Huayhuash Classic Trek - 10 days

After the breakfast, we begins with our hike following the trail climbs gradually along a grassy slope. After crossing a stream, the path begins to zigzag up a grassy ridge, continuing steadily over rocky and loose terrain. The final section becomes steeper as we reach the rocky and windy Cacanan Punta Pass (4,690 m). From the pass, we are rewarded with impressive panoramic views, with Quebrada Caliente stretching out below. One of the highlights of the day is the great chance to observe majestic Andean condors soaring above the pass, a truly unforgettable sight. The trail then descends steeply along zigzags until we reach the junction with an alternative route. We take this path to Laguna Mitucocha, which offers a more interesting and scenic route compared to the standard trail. From here, the trail descends through a small river valley to the terminal moraine in the main valley below Mitucocha. From this point, it’s possible to explore the lake or head directly to the official campsite. From the campsite, the views open dramatically before us, with Nevado Shirishanca and Ninashanca rising impressively in the background—a perfect end to a day full of alpine adventure. Snack + lunch while walking.

Today’s trek follows a gently graded trail along mostly flat terrain up to Punta Carhuac Pass (4,640 m). From the pass, we are rewarded with tremendous views of the highest summits of the Huayhuash, including Yerupaja (6,617m), the legendary Siula Grande (6,344 m), and Shirishanca, famously known as the Hummingbird Peak. From the pass, the trail descends toward Laguna Carhuacocha along Quebrada Yanahuaya. As we reach a small hill and turn east, the large emerald-green Laguna Carhuacocha comes into view, framed by towering, resplendent peaks that dominate the western skyline. Near the lakeside, an idyllic campsite awaits, offering the perfect setting to rest while surrounded by this spectacular alpine scenery. Snack + lunch while walking.

For today, we offer two trekking routes depending on your fitness and energy level:

Option 1 – Carnicero Pass (4,600 m): This route is suitable for those who prefer a gentler hike or feel a bit tired. It is less demanding but still offers beautiful scenery and a rewarding trekking experience.

Option 2 – Siula Pass (challenging): This route is more demanding and challenging, but absolutely worthwhile. The mountains cape is extraordinary, with a tremendous viewpoint overlooking three sparkling glacial lakes set against superlative jagged peaks. The trail climbs gently toward the base of the pass, and the final section to the top involves a steep zigzag, rewarding your effort with breathtaking views. From the pass, the Cordillera Raura comes into view to the south, adding to the grandeur. After the pass, the trail continues across peatlands until reaching our next campsite. Along the way, it is common to encounter local shepherds grazing sheep or cows in the high valleys. These lush green valleys are also home to herds of vicuñas, the wild relatives of alpacas and llamas, offering a glimpse of the region’s rich wildlife. Snack + lunch while walking.

Today, we leave Huayhuash Camp and cross the stone bridge before following a pre-Inca trail that climbs gently through the alpine landscape. Along the way, we pass a couple of scenic lagoons in the lower section, offering excellent photo opportunities. Upon reaching the pass, we are treated to incredible views of the Cordillera Raura, a highlight of the day. The trail then descends gently, passing along the shores of Laguna Viconga. After passing the control point, we continue walking directly toward the hot springs, where the campsite is conveniently located, allowing for a relaxing end to the day. Snack + lunch while walking.

Today, we will hike to the highest pass of our trek, Punta Cuyoc. After six days of trekking above 4,000 m, your body will be well-acclimatized to tackle this challenge. From the pass, we are rewarded with outstanding views of Mount Cuyoc and Puscanturpa along the trail ahead. At the summit, the Cuyoc Glacier appears almost close enough to touch, while the panorama stretches north to the Cordillera Huayhuash and south to the Cordillera Raura—an unforgettable alpine vista. The descent begins on a gravel and stony trail for about half hour before transitioning into an easy walk-through alpine meadow. We reach our campsite with spectacular views of the dramatic northwest face of Nevado Cuyoc and Puscanturpa, at the head of the Guanacpatay Valley—a perfect spot to relax and reflect on the day’s adventure. Snack + lunch while walking.

This day is a demanding day. After breakfast, we descend along guanacpatay valley, then we descent on several switchbacks to reach the flat bottom of the Calinca Valley. From there, we continue walking down the valley until we reach the small, isolated mountain village of Huayllapa. In the afternoon, we climb at a moderate but steady grade along a steep trail to the Huatiac campsite (4,350 m), set in a high grazing meadow beneath the shadow of Mount Diablo Mudo, (“Dumb Devil”). Snack + lunch while walking.

A shorter day, much appreciated after challenging hike a day before. We cross Punta Tapush Pass (4,750 m) and descend toward Laguna Susucocha and Cashpapampa (4,500 m). After breakfast, we begin climbing a series of switchbacks, followed by a gradual ascent to Punta Tapush Pass, where we are rewarded with impressive mountain views. The descent follows a clear path to Laguna Susucocha and to campsite at Cashpapampa, before turning into the Quebrada Ancoshcancha. Snack + lunch while walking.

After the breakfast, we begin walking down toward the Ancoshcancha River. The route crosses the river and then climbs steadily to Yaucha Punta. Upon reaching the pass, the trail splits: the wider mule path descends, while our trekking route follows a faint path traversing north before climbing again to a high point that offers one of the best panoramic views of the western side of the Cordillera. From here, the path continues north along the ridge toward Cerro Huacrish, leading to an outstanding viewpoint. From the mirador, we descend directly to Jahuacocha Campsite. The descent feels like stepping off the edge of the earth, with dramatic views and a steep, almost vertical drop across the slope. Though demanding, it makes for a rapid descent to one of the most beautiful campsites of the trek, set beside the stunning lakes of Jahuacocha. Snack + lunch while walking.

After an early breakfast, and having successfully completed our Andean circuit, we walk down through a pleasant grassy valley. The trail climbs gradually through a Queñual forest to the high point of Pampa Llamac (4,270 m), where we stop to rest and take our final photos of the trek, to finally, descend along a sloping trail to Llamac Village, where the trek ends. Where is waiting us our private transportation to back Huaraz— in Huaraz time for a well-earned hot shower and some rest. In the evening, enjoy a good dinner in town as we celebrate the successful completion of an unforgettable trek. Snack + lunch while walking.