Expedition overview
09 days
4,860M /15,890 ft
Moderate - strenuous
mid-April – October
Private service only
TREKKING CEDROS ALPAMAYO: this impressive trekking approaches to Alpamayo base camp. It is widely considered one of the most scenic and awe-inspiring journeys in the Cordillera Blanca. This remarkable trail winds through remote, untouched landscapes where silence reigns—broken only by the cracking of glacial ice and the wind sweeping across high-altitude scrublands. One of the trek’s most unforgettable highlights is the Jancaurish Valley. Here, trekkers are rewarded with a dramatic, almost surreal view of Alpamayo’s perfectly pyramidal north face—an iconic sight so striking that no number of photographs ever feels sufficient. This remote and extraordinary adventure unfolds across pristine glacial lakes, fragile high-Andean ecosystems, and windswept mountain passes. Each campsite reveals sweeping panoramic views, delivering unforgettable moments that begin the instant you unzip your tent and continue throughout every step of the journey.
- Day 1: Huaraz (3,050 m / 10,030 ft) – Transfer to Vaquería (3,700 m / 12,170 ft) – Trek to Paria (3,800 m / 12,500 ft)
- Day 2: Paria – Trek to Alto de Pucaraju Pass (4,640 m / 15,265 ft) – Huecrococha (4,000 m / 13,160 ft)
- Day 3: Huecrococha – Trek to Tupa Tupa Pass (4,360 m / 14,345 ft) – Jancapampa (3,600 m / 11,845 ft)
- Day 4: Jancapampa – Trek to Yanacón Pass (4,600 m / 15,130 ft) – Huillca (4,000 m / 13,160 ft)
- Day 5: Huillca – Trek to Pésa Pata Pass (4,500 m / 14,800 ft) – Trek to Cara Cara Pass (4,830 m / 15,890 ft) – Jancarurish (4,250 m / 13,980 ft)
- Day 6: Rest day at Jancarurish (optional exploration and hike to the Alpamayo north face viewpoint)
- Day 7: Jancarurish – Trek to Vientunan Pass (4,750 m / 15,630 ft) – Osoruri (4,450 m / 14,640 ft)
- Day 8: Osoruri – Trek to Punta Cullicocha Pass (4,860 m / 15,985 ft) – Wishcash (4,300 m / 14,145 ft)
- Day 9: Wishcash – Trek to Hualcayán Village (3,100 m / 10,200 ft) – Transfer to Huaraz
Is it for me?
- Ideal for adventure enthusiasts seeking an immersive and rewarding trekking experience.
- Perfect for those eager to embark on a unique journey through one of the Andes’ most spectacular trekking destination.
- Best suited for experienced and adventurous trekkers who can adapt easily to high altitude and long distances, as the route requires good physical condition and proper acclimatization.
Restrictions
- Not recommended for pregnant women.
- Not suitable for individuals with heart conditions.
- Not recommended for those with knee problems, as the trek requires good physical fitness and endurance.
Adicional notes:
Experience Required & Some Important Notes
- Please note: The Trek Cedros Alpamayo starts and ends in Huaraz. Please see the travel program for information about how to travel to Huaraz.
- Participants Physical Requirements: Participants must be in good physical condition. Previous hiking experience is required, and prior backpacking experience is highly recommended, though not mandatory.
- Hiking Schedule: We will be hiking for approximately 09 days, averaging on 5 – 8 hours of hiking per day.
- Overnight camps will be at elevations between 3,600 m / 11,845 ft and 4,450 m / 14,640 ft, the highest camp on the trek. therefore, Proper acclimatization and suitable physical preparation are required
- Huaraz is at 3,050m/10,030 ft. Because of this, we highly recommend staying in Huaraz a few days before trekking departure to get a good acclimatization.
- We highly recommend spending at least 2- or 3-days doing day hikes around Huaraz to allow for a gradual acclimatization process to the altitude and to help avoid altitude sickness.
- DON’T let fear of altitude sickness stop you from enjoy your trek. Altitude sickness is an illness caused by exposure to low air pressure, which many people experience at high altitudes. Exerting yourself at high altitudes, especially if you have not been properly acclimated, can cause it, but with proper preparation, & gradual ascend you can be ready for the trek
- Support on the Trail: You will only need to carry a day pack; your main luggage or large rucksack will be carried by donkeys
- During the trek: We provide four meals daily, prepared by our chefs on the trail (breakfast, snacks, cooked lunches, and hot dinners)
Acclimatization Hikes
Proper acclimatization to altitude is essential before undertaking any treks in the Cordillera Blanca, in order to avoid loss of energy or altitude-related illnesses. Trekking above 4,000 meters is physically demanding, and inadequate acclimatization can significantly affect performance and safety. As a responsible adventure company and qualified mountain guides, we strongly recommend a minimum of 1 – 2 days of acclimatization prior to any trek in the Cordillera Blanca.
We recommend arriving in Huaraz at least 2–3 days before your trek departure to allow proper acclimatization to the altitude. It is advisable to spend at least one full day in Huaraz to recover from your journey, followed by day hikes to higher elevations around the area to further aid acclimatization before beginning your trekking program.
We can also arrange acclimatization day hikes for you—just let us know your preferences.
Suggestions for Responsible Trekkers
If you are planning to visit our region, making the most of your experience starts with taking care of your health. The best way to enjoy the Andes safely is by following a proper acclimatization process as soon as you arrive in this high-altitude environment. This helps prevent altitude sickness and ensures a more comfortable and enjoyable journey. From our experience, your safety and well-being are always the top priorities, so you can feel confident and at ease while exploring far from home. We recommend a gradual acclimatization plan such as the following:
Day 1 — Easy hikes
- Laguna Wilcacocha
- Laguna Llaca
- Laguna Parón
- Laguna Rocotuyoc
- Laguna Radian
Day 2–3 — Moderate hikes
- Laguna Churup
- Laguna 69
- Laguna Hualcacocha
Following this step-by-step approach will help your body gradually adapt to the altitude, allowing you to fully enjoy your trekking experience with greater safety and comfort.
