Huayhuash Trek – 8 Days
One of the most spectacular trekking circuits in the world
The Huayhuash Trek 8 Days is a condensed version of the legendary Huayhuash Circuit, designed for experienced hikers who want to explore the most spectacular sections of the range in a shorter timeframe. The route includes iconic viewpoints, high mountain passes above 5,000 meters, glacial lakes, and close-up views of famous peaks such as Yerupajá, Siula Grande, and Jirishanca.
Duration:
8 Days / 7 Nights
Difficulty:
Moderate to Challenging
Maximum Altitude:
5,000 m / 16,667 ft
Best Season:
April – October
Itinerary Huayhuash Trek – 8 Days / 7 Nights
| Trekking Time | Distance | Start Altitude | Campsite Altitude |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5–6 hours | Approx. 12 km | 4,180 m | 4,230 m |
Your adventure begins with an early morning drive from Huaraz toward the Cordillera Huayhuash, passing through the Andean towns of Recuay, Cátac, Conococha, Chiquián, and Llamac before reaching Cuartelhuain, the starting point of the trek.
After meeting the trekking crew, the trail ascends to Cacanan Punta Pass (4,700 m), crossing the continental divide and offering your first panoramic views of the rugged Huayhuash mountain range. From the pass, descend through alpine valleys to Mitucocha Camp, where the impressive peaks of Jirishanca and Ninashanca dominate the landscape.
| Trekking Time | Distance | Start Altitude | Campsite Altitude |
| 5–6 hours | Approx. 11 km | 4,230 m | 4,140 m |
Today’s route follows a gentle ascent toward Carhuac Pass (4,650 m). Along the way, enjoy breathtaking views of Yerupajá, Peru’s second-highest mountain, together with Siula Grande and Jirishanca, three of the most iconic summits in the Cordillera Huayhuash.
After crossing the pass, descend to the stunning shores of Lake Carhuacocha. Surrounded by towering glaciers and crystal-clear waters, this campsite is considered one of the most spectacular in the entire Huayhuash Circuit.
| Trekking Time | Distance | Start Altitude | Campsite Altitude |
| 7–8 hours | Approx. 14 km | 4,140 m | 4,350 m |
One of the highlights of the expedition begins with sunrise over Lake Carhuacocha, when the surrounding peaks are reflected in the calm water.
The trail climbs steadily toward the Siula viewpoint, revealing magnificent views of the turquoise glacial lakes Siula, Quesillococha, and Gangrajanca. Continuing to Siula Pass (4,830 m), you’ll enjoy panoramic vistas stretching across both the Cordillera Huayhuash and the neighboring Cordillera Raura before descending to Huayhuash Camp.
| Trekking Time | Distance | Start Altitude | Campsite Altitude |
| 6–7 hours | Approx. 13 km | 4,350 m | 4,500 m |
Today’s challenging ascent leads to Trapecio Pass (5,000 m), one of the highest crossings of the expedition. Along the trail, enjoy outstanding views of Trapecio Mountain, Puscanturpa, and the surrounding glaciers.
After reaching the pass, descend through the Cuyoc Valley, passing beautiful alpine lakes before arriving at Elefante Camp, nestled in a peaceful valley beneath dramatic mountain walls.
| Trekking Time | Distance | Start Altitude | Campsite Altitude |
| 4–5 hours | Approx. 9 km | 4,500 m | 4,250 m |
The day begins with a steep ascent to Santa Rosa Pass (5,050 m), one of the highest and most rewarding viewpoints in the Huayhuash Circuit.
From the summit, admire an extraordinary panorama featuring Yerupajá, Siula Grande, Sarapo, Jurao, and numerous glaciers rising above 6,000 meters. A careful descent leads into the remote Cutatambo Valley, where camp is surrounded by impressive alpine scenery.
| Trekking Time | Distance | Start Altitude | Campsite Altitude |
| 6–7 hours | Approx. 12 km | 4,250 m | 4,250 m |
Today is dedicated to exploring one of the most fascinating valleys of the Cordillera Huayhuash. Hiking toward Siula Base Camp, you’ll visit Lake Sarapo and the famous location associated with Joe Simpson’s legendary survival story, Touching the Void.
For hikers seeking an additional challenge, an optional climb to Cerro Gran Vista offers one of the finest panoramic viewpoints of the expedition, overlooking Siula Grande, Yerupajá Sur, Sarapo, and an impressive collection of glaciated peaks.
After exploring the valley, return to Cutatambo Camp for a second night.
| Trekking Time | Distance | Start Altitude | Campsite Altitude |
| 5–6 hours | Approx. 11 km | 4,250 m | 4,300 m |
Leaving Cutatambo behind, descend through the scenic Huanacpatay Valley until reaching the traditional village of Huayllapa, where hikers may purchase basic supplies and refreshments.
From the village, continue ascending through a narrow valley surrounded by native vegetation before reaching Huatiac Camp, located in peaceful high-altitude grasslands.
| Travel Time | Distance | Start Altitude | Finish Altitude |
| 6–7 hours by vehicle | Approx. 230 km | 3,600 m | Sea level (Barranca) or 3,100 m (Huaraz) |
After breakfast, private transportation departs from Huayllapa. Travelers may choose to continue toward the coastal city of Barranca, an excellent option for those planning to travel directly to Lima, or return to Huaraz to continue exploring the Cordillera Blanca.
For guests continuing to Lima, stored luggage can be delivered upon arrival in Barranca. This flexible ending makes the Huayhuash Trek 8 Days an excellent choice for travelers with limited time who still want to experience the highlights of one of the world’s finest trekking circuits.