Huayhuash Classic Trek – 12D / 11N

Conquer the full 12-day circuit, widely regarded as the most spectacular trek in the Andes. A total immersion into the Cordillera’s untouched wilderness.

Andes by Walk
5
Classic 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

12 Days – 11 Nights

Distance

Approx. 120 km

Elevation

3300 – 5000 m

Difficulty

Moderate – Difficult

Departure

Huaraz – Cuartelhuain

Arrival

Llamac – Huaraz

Locality

Ancash, Huanuco, Lima

Availability

March – November

Group Size

5 – 10

$900 USD

Per person

Travel time: Approximately 4.5 to 5 hours by vehicle.
Early morning departure from Huaraz heading south, passing through Recuay, Ticapampa, and Catac. We continue toward Conococha (13,451 ft) and descend to Chiquián (11,811 ft) for a brief stop. The route follows a narrow road with beautiful landscapes toward Llamac and then Pocpa, the last village before the circuit. Finally, we continue by vehicle to Cuartelhuain (13,714 ft), where the first camp is set up.
Overnight: Cuartelhuain Camp.

Hiking time: Approximately 5 to 6 hours.
After breakfast, we begin the hike from Cuartelhuain with a gradual ascent toward Cacanan Punta Pass (15,420 ft), the first pass of the circuit. From the summit, enjoy panoramic views of Mounts Rondoy and Ninashanca.
We then begin the descent through a wide and colorful valley, having lunch along the way as we move toward the camp. The route ends at the beautiful Mitucocha Lake (13,878 ft), where the camp is set up.
Overnight: Mitucocha Camp

Hiking time: Approximately 5 to 6 hours.
After breakfast, we begin the hike by gently ascending the valley to reach Punta Carhuac Pass (15,256 ft), which offers panoramic views of Mounts Yerupajá and Jirishanca, and the mountain range.
After the pass, we descend toward La Tam viewpoint, a strategic spot for observing the entire valley and the lakes in the sector.
We continue the descent and have lunch on the trail. Finally, the route leads to the spectacular Carhuacocha Lake (13,583 ft), where the camp is set up.
Overnight: Carhuacocha Camp.

Hiking time: Approximately 7 to 8 hours.
The most scenic day of the circuit.
After breakfast, we begin the hike bordering Carhuacocha Lake, heading toward the famous three turquoise lakes: Gangrajanca, Siula, and Quesillococha.
The route continues with a demanding but spectacular ascent toward Siula Pass (15,846 ft), one of the most impressive points in Huayhuash. We luego descend toward the valley and have lunch on the trail.
We continue descending to the Huayhuash camp (14,272 ft).
Overnight: Huayhuash Camp.

Hiking time: Approximately 4.5 to 5.5 hours.
After breakfast, we leave the Huayhuash camp to gradually ascend toward Portachuelo Pass (15,584 ft). From this point, you have wide views of the valley and Mounts Carnicero, Trapecio, and Puscanturpa.
After enjoying the panorama, we begin the descent toward the Viconga area. Lunch is served along the way.
Finally, we arrive at Viconga camp (14,304 ft), home to famous natural hot springs.
Overnight: Viconga Camp.

Hiking time: Approximately 6 to 7 hours.
The highest point of the circuit.
After breakfast, we begin a steady ascent from Viconga toward Cuyoc Pass (16,404 ft). The summit features a natural viewpoint with a spectacular view of Mount Cuyoc and the deep Huanacpatay Valley.
After enjoying this viewpoint, we begin a steep descent toward the valley. Lunch is served along the way.
Finally, we continue along a gentler path to reach Huanacpatay camp (14,764 ft).
Overnight: Huanacpatay Camp.

Hiking time: Approximately 6 to 7 hours.
One of the best viewpoints of the circuit.
After breakfast, we begin the hike from Pampa Elefante, ascending toward the imposing San Antonio Pass (16,568 ft). The climb is demanding, but the reward is extraordinary: the San Antonio viewpoint is considered one of the best in the Cordillera Huayhuash.
We then begin a steep descent toward the valley and have lunch on the trail.
The day ends at the peaceful Cutatambo camp (13,944 ft), located at the foot of Siula Grande.
Overnight: Cutatambo Camp.

Hiking time: Approximately 5 to 6 hours (round trip).
Exploration day.
After breakfast, we begin a light hike through the valley toward Sarapo Lake, located at the foot of the majestic Siula Grande.
Upon reaching Sarapo Lake, we enjoy a unique landscape of turquoise waters surrounded by great mountains. Lunch is served during the excursion.
After enjoying the scenery, we return to Cutatambo camp, also known as the Siula base camp.
Overnight: Cutatambo Camp.

Hiking time: Approximately 7 to 8 hours.
A day of descent followed by ascent.
After breakfast, we begin a long descent from Cutatambo through the valley to the Andean village of Huayllapa (11,811 ft). Lunch is served along the way.
After a brief rest, we resume the hike with a steady ascent through a zigzagging trail.
Finally, we reach Huatiac camp (13,780 ft).
Overnight: Huatiac Camp.

Hiking time: Approximately 6 to 7 hours.
Scenic day toward the Jahuacocha Valley.
After breakfast, we begin the hike from Huatiac with a gradual ascent toward Yaucha Pass (15,748 ft). The climb is steady and offers views of Mounts Yerupajá, Jirishanca, and Rondoy.
After enjoying the pass, we begin a long descent toward the valley. Lunch is served along the way.
Finally, we descend to the beautiful Jahuacocha Lake (13,287 ft), one of the most iconic spots on the circuit.
Overnight: Jahuacocha Camp.

Optional visit to: Sambuya Viewpoint.

Hiking time: Approximately 4.5 to 5.5 hours.
Return by vehicle to Huaraz: Approximately 4 to 5 hours.
After breakfast, we begin the final hike of the circuit, bordering Jahuacocha Lake and ascending to Pampa Llamac (10,827 ft) for a final view of the Cordillera Huayhuash. Then, we descend to the village of Llamac (10,170 ft).
During the journey, we will have a light lunch to maintain energy.
Upon arrival in Llamac, we board the return vehicle to Huaraz. Once in the city, the agency will welcome participants with a regional specialty: pork Pachamanca cooked on stones.
End of service.

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