINATIONS BEFORE YOU LEAVE

Compulsory vaccinations :

– They are not required

Recommended vaccinations : – Hepatitis A and B (3 doses: 0/1/6 months, at least 2 doses administered at least 2 weeks before departure) – Tetanus – Diphtheria – Typhoid fever – Yellow fever (yellow fever) – Antimalarial prophylaxis is recommended for traveling in the jungle area

In some destinations that you are going to visit, the information that is on our website may not be updated. To have more precise information, contact us by → E-mail or WhatsApp and we will provide you with more detailed information.

TRAVEL FIRST AID KIT

Everyone should have a personal first aid kit, and in it: medicines against diarrhea and stomach problems (sometimes appearing when the bacterial flora changes), painkillers and medicines for the throat. In addition, good creams with a UV filter or so-called blockers (sun radiation in the mountains is very high).

ATTENTION! Due to parasites and bacteria for drinking, we recommend using mineral water in the original bottle and boiled. To have more precise information, contact us by → E-mail or WhatsApp and we will provide you with more detailed information.

WHO ARE WE AND WHY CHOOSE US?

We are a travel agency that provides authentic and innovative experiences with a respectful relationship with the socio-cultural customs, the environment and the regulations of the countries we promote. We are characterized by the personalization of our tourist services, with empathy, attitude and professionalism; turning customer dreams into reality and exceeding their expectations. We are “Registered Travel and Tourism Agency”. To know more about → US click here please!  

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ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A TRAVEL PARTNER?

Join a group with us: Trekking, hiking and expeditions. What is your profile? Are you planning to go on a trek or expedition in South America and you are not yet sure about the most suitable offer? If you are looking for a partner, we have the solution. Peru Expeditions Tours has some groups that you can join and share you experience with on an unforgettable journey. (» Upcoming Trips / Upcoming Departures / Open groups / Confirmed / Trips Guaranteed 100%) » WHERE WOULD YOU LIKE TO CLIMB, WALK, HIKE, AND TREK? For more information please click here! → JOIN A TRIP WITH US!

Why Travel with us

Your safety is our priority, expert guides, sustainable tourism, andean chefs, food on the trail, small groups.

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YOU ARE AN ADVENTURE LOVER and you want to experience something extraordinary and extreme?

You are an adventure lover and you dream of leaving with a thrill. Peru Expeditions Tours is also an option for you. Take advantage of our travel offer that we have for you!

“We don’t sell tours, we provide memorable lifetime experiences.”

We are a recognized tour operator 100% peruvian company that specialists in adventure and traditional tours service.

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Huayhuash Treks

Welcome to Huayhuash Treks

Is an adventure travel company it is a legally company with own operation in Huaraz – Peru. We offer a good quality service for outdoors sport lovers such as trekking, climbing, mountaineering, fishing, mountain bike, horseback riding, tours. Around the Cordillera Blanca, Cordillera Huayhuash, Cordillera Raura and Cuzco. Our company counts with a record of well organized quality service of adventure trips and expeditions. We have only friendly professional mountain guides for your safety in the Peruvian Andes. We has worked for European and American companies such as Wilderness Travel, Dav Summit Club, High Places and We had gained many high recommendations and lot of experience and now He is a conduct organize offers services the trekking climbing expeditions.

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Huayhuash

Touching the Void and Rodolfo Reyes return to Siula Grande

An astonishing journey extraordinary and inspiring. Two young British friends, traveled to a remote corner of Peru ambitious mountaineers, their aim was to conquer the unclimbed west face of a notorious 21.000ft peak Siula Grande. Their story has become part of mountaineering legend. In July 2002 return to Siula Grande on the film (Touching the Void) a UK Production by Darlom Smithson for channel television in the UK. Where Rodolfo Reyes Oropeza during the film was assistant of the climbers Joe Simpson, Simon Yates and Kevin Macdonald (director of touching the void) it was filmed in west face of Siula Grande region Huayhuash – Peru

SALKANTAY MACHUPICCHU TREK

SALKANTAY MACHUPICCHU TREK

DISCOVER ADVENTURES

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ECUADOR CLIMBING

ECUADOR CLIMBING 2023

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huaraz huayhuash trek

Welcome to Trekking Huayhuash

The leader of hiking, adventure tourism and mountaineering in peru.

EXPLORE THE HIGHEST TROPICAL MOUNTAIN RANGE IN THE WORLD Enjoy hiking, trekking Cordillera Huayhuash, hiking in the Cordillera Blanca, experiencing Inka culture, trekking to Machu Picchu, and more!. Tradition - Safety - Professionalism We offer a professional, personalised, and reliable guiding service - with unsurpassed support from our base. Our mountaineering trips are based on realistic goals, within realistic time frames - given the weather, conditions, and terrain of the our region.

Alpamayo

Huayhuash Range Trek demanding Alpine Route

11 Days Cordillera Huayhuash Alpine Circuit: The Alpine Circuit is world class 11-day mountaineering adventure in the heart of the Andes of Peru ...

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Climb Diablo Mudo (5350 m) Huayhuash Range

07 Days Diablo Mudo or, “the Silent Devil,” is a gorgeous glaciated peak located in the remote Huayhuash Mountain Range of Ancash, Peru...

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Mountainbike Cordillera Huayhuash

16 Days Mountainbike Extreme-Cordillera Huayhuash Yerupaja-Circuit. One of the most spectacular tours on 2 wheels...

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Classic Cordillera Huayhuash Trek & Diablo Mudo (5350 m)

10 Days The Huayhuash Range is the second highest tropical mountain chain in the world, after the Cordillera Blanca (White Range)...

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Huayhuash Hiking Climb Diablo Mudo & Climb Pisco

20 Days The Huayhuash Range is the second highest tropical mountain chain in the world, after the Cordillera Blanca (White Range)...

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Alternative Mini Huayhuash Queropalca Trek to Llamac

06 Days The Huayhuash trek route involves a circular route of 120 km around the mighty Huayhuash mountain range with several peaks above 6,000 m...

BOOK NOW HUAYHUASH TREK 2025 AND TAKE 20% OFF

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Huaraz Treks and Climbs

  • Huaraz Hills Hike

Wilcacocha Hike

Rajucolta lake hike, llaca lake hike.

  • Yanapaccha Viewpoint Tour
  • Paron Lake Tour
  • Pastoruri Glacier Tour
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Lake 69 Hike

  • Ahuac Lake Hike
  • 2 Day Pisco Base Camp and Lake 69 Trek
  • 3 Day Quilcayhuanca to Cojup Valley Trek
  • 4 Day Quilcayhuanca to Cojup Valley Trek
  • 4 Day Santa Cruz Classic Trek
  • 6 Day Santa Cruz to Ulta Valley Trek
  • 9 Day Llanganuco to Alpamayo Base Camp Trek
  • 10 Day Santa Cruz to Alpamayo Trek
  • 11 Day Huayhuash Classic Trek
  • 10 Day Huayhuash Trek Via Trapecio
  • 8 Day Huayhuash Unique Trek
  • 6 Day Huayhuash Mini Trek
  • 1 Day Mateo Mountain Climb
  • 2 Day Vallunaraju Mountain Climb
  • 2 Day Yanapaccha Mountain Climb
  • 3 Day Pisco Mountain Climb
  • 4 Day Tocllaraju Mountain Climb
  • 4 Day Chopicalqui Mountain Climb
  • 7 Day Ishinca Valley Mountain Climbs
  • 7 Day Cordillera Blanca Classic Climbs
  • 7 Day Alpamayo Mountain Climb
  • 7 Day Quitaraju Mountain Climb
  • 7 Day Huascaran Mountain Climb
  • Group Departures
  • Testimonials

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GET UP CLOSE TO THE REAL PERU

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EXPLORE PERU’S CORDILLERA BLANCA & HUAYHUASH MOUNTAIN RANGES

Huayhuash classic trek, 11 days trek, alpamayo base camp trek, 09 days trek, santa cruz classic trek, 4 days trek, pisco base camp & lake 69 trek, 2 days trek, mateo peak climb, full day climb, pisco mountain climb, 3 days climb, tocllaraju mountain climb, 4 days climb, chopicalqui mountain climb.

With 20 years experience guiding small groups in Peru’s Cordillera Blanca and Huayhuash Mountain Ranges.

Hike, Trek & Climb with local UIAGM – AGMP Certified Mountain Guides.

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The trains and stations of the Moscow Metro

2 Comments · Posted by Alex Smirnov in Cities , Travel , Video

The Moscow Metro is the third most intensive subway system in the world after Tokyo and Seoul subways. The first line was opened on May 15, 1935. Since 1955, the metro has the name of V.I. Lenin.

The system consists of 12 lines with a total length of 305.7 km. Forty four stations are recognized cultural heritage. The largest passenger traffic is in rush hours from 8:00 to 9:00 and from 18:00 to 19:00.

Cellular communication is available on most of the stations of the Moscow Metro. In March 2012, a free Wi-Fi appeared in the Circle Line train. The Moscow Metro is open to passengers from 5:20 to 01:00. The average interval between trains is 2.5 minutes.

The fare is paid by using contactless tickets and contactless smart cards, the passes to the stations are controlled by automatic turnstiles. Ticket offices and ticket vending machines can be found in station vestibules.

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Tags:  Moscow city

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Yaroslavsky railway station, Moscow stowing away

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The views of St. Petersburg from the TV tower >>

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Tomás · August 27, 2012 at 11:34 pm

The Moscow metro stations are the best That I know, cars do not.

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Alberto Calvo · September 25, 2016 at 8:57 pm

Great videos! Moscow Metro is just spectacular. I actually visited Moscow myself quite recently and wrote a post about my top 7 stations, please check it out and let me know what you think! :)

http://www.arwtravels.com/blog/moscow-metro-top-7-stations-you-cant-miss

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15 men brought to military enlistment office after mass brawl in Moscow Oblast

Local security forces brought 15 men to a military enlistment office after a mass brawl at a warehouse of the Russian Wildberries company in Elektrostal, Moscow Oblast on Feb. 8, Russian Telegram channel Shot reported .

29 people were also taken to police stations. Among the arrested were citizens of Kyrgyzstan.

A mass brawl involving over 100 employees and security personnel broke out at the Wildberries warehouse in Elektrostal on Dec. 8.

Read also: Moscow recruits ‘construction brigades’ from Russian students, Ukraine says

We’re bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron !

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine

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huaraz huayhuash trek

Strange Glow Over Moscow Skies Triggers Panic as Explosions Reported

B right flashes lit up the night sky in southern Moscow in the early hours of Thursday morning, new footage appears to show, following reports of an explosion at an electrical substation on the outskirts of the city.

Video snippets circulating on Russian-language Telegram channels show a series of flashes on the horizon of a cloudy night sky, momentarily turning the sky a number of different colors. In a clip shared by Russian outlet MSK1.ru, smoke can be seen rising from a building during the flashes lighting up the scene.

Newsweek was unable to independently verify the details of the video clips, including when and where it was filmed. The Russian Ministry of Emergency situations has been contacted via email.

Several Russian Telegram accounts said early on Thursday that residents of southern Moscow reported an explosion and a fire breaking out at an electrical substation in the Leninsky district, southeast of central Moscow.

Local authorities in the Leninsky district told Russian outlet RBC that the explosion had happened in the village of Molokovo. "All vital facilities are operating as normal," Leninsky district officials told the outlet.

The incident at the substation in Molokovo took place just before 2 a.m. local time, MSK1.ru reported.

Messages published by the ASTRA Telegram account, run by independent Russian journalists, appear to show residents close to the substation panicking as they question the bright flashes in the sky. One local resident describes seeing the bright light before losing access to electricity, with another calling the incident a "nightmare."

More than 10 villages and towns in the southeast of Moscow lost access to electricity, the ASTRA Telegram account also reported. The town of Lytkarino to the southeast of Moscow, lost electricity, wrote the eastern European-based independent outlet, Meduza.

Outages were reported in the southern Domodedovo area of the city, according to another Russian outlet, as well as power failures in western Moscow. Electricity was then restored to the areas, the Strana.ua outlet reported.

The cause of the reported explosion is not known. A Telegram account aggregating news for the Lytkarino area described the incident as "an ordinary accident at a substation."

The MSK1.ru outlet quoted a local resident who speculated that a drone may have been responsible for the explosion, but no other Russian source reported this as a possible cause.

Ukraine has repeatedly targeted Moscow with long-range aerial drones in recent months, including a dramatic wave of strikes in late May.

On Sunday, Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said the region's air defense systems had intercepted an aerial drone over the city of Elektrostal, to the east of Moscow. No damage or casualties were reported, he said.

The previous day, Russian air defenses detected and shot down another drone flying over the Bogorodsky district, northeast of central Moscow, Sobyanin said.

There is currently no evidence that an aerial drone was responsible for the reported overnight explosion at the electrical substation in southern Moscow.

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Stills from footage circulating on Telegram early on Thursday morning. Bright flashes lit up the night sky in southern Moscow, new footage appears to show, following reports of an explosion at an electrical substation on the outskirts of the city.

COMMENTS

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