๐๐ก๐๐ญ ๐ฒ๐จ๐ฎ ๐ฐ๐ข๐ฅ๐ฅ ๐๐ฑ๐ฉ๐๐ซ๐ข๐๐ง๐๐
Experience the best trek in South Americaโa journey through the breathtaking Cordillera Huayhuash! This challenging yet rewarding trek takes you across towering Andean peaks, crystal-clear glacial lakes, and high-altitude passes, offering some of the most spectacular scenery on the planet.
Each day brings new landscapes, from deep valleys and rolling meadows to dramatic cliffs and snow-covered summits. Along the way, immerse yourself in the authentic Andean culture, encountering local shepherds and traditional mountain villages. If you’re searching for the ultimate trekking adventure, the Huayhuash Trek delivers an unforgettable experience.
๐๐ซ๐ข๐ฉ ๐๐ข๐ ๐ก๐ฅ๐ข๐ ๐ก๐ญ๐ฌ
- Trek through the stunning Cordillera Huayhuash mountain range
- Camp beside crystal-clear glacial lakes
- Encounter traditional Andean culture and remote villages
Huayhash Trek 8D/7N
๐๏ธ Altitude: Chiquiรกn (3,450 m) โ Cuartelhuain (3,900 m)
๐ Travel & Hike Time: 5 hours (bus)
Your adventure begins in Huaraz, the heart of the Peruvian Andes. We drive through picturesque Andean villages like Pocpa and Palca, where you'll glimpse the traditional way of life. As we ascend, the first snow-capped peaks appear, including the stunning Ninashanca. Arriving at Cuartelhuain, our first campsite, youโll be surrounded by majestic mountains, rolling green valleys, and the crisp mountain airโyour first taste of the Cordillera Huayhuash's raw beauty.
๐๏ธ Altitude: Cuartelhuain (3,900 m) โ Carhuacocha (4,138 m)
โณ Hike Time: 7โ8 hours
We conquer our first high mountain pass, Cacananpunta (4,700 m), where you'll see the vast expanse of the Andes unfold before you. The descent takes us past turquoise glacial lakesโPucacocha, Yanacocha Chico, and Grandeโeach reflecting the towering peaks above. After a scenic break at Mitucocha Lake (4,100 m), we climb to Punta Carhuac (4,650 m) before arriving at Carhuacocha, one of the most breathtaking campsites in the world.
๐๏ธ Camping with a view: Imagine waking up to the golden sunrise over Jirishanca, Yerupajรก, and the Huayhuash rangeโthis is what makes this the best trek in South America.
๐๏ธ Altitude: Carhuacocha (4,138 m) โ Huayhuash (4,100 m)
โณ Hike Time: 6โ7 hours
Today, we ascend the Carnicero Pass (4,600 m), offering breathtaking views of Siula Grande, Jural, and Trapecioโlegendary peaks made famous by the survival story Touching the Void. The trail winds past the shimmering Atocshaico and Carnicero Lakes, with crystal-clear reflections of the towering peaks. Our final descent leads us to Huayhuash Camp, a remote and peaceful spot where silence is broken only by the sounds of nature.
๐๏ธ Altitude: Huayhuash (4,100 m) โ Viconga (4,407 m)
โณ Hike Time: 5โ6 hours
A shorter day, but one filled with spectacular scenery and a rewarding finish! We climb to Portachuelo Pass (4,750 m), where you'll have a panoramic view of Puscanturpa, Cuyoc, and Millpo Peaks, along with glimpses of the Cordillera Raura. As we descend to Viconga Camp (4,300 m), we reach Atuscancha Hot Springs (4,000 m).
๐ฅ Picture this: Soaking in steaming natural thermal pools under a sky full of starsโa perfect way to relax after days of trekking in the Andes.
๐๏ธ Altitude: Viconga (4,407 m) โ Huanacpatay (3,900 m)
โณ Hike Time: 4โ5 hours
Today is one for the books! We tackle Cuyoc Pass (5,000 m), the highest point of our trek and a true high-altitude achievement. The dramatic views stretch for miles, offering awe-inspiring landscapes that make this one of the best trekking experiences in the world. After soaking in the scenery, we descend to Huanacpatay, a peaceful valley campsite.
๐๏ธ Altitude: Huanacpatay (3,900 m) โ Huatiac (4,250 m)
โณ Hike Time: 6 hours
Our descent takes us to Huayllapa (3,700 m), a small, isolated Andean village where time seems to stand still. Weโll stop for lunch and experience authentic Quechua culture, before ascending toward Huatiac Camp (4,250 m).
๐ฟ This is your chance to disconnect and immerse yourself in the quiet beauty of the Andes.
๐๏ธ Altitude: Huatiac (4,250 m) โ Jahuacocha (4,066 m)
โณ Hike Time: 6โ7 hours
Todayโs challenge is Punta Tapush Pass (4,900 m), with stunning views of Diablo Mudo and the Auxilio mountains. But the best is yet to comeโafter a final descent, we reach Jahuacocha Lake, the most breathtaking campsite of the entire trek!
๐๏ธ Why youโll love it:
โ๏ธ Jaw-dropping views of Jirishanca, Yerupajรก, and Rondoy reflected in emerald-green waters
โ๏ธ A peaceful sunset over the lake, with the mountains glowing pink and orange
โ๏ธ An unforgettable last night in the heart of the Cordillera Huayhuash
๐๏ธ Altitude: Jahuacocha (4,066 m) โ Llamac (3,250 m) โ Huaraz
โณ Hike Time: 5โ6 hours
Our final day takes us over Pampa de Llamac Pass (4,300 m), where we say a bittersweet goodbye to the Cordillera Huayhuash. The last stretch follows the same scenic path back to Chiquiรกn and finally to Huaraz, where a hot shower and a well-earned celebration await!
๐๐ง๐๐ฅ๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ข๐จ๐ง๐ฌ & ๐๐ฑ๐๐ฅ๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ข๐จ๐ง๐ฌ
๐๐ก๐๐ญโ๐ฌ ๐๐ง๐๐ฅ๐ฎ๐๐๐?
- Reception and transfer from Lima International Airport to hotel. (Optional)
- Accommodation in Lima (as per the program). (Optional)
- Transfer from Lima to Huaraz and back. (Optional)
- Reception at the bus terminal in Huaraz.
- Transfer to hotel/hostel (as per the program) in Huaraz.
- Accommodation in Huaraz (as per the program).
- Certified professional mountain guide (AGMP - IFMGA - UIAGM, bilingual).
- Assistant guide (for groups of more than 3 people).
- Porters (AASAM - Mountain Auxiliary Services Association).
- Cook (AASAM).
- Personal tents (4 seasons).
- Dining tent, kitchen tent, and toilet tent.
- Cooking equipment.
- Entrance ticket to Huascaran National Park.
- Kitchen assistant (for groups of 5+ people).
- Donkeys to carry equipment.
- Muleteer.
- Private transportation (round trip).
- Meals: breakfast, picnic, lunch, and dinner.
- Basic first-aid kit.
- General equipment: tables, chairs (for trekking and base camp).
- Air and regular sleeping mats.
- Communication radios.
- Satellite phone (as per the program and client request).
- Rental of climbing/trekking equipment.
๐๐จ๐ฌ๐ญ ๐๐ฑ๐๐ฅ๐ฎ๐๐๐ฌ
- Travel insurance (accident coverage, baggage insurance).
- Personal trekking/climbing equipment.
- Meals and drinks in Huaraz.
- Extra hotel nights.
- Personal expenses.
๐๐ฎ๐๐ฒ๐ก๐ฎ๐๐ฌ๐ก ๐๐ซ๐๐ค ๐ ๐๐๐ฒ๐ฌ: ๐๐ฅ๐ญ๐ข๐ฆ๐๐ญ๐ ๐ ๐๐ ๐๐ฎ๐ข๐๐ ๐๐จ๐ซ ๐๐ข๐ค๐๐ซ๐ฌ
The Huayhuash Trek is considered challenging due to its high altitude, steep ascents, and long trekking days. Hikers should be in good physical condition and have experience with multi-day treks.
The best time is during the dry season, from May to September, when the weather is more stable, and trails are dry. The wet season (October to April) brings heavy rains and makes trekking more difficult.
The trek reaches altitudes above 5,000 meters (16,400 feet). Acclimatization in Huaraz (3,050m) for at least 2-3 days before the trek is highly recommended to reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
Essential items include:
- Clothing: Thermal layers, waterproof jacket, gloves, and a hat.
- Gear: Sleeping bag (rated for -10ยฐC or lower), trekking poles, and headlamp.
- Essentials: Sunscreen, water purification tablets, and a first aid kit.
Yes. Symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and nausea are common at high altitudes. Proper acclimatization, staying hydrated, and trekking at a slow pace can help prevent altitude sickness.
On average, you will hike 10-15 km (6-9 miles) per day, with elevation gains of 500-1,000 meters. Passes often exceed 4,800m (15,750 feet).
While solo trekking is possible, hiring a guide is recommended for safety, navigation, and logistics. Guided treks include food, mules, and support staff.
Yes, most guided treks offer mule support to carry heavy gear, allowing trekkers to hike with only a daypack.
Guided treks provide nutritious meals, including pasta, rice, soups, and local dishes. Water is sourced from streams and should be purified before drinking.
Designated campsites with basic facilities are available at key points along the trek. Independent trekkers must carry their own camping gear.
Yes, the region is generally safe for trekkers. However, hiking with a group or guide enhances safety, especially in remote areas.
Several communities charge entrance fees totaling approximately 150-200 soles ($40-$55). Fees are paid along the route.
Yes, trekking gear rental is available in Huaraz, including tents, sleeping bags, and trekking poles.
During the dry season, daytime temperatures range from 10-20ยฐC (50-68ยฐF), while nights can drop to -10ยฐC (14ยฐF) or lower at high altitudes.
No, mobile reception is very limited. Some campsites may offer satellite phones for emergencies.
The main starting points are Llamac or Pocpa, accessible by public transport or private transfers from Huaraz (4-5 hours).
The Huayhuash Trek is considered one of the most beautiful treks in the world, featuring stunning alpine scenery, turquoise lakes, and dramatic mountain peaks like Siula Grande, made famous by “Touching the Void.
