Santa Cruz Trek – 4D / 3N

The Santa Cruz Trek is the most iconic journey through the Cordillera Blanca. Over 4 days, you will traverse the heart of Huascarán National Park, crossing the spectacular Punta Unión pass (4,750m) and witnessing legendary peaks like Alpamayo and Artesonraju. A world-class classic known for its stunning turquoise lagoons and dramatic Andean landscapes.

Andes by Walk
5
Santa Cruz Trek

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Overview

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Itinerary

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What´s included

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What to bring

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Departures

Duration

4 Days – 3 Nights

Distance

Approx. 62 km

Elevation

3300 – 4700 m

Difficulty

Moderate – Difficult

Departure

Huaraz – Cashapampa

Arrival

Vaqueria

Locality

Ancash

Availability

March – November

Group Size

5 – 10

$360 USD

Per person

Departure from Huaraz toward the northeast, heading into the Callejón de Huaylas.
Along the way, we will make several stops to enjoy views of the Cordillera Blanca, including Mount Huascarán, the highest peak in Peru (22,205 ft).
Upon arrival in Cashapampa, we will begin the hike, entering the Santa Cruz Valley toward the Llamacorral campsite.
Meals included: Lunch on the trail, a small snack during the trek, and dinner at the campsite.
Approximate time: 3 hours of transportation and 5 hours of trekking.

After breakfast, we begin the hike through the Santa Cruz Valley, passing near Jatuncocha and Arhuaycocha lakes.
During the journey, you can observe several snow-capped peaks, including Alpamayo, considered one of the most beautiful mountains in the world.
Arrival at the Taullipampa campsite.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch on the trail, and dinner at the campsite.
Approximate time: 7 to 8 hours of trekking.

After breakfast, we begin the ascent toward the Punta Unión Pass, the highest point of the trek, which offers sweeping views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
Afterward, we descend to the Cachinapampa campsite.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch on the trail, and dinner at the campsite.
Approximate time: 7 hours of trekking.

We descend through the Huaripampa Valley, passing through small villages and enjoying the Andean scenery.
Upon reaching Vaquería, we take the return transportation to Huaraz.
Meals included: Breakfast and lunch in the city of Huaraz.
Approximate time: 3 hours of trekking and 4 hours of transportation.

Agency Provides:

Round-trip Transportation
Official (Experienced) Guide
Cook
Donkeys / Mules (for carrying gear)
Fleece Blankets / Sleeping Liners
Sleeping Pads / Insulated Mats
Shared Tents
Chairs and Tables
Dining Tent
Kitchen Tent
Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)
Oxygen for High Altitude
First Aid Kit
Satellite Phone / Communication Device
Solar Battery / Portable Power

What you must bring for the trek (Packing List):

Trekking Boots
Camp Shoes/Sandals and extra layers for the trek (pants, shirts, jackets, etc.)
Sun Hat or Cap
Warm Jacket / Insulated Coat
Sleeping Bag
Trekking Pants and Sunglasses
Coca leaves (optional – helps with altitude)
Water Purification Tablets
Water Bottle or Canteen
Toilet Paper, Headlamp or Handheld Light
Snacks (dried fruits, energy bars, etc.)
Personal Backpack (Daypack) to carry your belongings during the hike
Trekking Poles (if you suffer from knee problems or other discomfort)
Camera
Important Note on Luggage: You must limit your personal gear to 5 to 6 kilograms (approx. 11-13 lbs) per person for the donkey to carry (trekking gear)
National Park Entrance Fee
Carry cash: for community entrance payments or basic restroom fees at certain locations