Huayhuash Trek – 10 days / 9 Nights
Experience the full grandeur of the Huayhuash Circuit in a focused 10-day itinerary. Hike the highest passes and camp beneath the range’s most iconic snow-capped peaks.
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Duration
10 Days – 9 Nights
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Distance
Approx. 105 km
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Elevation
3300 – 5000 m
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Difficulty
Moderate – Difficult
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Departure
Huaraz – Cuartelhuain
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Arrival
Llamac – Huaraz
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Locality
Ancash, Huanuco, Lima
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Availability
March – November
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Group Size
5–10
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$770 USD
Per person
- Driving time: 5 to 6 hours from Huaraz to Cuartelhuain.
- Hiking time: 4 to 6 hours from Cuartelhuain to Cacañanpunta Pass and descent to Janca.
The adventure begins at 3:00 a.m. with the departure from Huaraz toward Chiquián, traveling through the southern villages of the Callejón de Huaylas. From Cuartelhuain, the hike starts toward the Cacañanpunta Pass, with views of the Ninashanca and Rondoy peaks and the Pucacocha Lake. Then, the route descends to Janca to set up camp and visit Mitucocha Lake before resting.
- Hiking time: Approx. 5 to 6 hours.
After breakfast, the hike begins with a gentle ascent through the valley to reach Punta Carhuac Pass (15,256 ft / 4,650 m), offering panoramic views of the Yerupajá and Jirishanca peaks and the mountain range. After the pass, the route descends toward the La Tam viewpoint, a strategic spot to observe the entire valley and the lakes in the area, providing one of the most expansive and beautiful views of the day. The descent continues with lunch along the way, surrounded by the Andean landscape. Finally, the path leads to the spectacular Carhuacocha Lake (13,583 ft / 4,140 m) to set up camp. - Overnight: Carhuacocha Campsite.
- Hiking time: Approx. 7–8 hours.
From Carhuacocha, the ascent begins toward the Three Lakes Viewpoint (Mirador de las Tres Lagunas), with spectacular views of the main peaks of the Huayhuash Mountain Range. The trek continues to the Siulá Pass (15,846 ft / 4,830 m), the highest point of the day, and then descends to the Huayhuash campsite.
- Hiking time: Approx. 5–6 hours.
The group departs from the Huayhuash campsite and ascends to the Portachuelo Pass (15,584 ft / 4,750 m), enjoying panoramic views of the peaks and valleys. Then, the route descends to the Guñog Hot Springs, which are ideal for relaxing muscles and recovering energy before continuing the trek.
- Hiking time: Approx. 5–6 hours.
Starting from the Guñoc Hot Springs, the trek ascends to the Cuyoc Pass (15,584 ft / 4,750 m), offering spectacular views of the peaks and glaciers in the area. The route then descends to Cuyocpampa, where the camp will be set up to rest after a demanding day.
- Hiking time: Approx. 6–7 hours.
From Cuyocpampa, the hike begins by ascending toward Santa Rosa, enjoying the landscape of lakes and glaciers. The trek continues to the Cutanbo Pass (13,780 ft / 4,200 m), providing panoramic views of the valley and nearby peaks. Finally, the route descends toward Huayllapa to set up camp and rest.
- Hiking time: Approx. 6–7 hours.
From the camp in Huayllapa, the hike begins with an ascent to Punta Tapush (15,420 ft / 4,700 m), where a spectacular panorama of the Huayhuash Mountain Range and its peaks is visible. The route then descends toward the valley to reach Gashpapampa and set up camp.
- Hiking time: Approx. 6–7 hours.
From Gashpapampa, the hike starts by ascending to the Yaucho Pass (14,764 ft / 4,500 m), with spectacular views of the mountain range’s peaks and glaciers. Then, the descent leads to Jahuacocha Lake, where the final camp will be established to enjoy the scenery and tranquility.
This day is dedicated to resting and recovering from the demanding trekking days. You can enjoy the scenery of Jahuacocha Lake, take optional short hikes, or simply relax at the campsite.
The descent begins from Jahuacocha, crossing Pampa Llamac until reaching the village of Llamac. From there, a vehicle transfer leads back to Huaraz, where the agency will provide a friendly farewell and a closing lunch to celebrate the adventure in the Cordillera Huayhuash.
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
| Start Date | End Date | Details | Status |
| -/-/- | -/-/- | ————————– | Sold Out |
| -/-/- | -/-/- | ————————– | Available |
Huayhuash Trek - 10 Days / 9 Nights
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