8-day Trek in the Cordillera Huayhuash

The tour concludes in Barranca, providing you the option to return to Lima via an interprovincial bus service.

No, transportation to Huaraz is not covered in the tour package. However, I can arrange it based on the group size.

For those leaving items in Huaraz, we facilitate transportation to Barranca, where the equipment will be brought back.

Arrival in Barranca is typically between 2 and 3 pm.

Yes, the entrance fee to Huayhuash Park, which costs approximately 270 soles, is included in the tour package.

Huayhuash Circuit – 8-Day Trek Itinerary

Day 1: Huaraz – Cuartelhuain – Cacanan Pass (4,700 m) – Mitucocha (4,220 m)

Your adventure begins with a scenic 4–5-hour drive from Huaraz to Cuartelhuain, the starting point of the trek. The hike ascends steadily to Cacanan Pass (4,700 m), offering the first sweeping views of the Cordillera Huayhuash. A descent leads to the tranquil lakeside camp at Mitucocha (4,220 m).

Hiking time: ~5 hours | Distance: ~12 km

Day 2: Mitucocha – Carhuac Pass (4,500 m) – Carhuacocha (4,150 m)

Today’s route climbs gradually to Carhuac Pass (4,500 m), framed by towering peaks. Descend to the stunning Carhuacocha Lake (4,150 m), where the evening light reflects perfectly on the snow-capped summits.

Hiking time: ~5–6 hours | Distance: ~12 km

Day 3: Carhuacocha – Siula Pass (4,850 m) – Huayhuash (4,300 m)

This demanding day leads through some of the most iconic views in the Andes. Crossing Siula Pass (4,850 m) rewards trekkers with unforgettable panoramas of glacial lakes and rugged peaks before dropping down to the Huayhuash campsite (4,300 m).

Hiking time: ~7–8 hours | Distance: ~14 km

Day 4: Huayhuash – Trapecio Pass – Cuyocpampa (4,480 m)

The route climbs steadily toward Trapecio Pass, with wide-open landscapes and glimpses of distant valleys. Camp at Cuyocpampa (4,480 m), surrounded by peaks that glow in the evening sun.

Hiking time: ~6–7 hours | Distance: ~11 km

Day 5: Cuyoc – San Antonio Pass (4,800 m) – Cutatambo – Huayllapa (3,490 m)

One of the longest and most challenging days of the trek. From San Antonio Pass (4,800 m), breathtaking views of the Huayhuash peaks unfold before a long descent through Cutatambo to the village of Huayllapa (3,490 m).

Hiking time: ~9 hours | Distance: ~18 km

Day 6: Huayllapa – Tapush Pass (4,770 m) – Gashpapampa (4,300 m)

Climb back into high-mountain terrain, passing traditional Andean pastures before ascending to Tapush Pass (4,770 m). Camp at Gashpapampa (4,300 m), a peaceful spot under clear Andean skies.

Hiking time: ~7 hours | Distance: ~15 km

Day 7: Gashpapampa – Yaucha Pass (4,850 m) – Jahuacocha (4,150 m)

Cross the high Yaucha Pass (4,850 m), then descend into the spectacular Jahuacocha Valley (4,150 m). The campsite here, beside a mirror-like lake, is a trek highlight.

Hiking time: ~7 hours | Distance: ~13 km

Day 8: Jahuacocha – Macrash Punta Pass (4,300 m) – Llamac – Huaraz

A final climb to Macrash Punta Pass (4,300 m) provides farewell views of the Cordillera Huayhuash before the descent to Llamac. Return to Huaraz by vehicle.

Hiking time: ~4 hours | Drive: ~4 hours

• Sleeping bag (-5º to -10º C) – if you don’t have one, we can help you rent one in Huaraz.

• 5 Lycra T-shirts (no cotton)

• 2 or 3 hiking pants

• 5 sets of underwear

• 5 pairs of wool socks (suitable for trekking)

• Fleece or warm jacket

• 1 rain jacket (depending on the season)

• 1 pair of rain pants (depending on the season)

• 1 sun hat or cap

• 1 wool or cotton hat for cold weather

• Headlamp

• 1–2 liter water bottle

• Cold-weather gloves (waterproof is better)

• Comfortable shoes for camp

• High hiking boots, preferably waterproof

• Trekking poles (optional)

• Sunscreen (for lips and skin)

• Quick-dry towel

• Earplugs (optional)

• Power bank: there are no places to charge during the trek. Even better if you have a portable solar panel.

• Personal hygiene items: Sunscreen, insect repellent, hand sanitizer, toothbrush and toothpaste, toilet paper, personal medication, personal first aid kit.

• Water in your bottle (we provide clean, boiled water every morning starting from the second day)

• Sun hat

• Rain gear

• Warm jacket

• Camera

• Hand sanitizer

• Toilet paper

• Small bag for trash

There are various ways to customize the Huayhuash trek—through different trailheads, shortcuts, and itinerary variations. These options allow trekkers to adjust for time, scenery, and difficulty while understanding what features may be gained or missed.

• Variations in Trek Length

• Full Circuit (7–10 days): The classic route circles the entire range, crossing multiple high passes and visiting major lakes.

• Eight-Day Trek: A shorter version that skips the Viconga hot springs but provides an up-close view of Trapecio.

• Mini-Huayhuash (4 days): Covers the highlights of days two through five of the standard circuit, ideal for those with limited time.

Route Shortcuts and Scenic Detours

• Carhuacocha to Huayhuash Shortcut: An alternative trail passes close to Siulá, Carnicero, Jurao, and the lakes Gangrajanka, Siulacocha, and Quesillococha (also known as Tres Lagunas). Because this path is less defined, using a guide is highly recommended.

• Trapecio Pass Route: A direct crossing from the east to west side of the range, providing dramatic mountain views.

Different Approaches and Trailheads

• Treks can begin from several access points, depending on logistics and desired scenery:

• Llamac, Queropalca, or Chiquián – commonly reached via Huaraz.

• Cajatambo or Huánuco – accessible from Lima, offering alternative approaches to the circuit.

• Cuartelwain to Llamac: A popular start/finish combination on the standard itinerary.

Customizing the Route Mid-Trek

• Elefantepampa to San Antonio Viewpoint: From this camp, trekkers can take an afternoon side trip to the viewpoint, then return before continuing the next day.

• Guanacpatay Valley or Santa Rosa Pass: After Elefantepampa, it is possible to descend through Guanacpatay Valley to Huayllapa, or choose the longer but less steep Santa Rosa Pass route to Cutatambo Valley instead of the direct San Antonio Pass descent.

The Huayhuash trek demands careful preparation, covering fitness, acclimatization, and gear. Building stamina through consistent hiking and strength training is essential, as is adjusting to high altitude before setting off. Proper equipment—such as warm clothing, rain protection, and a reliable sleeping bag—ensures safety and comfort throughout the journey.

Detailed preparation includes:

Physical Conditioning

• Increase endurance: Strengthen legs and core with exercises like squats, lunges, and planks to handle steep climbs and rugged terrain.

• Train with weight: Practice hiking with a loaded backpack, gradually adding weight to mimic trek conditions.

• Boost cardiovascular fitness: Use interval training to improve stamina and adaptability to changing terrain, as recommended by Ian Taylor Trekking.

Acclimatization

• Spend time at elevation: Plan to spend 2–3 days in Huaraz (3,050 m) or another high-altitude area before starting, as advised by Huayhuash.com.

• Take acclimatization hikes: Do progressive day hikes to higher elevations to help your body adjust.

• Watch for altitude sickness: Know the warning signs and take precautions, including medication if necessary.

The ideal time to trek the Huayhuash is during the dry season, which runs from May to September, with June, July, and August typically providing the most stable and clear weather. While these months offer sunny days and breathtaking mountain views, be prepared for sudden weather changes, such as rain, snow, or hail—especially at higher elevations.

Detailed Recommendations:

• Dry Season (May–September):

• Best Months: June through August tend to have the most dependable weather for trekking and climbing.

• Clear Skies: Expect mostly sunny conditions with little rainfall and outstanding mountain visibility.

• Temperature Variations: Days can be warm or even hot under strong sunlight, but nights often become very cold, dropping to freezing or below at high altitudes.

Rainy Season (October–April):

• Not Ideal: This time is generally unfavorable for trekking due to heavy rain, persistent clouds, and difficult trail conditions.

• Navigation Challenges: Poor visibility caused by rain and fog can make route-finding tricky and increase trail hazards.

General Advice:

• Stay Prepared: Weather in the Cordillera Huayhuash can shift quickly even in the dry season.

• Pack Smart: Bring layered clothing to accommodate temperature swings, plus waterproof and windproof gear.

• Monitor Forecasts: Regularly check local weather updates before and throughout your trek.

• Assess Experience: Given the trek’s difficulty, ensure you have suitable experience and the right equipment.