Huayhuash Trek – 10 Days
One of the most spectacular trekking circuits in the world
The Huayhuash Trek is considered one of the finest high-altitude trekking adventures on the planet. Located in the magnificent Cordillera Huayhuash of Peru, this incredible journey takes hikers through remote valleys, crystal-clear glacial lakes, high mountain passes, and some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Andes. Along the route, trekkers enjoy unforgettable views of towering peaks such as Yerupajá, Siula Grande, Jirishanca, and Rondoy. This trek is ideal for adventure seekers looking for a challenging and rewarding mountain experience.
Duration:
10 Days / 9 Nights
Difficulty:
Challenging
Maximum Altitude:
5,000 m / 16,404 ft
Best Season:
May – September
Itinerary Huayhuash Trek – 10 Days / 9 Nights
| Trekking Time | Distance | Start Altitude | Campsite Altitude |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4–5 hours | Approx. 10 km | 3,600 m | 4,180 m |
Your Huayhuash Trek begins with an early morning drive from Huaraz through the southern Andes, passing the traditional towns of Recuay, Ticapampa, Cátac, and the high plains of Conococha before reaching Chiquián, known as the gateway to the Cordillera Huayhuash.
The journey continues through the villages of Llamac and Pocpa, where you’ll meet the muleteers and trekking staff. From here, the hike begins with a gradual ascent through open valleys, passing old mining areas and enjoying the first panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
By late afternoon, you’ll reach Cuartelhuain Camp, located beneath the impressive Ninashanca Peak, where you’ll spend your first night surrounded by the silence of the high Andes.
| Trekking Time | Distance | Start Altitude | Campsite Altitude |
| 5–6 hours | Approx. 12 km | 4,180 m | 4,230 m |
After breakfast, the trail climbs steadily to Cacanan Punta Pass (4,700 m), crossing the continental divide and offering the first spectacular mountain panoramas of the expedition.
From the pass, descend into a picturesque valley surrounded by rugged peaks before arriving at Mitucocha Lake. The campsite enjoys magnificent views of Jirishanca and Ninashanca, creating one of the most photogenic settings of the entire trek.
| Trekking Time | Distance | Start Altitude | Campsite Altitude |
| 5–6 hours | Approx. 11 km | 4,230 m | 4,140 m |
Today’s trail gently ascends to Carhuac Pass (4,650 m), where some of the most iconic peaks of the Cordillera Huayhuash come into view, including Yerupajá (6,617 m), Peru’s second-highest mountain, Siula Grande, and Jirishanca.
The descent leads to the stunning turquoise waters of Lake Carhuacocha, one of the highlights of the Huayhuash Circuit. Camp is set beside the lake with breathtaking glacier views.
| Trekking Time | Distance | Start Altitude | Campsite Altitude |
| 6–7 hours | Approx. 13 km | 4,140 m | 4,350 m |
One of the most spectacular days of the Huayhuash Trek begins before sunrise. As the first light illuminates Lake Carhuacocha, the surrounding peaks are beautifully reflected in its calm waters.
The trail climbs toward the Siula viewpoint, revealing an unforgettable panorama over the glacial lakes Siula, Quesillococha, and Gangrajanca. Continuing to Siula Pass (4,830 m), you’ll enjoy sweeping views across both the Huayhuash and Raura mountain ranges before descending to Huayhuash Camp.
| Trekking Time | Distance | Start Altitude | Campsite Altitude |
| 4–5 hours | Approx. 10 km | 4,350 m | 4,360 m |
Today’s route climbs gradually toward Portachuelo de Huayhuash Pass (4,750 m), offering magnificent views of Trapecio and Puscanturpa Mountains.
Descending into the Viconga Valley, you’ll reach one of the most relaxing campsites of the trek. Nearby natural hot springs provide the perfect opportunity to soak and recover after several days of hiking.
| Trekking Time | Distance | Start Altitude | Campsite Altitude |
| 7–8 hours | Approx. 15 km | 4,360 m | 4,200 m |
Today is one of the most demanding yet rewarding stages of the expedition. The climb reaches Cuyoc Pass (5,000 m), one of the highest points of the Huayhuash Circuit.
A short detour to the San Antonio Viewpoint offers one of the finest panoramic views in the Andes, overlooking Yerupajá, Siula Grande, towering glaciers, and deep alpine valleys. After enjoying this unforgettable scenery, descend toward Huanacpatay Camp.
| Trekking Time | Distance | Start Altitude | Campsite Altitude |
| 6–7 hours | Approx. 13 km | 4,200 m | 4,300 m |
The trail descends through the Huanacpatay Valley toward the remote village of Huayllapa, one of the few permanently inhabited communities within the Huayhuash region.
After a short rest, continue climbing through lush vegetation and narrow valleys before reaching Huatiac Camp, surrounded by open grasslands and mountain scenery.We continue through beautiful valleys and cross the Huatiac Pass before descending toward the traditional Andean village of Huayllapa. This day offers a unique opportunity to observe local life in the highlands.
| Trekking Time | Distance | Start Altitude | Campsite Altitude |
| 4–5 hours | Approx. 10 km | 4,300 m | 4,450 m |
Today’s ascent leads to Tapush Pass (4,750 m), where magnificent views of Diablo Mudo, Lake Susucocha, and distant peaks of the Cordillera Blanca await.
Descending through native Polylepis forests, you’ll arrive at Gashpapampa Camp, a peaceful location surrounded by high Andean vegetation.
| Trekking Time | Distance | Start Altitude | Campsite Altitude |
| 5–6 hours | Approx. 11 km | 4,450 m | 4,050 m |
Another unforgettable day begins with the climb to Yaucha Pass (4,830 m). From the summit, enjoy one of the most celebrated panoramas of the entire Huayhuash Circuit, featuring Yerupajá, Jirishanca, Siula Grande, and, with some luck, soaring Andean condors.
Descending toward Lake Jahuacocha, you’ll reach one of Peru’s most spectacular campsites. Spend the afternoon relaxing beside the lake while admiring the towering glaciers reflected in its crystal-clear waters.
| Trekking Time | Distance | Start Altitude | Finish Altitude |
| 4–5 hours | Approx. 11 km | 4,050 m | 3,100 m (Huaraz) |
Your final trekking day begins with a gradual ascent to Pampa Llamac Pass (4,300 m), where you’ll enjoy your last panoramic views of the magnificent Cordillera Huayhuash.
A steady descent leads to the village of Llamac, where private transportation awaits for the return journey to Huaraz. As the mountains fade into the distance, you’ll leave with unforgettable memories of one of the world’s greatest high-altitude trekking adventures.