The Santa Cruz Trek is one of the most spectacular and popular trekking routes in Peru. Located in the heart of the Cordillera Blanca, this multi-day adventure takes you through breathtaking valleys, turquoise glacial lakes, towering snow-capped peaks, and the iconic Punta Unión Pass at 4,750 m (15,584 ft). It is the perfect trek for travelers seeking stunning mountain scenery and an unforgettable Andean experience.
Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights
Difficulty: Moderate
Maximum Altitude: 4,750 m / 15,584 ft
Best Season: May – September
Why choose the Santa Cruz Trek?
Spectacular mountain scenery
Hike through one of the most beautiful mountain ranges in the world, surrounded by glaciers, alpine lakes, and dramatic peaks.
Punta unión pass
Cross the famous Punta Unión Pass and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Authentic andean experience
Discover remote landscapes, traditional communities, and the unique culture of the Peruvian Andes.
Ideal for nature novers
A perfect balance of adventure, natural beauty, and accessibility for trekkers with a reasonable level of fitness.
You’ll start with a 3–4 hour scenic drive from Huaraz, crossing the Portachuelo de Llanganuco (4,767 m), offering spectacular panoramic views of Huascarán and the Llanganuco Lakes.
The trek begins at Vaquería. Today features a relatively easy hike with a gentle uphill gradient, following a wide alpine valley. Along the route, you will pass small rural settlements before reaching the first campsite, ideal for acclimatization and rest.
Day 2: Paria – Punta Union Pass – Taullipampa Camp
Trekking Time
7-8 hours
Distance
13 km (8 miles)
Highest Altitude
4,750 m (Punta Union)
Campsite Altitude
4,250 m (Taullipampa)
This is the most demanding and rewarding day of the trek, featuring a sustained and steep ascent over several hours to reach the highest point of the route, the Punta Union Pass (4,750 m), where you are surrounded by a spectacular panorama of snow-capped peaks, including Taulliraju and Artesonraju—often referred to as the “Paramount Mountain”—with the Santa Cruz Valley extending below; after a brief stop to enjoy and celebrate the achievement at the pass, the route continues with a descent to the Taullipampa campsite, located in a high-Andean meadow with direct views of Taulliraju, offering an exceptional setting for rest and recovery.
Day 3: Taullipampa – Llamacorral Camp
Trekking Time
5-6 hours
Distance
16 km (10 miles)
Campsite Altitude
3,760 m (Llamacorral)
Today features a long and gradual descent through the Santa Cruz Valley, allowing for a comfortable pace and scenic walking.
Optional Side Trip: Many groups choose to take a 2–3 hour round-trip excursion to Laguna Arhuaycocha (4,450 m), a striking glacial lake located at the base of Alpamayo.
After completing the side trip, the route continues down the valley, passing the turquoise waters of Laguna Jatuncocha. The campsite at Llamacorral is set in a wide, grassy section of the valley, providing a comfortable and scenic camping area.
Day 4: Llamacorral – Cashapampa – Huaraz
Trekking Time
3-4 hours
Distance
10 km (6 miles)
End Altitude
2,900 m (Cashapampa)
The final day involves a straightforward descent, with some steeper sections, through the narrow lower end of the valley. The trail follows the river course until reaching the village of Cashapampa. Upon arrival, private transport will be waiting for the approximately 3-hour drive back to Huaraz, where a celebratory lunch or dinner is arranged to mark the successful completion of the trek.
Included
Meals
Breakfast: Omelettes, pancakes, fruit salad, scrambled eggs, coffee, tea, milk, hot chocolate, butter, jam, cheese, and more.
Morning Snack: Fresh fruit, chocolates, cookies (sweet and savory), and dried fruits.
Lunch: Salads, soups, rice, chicken, and coca tea.
Tea Time: A variety of hot drinks (coffee, tea, milk, and hot chocolate), savory crackers, popcorn, pizza, and cheese sticks.
Dinner: A variety of soups, salads, and main courses featuring pasta, chicken, trout, and beef; vegetarian options, dessert, and mulled wine.
Camping Equipment
Four-season sleeping tent.
High-density sleeping pad.
Kitchen tent.
Dining tent.
Portable toilet tent.
Tables and chairs.
Staff y Logistics
Certified bilingual trekking guide (English and Spanish).
Certified cook.
Pack donkeys and experienced muleteer.
Transportation of up to 5 kg (11 lbs) of personal luggage by donkey.
Complete kitchen and dining equipment.
First aid kit including treatment for altitude sickness.
Private transportation throughout the itinerary.
Hot water every afternoon for washing hands and face.
Boiled drinking water provided daily.
Traditional food and drinks on the final day in Huaraz.
Not Included
Sleeping bag (rental assistance available upon request).
Personal trekking equipment.
Breakfast on the first day.
Entrance fees to the Huayhuash Community.
Travel accident insurance and health insurance.
Transfers in Lima (airport/hotel/airport or bus station/hotel).
Bus ticket from Huaraz to Lima.
Luggage insurance and trip cancellation insurance.
Restaurant meals and additional beverages not specified in the itinerary.
Emergency horse.
Hotel nights in Huaraz.
Voluntary tips and gratuities.
Recommendations
Acclimatize for at least 2 days before starting the trek.
Bring appropriate mountain clothing, including thermal layers and waterproof gear.
Use sturdy hiking boots suitable for high-altitude trekking.
Stay well hydrated throughout the trek.
Carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun hat.
Bring a lightweight daypack for daily essentials.
Respect the natural environment and local communities.
Inform us in advance of any medical conditions or dietary requirements.
Follow your guide’s instructions at all times for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Enjoy one of the most beautiful trekking adventures in the Peruvian Andes.
Ready for your next adventure?
Challenge yourself on the most spectacular trekking routes in the Peruvian Andes. From the stunning Cordillera Blanca to the world-renowned Huayhuash Circuit, our expertly guided treks combine adventure, safety, and authentic local experiences
