Venturing into the majestic Cordillera Blanca, the Ancash region of Peru offers an unparalleled mountaineering experience. The 2-day, 1-night expedition to Vallunaraju promises adrenaline-filled moments and breathtaking vistas. Trekkers will embark on a scenic journey, hike to a basecamp, and conquer a challenging glacier ascent, all while marveling at the stunning natural wonders that surround them. With expert guidance and essential gear, this all-inclusive package guarantees an unforgettable adventure for those seeking to explore the towering peaks and captivating landscapes of this remarkable region.
Key Points
- A 2-day, 1-night mountaineering excursion to the summit of Vallunaraju (5,685 m) in the Cordillera Blanca mountain range of Huascaran National Park, Ancash.
- The package includes round-trip transport, a professional mountain guide, camping equipment, and essential climbing gear for $446 per person.
- The itinerary involves a hike to a moraine area on Day 1, followed by an early morning glacier ascent to the summit on Day 2.
- The expedition is not suitable for pregnant women, recent surgery patients, or individuals over 70, and requires good physical fitness and prior mountaineering experience.
- The tour provides an opportunity to witness the stunning landscapes of the Cordillera Blanca and challenge one’s climbing skills on the southwestern face of Vallunaraju.
Overview and Pricing
The mountaineering activity to Vallunaraju offers a 2-day excursion in the stunning Cordillera Blanca region within Huascaran National Park, Ancash.
Priced from $446 per person, this adventure includes round-trip tourist transport, a mountain guide, camping equipment, and climbing gear.
Participants can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
The activity isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with recent surgeries, or individuals over 70 years old.
Guests will enjoy panoramic views of Huascaran, Huandoy, Chacraraju, and other iconic peaks during their summit of Vallunaraju at 5,685 meters.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Huaraz.
Itinerary
On the first day, participants are picked up from their hotel between 7:30 and 8:00 am for the approximately 2-hour drive to Quebrada Llaca.
From there, they hike through a zigzag vertical path to the moraine area, where they’ll spend the night at Campo Morrena at an altitude of 5000 m.
On the second day, the group wakes up at 2:00 a.m. and, after preparing their climbing gear, begins the ascent to the glacier.
They then climb the southwest face, navigating cracks and paths, until they reach the summit of Vallunaraju at 5685 m, offering panoramic views of the Cordillera Blanca and its peaks.
Day 1 Highlights
Participants embark on their mountaineering journey with a pickup from their hotel between 7:30 and 8:00 am. The drive to Quebrada Llaca takes approximately 2 hours. From there, they hike through a zigzag vertical path to the moraine area, which is their overnight campsite, Campo Morrena, at an altitude of 5000 m.
Start Time | Location | Distance | Duration |
---|---|---|---|
7:30 am | Pickup from hotel | – | – |
8:00 am | Depart for Quebrada Llaca | ~2 hours | |
– | Hike to moraine area | – | – |
– | Overnight at Campo Morrena (5000 m) | – | – |
Day 2 Highlights
Day 2 begins at 2:00 a.m. with an early breakfast, as participants prepare to ascend the glacier after gearing up.
The climb along the southwest face demands navigating cracks and paths, with the summit of Vallunaraju (5685 m) rewarding climbers with panoramic views of the Cordillera Blanca, including the majestic peaks of Huascaran, Huandoy, Chacraraju, Copa, and Chopicalqui.
The descent takes approximately 3 hours to reach the moraine, followed by 2 hours to Quebrada Llaca.
The highlights of Day 2 include:
- Reaching the summit of Vallunaraju
- Enjoying breathtaking panoramic views of the Cordillera Blanca
- Navigating the challenging glacier and terrain during the climb and descent
Included in the Package
Included in the package is tourist transport for the round-trip journey, along with the services of an experienced mountain guide.
You’ll also get all the necessary camping cooking equipment and a sleeping mat. The entrance ticket to Huascarán National Park is covered, as are the essential climbing gears like ropes, ice axes, crampons, helmets, harnesses, and carabiners.
This comprehensive package ensures you can focus on the exhilarating experience of scaling Vallunaraju without worrying about organizing the logistics.
With these inclusions, you’re well-equipped to conquer the mountain and revel in the breathtaking panoramic views of the Cordillera Blanca peaks.
What’s Not Included
Besides the inclusions listed, you will need to bring their own personal expenses and equipment. This includes:
- Mountain pants, jacket, shoes, and appropriate clothing
- Medications, sleeping bag, and backpack
- Sunglasses to protect from glare
Plus, meals not mentioned in the package and tips for the guide aren’t covered.
Participants are also advised to bring a small backpack to carry their personal items during the hike.
It’s important to note that the use of pets, alcohol, and drugs is strictly prohibited on this mountaineering expedition.
Participant Restrictions
This mountaineering expedition to Vallunaraju isn’t suitable for everyone. It’s important to note the participant restrictions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Restrictions | Details |
---|---|
Not Suitable For | – Pregnant women – Individuals with recent surgeries – People over 70 years |
Not Allowed | – Pets – Alcohol and drugs |
The expedition requires a good level of physical fitness and prior experience in mountaineering. Participants should come prepared with appropriate clothing, equipment, and a positive mindset to conquer this challenging yet rewarding peak. Proper precautions are in place to prioritize the safety and well-being of all adventurers.
Language and Experience
A live tour guide is available for this mountaineering expedition to Vallunaraju, providing commentary in both Spanish and English. The guide’s expertise ensures participants fully appreciate the beauty and challenges of this iconic peak.
This mountaineering experience is known as the "mountain of dreams", offering:
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The opportunity to witness the diverse landscapes of the Cordillera Blanca, including the towering summits of Huascaran, Huandoy, Chacraraju, Copa, and Chopicalqui.
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The chance to test one’s endurance and climbing skills on the southwestern face of Vallunaraju, navigating cracks and paths to reach the 5,685-meter summit.
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An unforgettable connection with nature and a sense of accomplishment in conquering this majestic mountain.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Difficulty Level of the Climbing Route?
The climbing route to Vallunaraju is considered a moderate-to-difficult level, requiring experience in mountaineering and technical skills to navigate the glacier, cracks, and steep terrain on the southwest face to reach the summit at 5,685 meters.
Can I Rent Equipment On-Site if I Don’t Have My Own?
Yes, the tour operator provides all the necessary climbing equipment like ropes, ice axes, crampons, helmets, harnesses, and carabiners. Participants don’t need to bring their own gear as it’s included in the package.
Is There an Option to Hire a Porter to Carry My Gear?
Yes, there’s an option to hire a porter to carry your gear. Porters can be arranged through the tour provider and are an additional service not included in the base package price.
Can I Book This Tour With a Group of Friends?
Yes, you can book this mountaineering tour with a group of friends. The activity allows for group bookings, and the pricing is based on a per-person rate. Reservations can be made without an upfront payment.
How Do I Prepare Physically for This Mountaineering Expedition?
To prepare physically for this mountaineering expedition, one should engage in regular cardio exercises like hiking, jogging, and cycling to build endurance. Strength training for core and leg muscles is also recommended to handle the rigorous climb.
Recap
Embark on an unforgettable 2-day, 1-night mountaineering adventure to Vallunaraju in Ancash, Peru. Reach stunning heights of 5,685 meters, hike through scenic landscapes, and conquer a challenging glacier ascent. This all-inclusive package offers expert guides, essential gear, and necessary permits for an exhilarating experience amidst the majestic Cordillera Blanca.
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