Trekking Cordillera Huayhuash: 10 Days and 9 Nights

Trekking the Cordillera Huayhuash in Peru’s stunning Andes is a challenge not for the faint-hearted. This 10-day adventure through pristine alpine landscapes promises to push even the most experienced outdoor enthusiasts. Guided by seasoned professionals, you will navigate high mountain passes, glaciated peaks, and tranquil lakes, all while camping under a blanket of stars at dizzying elevations. But for those who dare to embark on this rewarding expedition, the rewards are truly unparalleled. With a limited group size, trekkers can enjoy the breathtaking beauty of this remote region, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Key Points

• The Cordillera Huayhuash trekking adventure is a 10-day, 9-night journey through the Peruvian Andes, offering stunning high mountain passes, glaciated peaks, and pristine alpine lakes.
• The trek is led by experienced guides and accommodates a maximum of 15 participants, with a starting price of €814.41 per person and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• The itinerary highlights include challenging high-altitude passes, such as the Carhuac pass (4,650 meters) and the Siula pass (4,800 meters), as well as the Huayhuash camp (4,300 meters).
• The trek includes essential services such as quality service guarantee, acclimatization tour, camping equipment, meals, transportation, and a team of professional guides, cooks, and muleteers.
• Participants must meet specific restrictions, including no children under 10, pregnant women, or wheelchair users, and should avoid the trek if they have vertigo, respiratory issues, or altitude sickness.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Trekking Overview

Trekking the Cordillera Huayhuash is a 10-day, 9-night journey through the stunning Peruvian Andes.

The price starts at €814.41 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. This small-group trek is limited to 15 participants and led by experienced guides in English, Spanish, and French.

Highlights include crossing high mountain passes, camping amidst glaciated peaks, and exploring pristine alpine lakes.

The tour includes all necessary camping equipment, meals, transportation, and acclimatization activities.

However, it’s not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those with medical conditions that could be exacerbated by high altitudes.

Itinerary Highlights

The 10-day, 9-night trekking journey begins in Huaraz, where participants make their way to Chiquian, Llamac, and the camp at Cuartelhuain at an elevation of 4,180 meters.

The first pass is at Cacananpunta, 4,700 meters, with scenic views of Nevado Ninashanca, Rondoy, and Jirishanca.

On day 2, trekkers reach Carhuacocha, 4,280 meters, crossing the Carhuac pass at 4,650 meters, with vistas of Nevado Carnicero and Yerupaja.

Day 3 is the hardest, with 7-8 hours of trekking to reach Huayhuash, 4,300 meters, and the challenging Siula pass at 4,800 meters.

The following days bring more high-altitude passes and stunning landscapes before the trek ends at Pocpa, 3,500 meters.

Included Services

The tour package includes a range of valuable services to ensure a quality trekking experience in the Cordillera Huayhuash.

Participants can count on a quality service guarantee, along with entry tickets to the Cordillera Huayhuash. An acclimatization tour is included, as well as all camping equipment.

Meals are provided, with 5 meals per day included during the trek. Round-trip private transportation and the services of professional guides, cooks, and muleteers are also included.

This comprehensive package aims to make the Cordillera Huayhuash trek as seamless and enjoyable as possible for participants.

Participant Restrictions

Not everyone is suitable for the Cordillera Huayhuash trek. This challenging hike has restrictions on who can participate.

Children under 10, pregnant women, and wheelchair users aren’t permitted. Those with vertigo, respiratory issues, epilepsy, altitude sickness, or other pre-existing medical conditions should avoid this trek.

Plus, people over 95 years old aren’t allowed. The high altitudes, strenuous terrain, and remote location make this trek unsuitable for these groups.

Prospective participants must carefully consider their physical and medical fitness before signing up. The trek organizers reserve the right to deny participation to anyone they deem unfit or unable to complete the journey safely.

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Packing List

Preparing the right equipment and gear is crucial for a successful trek through the Cordillera Huayhuash. Trekkers should pack essential items like their passport, comfortable shoes, warm clothing, windbreaker, sunglasses, sun hat, towel, camera, sunscreen, water bottle, personal medication, and a first-aid kit.

Optional items include hiking gear, biodegradable products, and quick-dry clothing. It’s important to remember that the trek involves high altitudes, so proper acclimatization and preparation are necessary.

Day 01: Huaraz to Cuartelhuain

Where does the trekking journey begin? The Cordillera Huayhuash trekking adventure starts in Huaraz.

From there, the group travels to Chiquian and then Llamac, reaching the first camp at Cuartelhuain at an elevation of 4,180 meters.

The first day’s hike includes crossing the Cacananpunta pass at 4,700 meters, with stunning views of nearby snow-capped peaks like Nevado Ninashanca, Rondoy, and Jirishanca.

The group then descends to camp at Janca, situated at 4,230 meters.

This initial day sets the stage for the challenging yet rewarding trek through the magnificent Cordillera Huayhuash range.

Day 02: Mitucocha to Carhuacocha

On the second day, the group moves from Mitucocha at 4,230 meters to the Carhuacocha camp at 4,280 meters.

They’ll ascend the second pass, Carhuac, at 4,650 meters, offering views of Nevado Carnicero and Yerupaja.

This day’s trek is moderate, taking 6-7 hours. Trekkers will need to be prepared for the gradual climb and descent.

The campsite at Carhuacocha provides stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Participants should ensure they stay hydrated, maintain a steady pace, and listen to their guides for any important safety instructions throughout the day’s hike.

Day 03: Carhuacocha to Huayhuash

The third day marks the toughest segment of the trek, as the group embarks on the arduous journey from Carhuacocha at 4,280 meters to Huayhuash at 4,300 meters. This 7-8 hour trek features the challenging Siula pass at 4,800 meters, requiring careful navigation and endurance. The route offers stunning vistas of the surrounding Nevados, but the high altitude and steep ascents make this a grueling day. Proper acclimatization and pacing are essential to successfully reach the Huayhuash campsite.

Challenge	Elevation
Carhuacocha	4,280 m
Siula Pass	4,800 m
Huayhuash	4,300 m
Duration	7-8 hours

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Weather Like During the Trek?

The weather can be unpredictable in the Cordillera Huayhuash region. Trekkers should expect cold temperatures, high winds, and potential snowfall, particularly at higher elevations. Proper layering and preparation for variable conditions is essential for a safe and comfortable trek.

Can I Bring My Dog on the Trek?

No, dogs are not allowed on the Cordillera Huayhuash trek. The trek involves challenging high-altitude terrain and environments not suitable for pets. Only registered participants and necessary support staff are permitted to join the guided group.

Is It Possible to Extend the Trek Duration?

The trek duration can likely be extended, but it’s best to consult the tour operator. They’ll advise on the feasibility and any additional costs based on your desired itinerary changes.

Are There Any Cultural Activities Included in the Itinerary?

The itinerary doesn’t mention any cultural activities, though the trek passes through remote Andean villages where travelers may have opportunities to interact with locals and observe traditional ways of life along the route.

Can I Rent Equipment From the Tour Operator?

Yes, the tour operator provides all necessary camping equipment for the trek. Participants can rent any additional hiking gear they may need, such as backpacks, trekking poles, or sleeping bags, directly from the operator.

Recap

Trekking the Cordillera Huayhuash is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure for outdoor enthusiasts. The 10-day journey through the Peruvian Andes offers stunning vistas, including pristine alpine lakes and glaciated peaks. Guided by experienced professionals, trekkers must be physically fit to navigate the high-altitude challenges, making this expedition a rewarding experience for those seeking an unforgettable wilderness escape.

You can check if your dates are available here: