huayhuash trek itinerary

The ultimate guide to independent & solo hiking the Huayhuash Circuit in Peru

Widely regarded as one of the best alpine treks in the entire world, the Huayhuash Circuit is a remote and impossibly scenic high-altitude route in Peru’s Cordillera Huayhuash (pronounced why-wash ). The trail, totalling 135km and crossing 12 mountain passes all above 4,500m, circles some of the highest and most impressive mountains in the Andes, offering surreal vistas of jagged snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes, and even steamy hot springs. It’s definitely a challenging trek, taking most hikers 8-12 days to complete the full loop— but it’s worth every single blister and aching muscle to see rugged natural beauty that most visitors to Peru have never even dreamt of.

This is a comprehensive guide to planning your own independent Huayhuash Circuit trek, including information about acclimatisation, getting to Huaraz and the trailhead, a super detailed Huayhuash Circuit itinerary, campsites & fees, what to expect on the trail, and a full packing list. Happy trails!

What's in this travel guide

About the Huayhuash Circuit

Peru’s compact Cordillera Huayhuash mountain range, only about 400km north of Lima and yet a world away from the bustling capital, also lacks much of the tourist traffic of the nearby Cordillera Blanca (home to the popular Laguna 69 and Santa Cruz treks, among others). This feeling of being off-the-beaten-path is one of the best things about trekking in the Cordillera Huayhuash , a region perhaps best known as the setting of Joe Simpson’s epic survival following a mountaineering accident on Siula Grande (6,344m). But if one of the best things is the relative remoteness of the trails and the ability to enjoy insane views entirely to yourself, then the best thing about the Huayhuash Circuit is the scenery itself. “Magical” doesn’t even begin to describe the dramatic peaks or towering glaciers that dominate every angle of this trek.

Depending on the exact route and the addition of side-trips, the Huayhuash Circuit is a 110-150km trek beginning either in the town of Llamac or in Quartelhuain (my recommendation; also called Cuartelwain or Matacancha on some maps). Practically the entire trek is above 4,000m, which means that it’s just as essential to be acclimatised as it is to be a fit, experienced trekker.

There’s a lot of variability in the time taken to walk the circuit (anywhere from about 1-2 weeks), but your own trek will be a careful balance of how far you can comfortably walk in a day vs how much weight you can comfortably carry on your back . For us, 10 days was the magic number, so that’s what I’m going to describe in this post (you can still use all this info to plan a shorter or longer trip, though!). Expect to be pushed to your limits, but in the best, most inspiring kind of way — nothing worth doing is easy, and the views are that much sweeter when you earn them with blood, sweat, and the occasional tear.

Hiking independently or joining a guided trek

It’s definitely possible to tackle the Huayhuash Circuit as part of a guided trek. Most of these tours include porters/donkeys to carry your gear and food, leaving you with just a small daypack. You’ll also have meals prepared for you and all of the organisation sorted— just show up and walk. This can be a great option if you don’t have the necessary backpacking gear to camp and cook for yourself, the confidence to navigate or cope with changing conditions, the stamina to carry a heavy pack, or the time/willingness to plan your own trekking route. If you do want to join a trekking group, I became friends along the trail with a wonderful local mountaineering guide, Marco Reyes, who owns High Summit Peru in Huaraz— I highly recommend him!

But if you do want to go it alone? The reward of trekking independently is 100% worth the extra effort. I’ll talk more about what to expect on the trail (including navigational demands and the risk of altitude sickness) further down this post, but here’s just a rough idea of what’s required to trek the Huayhuash Circuit independently.

Huayhuash Circuit without a guide: is it for you?

You can hike 5-10hrs for 10 days in a row, often on very steep or uneven terrain
You are able to carry 15-25kg in your pack
You have/can hire all the necessary gear for your walk (see Packing list for the Huayhuash Circuit below) and know how to use everything correctly
You have some navigational skills and can read both a map and a GPS
You know what to do in the case of a medical emergency (especially altitude sickness) and you have a way to call for help (PLB)
You are able to complete at least 2-3 days of acclimatisation, preferably hiking, immediately before the trek (see Acclimatising for your trek below)

Leaving Jirishanca behind

Before you set out on the Huayhuash Circuit

Essential maps & information.

When you first begin planning your Huayhuash Circuit trek, there are a couple of invaluable resources that will make things infinitely easier. The first, of course, is this blog post! Next, I’d definitely recommend purchasing this guidebook and map:

Peru’s Cordilleras Blanca & Huayhuash: The Hiking & Biking Guide by Neil & Harriet Pike

Although it has many shortcomings (how is there no trail mileage anywhere in this book!?), is slightly outdated, and we were left routinely questioning their time estimates… this is the only real guidebook out there that covers the Huayhuash Circuit, and therefore it’s still essential in my mind. Between my blog post and this book , you should have a pretty solid idea of what to expect and how to plan the trek, as well as some directions and maps with major landmarks like campsites. I’d recommend scanning pages 152-174, printing them (they fit well on A5 sheets), and packing them in a little plastic folder for reference along the trail. Buy the book on Amazon here.

Alpenvereinskarte Huayhuash (Peru) 1:50,000 Trekking Map

This is the best map covering the entirety of the Huayhuash Circuit, so I’d recommend purchasing this during the planning stages to help chart an intended route and also carrying it with you on the trail for reference. Be warned that this map will often use different names for things than the aforementioned guidebook, which might be different yet again from your GPS— this is a common theme in Peru, due in large part to Quechua (native Andean language) words that were phonetically translated by Spaniards during the conquest. You’ll get used to it, but just look closely at the map when you first get it so as to familiarise yourself with some of these variations (e.g. Quartelhuain vs Cuartelwain vs Matacancha, or Paso Jurau vs Paso Santa Rosa). Buy the map on Amazon here.

Weather in the Peruvian Andes is typically grouped into two seasons: a cool, dry winter (also referred to as the “Andean Summer” from May to September and a minimally warmer, but much wetter summer from October to April . The same is true for the Cordillera Huayhuash. There really isn’t much fluctuation in terms of temperature throughout the year (nighttime lows -10 to 0C, daytime highs of 18 to 22C), but there is a massive difference in terms of rain and cloud-cover.

I’ve experienced torrential rain in other parts of Peru during the wet season and I would strongly advise against a Huayhuash Circuit trek during this time. Not only are clouds likely to obscure the best views, but the navigation becomes markedly more challenging in poor weather and there’s a much greater risk of getting yourself into a sticky situation on some of the high-altitude passes. During the Andean Summer, you have a better chance of clear, sunny days with little-to-no rain .

Still, you must be prepared for all weather in the mountains, irrespective of the season! I did this trek at the very end of August and most days were sunny with occasional morning cloud cover that burned off within a few hours— but we woke up one morning to snow flurries and a campsite blanketed in white powder . Seriously, anything goes in the mountains, so prepare, prepare, prepare.

Acclimatising for your trek

Because most of us don’t live at high altitudes and aren’t used to breathing oxygen-poor air, it’s absolutely essential to give yourself time to acclimatise to the elevation before you hit the trail. This will greatly reduce the risk of altitude sickness. The best way to acclimatise before the Huayhuash Circuit is to spend at least a few days in Cusco or Huaraz and tick off some easier high-altitude treks.

Prior to this trek, I spent two weeks in Cusco (3,400m), where I did Palccoyo (4,900m), the Salkantay Trek (4,650m) and a short version of the Ausangate Circuit (5,050m), and then spent 2 days in Huaraz (3,050m), where I also hiked around Laguna Parón (4,500m). All of this acclimatisation made me really prepared for the Huayhuash Circuit and ultimately improved the quality of my trip. Even if you don’t have weeks to spend acclimatising, though, plan a minimum of 2-3 days in Huaraz before your trek. Learn more about altitude on the Huayhuash Circuit in the Altitude sickness section under What to expect on the trail below) and read this post about general high-altitude trekking.

Here are a few ideas of what to do in Huaraz before the Huayhuash Circuit:

Walk around town (3,050m)
Take a day tour to Laguna Paron (4,300m)
Hike to Laguna Churup (4,450m)
Hike to Huandoy Viewpoint above Laguna Parón (4,500m)
Hike to Laguna 69 (4,625m)

Condors at Cerro Huacrish

Getting to & from the trailhead

Getting to huaraz, peru.

Although Huaraz is still 150km from the Cordillera Huayhuash, this bustling mountain town (often referred to as Peru’s trekking capital) is the base for your adventure . I read many times that it’s possible to fly from Lima to Huaraz on LCPeru (Tuesdays or Thursdays), but the route appears to have been suspended, so it definitely wasn’t an option in 2019. Feel free to check before your own trip to see if these flights are operating again, but it’s likely you’ll be bussing it just like we did.

Thankfully, there’s a regular Cruz del Sur bus running between Lima and Huaraz several times throughout the day and night , and it’s really simple to reserve this online in advance . I’d recommend getting first-floor VIP seats (for only a couple soles more) on the night bus, which departs from Lima’s Plaza Norte— there are multiple stations in Lima, so just make sure you go to the right one. This bus, like most buses in Peru, is crazy comfortable and you’ll even be served hot drinks and a sandwich, given a blanket and pillow, and have a personal entertainment system in your seat-back. Who needs to fly?!

Bus company: Cruz del Sur

Route: Lima (Plaza Norte) to Huaraz

Time: several daily options, but I recommend the 10.30pm-6am night bus

Cost: S/86 for VIP seats on the first level ($37AUD)

Read more about where to stay and what to do in Huaraz: COMING SOON

Getting to the Huayhuash Circuit

Starting in llamac.

The most popular starting point for the Huayhuash Circuit is the town of Llamac, just because it’s possible to take a public bus from Huaraz . According to the guidebook , this involves several steps:

Catch a 5am El Rápido or Nazario bus from Huaraz to Chiquián (2hrs, S/10)
Catch an 8am Nazario bus from Chiquián to Llamac or Pocpa (2hrs, S/12)
Walk 12km along the road to the first campsite at Quartelhuain (4hrs)

Starting in Quartelhuain

To avoid an entire day of public buses and walking on the road, start instead at the first campsite in Quartelhuain (also called Cuartelwain or Matacancha on some maps). It’s not possible to get here with public buses, so it’s definitely not as budget-friendly an option, but it is so worth it to conserve energy for more exciting days to come.

To get to and from Quartelhuain (about 4hrs from Huaraz), we booked a private shuttle through High Summit Peru for $150USD. The owner of the company, Marco Reyes, is an incredibly experienced mountaineering guide— you might even see him out on the trail leading a trekking group like we did!— and his driver Jaime is the sweetest. It was 100% worth the additional expense to have flexibility in what time we departed Huaraz and, of course, to cut out walking on the road from Llamac, so I’d highly recommend booking a shuttle to Quartelhuain.

Huayhuash Circuit itinerary

The official Huayhuash Circuit trail offers a wonderful trekking experience, but often there are even better experiences to be had if you get off the standard trail and onto the ruta alpina (the higher, more scenic, and more remote alpine route) to explore lesser-seen gems of the Cordillera Huayhuash.

This is my exact itinerary (which even differed to my parents’), and I’d do the exact same route again in an instant. I’ve provided all the details of my itinerary below, including trail stats, daily highlights, campsites (more info in Campsites under Communities along the Huayhuash Circuit below), AND my favourite and highly recommended non-traditional variations to the Huayhuash Circuit that will pack in even more incredible scenery. Use it to inspire and plan your own itinerary or follow it closely, the choice is yours!

Day 1: Quartelhuain to Laguna Mitucocha

Distance: 9.1km Elevation gain: 685m Highest elevation: Cacananpunta 4,690m Trail hours: 5hrs Campsite: Wild camping at Laguna Mitucocha

Rainbow of colours looking down into Quebrada Caliente from Cacananpunta
Blaze your own trail to Laguna Mitucocha on the ruta alpina
Wild camp on the lakeshore with amazing views of Jirishanca

Ruta alpina from Cacananpunta to Laguna Mitucocha: Rather than descend to the lake on the mule route, this is a higher, more scenic option that only adds about 30min of trail time.

Wild camp at Laguna Mitucocha: Instead of back-tracking through the valley to the official campsite in Janca, set up camp right on the shores of Laguna Mitucocha below towering Jirishanca. As you look at the mountain, the left side of the lake provides a slightly better vantage point, but the right side will get sun a full 90min sooner in the morning, so it’s a better option. As of yet, it’s not illegal to wild camp on the Huayhuash—pack in/pack out EVERYTHING when you wild camp and leave NO trace so you don’t ruin it for everyone else!

Read more: HUAYHUASH CIRCUIT (DAY 1): QUARTELHUAIN TO LAGUNA MITUCOCHA

Day 2: Laguna Mitucocha to Laguna Carhuacocha

Distance: 9.1km Elevation gain: 715m Highest elevation: High point below Jirishanca Chico 4,870m Trail hours: 6.5hrs Campsite: Laguna Carhuacocha

Incredible view over Hidden Valley and Laguna Mitucocha ascending towards the high point
Yerupajá and Siula Grande from Laguna Carhuacocha

Ruta alpina from Laguna Mitucocha to Laguna Carhuacocha: Rather than climbing over Carhuac through the Hidden Valley, this variation along non-existent trails is steeper, far more challenging, navigationally demanding, and about 3hrs longer than the traditional route— but really spectacular! You’ll rejoin the main trail just before camp.

Read more: HUAYHUASH CIRCUIT (DAY 2): LAGUNA MITUCOCHA TO LAGUNA CARHUACOCHA

Day 3: Laguna Carhuacocha to Huayhuash via Siula Pass

Distance: 14.8km Elevation gain: 820m Highest elevation: Siula Punta 4,830m Trail hours: 5.5hrs Campsite: Huayhuash

Hike along the shore of Laguna Carhuacocha
Climb the glacier moraine for views of Laguna Gangrajanca
Amazing view of the Tres Lagunas and Jirishanca, Yerupajá, Siula Grande, and Carnicero from the mirador
Conquer Siula Pass

Mule route via Punta Carnicero: This isn’t a variation I’d recommend, as it skips Siula Pass and the Mirador Tres Lagunas, but my parents took it when they were feeling sick and reported that it was surprisingly beautiful. If you can’t handle the brutally steep ascent up to Siula Pass, at least know that you’ll still enjoy wonderful alpine scenery on this hike, a worthy second-best option.

Read more: HUAYHUASH CIRCUIT (DAY 3): LAGUNA CARHUACOCHA TO HUAYHUASH

Day 4: Huayhuash to Viconga

Distance: 12.2km Elevation gain: 490m Highest elevation: Portachuelo de Huayhuash 4,770m Trail hours: 4hrs Campsite: Viconga

Great views of the Cordillera Raura
Hike around Laguna Viconga
Relax in the boiling hot springs at Viconga camp and enjoy a cold beer with other trekkers

Read more: HUAYHUASH CIRCUIT (DAY 4): HUAYHUASH TO VICONGA

Day 5: Viconga to Cuyoc & Paso San Antonio

Distance: 14.3km Elevation gain: 1,270m Highest elevation: Paso San Antonio 5,080m Trail hours: 5hrs Campsite: Cuyoc

Morning views of Nevado Puscanturpa
Cuyoc glacier close enough to touch
A fun side-trip and some of the best views of the trek from Paso San Antonio

Side-trip to Paso San Antonio: After arriving at Cuyoc camp and dropping your pack, you absolutely can’t miss an ascent of Paso San Antonio. If you’re a fast hiker, you can easily get to the top in 1-1.5hrs, but be warned that it’s insanely steep and the terrain gets really sketchy at the top. For the adventurous (and at your own risk), it’s also possible to scramble up the mountain on the left hand side of the pass for even better views of Siula Grande, Yerupajá, and Laguna Juraucocha below. The descent back to camp takes around 45min.

Read more: HUAYHUASH CIRCUIT (DAY 5): VICONGA TO CUYOC & PASO SAN ANTONIO

Day 6: Cuyoc & Paso San Antonio to Laguna Juraucocha

Distance: 13.6km Elevation gain: 1,300m Highest elevation: Paso Santa Rosa 5,060m Trail hours: 7.5hrs Campsite: Wild camping at Laguna Juraucocha

Sweeping views of Siula Grande and Laguna Juraucocha from Paso Santa Rosa
Descend towards the Quebrada Sarapococha
Wild camp in front of the Jurau glacier

Side-trip to Paso San Antonio: If you didn’t get a chance to climb Paso San Antonio from Cuyoc camp yesterday (or if you’re super keen like me and want to go twice), you can also climb up for sunrise before hitting the trail. As I mentioned before, the ascent should take 1-1.5hrs and the descent is about 45min.

Paso Santa Rosa: Also called Paso Jurau, this high mountain pass offers incredible views of Siula Grande and Laguna Juraucocha. It is actually part of the traditional Huayhuash trail, but my parents and I were the only people who actually took this route from Cuyoc camp, all of the other independent trekkers and the guided group electing to hike out to Huayllapa instead. Let me just say that you’d be missing some of the best scenery of the entire trek, so don’t skip Santa Rosa! The ascent isn’t nearly as gruelling as San Antonio (although you will have a full pack on, but it’s worth the effort).

Wild camp at Juraucocha: Rather than trekking out to the official camp at Cutatambo, set up camp near Juraucocha at the base of the glacier. I’d recommend finding a spot behind the moraine so you don’t absolutely freeze to death at night, but the scenery is still wonderful. From this spot, you’ll be better situated to explore Quebrada Sarapococha tomorrow, one of the absolute best side-trips on the Huayhuash Circuit.

Read more: HUAYHUASH CIRCUIT (DAY 6): CUYOC & PASO SAN ANTONIO TO LAGUNA JURAUCOCHA

Day 7: Laguna Juraucocha to Rasac via Laguna Santa Rosa

Distance: 10.3km Elevation gain: 1,065m Highest elevation: Paso Rosario 5,090m Trail hours: 8hrs Campsite: Wild camping at the base of Rasac

Explore Quebrada Sarapococha, the location of Joe Simpson’s basecamp during his famous and tragic ascent of Siula Grande
Amazing views of Lagunas Santa Rosa and Sarapococha from Paso Rosario
Wild camp right beneath Rasac

Quebrada Sarapococha: Ideally, you should spend an entire day exploring this incredible valley, climbing up boulders for better vantage points over Lagunas Santa Rosa and Sarapococha, Siulas Grande and Chico, and Yerupajá before ascending to Paso Rosario or Cerro Gran Vista for the ultimate panorama. This is definitely a lesser-explored area, so it’s unlikely you’ll see any other trekkers, but the reward for all the puzzling navigation and remoteness is truly unreal scenery.

Wild camp at Rasac: After descending Paso Rosario, trek up-valley to the base of Rasac, where it’s possible to wild camp in the shadow of the glacier. This was probably the best morning view we had on the entire trek.

Read more: HUAYHUASH CIRCUIT (DAY 7): LAGUNA JURAUCOCHA TO RASAC VIA LAGUNA SANTA ROSA & PASO ROSARIO

Day 8: Rasac to Huayllapa

Distance: 13.1km Elevation gain: 60m Highest elevation: Laguna Rasac 4,270m Trail hours: 4hrs Campsite: Omar & Flor’s in Huayllapa

Early morning views of Rasac from the tent
Peaceful hike down-valley to town
Make some wonderful local friends in Huayllapa

Huayllapa: This little town (and I do mean little, it’s hardly more than one street) is only a short detour off the main trail, but I’d recommend stopping through even if just to get a snack from the local shop. The people in town are absolutely beautiful and we actually had a rather amazing encounter with some of the locals, which you can read about in my longer post on day 8 . If you do go, make sure to say hola to Omar & Flor from the Brisbine family!

Read more: HUAYHUASH CIRCUIT (DAY 8): RASAC TO HUAYLLAPA

Day 9: Huayllapa to Yaucha Punta

Distance: 16.3km Elevation gain: 1,585m Highest elevation: Yaucha Punta 4,850m Trail hours: 8hrs Campsite: Wild camping at Yaucha Punta

Early morning sun on Tapush after leaving Huayllapa
Walk through flocks of sheep around Huatiaq
Trek around beautiful Laguna Susucocha
Camp beneath condors and high peaks at Yaucha Punta

Wild camp at Yaucha Punta: I wouldn’t ordinarily recommend camping at a high mountain pass, but we pitched our tent just on the other side of Yaucha Punta out of necessity and found that it made a splendid and scenic campsite. It sets you up for a long final day, but also ensures that you get the magical morning glow on the mountains as you walk along the ridge to Cerro Huacrish tomorrow.

Read more: HUAYHUASH CIRCUIT (DAY 9): HUAYLLAPA TO YAUCHA PUNTA

Day 10: Yaucha Punta to Quartelhuain via Rondoy Punta

Distance: 21.7km Elevation gain: 915m Highest elevation: Rondoy Punta 4,750 Trail hours: 6hrs

Incredible views and condors sightings at Cerro Huacrish
Beautiful trail around Laguna Jahuacocha
Panoramic views from Rondoy Punta onto a huge icefall
“Close the loop” at Quartelhuain!

Yacha Punta to Incahuain via Cerro Huacrish: Rather than take the mule route down into Incahuain camp, add just 10min to your trek and follow the ridgeline to Cerro Huacrish for infinitely better views.

Incahuain to Quartelhuain via Puntas Sambuya & Rondoy: Skip the boring traditional exit out to Llamac by tackling 2 high mountain passes above Jahuacocha. The route is probably about 1hr longer than the trek through Pampa Llamac and into town, but the views are incomparable. My parents hiked out to Llamac and reported that the descent was positively brutal and seemingly unending, so it’s not really appealing from any angle. If you need to finish the trek in Llamac, you can walk back along the road (3-3.5hrs), but a better option is organising transport from Quartelhuain (allow 40min to walk here from the trail junction).

Read more: HUAYHUASH CIRCUIT (DAY 10): YAUCHA PUNTA TO QUARTELHUAIN VIA RONDOY PUNTA

Community tickets on the Huayhuash Circuit

Communities along the Huayhuash Circuit

Community fees.

A ticketing system was implemented a few years ago on the Huayhuash Circuit— you need to pay a small fee to each community as you pass through their land (irrespective of whether you stay at their campsite). Officially, there are 9 communities whose fees are approximately S/25 each, but in reality, you might miss paying for a few tickets based on your exact route and whether the cobradores (ticket sellers) are out and about. Plan to bring S/250 in cash and this should more than cover your fees .

When you pay each cobrador , you will receive a small ticket which includes the name of the community, the date, and sometimes also your name. Keep this ticket safe , as you may be asked to present it later to prove that you’ve paid (you will pass through a couple communities twice on the circuit and also through some checkpoints). Here are the exact fees I paid in August 2019 (you’ll notice many have changed since the trekking guidebook was published), as well as the location of the cobradores :

Llamác S/30 : paid along the road to Quartelhuain, even if you are in a shuttle (we paid through the window at a road gate)
Pocpa S/15 : paid at Quartelhuain camp
Queropalca S/40: the cobrador is actually at Janca camp, but will come to Laguna Carhuacocha camp the following day and you can buy a ticket if you missed it previously (if you were camping at Laguna Mitucocha, por ejemplo )
Quishuarcancha S/30 : paid just after crossing the swing bridge out of Laguna Carhuacocha camp as you head towards Siula Pass
Huayhuash S/30 : paid in the morning at Huayhuash camp
Viconga S/20 : paid in the morning at Viconga camp
Huayllapa S/40 : paid along the trail about an hour before Huayllapa
Cutatambo S/10 : this is the only fee we missed, so I can’t 100% confirm the location, but I assume it was at Cutatambo camp
Pacllón S/20 : paid at Gashpapampa camp

There are 12 official campsites on the Huayhuash Circuit, each operated by one of the 9 communities who look after the trail. All have flat ground for pitching a tent, a water source (varying from taps to nearby flowing water), and some sort of toilet facility — and pretty much nothing else.

There’s no cost associated with using these campsites, since you’ll pay the community fees regardless of where you sleep, but they are usually in a nice spot and offer a good opportunity to mingle with other trekkers. Here’s a look at the available campsites along the Huayhuash Circuit:

Quartelhuain

Quartelhuain camp is super windy, but there are flushing toilets, so there’s definitely something to celebrate. You’ll buy your first community ticket here even if you aren’t camping.

Janca (Laguna Mitucocha)

The official camp near Laguna Mitucocha is actually 20min off the lake shore, so I’d recommend pitching a wild camp closer to Jirishanca. You’ll miss buying your community ticket at camp, but it’s possible to purchase it the following day at Laguna Carhuacocha camp.

Laguna Carhuacocha

This is a beautiful campsite set right on the lake overlooking Yerupajá and Siula Grande. Actually, there are two campsites, but I’d recommend staying at the first one, since the second seemed a bit busier with trekking groups. There’s only a measly squat toilet here, but there’s a tap for water and the scenery more than makes up for the poor facilities.

Another scenic camp under tall peaks, Huayhuash camp has 2 blocks of nice toilets and taps for water. Again, there are two sites located right next to each other, but the first is usually for independent trekkers (and small groups). You’ll purchase a community ticket in the morning from camp.

Perhaps the best camp of all, Viconga has 3 hot spring pools, including one for washing clothes and for bathing off the dirt and grime of the previous 4 days. There is a river running through camp that provides water, flushing toilets, and even a man selling cold beer and Coca Cola. Buy a community ticket in the morning.

Cuyoc camp has a nearby river for water, plus a little block of flushing toilets. Make sure you make the epic side-trip up to Paso San Antonio!

Instead of camping at Cutatambo (a further 30min away), I’d recommend setting up shop on the nearby shores of Laguna Jahuacocha, as this spot sets you up better for exploring Quebrada Sarapococha the following day. Position yourself behind the moraine to avoid icy wind off the glacier at night.

There’s a little campsite in Huayllapa with good facilities, but I’d recommend staying more local. While travelling through Huayllapa , we got to know an extremely beautiful family who truly went above and beyond to take care of my stepmum during a bad situation. It was their dream to open a hostel, and amazingly they emailed my stepmum just recently to say that her donation (of just $150USD) allowed them to build the toilets they needed, plus put in a patio out front and paint the exterior of the house. They’ve named one of the rooms in their new hostel “The Brisbine Room”, so now it is MY dream that someone reading this blog post will go hike the Huayhuash Circuit, visit Huayllapa, stay in “The Brisbine room” at Omar and Flor’s , and give them a little more than the S/10 ($3USD) they are charging per bed. I guarantee it will be a highlight of your trek.

Read more about Omar & Flor and our time in Huayllapa in this post: HUAYHUASH CIRCUIT (DAY 8): RASAC TO HUAYLLAPA

There are 2 Huatiaq campsites, both with similar facilities, including a toilet block and river access for water. The camps are about 5-10min apart, so just choose whichever is less crowded.

Gashpapampa

The is a nice, flat camp just on the other side of Laguna Susucocha. There are unappealing squat toilets and also river access for water.

Incahuain is an absolutely gorgeous campsite on the shores of Laguna Jahuacocha. There were quite a few people here, but enough room that it didn’t seem at all crowded, plus abundant water access and ample opportunities for a chilly swim (!!).

Cerro Huacrish

What to expect on the trail

If you haven’t already figured it out, the Huayhuash Circuit is navigationally demanding, especially if you’re hoping to take any of the high alpine detours or side-trips that I’ve recommended . There were days on this trip where, even with a map , guidebook , GPS, and two very experienced mountaineers for parents, we spent about 90% of the day looking for the trail . This is nothing like hiking in the Alps, where there are signs with time estimates at every junction, beautifully graded trails, and plenty of other trekkers you could ask for directions if you were really confused— I counted just 2 signs on this entire circuit, spent more time contouring along the hillside in what we hoped to be the general direction than actually on a trail, and went full days without seeing other humans.

The point is: you need to be a confident navigator if you want to set off on this trek alone and you really should have multiple means of navigating. I’d recommend carrying the guidebook (pages 152-174) , a full map , and a GPS with you on the trail. Yes, all three are absolutely essential! And even fully prepared, expect to do some confused wandering and a lot of guesswork. This means good common sense and some mountain experience is also pretty important.

Far from well-graded, the trails on the Huayhuash Circuit are very rugged, often covered in scree or loose dirt, and typically STEEP. Expect lots of slipping and sliding around, which means hiking boots with high ankle support and trekking poles really are essential.

Especially when you get off the main trail and onto the ruta alpina , it’s also extremely likely that you’ll be doing some bush-bashing, trail-blazing up the side of a rough hill, or even scrambling over large rocks . This is all part of the adventure, just be prepared to go off-piste and get your hands dirty once in a while.

High-altitude

For a high-altitude trek like the Huayhuash Circuit, where you never really step below 4,000m and you frequently ascend above 5,000m, you’ll notice the lack of oxygen in the air right away. For most people, this means you’ll be out of breath on the trail, you won’t have a very big appetite, you’ll need to pee more frequently, and you’ll have some difficulty sleeping . I probably moved a little slower than usual, but I thankfully didn’t experience any of these other symptoms— thanks to LOTS of acclimatisation!

Beyond the normal response to elevation, some people also experience altitude sickness, and the risk on this trek is pretty high . “Altitude sickness” includes Acute Mountain Sickness (which can be mild to moderate in severity) and High-altitude Cerebral/Pulmonary Oedema (both of which can be fatal)— it’s incredibly important to understand the risks, take appropriate preventative measures, and know what to do if you do become unwell on the trail. I wrote a super detailed post on high-altitude trekking that I would recommend reading— it will give you heaps of information on recognising and treating altitude sickness, plus what you can do to prevent it.

In brief, the most important things you can do on this trek to minimise the risk of serious altitude-related health complications are to:

Acclimatise: I mentioned this previously, but it bears repeating that acclimatising properly before beginning your trek is probably the single best way to prevent altitude sickness on the Huayhuash Circuit. This should include at least a few days in Cusco or Huaraz, plus some high-altitude day-hikes.
Ascend slowly: You shouldn’t try to climb too many high-altitude passes in a single day or gain a lot of elevation super quickly. Both the itinerary I described in this post and the one proposed by the trekking guidebook split up the ascents into reasonable chunks. There’s a reason for this!
Camp low: The placement of campsites along the Huayhuash Circuit make it easy to follow the “climb high, sleep low” principle, so this isn’t too big of a concern.
Understand altitude sickness: Again, it’s so important to recognise the symptoms of altitude sickness and respond quickly. Sometimes it’s as simple as descending to a lower elevation until you feel better, but other situations will also require medication or evacuation. Severe altitude sickness can be fatal within 24hrs, so it is no joke. Read my post about altitude sickness for heaps of detail on recognising and treating altitude sickness.
Pack altitude sickness medication: No one ever plans to develop life-threatening altitude sickness, but it’s vital to be prepared, just in case. See a doctor and get a prescription for Acetazolamide, Dexamethasone, and Nifedipine before your trip. I found that my doctor knew very little about altitude sickness medication, so I did a lot of research in medical journals to find the appropriate dosage. It might be a good idea to read this post prior to seeing a doctor so you can discuss the information with them.

Read more about altitude sickness: HIGH-ALTITUDE TREKKING: A COMPLETE GUIDE TO PREVENTING & TREATING ALTITUDE SICKNESS IN THE MOUNTAINS

All official campsites along the trail have some sort of water access, be it a river, lake, or even just a running tap, but none of this water is clean or safe to drink without filtering first . Boiling water before cooking will obviously make it potable, but I’d recommend packing a filtered water bottle or some other type of filtration system for your drinking water on the Huayhuash Circuit. You’re never more than a few hours from a water source, so you don’t have to carry too much in your pack, either.

Food & other supplies

Aside from the cold beer and Coca Cola sold at Viconga camp, the only place on the Huayhuash Circuit to replenish food and supplies is in the little town, Huayllapa. Most trekkers will hit this around day 6-8 of their journey. There’s no fuel for stoves here, but there are snacks and drinks available from a little shop and hot meals made to order.

If you’re super strapped for space or weight, you could pack just enough food to get you to Huayllapa and do a complete restock here , but know that there definitely isn’t any dehydrated mountain food, so you’ll be carrying heavy, bulky items. Still, it’s probably lighter than carrying 10 days of food from the outset, but we decided we’d rather play it safe and pack things we knew we could fill up on rather than rely on snacks.

Many years ago, a young hiker was robbed at gunpoint and killed on the Huayhuash Circuit, leading to the conclusion that this area just wasn’t safe for independent trekkers. In the decades since, the local community has done a lot to restore safety to this area, though, and there’ve been absolutely no incidents in recent years. This is thanks in part to the 9 communities along the trek, who have assumed responsibility for looking after the trail and those on it. It’s impossible to say that nothing bad will ever happen on this trail again, but the Huayhuash Circuit felt completely safe during my trip, regardless of whether we were staying at designated camps with other trekkers or camping entirely on our own.

Far greater than the threat of robbers is Pachamama , whose constantly-changing weather and unpredictable trail conditions can make for a challenging trip. Under no circumstances should you embark on this trek without a well-stocked first aid kit, a good knowledge of mountain survival, and a PLB (Personal Locator Beacon). Both of my parents have had to be med-evac’d off a summit in recent years, and that means we as a family are really conscious of the fact that, even for experienced mountaineers, accidents can happen .

Particularly in the remote Andes where you can go days without seeing other humans, carrying a PLB could be the difference between life and death. We carried an InReach , but there are cheaper options with fewer features that will do an equally effective job in an emergency. Just make sure your model works in Peru— AND that you have good travel insurance that covers medical evacuation.

Snacks for the Huayhuash Circuit

Packing list for the Huayhuash Circuit

Considering that you need to be prepared for below freezing weather, rain or snow, and medical emergencies, plus carry all of your camping equipment, clothing, personal items, and food for 10-days over 5,000m mountain passes, packing smart is a big deal on this trek. The name of the game when packing for the Huayhuash Circuit is less, lighter, smaller .

Try to keep that in mind as you write your own packing list— where you’d ordinarily bring 2 or 3 shirts, por ejemplo , just bring one, and where you’d usually pack a hiking towel, go without. Even with substantial cuts to my normal hiking list, my pack still weighed in at 18kg and my dad’s at 28kg, so leave the non-essentials at home to avoid a backpack you can’t even pick up.

For a super detailed packing list for the Huayhuash Circuit, check out this post: SOLO HUAYHUASH CIRCUIT PACKING LIST: WHAT TO PACK FOR 10 DAYS WITHOUT A GUIDE

50-70L backpack
Filtered water bottle
Trekking poles
3-season tent
Sleeping mat
Sleeping bag (rated to -10C or better)
Camping pillow
Camp stove + fuel
Bowl, cup, and cutlery
Huayhuash guidebook (scan and print pages 152-174)
iPhone with GAIA GPS app and Huayhuash maps downloaded
InReach PLB
Breakfast food: I like Cup of Soup or tortilla soup and hot chocolate or tea. This was a great way to get both salty foods and a heap of water into my system before hitting the trail, since dehydration is a real concern on high-altitude treks.
Lunch & snack food: Try calorie-dense foods like beef jerky, nuts, salami, cheese sticks, fruit leathers, and trail mix. If you want to go a little light on the snacks, you can replenish your supply about 2/3rds of the way through the hike at Huayllapa.
Dinner food: Lots of dehydrated mountain food; my favourite brands are Packit Gourmet (USA) and Outdoor Gourmet Company (AUS). Bring some variety, but also make sure to pack things that you know you’ll like. It’s common to experience loss of appetite and even some stomach upset at altitude, so the best way to ensure you’re actually eating is to bring your favourites! For us, that meant a LOT of spicy queso dip and Fritos (if you’re not hiking with chips and dip, you’re doing it wrong).

More about the exact food I brought in my detailed packing post: SOLO HUAYHUASH CIRCUIT PACKING LIST: WHAT TO PACK FOR 10 DAYS WITHOUT A GUIDE

Short sleeve sport top (just one!)
Thermal for camp
Lightweight fleece
Mountain jacket
Wind jacket
Down jacket
Rain jacket
Tights or hiking pants (just one pair!)
Fleece tights for camp
3x hiking liners and wool socks (sleep in compression socks and a pair of clean wool socks until the last few days, when you’ll have to sleep in dirty wool socks)
Compression socks
10x undies and 1x sports bra (keeping in mind that you’ll wear a bra and undies into the hot springs)
Warm beanie
Warm gloves + outer waterproof mittens
Sturdy hiking boots
Sandals for camp

Personal items

Toothbrush + toothpaste
Body wipes (mountain shower)
First aid: ibuprofen and naproxen for headaches/inflammation, immodium for diarrhoea, KT tape and bandaids, alcohol wipes, etc
Altitude sickness meds: Acetazolamide, Dexamethasone, Nifepidine (read more about when and how to use these medications in this post)
Toilet paper
Hand sanitiser
Camera + spare batteries + Capture clip
Powerbank + charging cables
Lightweight dry bag for electronics
S/250 per person for community fees + any additional cash for snacks in Huayllapa

brooke brisbine

I've spent the last decade exploring the world— everything from solo trekking in the Andes to overlanding in Zambia, all while completing a PhD in Biomechanics, teaching at a university & securing permanent residency in Australia. In 2020, I finally fulfilled my dream of becoming a full-time nomad! Whether it’s vanlife in Mexico, scuba diving in the Galápagos, ticking off incredible US National Parks, or climbing in the Dolomites, I hope this blog will inspire your future adventures & help you find wonder in every corner of the globe. xx bb

Roberta dos Santos

Hi, Brooke! It was the most complet post I saw about de Huayhuash Trek and I loved it. I’m going to do this Trekking all by my self alone (woman solo backpacking) at 23/August and I would like to know if you could share that image of the map your dad made of the Huayhuash Circuit that appears in your report (because I don’t have that book you indicated available for my country – Brazil). Could you? It would help a lot because it’s my first backpacking to a cold place (I’m from Amazônia, a really hot region) and I’m little scary lol.

Hey Roberta! I am SO sorry for the slow reply, I think I missed sending you that map before you set off for your trip!

I hope you had a fantastic time and managed to find a copy of the map I recommended when you arrived in Peru?

Happy trails xx bb

Thank you for the detailed (& inspiring!!!) description of the trek! I’m planning on going solo end of March this year and was wondering whether you could share your GPX route for the trail – I’ve found quite a few alternatives online, but I like your route description the best and would be great if I could stick with it 🙂 Would you recommend bringing a satellite communication device (like Garmin inReach or the like) for going solo to be able to communicate with friends & family or are there a few spots throughout the hike with mobile connection? I’ve done quite a few solo treks in remote locations, but none this challenging (high altitude) so I imagine my family would feel a bit calmer if the heard from me every now and then. Also, I know March is considered end of raining season but you’ve repeatedly mentioned how cold you were – when did you go & what kind of sleeping bag did you bring (mine’s at 5 to -10 degrees, considering whether I’d need a better one). Sorry to bother with all these questions and thank you again for this amazing blog!

I am in the process of putting together detailed GPX tracks for all of the backpacking routes I’ve written up on my blog, let me see if I can get that Huayhuash one out sooner rather than later so you’re able to use it to plan your trip!

I ABSOLUTELY recommend bringing and In-Reach– honestly, you should not hike alone without one in mountains like these. My route in particular takes you off the beaten path and I went days without seeing other humans, mobile reception was non-existent, and an accident would have been fatal without an SOS device, so please take one with you! Added bonus of being able to get weather reports and send check-ins to family 🙂

I went in August with a -8C bag– the temp doesn’t fluctuate much throughout the year, so expect it to be very cold whenever you go. It is honestly the coldest trip I have EVER done, still to this day. I ate dinner almost every night in the tent because I simply couldn’t sit outside. If you also get cold, consider packing a liner that will add some heat to your existing bag.

Hope that helps & don’t hesitate to ask future questions, always happy to help, especially fellow solo female adventurers 🙂

i. a stay at Siula Grande base camp instead of Laguna Juraucocha which involves a chilly wade across a stream but is pretty magical – this could be a variation;

ii. I trotted down all the downhill sections on the last day, was well acclimatized and used to run for GB and just managed to do it in 6 hours, so, I think it would take most people 9 hours, not the 6 which you recorded. There is a risk of people missing transport links out if they try to do it in your speedy 6 hours.

iii. Turismo Nazario on +51 990298650 will do transport to and from any trailhead to/from Huaraz or Chiquian

Thanks for the additional information, Andrew! And good note about the times posted here– you followed my alternate route exactly?? I know for sure I wasn’t running on any sections of this trail, so I wonder if we did a slight variation and that’s where the time discrepancy comes from? Nonetheless, great to note for those who are scheduling a hike out.

Aaron Jobson

Thanks for the great information Brooke. Just completed a 6 day hike in the Huayhuash and referenced your post a lot in the planning. We ended up getting a pretty good storm even in June and returned to Huaraz from Huayllapa. Fortunately we followed your recommendation and booked transportation with Marco and High Summit Peru. He saved us Snead all around amazing as you said. He says to say hi!

Hey Aaron, definitely a bummer about the storm, but I am SO happy to hear Marco was able to help you guys out, he’s truly the best guide in the area!

Hi all. Just to comment about doing it out of season. I did it in February, the worst month for weather. And it was doable! Definitely lost out on views sometimes and it rained most afternoons – making it cold! But we saw no other trekkers and still had fun! Just a heads up for anyone who can’t choose when they are in Peru!

Thanks so much for sharing, Ollie! It’s great to hear that the Huayhuash still holds up out of season– I spent December trekking in Peru several years previously and, despite the rain, I still wouldn’t trade the trip for anything.

Very valuable information. I do it in July. Will I get camping gas for a tourist stove in Huaraz? Is there freeze-dried food in Huaraz? Regards

Hi Marcin, you can definitely find fuel, food, and all variety of backpacking/camping gear for sale in Huaraz!

Happy trails, xx bb

I’ve been looking for this sort of comment for days! I think I’m gonna do it next February/March, it’s when I wanna get away from London and when I’m the least busy with work, so my only option really…But I wasn’t sure it was doable So besides of the weather, is support available in terms of camping sites/ transportation/ any logistical help? I’m thinking to do it solo and without guide, but just in case…

This blog is so amazing and helpful! Just want to update that the community fees have increased a lot since 2019. I would bring S/300 per person just for the community fees. You can ask a travel agency in Huaraz for updates on how much the total trek will cost you. And don’t forget to be respectful and leave no trace so hikers can continue independently enjoying the route 🙂

Thanks so much for the update, Jill! So glad to hear you enjoyed the trek.

Did you happen to take notes on the new amounts– I’d love to update this post with current pricing!

Happy trails 🙂

Jack Pendleton

Planning on doing this independently this July… Can I rely on AllTrails to be my map and GPS? That’s what I use for all my treks I’ve done before and I’ve mapped out a good route for Huayhuash, but can GPS signal be relied upon there? Many thanks for any advice.

GPS signal is reliable– I used Gaia a few times on this hike (although I like it far less than Alltrails).

You might find that your map doesn’t perfectly line up with all the trails you’ll see on the Huayhuash, though, as a lot of these paths are worn by animals and infrequently trafficked by people, in particular along the Ruta Alpina (which I’d HIGHLY recommend hiking wherever possible, as it’s far more scenic). Bring the paper map as well and prepare to do some route-finding in spots, but Alltrails should certainly help.

Happy trails! -Brooke

François Lechasseur

Did you do your trip? I’m thinking to do that trip too and I would like to know if we can use All Trail. Did you hire a guide? How many day did you take to complete the 130 Km?

I’m from Canada

Charles Van Cauwenberghe

Thanks for your additional good advice! After getting the Alpenvereinskarte we really can’t wait for our trip to start. About Paso San Antonio being dangerous, is that why you ascended it as a side trip and actually crossed Santa Rosa on the next day? Also; passing Rosario pass seems like quite the adventure (the route is not even mentioned on the map :p). And a final (for now :D) question: Would you recommend, as the final day of the trek, to go towards Cuartelhain or Llamac?

Hi Charles, no worries at all, happy to help 🙂

That’s exactly right, Paso Santa Rosa (also called Paso Jurau) is not as steep as Paso San Antonio and is widely considered to be the better option. After trekking up to San Antonio as a side trip and looking down the brutal scree field on the other side, I can’t imagine descending. I suppose some people do, not knowing that Santa Rosa is a better alternative, but I would not recommend it, nor did the mountaineering guide I met on the trail. I was actually the only person of the guided group and independent trekkers who even went up San Antonio and the following day my family were the only people to cross Santa Rosa, all the other hikers taking an easier route out to Huayllapa.

Yes, Paso Rosario was a definite adventure! Even if you don’t go over Rosario, I highly recommend exploring the Quebrada Sarapococha–it was one of the most spectacular spots on the entire trail and we had it entirely to ourselves. Camping beneath Rasac on the other side of the pass was also a real highlight for me!

As for the hike out, I’d make a strong case for Quartelhuain. Now, there is no public bus from here, so if that’s how you’re hoping to get back to Huaraz, it might not be the best option, BUT if you can organise private transport, the hike out to Quartelhuain is a million times nicer. I did the high route over Rondoy to finish in Quartelhuain while my parents opted for the easier route straight down to Llamac, and they reported that the descent was awful and unrelenting. The scenery over Rondoy was amazing, I didn’t see a single other hiker the entire day, and I got to complete the circuit fully back to my starting point– so I’d recommend Quartelhuain 🙂

Thank you for what is probably the most elaborate and exciting guide i’ve read so far on solo-trekking the Huayhuash circuit. Me and a friend of mine are relatively experienced in high altitude solo-trekking (mainly in Central Asia, so we are used to spend 50% of our time actually searching for the trail). I do have one question (at the moment :p); Is the ‘Ruta Alpina’ variation indicated on the Alpensvereinskarte or do we need to do additional research on this (and other) variations from the classic route?

Thanks again for your great guide!

Hi Charles, thanks so much for the message!

“Elaborate and exciting” is everything I aspire to be, so obviously this is one of the best compliments I’ve received on the blog!

The Ruta Alpina trails are shown on the Alpensvereinskarte and sometimes described in the guidebook, as well as shown on most GPS maps of the Huayhuash. It’s great that you have off-piste experience, though, because it is HARD to find the route even with a map, book, and GPS app (what I like to call “all the gear and no idea”). It’s the combination of there being (a) a lot of trails to begin with, (b) zero signs or cairns, (c) local foot traffic from farmers and mules that disguises the correct path, (d) erosion, (e) etc etc etc.

Given how little there is out there on the Huayhuash Circuit, it will be challenging to do too much advance research on the route (beyond what’s in this post or in the guidebook). My best advice would be to lay out a loose idea of the trek, even looking at the map to find interesting alternate routes, but then MAKE SURE you speak to a local mountaineering guide to confirm that the route is feasible. There are some passes that are technically passable– Paso San Antonio, por ejemplo — but any local mountaineer would tell you DO NOT descend because it’s wildly unsafe and neighbouring Paso Santa Rosa is better.

There’s a great B&B in Huaraz, Casa de Maruja– the owner is a mountaineering guide and he will happily look at your trekking plan with you to offer advice before you set out. We also met a mountaineering guide along the trail and asked some advice as our plans changed– he confirmed it was safe for us to go up and over Paso Rosario. You seem to know what you’re doing so I probably don’t need to say this, but yeah, it’s just a good idea to speak to someone who’s done what you’re trying to do, since there are some seriously challenging spots in these mountains.

Happy trails to you, and let me know if you have any other questions! -Brooke

08 Nov Peru’s Huayhuash Trek: Ultimate Guide by a Solo Female Traveler

Tres Lagunas / three lakes mirador / viewpoint on Huayhuash trek in Peru

Named one of the 10 most beautiful treks in the world, the Cordillera Huayhuash circuit should absolutely be on your Peru itinerary. While this bucket list hike is not for the faint of heart, the magnificent views of snow-capped peaks, turquoise glacial lakes, rocky terrain, and mind-blowing views pay off all the challenges of the trail. Over 5-12 days you’ll push your strength and test your stamina for one of the most rewarding and immersive adventures through the Andes Mountains.

In this guide I highlight everything you need to complete Huayhuash as a part of a guided-group. Anyone looking to tackle this trek can find this post useful, but I especially added some perspective and tips for solo female travelers: because solo traveling doesn’t mean you can’t have an adventurous trip. So buckle up, for your adventure girl summer in Huayhuash!

What's in this post

Click to skip ahead

About the Huayhuash Trek

Where is the Cordillera Huayhuash
Trail details
How many days is the trek?
Distance & elevation of the trail
Difficulty of the trek
Who can complete Huayhuash?

What to Expect

What’s included & not included in a guided trek
Privacy & safety as a solo female traveler

Huayhuash 8 Day Itinerary

Finding a group & booking trek.

When to book
Private group vs. random group
My recommended tour operator

When is the best time to hike Huayhuash

How to prepare for huayhuash.

Physically & with the altitude
Packing List

Other Random Tips for the Trek

Travel insurance for the trek, how to get to huaraz, other resources for your trip.

ALL ABOUT HUAYHUASH

Huayhuash refers to the mountain range known as Cordillera Huayhuash which is a bunch of mountain peaks grouped together. The trekking circuit takes you up and around them, seeing the icy peaks from different angles, enjoying the glacier lakes around them, and the valleys below.

Where is the Huayhuash Trek?

The Cordillera Huayhuash is a part of the Andes Mountain Range in central Peru, about 200 km north of Lima. To begin the Huayhuash circuit, you’ll start in Huaraz , a city that acts as a hub to begin some of Peru’s most impressive hikes and treks including Huayhuash.

→ Check out my guide to Huaraz here

Trail Details:

How many days is the huayhuash trek.

The traditional Huayhuash circuit is meant to be 8-12 days. The most popular route is 8 days, which is what I did, so I’ll refer to it throughout this post. There’s also a 5 day option for those looking for a shorter route but you won’t complete the full circuit and will miss the panoramic view of the entire range – for that reason I don’t recommend it unless you’re short on time.

Distance & Elevation: How long is the Huayhuash trek and what altitude do you reach?

During the 8 days Huayhuash Circuit you’ll hike about 130 km / 80 miles and reach elevations as high as 5,050 m / 16,568 ft. This is the highest elevation, but every day will include one mountain pass at or over 4,700 m / 15,419 ft and you’ll camp at higher elevation as well.

The map of the circuit is shown below on AllTrails (which is roughly accurate) but when you discuss with tour operators they should give you a map and explain the hiking details of each day since there can be slight variations.

How difficult is the Huayhuash trek?

As I’m sure you can guess, Huayhuash is labeled a difficult trail for the average person and I would agree . Personally, it was doable for me but that’s easy to say in hindsight sitting in a coffee shop typing this. During the trek it took a lot of determination, physical stamina, and mental fortitude.

The Huayhuash circuit is difficult for many reasons, not just trail distance, but for the high altitudes and stamina to span over the whole trip. Every day you’ll complete a mountain pass (the highest pass reaching 5,050 m / 16,568 ft) and the entire trip is over 4,000 meters.

For the unaware sea-level dwellers, hiking at higher altitudes is 10x more difficult than at sea level. There’s less oxygen for your lungs which can introduce other complications depending on how your body reacts. Additionally, weather can be unpredictable so high up, and you may need to hike or sleep through hail or even snow. What’s more, how your body and mind copes to these conditions over 8 days can also be an additional challenge.

On the other hand, while being in shape will make your life easier, you don’t have to be a professional trekker or someone who grew up in Colorado summiting peaks on weekends to do the Huayhuash trek. And unless you’re out of shape, you don’t need to do any official training beforehand either. Now, I do recommend acclimating and completing a few day hikes at high altitude prior. But other than that, this is not like a summit or technical trek which requires training.

In actuality, Huayhuash is not that technical of a trail, it’s just putting one foot in front of the other – which admittedly may be easier said than done. But as long as you have the appropriate gear, the mental fortitude, are properly acclimated, and are in decent physical shape, you should be able to complete it.

For context, I’m a moderately fit person, meaning that I’ve always been able to engage in more physical activities like hiking but I wasn’t working out regularly at the time of my trek and low key I would get out of breath from just running up stairs in Huaraz. During Huayhuash, I was the slowest in my group because I had difficulty breathing, especially during ascents.

However, I was able to keep up more or less, always arriving within 20 minutes or so from the rest of the group and they were always patient enough to wait. And even if I took longer, I think it would have been ok. Everyday the hiking was tailored so there was more than enough time to complete the trail and we frequently arrived to camp at midday. There were also slower groups than us. So while I think Huayhuash is a difficult trek as a whole, the daily hikes are doable if you’re acclimated, in decent shape, and confident – I say go for it.

Who can complete the Huayhuash trek?

So ultimately, who can complete Huayhuash? That’s a difficult to specifically define, and ultimately it’s a question only you can truly answer for yourself. I saw older people doing it who were much slower than me (but did it); I also knew a professional rugby player who was struggling as much as me; but I also saw people who looked physically less strong who were absolutely killing it. Ultimately a lot has to do with how you react to the altitude and your mental stamina.

If you’re unsure if you should do the trek or not, my advice is to take all the information I’ve said into consideration, check out the itinerary and then do some day hikes in Huaraz or even the Santa Cruz trek to gauge how you fare.

When you do decide to do Huayhuash, be confident with yourself. My advice for any challenging activity is to go into it without hesitation, saying to yourself, “I can and will do this, even if it’s difficult.”

Huayhuash 8 day trek itinerary

Below is what you can expect day-to-day during an 8 day guided trek of the Cordillera Huayhuash. This is based off the itinerary I was given and completed. There may be slight variations if you go with a different company and definitely if you plan to trek on your own.

Day 1: Just drive

On the first day, there’s absolutely no hiking involved. Around 9/10 AM you’ll be picked up from your hostel /hotel in Huaraz and then drive about 5 hours to the first campsite. Along the drive you’ll stop in a small town called Llamac at a local restaurant for lunch. Menu del dia is about 10-15 soles and not included, so make sure to bring cash.

The first day is a great time to get acquainted with your group, especially if you don’t know anyone and get a taste of the camping situation for the next week.

Day 2: Here We go

Bright and early you’ll begin the first day of trekking Huayhuash. It begins immediately with ascent to the first mountain pass. Depending on your mindset and how you’re dealing with altitude, it can be a breeze or quite difficult.

What I mean to say is that *most* people find it easier of all the passes because it’s a fresh start. I, on the other hand, found it difficult because I think starting is the hardest part of any trek. When you run into tiredness it’s all too easy to think, omg this is just the start how will I last . Obviously I completely discourage from thinking like this and rather to remember its a marathon not a sprint; you got this.

After the first pass, there is a second one but because its so gradual you don’t even feel like you’re doing a mountain pass. There’s also a lot of flat and down portions. Overall, Day 1 of Huayhuash is longer and covers a lot of ground but you’ll be rewarded with a stunning campsite at the foot of a glacier lake.

Day 2 stats:

18 kilometers (11.2 miles)
1,100 meters (3,608 ft) in elevation gain
Roughly 7 hours of hiking

Two people trekking Huayhuash near day 2 campsite with glacial lake

Day 3: The Three Lakes

On Day 3 you’ll begin a flat walk around the lake you camped beside and towards the first of three new lakes that you’ll see. At this first lake you can hike up to the ridge to see a stunning view of the blue water.

From here you’ll begin the mountain pass ascent. This is a pretty difficult one, but it does really pay off in views. Halfway through the incline, you’ll be rewarded with one of the most beautiful parts of the Huayhuash trek: Mirador de Tres Lagunas or the Three Lakes Viewpoint.

But you’re not done yet, after you take lots of photos and have a snack, you’ll continue the ascent up to the mountain pass. This is when I had to stick my airpods in so Bad Bunny could help me get up and over this bad boy.

After the mountain pass it’s all down and or flat to the next campsite.

Day 3 stats:

16 kilometers (10 miles)
700 meters (2,296 ft) in elevation gain
6-7 hours hiking

Woman poses in front of glacial lake during Peru's Huayhuash trek

Day 4: The hardest day

You wanted to know which day is the most difficult? This is it. On Day 4 of the Huayhuash trek you’ll have the highest mountain pass at roughly 5,050 m, and then later you may or may not complete a second one at 5,000 m. To explain, I’ll tell you about my experience.

We started the first ascent which I’ll admit was so freaking hard. It didn’t help that it began with fog so thick you couldn’t see far in front of you which eventually turned into a windy snow storm. This meant with a group spaced out, hiking at different paces, I felt pretty alone at the back until our chef caught up and hiked with me (they make sure no one is left behind, and I was last).

At the top of the first pass you should have amazing views, however I wouldn’t know too much since we could barely see… After the pass though it’s down all the way to the campsite. Again, we only got glimpses of the views during descent, but if you have a clear day this should be an incredible scenery of blue lakes and brown, outlandish mountain peaks.

For as difficult as this mountain pass is, it doesn’t take too long and you’ll be at the campsite for lunch. Actually, because of the snow storm my group was so cold we barely stopped at all and made it to camp by 11 AM! For this reason, our guide gave us the option: do you want to do the second mountain pass, San Antonio, later that afternoon or the next day? It’s (in my opinion) THE most beautiful view of the whole trek, and our guide felt he could easily predict from the campsite if it would be clear at the top so we’d have nice views. He said if we waited until the following morning to do it, we might not be so lucky.

So, my group decided let’s go for it . We digested lunch and waited around for the clouds to clear. At about 3 PM, our guide said everybody up, it’s time , and we started the second ascent to San Antonio pass.

The climb there is only 1.5 hours but rough. I mean it’s really, really steep. But don’t give up because when you take the final steps and those mountains come into view, it’s one of the most rewarding feelings.

Day 4 Stats:

15 – 20 kilometers (9 – 12 miles)
700 – 1300 meters (2,296 – 4,265 ft) in elevation gain
5 – 8 hours of hiking

Day 5: A Breeze

If you’re like my group who completed San Antonio pass on Day 4, then you can expect Day 5 to be an absolute breeze. The hike doesn’t involve any mountain passes, it’s simply hiking down and flat all the way to the next campsite which is in a village, in a school’s grass “stadium.”

We arrived very early around 11 AM and practically had a much needed rest day that involved showering, laying in the sun, reading, playing soccer together and bonding over some drinks and games. I think we all needed this day to recover a bit and bond even more as a group.

Make sure to bring cash for this day if you want to have a shower or buy snacks and drinks.

Day 5 Stats:

16 kilometers (9.94 miles)
-1000 meters (-3,280 ft) in elevation gain
4 hours of hiking

Day 6: Back up we go

In hiking, you may know that unless you’re at the end of the trail, what goes down usually has to go back up. So you guessed it, on Day 6 starting at 3,500 meters you’ll hike up and over a mountain pass at 4,800 meters.

With a 1,300 meter elevation gain, I was pretty nervous for this day but it actually ended up being the easiest ascent for me the whole trek. Probably something to do with feeling energized after an easy previous day, knowing that we only had two days more, and having a very hungover and slow guide.

However, this may have been a personal experience and a product of expecting the worst from such a big altitude gain. I would still rate this as a pretty difficult day.

Day 6 Stats:

13 kilometers (8 miles)
1,300 meters (4,265 ft) in elevation gain
6-7 hours of hiking

Day 7: An impressive Panoramic View

As I mentioned, I personally think San Antonio pass was the most beautiful view, but Day 7 comes as a close second. In fact, all tour companies will tell you it’s the most impressive day, and I have to say I would not want to miss this.

You know the drill, another day another mountain pass. I personally thought this one was pretty cool, even on the way up the rocky terrain felt other-wordly. Further along at the top, you’ll walk along the ridge of the pass and enjoy a 360 panoramic view of the cordillera.

As you walk it just keeps getting better as your campsite slowly comes into view. It’s then a very steep descent down, a time my knees were very thankful for my hiking poles.

At the campsite you can continue on to the highest of the lagunas; my group opted to lay in the sun and drink beer instead.

Day 7 Stats:

500 meters (1,640 ft) in elevation gain
5 hours hiking

Day 8: The final day!

Last day of the Huayhuash trek! Before you embark on a steep downhill though, you have one final mountain pass to complete. As you reach the top, it’s a wild feeling to know that you did it and bittersweet as you head down.

At the bottom you’ll wait for a bit and then have the same drive back to Huaraz.

A recommended end to your itinerary is to do as my group did, which was enjoy dinner and drunk karaoke that night before parting ways. After 8 days spent together, your group will nearly be family and it’s worth celebrating your trekking success together.

Day 8 Stats:

15 kilometers (9.3 miles)
700 meters (2,296 ft) up and then 800 down to the bus

WHAT TO EXPECT TREKKING THE CORDILLERA HUAYHUASH

What's included in a guided trek:.

Most tour operators include the same for the Huayhuash trek: a licensed guide with a first-aid kit, camping equipment including tents, sleeping mats, and sleeping bags, all of your meals provided (except for the first lunch at the restaurant in Llamac), all transportation, and mules to carry a bag with your belongings. Some tours (like with Krusty Hostel /Huayhuash Expeditions) will also include the park entrance fee and an emergency horse to ride just in case.

What’s not included is any clothing, hiking poles , hiking boots , travel insurance , personal items and a water bottle – although boiled water is provided throughout, you just need to bring a bottle.

In terms of weather, expect it all. At night and in the morning you can guarantee it’s going to be frigid, with temperatures at or below freezing. During the day you can guarantee you’ll have everything from hot, to cloudy, to cold, to hail, and maybe even a snow storm (if you’re lucky like me…). My group joked that every day in our backpacks we needed clothes for all seasons, and the story of our lives was stripping and adding layers every other hour.

This is just how the climate is at high altitude, but to ensure the best weather it’s best to complete Huayhuash during the winter/dry season. More on that later. Regardless, it’s best to be prepared with different types of clothing and layers. Also, more on that farther down.

woman on Huayhuash trek wearing warm clothing

If you’re doing Huayhuash as a guided trek then you don’t need to worry about eating ramen and dehydrated food the whole trip. Group trips include a cook and so you’ll be spoiled by having all meals cooked for you.

In terms of food options, I would say you can expect pretty decent meals, however repetitive, with plenty of carbs and protein to sustain you for the week. Vegetarian options should be available, but make sure and double check before booking with a group and letting them know.

During my Huayhuash trek for breakfast we mostly ate bread with butter and jam accompanied with either cereal & yogurt, pancakes and once shakshuka. For lunch it varied between pasta or rice dishes with a protein and once ceviche. And for dinner, we always started with a hot soup followed by the main dish of also pasta or rice with a protein. Additionally, snacks for the trek were provided every morning (always cookies, a chocolate bar and one fruit) and after hiking we always had a tea time accompanied by a snack of usually popcorn but once chips and guacamole (my favorite day!!).

So if you’re wondering, should I bring any food? The answer is that you don’t need to bring anything substantial BUT if what I just described isn’t to your liking then I would definitely pack some extra snacks. Personally, I packed some nuts and candy gummies for everyday just in case I was ever hungry or wanted a sugar boost.

As you can imagine, during Huayhuash you won’t be staying anywhere luxurious. You’ll be camping in tents throughout the entire trip except for one night where a hostel is optional. I was worried about being really cold, but my tour company, Huayhuash Expeditions, provided excellent tents and sleeping bags. Combined with the warm layers I packed, I was pretty toasty while sleeping.

Fortunately, at every campsite there are toilets; not always the most clean, but they did provide some privacy compared to having to try and shit outdoors in the fear that someone can see you.

In terms of showers, there aren’t any except for on Day 5 when you either camp in the village or stay in the hostel available. To freshen up throughout the trek, I brought wet wipes and after every day of hiking I would wipe myself down before putting on my clean pajamas or camp clothes.

Privacy & Safety as solo female traveler:

Because you’ll be in a group, you don’t have to worry too much about safety during the Huayhuash trek. It’s unlikely you’ll ever be completely alone or encounter animals, and should you get injured there’s a first aid kit and emergency horse available. I also recommend getting travel insurance just in case.

But if you’re joining a random group as a woman alone, you may also be thinking what about the people in my group and what about sharing a tent with a stranger. This is a valid concern since you never really know and unfortunately uncomfortable situations can arise anywhere, especially when sleeping next to someone you don’t know.

If you’re really worried, it may be possible to request a private tent, however I actually do not recommend this because sharing a tent can actually be really fun (you have someone to laugh with through the suffering of cold mornings) and having another person in the tent can keep you warm at night.

Instead I recommend pairing up with another woman if you can. When booking your group, you can request to see the list and ask if there’s another solo female traveler.

However, if this is not an option, then try to pair up with someone you feel most comfortable around. When I did Huayhuash, there were two other women in my group but they both came with their partner so I knew immediately I was going to have to share a tent with one of the other five guys in my group. Not to sound psycho, but rather honest, I totally scoped them out on the drive there and as we were setting up first camp. Of course you can’t know a person after an hour or two, but talk and make friends and whoever seems like someone you vibe with (and honestly feel safe around) that’s who you ask to share a tent with. Use the spidey senses ladies.

As a disclaimer, I want to finish this section by saying all the men in my Huayhuash group were respectable people who I all really liked. However, I’ve been in other uncomfortable situations in the past so it seems worth it to mention this “tip” for those who may be worried about it.

Woman standing in front of 3 lakes viewpoint at Cordillera Huayhuash in Huaraz Peru

HOW TO FIND A GROUP & WHERE TO BOOK YOUR HUAYHUASH TREK

When to book your trek.

It’s tempting to think that for a big trek like Huayhuash you should book it in advance on the internet in order to save your spot. But I actually really discourage this. Rather, I suggest arriving in Huaraz a little earlier, not only to acclimate and enjoy other day trips, but also to book your trek there in person .

By waiting to book in person you have the opportunity to meet others and possibly form your own trekking group, plus it’s WAY cheaper in Huaraz. For most tours in Peru, when you book online vs. in person it’s almost always a double price difference. Huayhuash is no different. Online you’ll find the Huayhuash trek for upwards of $700 USD or more, while in Huaraz you can join a group for $380 – $500 USD.

Private vs. random group

When booking Huayhuash, you have two options: first to form your own group of friends and book a private group, or second to join a random group of other travelers. While I met a lot of friends in Huaraz to join me for day trips, I didn’t meet anyone interested in the 8 day Huayhuash trek and so did the second option by joining a random group.

While this sounds daunting especially as a solo traveler, don’t be discouraged if this happens to you too. My group was so incredible and we bonded so much through those 8 days. I really couldn’t have asked for a more hilarious and supportive group of people of whom I’m still in contact with later on.

Guided group tour of Cordillera Huayhuash in Peru

The best tour company for Huayhuash

There are many tour operators in Huaraz who offer the Huayhuash trek. After shopping around a ton, I found that the best option was booking through Krusty Hostel which uses Huayhuash Expeditions . They were highly recommended and had the cheapest price at 1500 soles, roughly $380 USD (for whatever reason, this price applied only when I booked through Krusty Hostel, not when directly whatsapping a Huayhuash Expeditions guide who gave me a much higher price).

After trekking with Huayhuash Expeditions for both Santa Cruz and Huayhuash, I can say I was extremely pleased with the gear, my guide, the group, and the entire experience. They included a few extras compared to other companies like a spacious duffle bag so you can bring plenty of warm layers, an emergency horse and the entrance fee to the park.

My guide for Huayhuash was also patient, encouraging and professional. Plus, Krusty Hostel is a popular place to book tours so you have a good chance at being paired with fun people and fellow backpackers. Like I said, I had the best group I could have possibly asked for, especially going into it not knowing a soul. We were practically family by the end of the week.

Horse at a mountain pass on the Cordillera Huayhuash trek in Peru

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO DO HUAYHUASH

The best time to do the Huayhuash trek is from May to September. This falls during Peru’s winter but it’s also dry season which means you’ll mostly avoid rain and snow during hiking. Of course at high altitude, you never know with the weather, but during these months the conditions are generally best.

San Antonio pass ono the Cordillera Huayhuash trek in Peru - the most beautiful view on the trek

HOW TO PREPARE FOR THE HUAYHUASH TREK

Physically & with the altitude.

As I mentioned previously, I didn’t really do any “technical” training for Huayhuash, however I did several high altitude hikes to prepare. I really believe this made a huge difference for my stamina and definitely acclimating.

Some recommended day-hikes you can do are Laguna Churup, Laguna 69, Laguna 513, and Laguna Llaca. The 4-day Santa Cruz trek is also a great way to prepare if you have the time. You can learn more about all these hikes in my Huaraz guide here .

But whichever you choose, if you’re coming from sea level I would recommend 3 days to acclimate in Huaraz and to do a few other physical activities before Huayhuash.

And by the way, if you’re wondering wtf is acclimating… Let me explain. Basically there’s less oxygen at higher altitude levels and your body needs time to get used to functioning while using less oxygen aka acclimatization. Especially if you’ve never been at a higher altitude like this, you can expect feeling more fatigued much easier, having headaches, getting dehydrated quicker and if you get altitude sickness you can have other symptoms like nausea and diarrhea.

Even after acclimating in Huaraz, you still might feel symptoms during the Huayhuash trek. The best you can do is pack medication to treat symptoms (listed below), stay really hydrated, and hike slowly listening to your body. If you get really sick, of course tell someone in your group and your guide.

What to Pack for Huayhuash

If you’re joining a guided group, the company should provide all the equipment like a tent, sleeping mat, sleeping bag, and food. Therefore you’re really only responsible for bringing clothes & personal items.

Here’s what I recommend bringing along with links if you’re looking for suggestions:

Waterproof hiking pants
Long sleeve shirt(s)
Short sleeve shirt(s)
Pullover or hoodie
Thermal base layers for nighttime
Sweater, pants, socks (authentic alpaca wool from Peru is a good option! They have so many cute sweaters, ponchos, hats gloves, & scarves in Huaraz)
Jacket for warmth
Rain jacket
Beanie , gloves , neck gaiter
Baseball cap
Supportive hiking boots
Hiking socks
Reusable water bottle
First aid kit
Altitude medication (Acetazolamide, or Diamox – very different from solely a supplement), imodium , nausea meds , ibuprofen , & electrolytes
Microfiber towel
Pillow (for camping)
Flashlight and/or head lamp
Hiking poles (bring your own or rent them in town)
Kindle (a lot of downtime in the afternoons)
Supportive backpack – the mules will carry your bigger bag (a duffel should be provided) but you’ll carry a day pack of water, extra layers and snacks while hiking
Waterproof backpack cover
Camera gear to capture the amazing views!
Portable charger and/or solar charger – no outlets during the trek
Wet wipes to freshen up after the hike
Any toiletries – keep it to a minimum but for skincare I suggest bring your hydrating routine because high altitude and harsh winds dry out your skin so much
Toilet paper (seriously don’t forget this)
Diva cup (it’s not fun being reliant on tampons in the wilderness)
Hand sanitizer

The most important thing is having layers to stay warm at night, and with the duffle bag provided you don’t have to worry about light clothing to carry so don’t hold back on the fleece.

Also note that you don’t need a fresh hiking outfit for every single day. It makes much more sense to re-wear clothes which sounds gross but everyone does it so F it. To feel clean it’s more important to bring a change of undergarments, undershirts, socks, and to never mix what you sleep in with what you hike in.

Huayhuash day pack backpack for the trail

Random tips for Huayhuash

Saving your battery.

You won’t have any access to outlets during the Huayhuash trek, so if you want your phone/camera fully charged for photos then make sure to conserve your batteries. You can do this by keeping your phone in airplane mode at all times (there’s no service or wifi anyways), turning your phone off at night, putting anything with batteries in your sleeping bag at night (the cold drains batteries) and by using your camera/phone as little as possible.

Throughout Huayhuash, I used my phone and camera to take photos and that was about it. I didn’t even waste precious battery flipping through photos. Also if you have a portable charger , definitely bring this.

In combination with my portable charger and conserving my batteries, I was able to have enough charge on my camera and phone for the full 8 days. It’s crazy how much it lasts when you’re not scrolling through Tik Tok all the time…

Optimize Your Day Pack

During the day you don’t have access to your big bag, so make sure anything you may need while hiking is in your day pack. This includes water, snacks, clothing in case of a weather change such as a rain jacket or extra layer, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, tampons/diva cup, toilet paper/tissues, and altitude meds should you get sick while hiking.

Bring something to keep you entertained

Tough mornings of hiking are usually followed by slow afternoons during Huayhuash. With no wifi in the middle of the wilderness, you might even find yourself being bored – in a good way. I entertained myself by hanging out with my group, reading, and sometimes doing yoga.

I would anticipate this time and bring something like a book or Kindle , journal and pen, a deck of playing cards or another game, or maybe pre-downloading some movies on your phone. Personally, I didn’t watch anything on my phone because I wanted to conserve battery for photos but if you have a big enough portable charger or don’t care much about photos you could do this. I did however pre-download music and podcasts for listening which use less battery.

Hike at your own steady pace

I mentioned it before, but I was by far the slowest in my trekking group. However, I stopped caring because I soon found that if I tried to keep up with other’s pace, I just got really tired and had to take a long break to catch my breath. It was much more sustainable to keep my own steady and consistent pace.

When you hike Huayhuash, remember it’s a marathon not a sprint. Do you, just keep going.

Figure out hairstyles that work for you beforehand

8 days of trekking with no showering can make your hair really annoying especially if it’s long. I anticipated this and brought a headband, plenty of hair ties so I could braid it, and a hat. I also washed it the night before leaving so that it was the most fresh to start. I recommend doing the same and finding hairstyles that work for you, keeping in mind your hair will be dirty a lot of the time.

Wet wipes to stay clean

Like I said, you’ll only have a shower one night out of the 8 days so if you’re like me and hate feeling dirty, bring wet wipes to freshen up. There’s also no trash around and you don’t want to litter, so bring a plastic bag to put dirty wipes in.

TRAVEL INSURANCE for huayhuash

Travel insurance is always a must to cover things like trip cancellation or changes, lost or stolen items, and medical emergencies. When doing adventurous activities like the Huayhuash trek, I would say it’s even more essential.

The problem with travel insurance while trekking is that most insurance companies have a cut off for any activities above a certain altitude. Usually around 3 or 4,000 m, well below the altitudes of the Huayhuash trek. Meaning, if you get injured during the trek, they won’t cover your bills.

For that reason I recommend World Nomads travel insurance which is made specifically for adventurous backpackers – specifically their Explorer package.

→ LEARN MORE ABOUT WORLD NOMADS TRAVEL INSURANCE COVERAGE HERE

How to Get to Huaraz to start Huayhuash

As I mentioned, the Huayhuash trek begins in Huaraz, Peru which is about 400 km (250 miles) north of Lima. Most people traveling to Huaraz from outside Peru will first need to fly into Lima then go to Huaraz.

Huaraz doesn’t have an airport so the only way to get there is to drive yourself or take a bus (the most popular and most practical option for most).

HOW TO GET TO HUARAZ FROM LIMA

To get to Huaraz from Lima, you can take an 8-9 hour bus. It’s possible to depart during the day, but the most popular option is to book a night bus so you can sleep (hopefully) the entirety of the trip.

There are a number of bus companies to book with such as Movil , Civa and Cruz del Sur . For easy booking and comparing prices, you can search and book your ticket on Busbud .

When choosing your ticket, note there are different seating options based on seat reclining degrees and other factors. For example, cheaper seats only recline 140 degrees whereas premier seats recline 180 degrees, similar to a bed for better sleep – a game changer on those overnight trips.

Ticket prices are typically around S/100 ($25 USD) depending on when you book and which seat you choose.

After arriving in Huaraz by bus, you can walk or take a taxi to your accommodation.

If traveling the other way from Huaraz to Lima, the process is the same.

HOW TO GET TO HUARAZ FROM TRUJILLO

To get to Huaraz from Trujillo, you can also take an 8 – 9 hour overnight bus which can be booked with Movil or Linea . For easy booking and comparing prices, you can search and book your ticket on Busbud .

When choosing your ticket, note there are different seating options based on seat reclining degrees and other options. For example, cheaper seats only recline 140 degrees whereas premier seats recline 180 degrees, similar to a bed for better sleep – a game changer on those overnight trips.

Ticket prices are typically around S/65 ($17 USD) depending on when you book and which seat you choose.

After arriving in Huaraz, you can walk or take a taxi to your accommodation.

If traveling the other way from Huaraz to Trujillo, the process is the same.

→ Also Read My Complete Guide to Huaraz Peru

And that’s it! If you’ve made it this far, thank you for reading. This was a long and extensive guide for the Huayhuash trek, but I really wanted to answer all the questions I had myself, especially as a solo female traveler, before completing this challenging trek.

If you found this helpful or end up completing Huayhuash yourself, I’d love it if you leave a comment so I can congratulate you. This is a bucketl ist item you should absolutely be proud of.

Make sure to check out my other resources for Peru and South America. Happy traveling!

More Resources for Your Trip to Huaraz:

Accommodation recommendations.

Budget $: Krusty Hostel . A comfortable B&B that was very helpful in booking all tours and meeting other people. Search for availability here.

Mid-Range $$: Selina . Stylish and comfortable stay with dorm & private rooms available in addition to a spacious kitchen, yoga studio and courtyard. Search for availability here.

If these aren’t available or to your taste, you can search more on Hostelworld and Booking.com

Flight to Peru

Flights to Peru are typically cheapest to Lima, and this is the closest international airport to Huaraz. To get the best prices I recommend using Skyscanner .

Bus to Huaraz

To find the best prices and most convenient trip to Huaraz, I recommend searching on BusBud .

Travel Insurance

I recommend WorldNomads for adventurous backpackers in Peru. You can search for coverage here .

Things to do in Huaraz

There are many day trips to do in Huaraz such as Laguna Paron, Pastoruri Glacier, Nevado Mateo, Laguna 69 & more. Read my full Huaraz guide here to learn more about these trips & more.

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Tony The Tiger

Great report, Caroline! I am officially a fan of your site now 🙂

One question, when you booked the tour through Krusty Hostel, so you were physically at the Hostel not through their website, correct?

Caroline Rose

I realized I’m replying super late, so I apologize to you Tony. But for anyone else who may read this – fyi, I did book in person at the hostel. They should have a Whatsapp number too though that you can message to book activities ahead of time if you wish.

Hi! Thanks for such a thorough guide with awesome photos. A question about booking through Krusty – are the tours leaving daily? I only have 11 days I could spend in Huaraz and wondering if it’s worth the risk of not booking in advance, in case the tours are full or they don’t have enough people, etc.

The one day excursions should leave every day, although you should double check with them. However, the longer excursions such as Santa Cruz or Huayhuash trek usually leave on a particular day when it works for guides or when there’s a big enough group. So if you have a limited amount of time you should definitely check in beforehand with them to see if their scheduled trip works with your timing.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

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You are here: Home » Treks Around the World » Huayhuash Trek, Peru: All You Need to Know About Hiking in the Cordillera Huayhuash

Huayhuash Trek, Peru: All You Need to Know About Hiking in the Cordillera Huayhuash

Last Updated on November 18, 2022 by Audrey Scott

Doing the Huayhuash Trek in the Cordillera Huayhuash in Peru had been a dream of ours for over a decade. Although our expectations were high, the reality of our experience far exceeded them: eight high mountain pass crossings, surrounding peaks of 6,000+ meters (20,000+ feet), turquoise alpine lakes, stunning glacier-covered mountains, and a diversity of landscapes. Each day felt like a different experience, a new discovery. After answering endless questions about planning, organizing and preparing for a Huayhuash trek, it’s time to share it all in this Huayhuash Trekking Guide.

Many people have never heard of the Cordillera Huayhuash since the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu usually get all the tourist and adventure travel attention in Peru . However, this small sub-range of the Peruvian Andes packs a huge punch for its size. Although only 30km long it includes six peaks over 6,000 meters (20,000 ft.) and features spectacular panoramic views of scores of high snow-covered peaks from different perspectives.

It’s not a coincidence that the Cordillera Huayhuash, together with the Himalayan Mountains in Nepal and India , is often listed among the top in the “best places in the world to trek” lists. Yes, it's that stunningly beautiful.

Here's why the Huayhuash Trek is one of the best treks we've ever done and why we continually recommend it. Writing this Huayhuash Trekking Guide brings back excellent memories and makes us want to return to explore even more.

How to use this Huayhuash Trekking Guide: This article is intended to be comprehensive. It contains all the information we wish we'd found when we researched and planned our own Huayhuash Trek. It includes all you need to choose, organize, pack for and enjoy trekking in the mountains of the Cordillera Huayhuash. Plus, it outlines what to expect day by day on the Huayhuash Trek. If questions remain, leave a comment so that others may benefit from the answer and information.

Table of Contents

Peru Covid Travel Update

Peru is open to travelers and you can find all of the Covid travel and entry requirements on this official website . In addition to filling out a health declaration in advance, you will need to show proof of vaccination or testing to enter the country.

Currently (February 2022), the local communities along the Huayhuash treks are open for foreign visitors and camping, but some may have special requirements to enter. Be sure to check in advance with your trekking agency or tour operator. In addition, for safety and health reasons many trekking agencies are limiting group tours and are focusing mostly on individual tours.

Choosing a Huayhuash Trek

Huayhuash treks fall roughly into two categories: short (4-7 days) and long (8-14 days). If you have the time, we recommend choosing a route that is 10-12 days through the Cordillera Huayhuash. This length of circuit can provide a complete Huayhuash experience and deliver more views and stunning landscapes than you thought possible in one trek.

Classic Huayhuash Trek (8-14 days)

Longer treks will take you over more mountain passes in a full circuit so you can appreciate some of the high peaks from multiple angles. Each day includes at least one, and sometimes two, mountain passes ranging from 4,000+ meters/ 13,000+ feet up to 5,050m/16,570 feet. It is recommended to do three acclimatization hikes in and around Huaraz before embarking on one of these treks (see below for details).

We chose a 10-day Huayhuash trek and were very happy with the route, pace, difficulty and overall experience. We met other trekkers who had done an 8-day trek, but we found their route cut out some of our favorite vistas.

Short Huayhuash Treks (4-7 days)

Also known as Mini Huayhuash Treks, these shorter routes intend to provide trekkers a sort of “best of” sample of the Cordillera Huayhuash in a shorter period of time. These routes tend to focus around Lake Jahuacocha or Lake Carhuacocha and cross over several 4,000+ meter / 13,000+ feet mountain passes. Although not as challenging as the full Huayhuash Trek, these treks still require prior acclimatization in and around Huaraz.

Note: If you don’t think that you have the time, physical endurance or strength to do one of the Huayhuash Treks, consider one of the Santa Cruz treks in the nearby Cordillera Blanca. As we understand, these treks still include stunning scenery but are shorter and less physically demanding.

What to Expect on a 10-day Huayhuash Trek: Day by Day

Our Route: Matacancha – Mitucocha – Carhuacocha Lake – Huayhuash – Viconga – Huanacpatay Valley – Huayllapa Village – Gashpapampa Valley – Jahuacocha Lake – Llamac Village
Total Hiking Distance: 70.4 miles / 113 km
Number of Days: 9 nights/10 days, including a van transfer to the trailhead from Huaraz on Day 1 and return to Huaraz on Day 10.
Maximum Altitude: 5,050 (16,570 feet)
Season: May – early September (dry season)
Difficulty: Medium-Difficult

Note: The itinerary outlined below is the one that we took. Although the route is the same, some of our campsites and overnights may differ slightly from some of the classic 10-day Huayhuash Trek itineraries. Together with our guide, we decided to adjust the itinerary so that we would climb up to San Antonio Pass on the morning of Day 7 vs. the afternoon of Day 6. This meant that we spread out the campsites after that a bit differently and did not have two nights at Lake Jahuacocha — a deliberate itinerary adjustment which was preferable to all of us.

We calculated distances and times using an exercise app. While fairly accurate, there may be some small differences than if we'd used a more sophisticated GPS device.

Day 1: Drive from Huaraz to Matacancha (4,150 meters / 13,615 feet)

This is a driving day (7 hours) from Huaraz to get you to the trailhead so that you ready to start hiking the next day. You go through some beautiful scenery, including some overlooks with views of the Cordillera Huayhuash and a drive over the Cuncush Pass (4,750 meters/15,580 feet).

Day 2: Matacancha – Cacanan Pass – Mitucocha

Once at the trailhead, you’ll have time to unload all the gear, learn how to set up your tent, enjoy views of Mount Rondoy (5,870 meters / 19260 feet) and eat a hearty dinner before turning in early for the night.

Hiking Distance: 5.66 miles / 9.1 km
Number of hours hiking: 5 hours
Maximum Altitude: 4,700 m (15,420 feet)

This day begins with a steep zigzag ascent to Cacanan Pass (4,700 m/15,420 ft) which marks the continental divide (all rivers east of it flow towards the Amazon and all on the west flow towards the Pacific Ocean). Enjoy a snack and rest at the top before descending into a green valley where you may find a few vicuñas (related to llamas) grazing high in the hills or vizcachas (animals which look like a rabbit crossed with a squirrel) dashing around.

Huayhuash Trekking Guide, Day 2 Campsite

You’ll also have your first view of some of the snow-covered high peaks of Ninashanca (5,607 m), Jirashanca (6,094 m) and Jiraschanco Chico (5,445 m). The trail continues past the small village of Janca to the campsite near Lake Mitucocha at the foot of Mount Jirashanca.

Day 3: Mitucocha – Carhuac Pass – Carhuacocha Lake

Hiking Distance: 6.5 miles / 10.5 km
Number of hours hiking: 5.5 hours
Maximum Altitude: 4,650 m (15,255 feet)

The walk up to Carhuac Pass (4,650 m) is rather gentle and takes around three hours. You’ll be rewarded at the top with the first view of Mount Yerupaja (6,634 m), Peru’s second highest peak and the highest of the Cordillera Huayhuash. On the way down towards Lake Carhuacocha you’ll pass some Incan ruins and another small village.

The campsite is on the shore of the lake and features a stunning panoramic view of the snow-covered peaks of Yerupaja, Yerupaja Chico (6,121 m), Siula Grande (6,344 m) Jirashanca and Jirashanca Chico (5,446 m).

Day 4: Carhuacocha Lake – Siula Pass – Huayhuash

Hiking Distance: 8.5 miles / 13.7 km
Number of hours hiking: 7 hours
Maximum Altitude: 4,800 m (15,750 feet)

Wake up before sunrise, grab a cup of coca tea and climb to the top of the hill behind the campsite to watch the light transform the nearby snow-covered peaks as the sun rises. The reflection of the snow-covered peak in the lake is like a mirror, perfectly still and crisp. Mother Nature puts on a beautiful show as the colors change to pink and orange.

This is a beautiful morning walk that winds its way past the turquoise alpine lakes of Grangrajanca (4,245 m), Siula (4,290 m) and Quesillococha (4,332 m). As you rise in altitude to reach Siula Pass (4,800 m) more layers of mountains and lakes appear.

It’s a steep and rocky ascent to the pass, but you’re rewarded with views of Mount Carnicero (5,960 m), Jurau (5,600 m) and the eastern side of Siula Grande (6,344 m). Enjoy a picnic lunch here before descending to the campsite near Huayhuash.

Day 5: Huayhuash – Portachuelo Pass – Viconga (Hot Springs)

Hiking Distance: 7.3 miles / 11.75 km
Maximum Altitude: 4,750 m (15,585 feet)

The day begins with a relatively easy ascent to Portachuelo Pass (4,750 m). Enjoy a snack at the top with views of the snow-covered mountains of the Cordillera Raura. The descent is long and steady, passing through green valleys filled with wildflowers and perhaps a llama, alpaca or two.

The Viconga campsite is at the foot of Mount Cuyoc (5,550 m). This campsite is the one place along the trek where you'll have an option to bathe.

Note: There are several hot spring pools near the campsite. We highly recommended you enjoy them thoroughly, both to bathe and to relax your muscles in the warm water. There is a small pool for washing with soap and then two other pools to soak in once you’re clean.

Day 6: Viconga – Cuyoc Pass – Pampa Cuyoc

Hiking Distance: 5 miles / 8 km
Number of hours hiking: 4 hours
Maximum Altitude: 5,000 m (16,404 feet)

This relatively short day includes Cuyoc Pass (5,000 m), the first of the trek’s two 5,000+ meter mountain passes. This is a relatively long switchback ascent through rocky, high desert terrain. The panoramic views from the top are spectacular and include a sort of “best of” the Cordillera Huayhuash, including Jurau, Sarapo (6,127 m), Siula, Yerupaja, Rasac (6,017 m), Tsacra (5,548 m) and Huacrish (5,622 m).

Descend to Pampa Cuyoc at the base of San Antonio Pass (5,050 m) for lunch and a relaxing afternoon. There are optional short hikes to nearby hills for anyone who still wants to stretch their legs.

Note: Many itineraries include an optional climb up to San Antonio Pass on the same day with an overnight at Huanacpatay campsite. Together with our guide, our group opted to hike up to San Antonio in the morning when the skies were clearer and we had more energy.

Day 7: Huanacpatay Valley – San Antonio Pass – Huayllapa Village

Hiking Distance: 11.7 miles / 18.8 km
Maximum Altitude: 5,050 m (16,570 feet)

Begin this day with a steep climb up the scree and rocks to San Antonio Pass (5,050 m), the highest pass of the trek. Take your time at the top to enjoy the best viewpoint of Mount Siula Grande (of “ Touching the Void ” fame) and nearby alpine lakes. You may also spot a few condors flying about, searching for prey.

Huayhuash Trekking Guide, San Antonio Pass

Descend the same way and continue on the trail through a series of green valleys and cultivated fields to Huayllapa village. After you set up camp in one of the school fields, enjoy a walk through the village.

Note: this is the only set of shops and services you will come across on the trek. Someone in our group had his hiking shoes repaired here as one of the soles had begun to fall off.

Day 8: Huayllapa Village – Tapush Pass – Gashpapampa Valley

Hiking Distance: 7.2 miles / 11.6 km

Leaving the village behind the trail takes you up to a high plateau that rises gradually up to Tapush Pass (4,800 m). You’ll have glacier-covered Mount Diablo Mudo in front of you for much of the way up to the pass. Views over Lake Susucocha (4,740 m) are revealed at the top. Enjoy the wildflowers, birds and views of the Cordillera Blanca in the distance as you descend into Gashpapampa Valley for the night. Once you reach camp, bundle up since this was a pretty cold night and morning for us.

Day 9: Gashpapampa Valey – Yaucha Pass – Cerro Huacrish – Jahuacocha Lake

Hiking Distance: 5.8 miles / 9.3 km
Maximum Altitude: 4,850 m (15,910 feet)

Each time you think that the views and the moment can’t get any better, they do. Take it slow and enjoy.

The day begins with a slow and steady scree-covered ascent which takes you up to Yaucha Pass (4,850 m), the final high mountain pass of the trek. As you come over the pass you have an incredible panoramic view of Cordillera Huayhuash’s highest peaks, decked out in glaciers and snow-covered. Talk about dramatic. Keep your eyes out for condors here as well.

Continue on to Cerro Huacrish with another beautiful view to both the giant peaks of the Cordillera Huayhuash on the right and Cordillera Blanca and Huallanca on the left. Just sit and take it all in. Finally, as you descend towards Lake Jahuacocha you’ll reach another ridge that overlooks the turquoise lakes below surrounded by mountains.

There is one last very steep descent through pastures and grazing cows to get to the campsite near the shores of Lake Jahuacocha. Watch how the light and the reflection on the lake of the surrounding mountains changes throughout the day.

Since we had free time in the afternoon we did an optional hike out to Solteracocha Lake (3.6 miles / 5.8 km) that took two hours. Climb up to the rim above the lake and just enjoy the deep turquoise color of the alpine lake and the surrounding snow-covered peaks.

Day 10: Jahuacocha Lake – Pampa Llamac Pass – Llamac Village – Huaraz

Hiking Distance: 8.85 miles / 14.25 km
Number of hours hiking: 4.5 hours
Number of hours driving: 5 hours
Maximum Altitude: 4,300 m (14,110 feet)

This is the last day of hiking and although it isn’t as dramatic as the day before, it's still pleasant and features a relatively easy walk out to Llamac Village. You’ll be able to catch one last view of the Cordillera Huayhuash peaks from Pampa Llaman Pass (4,300 m) before descending through villages and high desert to the village. The vehicle will be waiting there to take you back to Huaraz (about a 5-hour drive).

Best time to do the Huayhuash Trek

The trekking season in the Cordillera Huayhuash and Cordillera Blanca begins mid-to-late May and runs until September. This is the dry season and also considered “Andean summer.” The high tourist season is July and August. During this time you'll have clearer weather, but the lack of rain means that the mountains will dry and brown throughout the season.

We did our trek mid to late May; we felt it perfect timing. We had a bit of rain at the very beginning of our trek, but the mornings were clear and the rains only usually began in the afternoon after we'd already set up camp. After a few days, the rains stopped altogether and we had perfect weather.

Because it was still early in the trekking season, trails and campsites were not crowded. Mountains remained green and lush since the rainy season had just ended.

If you can time it, try your Huayhuash trek during the shoulder season from mid-May to early June.

The low and rainy season is from October to April with the highest rain in January – March. Many high passes are still snowed in from December to March, so that that might make it impossible for trekkers and the donkeys to be able to pass. There is also the risk of landslides during this time which might wash out the trails and hillsides. There have robberies of independent trekkers during this time as are alone with no other people around, so it's not recommended to trek independently in the off season.

Because of all this we recommend timing your trek between May and September or early October.

Huayhuash Trek Difficulty and Conditions

The following information is based on our own personal experiences on a 10-day fully-supported Huayhuash trek. Support included a trekking guide, cook, donkey wranglers, and a team of donkeys to carry our gear, camping equipment, food and trash.

We added information for independent trekkers where available.

Huayhuash Trek Difficulty

We’d categorize the difficulty of the 10-day Huayhuash Trek we did as medium-high, leaning more on the high side of the range. This is because of its daily high mountain pass crossings (4,000+ meter/13,000+ feet), sleeping at high altitude and distance.

Don't let the elevation frighten you away. Our trekking group included people from their late 20s to a 74-year-old (who had both knees replaced within the last three years). We all had prior experience hiking and doing multi-day treks, but none of us were hard core mountain climbers. We'd all simply done our acclimatization treks in and around Huaraz — that's what makes the difference.

While this implies that special training is not required for the Huayhuash trek, you ought to be relatively active and in good physical shape before taking it on. You should be either be accustomed to or prepared for multi-day treks with steep, slow uphill climbs at high altitude.

Not a Technical Trail

The classic Huayhuash trek we did was not technical. To do it, we didn't need special equipment (e.g., climbing ropes, crampons, or other mountain climbing fittings). We do recommend using walking or trekking poles , however. They provide stability and balance and take some of the pressure off your knees and joints, especially on the steep descents.

Huayhuash trekking trails in the mountains are well-maintained and for the most part are relatively easy to follow. There are a couple of streams or rivers to cross, and depending upon the time of year you may need to take your shoes off or consider using river sandals. That’s all part of the fun.

Dealing with Altitude on the Huayhuash Trek

You will reach some high altitudes during the Huayhuash trek. The highest point on our trek was 5,050 meters / 16,570 feet at San Antionio Pass. Each day, we crossed mountain passes ranging from 4,000 – 5,000 meters / 13,000 – 16,500 feet. And, we were often sleeping around 4,000 meters / 13,000 feet. Understanding how your body responds to altitude and how to best manage your response to it is important for your enjoyment of this trek.

At altitude, our advice is to take it slow and steady on the uphill. Our guide, Edgar, was a hiking zen master at this – he would start our group out slow in the morning, especially if we had a steep ascent, so that our bodies could wake up and adjust. If you think you’re going ridiculously slow, then it probably means you are at the right pace. Trekking is like meditation The slower you move, the more likely you are to enjoy what's around you. And the more successful you will be.

Huayhuash Trek, Peru - stunning mountain views

It’s better to proceed deliberately and slowly with fewer breaks than to move quickly and wear yourself out so that you need to recuperate with frequent and longer stops. At high altitude this is even more important in order to avoid getting sick and to maintain your energy levels.

In addition, drink LOTS of water as your body needs more liquids at altitude. I would usually drink a liter of water at breakfast before we even began walking, just to have a bit of “hydration reserve.” It’s recommended to drink at least two to three liters a day at high altitudes like this.

Note: If you really suffer from altitude sickness you can also consider taking Diamox. We have avoided taking it by using natural methods (e.g., water, walking slowly, etc.), but we do know people who have benefited from taking it in small doses. Be sure to talk with your doctor first about its side effects, including the additional water you must drink when taking it.

Rain and weather conditions on the Huayhuash Trek

We'd been warned about rain because the timing of our trek coincided with the end of the rainy season (mid-May). We arrived prepared with waterproof ponchos, jackets, and pants. Mornings were usually clearest and at the beginning of our trek, it rained during a couple of afternoons. But we didn’t find the the weather a hindrance to our enjoyment. Only once on the trail were we forced to pile on all the serious rain gear. All other times, the rain arrived only after we'd set up camp, which included a waterproof dining tent.

Carry a waterproof cover for your day pack. Protect any valuable electronic gear like smartphones or cameras in a dry bag or multiple Ziploc plastic bags. All our gear was carried by donkeys, and all the bags were wrapped in multiple layers of plastic tarp to protect them from rain. In addition, we packed our clothes, sleeping bags and other important items in an additional layer of plastic bags.

If you are trekking independently and carrying all your gear with you, you must carry a good waterproof cover for your backpack and use Ziploc or other waterproof bags to keep everything dry inside in the case of heavy rain.

Note: If you monitor weather forecasts and apps, we recommend you consider taking them with a grain of salt. For us, forecasts for the Huayhuash (Ancash) mountain area predicted alpine weather armageddon right up until the moment we began our trek. Reality turned out to be quite different (see the photos). For those of you who book a Huayhuash trek and are freaked out by weather reports — just as we had been — and you find yourself tempted to cancel, seriously reconsider. If you book with a trekking company, as we did, check in with them for a bit of a local weather report reality check.

Food Along the Huayhuash Trek

If you do a fully-supported trek as we did, there's absolutely no chance for you to go hungry on the Huayhuash trek. Our group had its own cook and he created some incredible meals for us using a simple camping kitchen and limited ingredients.

On most days we were served three full meals, with lunch and dinner usually each consisting of 3 courses (e.g., soup or salad, main dish and dessert). On days where the schedule and route was a little tighter, we were given sandwiches as a picnic lunch.

Each morning we we were given bags of treats (e.g., chocolate, quinoa bars, biscuits, fruit, etc.) to ensure we never got hungry on the trail between meals. We always had a mid-afternoon tea and snack break at the campsite. There were always treats and surprises each day.

If you are vegetarian or have food restrictions (e.g., gluten, dairy, etc.), alert your trekking company and guide in advance so they can prepare accordingly.

Independent trekkers will need to carry and cook their own food, of course. There are a few big grocery stores in Huaraz that can supply you with basic ingredients, but if you have a specific type of camping food or brand that you prefer then you should probably bring that from home. Please clean up after yourself! We saw too many empty discarded cans of tuna and other food containers along the trail. That's just rude and disrespectful.

Clean Water Along the Huayhuash Trek

We were provided ample amounts of clean water (i.e., boiled for a certain period of time to kill germs) each morning by our cook and the support team. This is what we drank throughout the day as we walked. Our goal was to drink a minimum of two to three liters of water each day.

Of course, there are lots of mountain streams where you can gather water to drink throughout the trek. We carried water purification drops with us in case we needed to use water from a stream or other source. We never had to use them because clean water had already been prepared for us.

Huayhuash Trek Campsites and Sleeping Arrangements

You’ll be camping and sleeping in tents throughout the Huayhuash trek. There are no real homestays or other sleeping options, except in Huayllapa where there are some family guest houses. We slept in two-person tents (provided by the trekking agency). Although these tents were not huge, we had enough space to sleep and position our belongings on the edges of the tent.

By the time we arrived at the campsite each day, our tents were usually already set up for us by the support team. We were very thankful for this little bit of luxury after a long day of hiking.

Huayhuash Trek - Tents, Camping and Community Campsites

Local communities manage the campsites along the different Huayhuash trekking routes. This community-based system is relatively new. It used to be that trekkers could pretty much pitch their camp anywhere, and for free. Understandably, local people got a bit tired of people using their lands, and often not cleaning up after themselves. Communities weren't seeing any financial benefit from tourism development in the region. A system was then set up to compensate the local communities for use of their lands and also to help share some money and benefit from tourism and trekking growth.

Campsites are still pretty basic and located in remote areas, so don’t expect services or shops. In general, you’ll find a place to pitch tents and an outhouse (or two) on the edge usually consisting of a drop toilet or a toilet bowl without water. With the exception of the hot springs near Lake Viconga on Day 5, there is no running water at the campsites. Expect to trek without showers. (Note: if you are on a fully-supported trek like the one we took, you will likely be provided a bowl of hot water in the morning for washing.)

Each community collects a fee from each person (usually $3-$8/person) who stays at a campsite and uses its facilities. You’ll often find an individual or family visiting early in the morning to collect the money. You’ll receive a receipt for your payment.

We heard stories of some trekkers trying to arrive late or pack up early to avoid paying these community camping fees. Just don’t. It’s disrespectful and it creates problems between trekkers and local people, making it difficult for future visitors wishing to enjoy the area.

Organizing a Huayhuash Trek

A Huayhuash trek can be done either independently (e.g., without a guide) or through a trekking agency (e.g., fully supported with a guide, cook, assistants, donkeys to carry gear, etc.). Decision factors include your trekking experience and physical shape, skill at reading trekking maps, budget, weather, and preference. Let's examine these.

Hiking the Huayhuash Trek Independently

Although you won’t see trail markers along the route you can usually pick up trails pretty easily based on their use by trekkers, donkey trains and local shepherds. This means that if you have a lot of experience doing multi-day treks, reading trail maps, using a GPS and hiking at high altitude then you should be able to safely do the Huayhuash trek independently.

Some advantages of trekking Huayhuash independently including being able to create and adjust your own route and setting your own pace. The cost will be much lower as you are not paying for a support team, guide, etc. However, you should still stay at community campsites and pay the required fees so as to respect local people and local community regulations.

However, there are some other considerations. Trekking independently means that you’re carrying all your own camping gear, food, clothing, and more. Since the only real village with shops is Huayllapa, you should expect to carry 7-8 days of food with you. All of this weight adds up and can get heavy, especially when you’re going over a 5,000+ meter / 16,500 foot mountain pass. We saw some trekkers struggle with their packs and the extra weight.

In addition, we also met some trekkers who were lost as they thought they were following one circuit, but ended up on another. Our guide would usually help to steer them in the right direction or offer a short cut to help them get back on track. While this may not sound like a big deal on the surface, it can be quite stressful when you only have a limited amount of food with you and the weather around you is changing as the day wears on.

For more on trekking Huayhuash independently check out this guide .

Choosing a Huayhuash Trek Tour

Given the length, distance and high altitudes of the Huayhuash trek, we knew we wanted to do it supported – with a guide, cook, support team, donkeys to carry our gear. Our goal was to enjoy the walk, including the stunning mountain landscapes and being immersed in nature without worrying about getting lost, carrying all our gear, or struggling to cook or set up our tent each night.

We were and are thrilled with our choice.

Having a local trekking guide provided us with the peace of mind that we were always on the right path. (Some of you may remember, we have a history of getting lost in mountains ).

Our local guide, Edgar, knew everything about the Cordillera Huayhuash from leading trekking and mountain climbing groups there for over 17 years – all the local legends of the peaks around us, wildlife, birds, flowers, natural medicines, and more. As he was Quechua he could also provide context and information about indigenous culture, growing up in the mountains, and changes he’d witnessed over his lifetime.

Huayhuash Trek tour, donkeys carrying gear

While doing the Huayhuash trek independently may save you some money and allow you more flexibility in route and pace, our experience proved to us beyond a doubt that the benefits of doing a supported trek with a guide, cook, support team and donkeys far outweighs the costs.

Choosing a Huayhuash Trekking Agency

If you do as we did and work with a trekking agency for a supported Huayhuash trek, the next step is trying to figure out which trek to choose based on the route, level of comfort, budget, and schedule you're looking for.

Booking a Huayhuash Trek in Advance

Because we had a limited window of time to do our 10-day Huayhuash Trek we needed to book our trip in advance. When I began to search around and contact different trekking agencies in Huaraz I found that prices varied quite a bit and could be very expensive, especially if there wasn’t an existing group departure for the dates I wanted.

A bit discouraged, I continued to search, focusing on trekking companies which already had existing trek departure dates that fit our schedule. That’s when I found Quechuandes Travel and Adventure Agency recommended on some traveler and trekker forums and their open group departures calendar ( usually on their Facebook page ).

They had a departure date for the 10-day Huayhuash trek we wanted to do during our limited time window. From the first communication with Marie, the co-owner, I was impressed by the transparency of information, pricing and details. I also appreciated that she was explicit that the price was the same whether we booked in advance or as a walk-in. And, we felt that price was fair to all parties — to us, to the company, and to the guides — from the beginning.

We paid a deposit (50%) to secure our spots for that departure date (Note: Transferwise offered the best rates for this international wire transfer so if you’re new to the service use this link to get a free $500 international transfer ). The remainder we paid in cash when we met in person in Huaraz a few days prior to the trek departure.

Another thing that impressed me about Quechuandes were the materials they sent in advance. They focused on sustainable tourism — the environment and conservation, being respectful of local culture, understanding local socioeconomic issues. You could tell that this information was not copied from the internet, but created after years of experience working with the local communities and in these mountains.

Regardless of which operator you choose to take you on the Huayhuash Trek, select one which works with local guides and support staff, pays fair wages, and operates in a responsible and respectful way towards the environment and local people.

Booking a Huayhuash Trek in Huaraz

If you have a flexible schedule, it’s also possible to book your Huayhuash trek directly in Huaraz, the city which serves as the base for all treks in Cordillera Huayhuash and Cordillera Blanca. There are heaps of trekking agencies around, many with signs outside indicating upcoming trek departures and availability.

You can walk around, meet with different trekking agencies, ask about price and services, and then make a decision. If the price sounds too good, it might be. Ask questions to be sure of what you’re getting for your money. We witnessed other groups on the trail whose food options appeared limited and whose tents and donkeys looked worse for wear.

It’s worth it to spend a bit more for the comfort of a trained guide and cook, and to know that the staff are receiving fair wages and the animals are well cared for.

As the Huayhuash Trek has become more popular these last years many departures are already filled up so you may not be able to get on the trek for the time period you'd like. So if you have any sort of limited schedule it's best to book in advance.

Price of a Huayhuash Trek Tour

Current (2019) costs for for the 10-day Huayhuash Trek with Quechuandes (minimum of 5 people in the group) is $70/day or $700 for the full trek. The maximum group size was eight persons. Given the level of support and service we received we felt this was a very fair price, and it was much lower than many other similar trekking agencies.

The tour and price included:

private transport to the trailhead (Matacancha) and from the end (Llamac)
a certified mountain guide, cook, muleteer (donkey handler), and assistant
donkeys to carry gear (up to 8kg per trekker), food, cooking equipment, etc. + emergency horse
food, snacks and clean water
2-person tent and sleeping mat. If you wanted a private tent, that was an additional fee

The tour price did not include sleeping bags or community campsite fees (approx. 200 soles/ $60 per person for ten days). I rented my Marmot down -10 C sleeping bag from Quechuandes for 20 soles/$6 per day ($60 total). Dan was able to borrow a sleeping bag from a friend in Berlin, but otherwise he would have rented one from them as well. It is essential you carry a proper alpine sleeping bag on this trek.

Renting Trekking and Camping Gear in Huaraz

You can arrive in Huaraz without any trekking or camping gear and be outfitted with all that you need pretty quickly either through renting or buying. Quechuandes, the trekking agency that we used, rents out a large selection of gear (that’s where I rented my -10 C down Marmot sleeping bag). Many other trekking agencies offer the same.

In addition, there are quite a few shops in town specializing in trekking gear where you can buy new or sometimes even used clothes or other items. A couple on our trek bought used fleece jackets and waterproof pants from Huaraz all of which served them well.

Leaving your luggage behind during the trek

Most accommodation and tour operators/trekking agencies will allow you to leave your big bags or luggage with them for the time that you're doing the Huayhuash trek. We left our big backpacks at the hotel in Huaraz we were staying at prior to the trek and then picked them up on our return. Although we haven't heard of any problems with luggage and theft, it's always best to securely lock your bags for their time in storage.

Acclimatization hikes around Huaraz before the Huayhuash Trek

Especially if you’re coming from sea level (e.g., Lima) or low altitudes, it's a wise (if not essential) idea to spend a couple of days acclimatizing in Huaraz (3,050 meters / 10,000 feet) and doing a few acclimatization day hikes. This means hiking to a higher altitude during the day and then sleeping at lower elevation at night (e.g., Huaraz).

Huayhuash Trek Guide, Acclimatization Hikes

For the Huayhuash Trek with its daily high mountain passes, at least three acclimatization hikes are recommended prior to setting off. Marie from Quechuandes essentially told us we had to do a minimum of three acclimatization hikes before starting the Huayhuash trek. This may sound a bit extreme, but we get it. She’s trying to ensure that trekkers identify any problems they may have in advance and be sure they are fully prepared so they can mitigate risks and enjoy the trek to the fullest.

In fact, we met a group of women on an 8-day Huayhuash trek who did not do any acclimatization treks. They were hurting the first couple of days and looked miserable. Don’t do that to yourself. Don't sabotage your trek for the sake of saving a couple of days. It's a poor decision. Altitude sickness is no joke. It’s not fun and it can become very dangerous. It’s better to take the time to acclimatize properly before departing on the long trek. Not to mention, the acclimatization hikes are all pretty fabulous and enjoyable in their own right.

Marie sent us this list of suggested acclimatization treks . After talking with her we chose the following acclimatization day hikes to help prepare us for the Huayhuash Trek.

Lake Wilcacocha Acclimatization Hike

Distance: 11.9 km / 7.4 miles Walking time: 3.5 hours Max elevation: 3,700 meters / 13,140 feet

This is a simple and easy hike near Huaraz. It's a good one to begin with. It features a steady incline for a couple of hours along a dirt road until you reach Lake Wilcacocha at the top. The lake itself is not particularly impressive, but there is a nice overlook so you can get a feel for the countryside around.

Huahuash Trek Guide, Acclimatization Hikes

To get there, take the Route 10 or Route E collectivo (public bus) from near the Huaraz central market (corner of Raymondi and Hualcan streets). It costs around 2-3 soles ($0.60-$0.90) per person. Let the driver know that you want to get off near Laguna Wilcacocha. After getting off the bus, cross the small bridge and you’ll see a sign at the trailhead.

Lake Rajucolta Acclimatization Hike

Distance: 16.6 km / 10.3 miles Walking time: 5 hours, 20 minutes Max elevation: 4,270 meters / 14,010 feet

This is not one of the typical acclimatization hikes, but it came recommended by Marie. We really enjoyed it. It’s a nice walk that isn’t too difficult at the beginning, but increases in difficulty as you climb up to the lake. Mount Huantsan, the 3rd highest peak in the Cordillera Blanca (6,395 m / 20,980 ft), guides the way and serves as a stunning backdrop to Laguna Rajucolta.

Huayhuash Trek, Lake Rajucolta acclimatization hike near Huaraz, Peru

There were no other hikers on the trail the day we went. We and two other hikers going on the same Huayhuash trek as us had the whole place to ourselves, with the exception of a few shepherds and their flocks of animals. Highly recommended.

The Laguna Rajucolta hike requires private transport with a 4×4 vehicle to get there and back as the roads get rough after turning off the main road. The drive takes around 1.5-2 hours from Huaraz. We hired a driver through Quechuandes for around 220 soles ($66) for the entire car (4-5 persons). He dropped us off at the trailhead in the morning and then waited for us all day to return.

Laguna 69 Hike

Distance: 13.8 km / 8.6 miles Walking time: 4 hours, 45 minutes Max elevation: 4,600 meters / 15,090 feet

This is one of the more popular day hikes in the Huaraz region, and for good reason. Located in Huascaran National Park in the Cordillera Blanca, this hike climbs up to Laguna 69, a beautiful alpine lake with Mount Chacraraju (6,112 meters / 20,052 feet) as a backdrop. The views on the path up are also pretty stunning and spectacular. Be sure to allow and take time to look around and enjoy them. There are some challenging, steep ascents. But, that’s also what makes it an excellent acclimatization hike and preparation for the Huayhuash trek.

Huayhuash Trek, Laguna 69 Acclimatization Hike

The easiest way to organize the Laguna 69 hike is to buy a “tour” in Huaraz that essentially includes bus transportation with a guide. We bought ours from Quechuandes for 35 soles / $10.50 per person and had an early morning 5AM pickup at our hotel. You’ll stop for breakfast along the way. If you don’t have a packed lunch with you already, your breakfast stop is also an opportunity to buy lunch for the hike. The entrance fee for Huascaran National Park is 30 soles / $9 per person.

Laguna 69 Hike in the Cordillera Blanca, Peru

Where to stay in Huaraz

There is certainly no shortage of places to stay in Huaraz . We stayed at El Jacal Classic before and after our trek. It is located a few blocks from the main square and downtown area, so it is both conveniently located and quiet. Request a room that is not at the top of the stairs as it can get a bit loud with people coming and going. Breakfast is served on the rooftop, which has a great view.

If you are hiking with Quechuandes they also offer the Quechuandes B&B now for clients that looks like a great option for staying in Huaraz before and after your trek.

They are accustomed to trekkers, so it's no problem to leave your luggage there when you're off in the mountains.

What to pack for the Huayhuash Trek

Check out our full Ultimate Trekking Packing List with all the details on what to bring with you on a day or multi-day trek like the Huayhuash Trek (or anywhere else). However, we offer a customized Huayhuash Trek packing list to ensure you have what you need, yet don't overpack.

We suggest you ask your trekking agency and perform some independent research about the temperatures at night during the time of your trek. This will determine how many layers you'll need to carry and the weight your jacket(s). For example, temperatures dipped to -10 C / 14 F during a couple of the nights and early mornings on our trek so we were very thankful to have extra layers of long underwear, fleece and more.

As mentioned above, tents and sleeping pads were provided by Quechuandes.

You really don’t need much in this department. Don’t worry about packing clean clothes for each day, as everyone is just wearing the same thing or repurposing the same clothes each day. Here’s what we suggest:

1-2 pairs of trekking pants : We're both been using Clothing Arts Travel Pants ( for men and for women ) as our go-to trekking pants these last few years. They hold up well on multi-day treks in terms of hiding dirt, drying quickly, not getting stinky. We find the additional secure pockets useful on treks for keeping phones, money, tissues and other things handy.
2-3 short-sleeved t-shirts: Preferably quick-dry or regular cotton ( his and hers quick-dry t-shirts).
1 long-sleeved travel/trekking shirt : This is useful not only as a layer of warmth in the chilly mornings when you first start hiking, but also as protection for your arms from the strong sun ( his and hers ).
Hiking shoes: We both recently shifted to wearing Oboz Sawtooth hiking boots. The insoles and support for your feet are really good, and the shoes are sturdy and can stand up to some tough terrain. In addition, Oboz plants a tree for every pair of shoes sold so you can feel good that your purchase is going towards reforestation and environmental projects. Men's Obuz Sawtooth Hiking Shoes: Buy at REI | Buy at Backcountry | Women's Obuz Sawtooth Hiking Shoes: Buy at REI | Buy at Backcountry
1 set of evening clothes for dinner and sleep sleep: T-shirt, long pants (or pajama bottoms), socks. To ensure these remain dry, pack them in a plastic bag or other impermeable container inside your backpack.
Underwear : Usually one pair for every day of the hike. Here are recommended men's boxer shorts and women's underwear
Hiking socks: I love SmartWool hiking socks as my first pairs lasted me almost seven years of heavy usage. If you prefer a thinner sock check out their ultra-light line. I often wear a sock liner together with wool hiking socks.
Bathing suit: For the hot springs on day 5 of the hike.
Fleece jacket : For cool nights or sleeping (can double as a pillow, too).
Waterproof rain jacket : For this trek I upgraded to a NorthFace Climatech technology waterproof jacket and I love it. It not only provided protection against the rain and cold, but the jacket material is very breathable so it didn't feel like a sauna inside when I used it. Highly recommended.
Waterproof poncho: This long backpack poncho goes over you, your backpack and most of your legs so it really provides great protection from the rain.
Waterproof pants: Pick up a pair of light pull-on biking waterproof/water resistant pants . They fold up into a small bag so they barely take up any room or weight in your backpack, but keep you quite dry when the clouds open up.
Light down jackets: These can be stuffed into a tiny cinch bag and are so light that you can carry them with you in your day pack. We used these for warmth and comfort at night when temperatures drop. Dan loves his seamless ultra-light down jacket from Uniqlo .
Flip-flops or river shoes: These are useful for the evenings when you want to get your feet a break from hiking shoes or you need to run to the outhouse in the middle of the night. Women's River Shoes | Men's River Shoes

Other Trekking Gear

Sleeping Bag : This needs to be comfort rated to at least -10 C / 14 F. I rented my heavy duty down sleeping bag from the trekking agency, Quechuandes. If you are looking to buy a sleeping bag for your trek, one of the guys in our trekking group used this North Face 3-in-1 One Bag Sleeping Bag and found it warm enough and comfortable. Dan was looking at this Hyke & Byke Eolus 0 Degree sleeping bag before one of our friends lent him one to use. It was recommended and seemed like a good price.
Refillable water bottle: Bring with you 1-2 refillable water bottles and/or a water bladder so that you always have at least one liter of water on you at all times. You'll be able to refill your bottles with clean water in the morning before you leave for the day and when you get to camp in the afternoon. If you really want to play it safe consider carrying with you a SteriPEN or sterilization drops .
Trekking poles: We highly recommend using trekking poles for this trek, especially for the steep downhill sections. We'll usually share one walking stick set of two so each of us uses one stick. However, most people in our group used two poles each. This set of travel-friendly walking sticks fold up easily for luggage and assemble quickly when on the trail.
Waterproof backpack cover : You never know when a rainstorm will hit, so it’s essential to keep a rain cover for your backpack close at hand. We also put electronics and other items in plastic or zip-loc bags inside the backpack as a extra protection for them.
Quick-dry travel towel : To dry off after showers, and also after a swim. Hang it on the outside of your backpack in the morning so it dries quickly in the sun and air as you move.
Silk sleep sack : To provide an extra layer of protection and warmth between you and the sleeping bag.
Headlamp : None of the campsites have electricity so a headlamp is essential for finding your way to the toilet and to sort through your stuff at night in your tent.
Silicone earplugs : A precaution in the case your camp has a snorer.

Toiletries and Health Kit

You'll have access to hot springs to bathe on day 5, but for the rest of your trek you'll receive a small bucket of hot water either first thing in the morning or in the evening to wash your face and other basics.

Soap, toothbrush, toothpaste and dental floss : The basics.
Sunscreen : The higher the SPF, the better. You're at high altitudes for most of this trek where it's much easier to become burned. Keep applying sunscreen.
Sunglasses: At high altitudes the sun is super strong so go for sunglasses that will protect your eyes vs. be fashionable.
Hand sanitizer: To be on the safe side, especially for lunch and snacks on the trail.
Pack of tissues: You will be provided with a roll of toilet paper, but it’s always a good idea to carry a pack of tissues in case of messes, spills or emergencies.
Duct tape : Very effective for hot spots and blisters on your feet. Also consider picking up some Compeed , which is magic when you already have blisters.
Medical Kit (for emergencies): Band-Aids , anti-bacterial gel (for cuts), rehydration powders, ciprofloxacin/azithromycin (or another medication against stomach bacteria), Tylenol (anti-headache/aches), Immodium (or some sort of “stopper” if you get diarrhea), tea tree oil (great to apply to mosquito bites) Note: all these are easily and inexpensively purchased at local pharmacies, including in Huaraz from where you depart for the trek.

Electricity and Charging Batteries

None of the campsites have electricity. Prepare yourself for not having access to electricity during the trek. Some tips to handle this and further your battery power.

Put your smartphone on airplane mode. There is no connectivity along the trek anyhow, so don't waste your phone’s battery power trying to find a network.
We brought a solar powered power bank and used it to charge our smartphones, when necessary.
Consider buying a phone case that doubles as an extra battery. Here’s an example for our iPhone X battery case . It provides another 1-1.5 charges.
Take an extra camera battery or two.
Don’t spent time reviewing your images on your phone or camera, as this will drain your battery power quickly.

Conclusion: Huayhuash Trek, A Trek of a Lifetime

Yep. For us, there's no way to oversell our experience on the Huayhuash Trek. During the trek, we felt the kind of deep decompression we feel whenever we head into the mountains on a long walk. The sense of accomplishment — individually and shared with a group of fun people — is profound. The memories, as we write this piece and flip through one stunning, astounding image after another, are still fresh.

All that's left now is for you to give it a try. Any questions, ask them in the comments. And if you decide to do it, let us know how you get on.

About Audrey Scott

9 thoughts on “huayhuash trek, peru: all you need to know about hiking in the cordillera huayhuash”.

Very helpful. I’m planning a trip to Peru in late April–mid May 2020, and want to hit Cordillera Blanca. I’m an Alaskan, thus somewhat used to high mountains, but these altitudes are a bit higher! All of your advice is good.

Yes, the altitudes in the Cordillera Blanca are pretty high! But, if you acclimatize properly in advance and go slowly, you should be fine. Have a great trip!

We are doing a supported trip in early July. Our goal is to arrive to Huaraz on a Saturday evening. Leave for Huayhuash on Tuesday. We are aware we have to drive first for about 4-5 hrs from Huaraz to access the trail head. We are planning on spending those 2 full days acclimating. We live in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Our elevation is 6500 ft. We are in good physical condition, I just want to know if 2 days of acclimating will be enough? What are your thoughts?

Great to hear that you’re planning to do the Huayhuash Trek later this year. It’s impossible for me to know exactly about whether 2 days of acclimatizing will be enough, but given that you already live at some altitude and are used to doing physical/outdoor things I think you’ll probably be OK. I would talk with the trekking agency you’re using for their acclimatization hike recommendations, but I would try and do the Laguna 69 hike on your 2nd day of acclimatization as this will push your body and help prepare you for the altitudes to come on the Huayhuash trek. Perhaps do the Lake Rajucolta hike (or similar) on the first, which would be a bit more of a challenge than the Lake Wilcacocha hike. Remember to take it very slow and drink LOTS of water.

Have a great trek!!

Fantastic recommendation. Did the trip include the cost of food? Who designs the menu?

Thank you very very much. Very inspiring and I am psyched to go with my brother and our two 15 yr old sons in June 2020

Our supported Huayhuash trek highlighted here with Quechuandes did have all food included as part of the price. This included not only breakfast, lunch and dinner, but also a bag of snacks (e.g., nuts, quinoa bars, etc.) to carry each day. Food was excellent and done by the designated cook on the trek – a mixture of Peruvian (e.g., causa) and European/American standards (e.g., pasta, mixed vegetables, etc.). If you have any food allergies (e.g., gluten-free) or restrictions (e.g., vegetarian/vegan) let the trekking agency know in advance so that they can adjust their shopping and menus accordingly.

Have a great trek this summer with your sons and brother!! It’s challenging, but so rewarding and beautiful.

Fantastic details in your blog. My trip June 2020 postponed. Hoping to make Huayhuash a reality sooner then later. Thanks for all the details.

Sorry to hear that you had to postpone your June 2020 trip. Huayhuash will still be waiting for you when it is safe again to travel. It is such a beautiful area and the trek is truly fabulous.

Cordillera Huayhuash – Epic South American Circuit Trek (Travel Guide)

The Cordillera Huayhuash Circuit is known to be one of the most challenging and most beautiful treks in South America .

This guide will help you plan your Huayhuash trek, whether you’re going independently or with an experienced guide or trek operator.

Cordillera Huayhuash Circuit Overview

The Cordillera Huayhuash Circuit is a 68 mile / 110km trek through a remote region of the Peruvian Andes . Elevations on this trail reach upwards of 16,600 feet/ 5,060m.

The region was made famous by the tragic mountaineering book (and film) Touching the Void . It is a survival story of a climber who falls into a crevasse after his partner is forced to cut the rope, then has to save himself. Don’t worry though. There is no mountaineering involved on the trail.

The appeal of the Cordillera Huayhuash Circuit is in the scenery. This region is brimming with turquoise alpine lakes, craggy snow-covered peaks, open green fields, misshapen multi-colored mountainsides, and fire-hued sunsets.

It takes anywhere from 7-14 days to complete the Huayhuash circuit, with 10 days being the average pace. There is only one village where you can resupply along the way. Otherwise, it’s entirely a wilderness experience. Be fully equipped with all the gear you need to sleep, cook, and stay warm and dry in the mountains.

The Cordillera Huayhuash region is not nearly as popular of a destination as it’s Cordillera Blanca counterpart. While you will likely see a few other groups every day, it is certainly not a busy destination.

If doing this trek independently, you will arrive via public transportation to Pocpa. From there it takes a few hours to walk to the start of the trail. Alternatively, you could arrange transport with a trekking agency.

It is better to bring backpacking snacks from home for the trek, as the options at the grocery store are limited. If you’re on an extended trip and not beginning from home, perhaps you could do your food shopping in Lima.

There are no permits required for the Cordillera Huayhuash Circuit. However, there are nine different communities charging fees for land use. The total price for all the fees adds up to about 205 soles ($62).

Cordillera Huayhuash Trek Facts

The distance of this trek is 68 miles / 110km and takes 7-14 days to complete. Most people hike in a clockwise route.
The maximum altitude on the circuit is 16,600 feet/ 5,060m. There is a total of 18,700 feet/ 5,700m of vertical uphill walking.
Difficulty is strenuous. It’s a high-altitude, wilderness hike with drastic elevation changes.
Best months to hike the Huayhuash circuit are May- September.
Guides are not mandatory, but are recommended for inexperienced trekkers.
No permits required. There are campsite and land use fees that amount to a total of 205 soles/ $62.

What to expect while trekking the Cordillera Huayhuash circuit

Typical itinerary, huaraz: 2-3 nights.

The city of Huaraz sits at 10,000 feet/ 3,050m. I recommend spending several nights here in order to start acclimatizing. Take a bus out of town and do a day hike to further help with acclimatization.

Additionally, if you have any extra belongings you don’t want to take on the trek, you can store them at your hotel or hostel.

Day 1: Quartelhuain

Catch the 5 am bus from Huaraz to Chiquian. The bus company is called El Rapido . From Chiquian, take the 8 am bus to Pocpa. Once you’ve arrived in Pocpa, it takes several hours of walking along the road to reach Quartelhuian. Spend the night there.

Day 2: Mitucocha Camp

Elevation gain: 1,706 feet/ 520m

It’s a relentless climb up to Cacananpunta first thing in the morning. Then a mellow hike down to the campsite. While this is a short day, I recommend staying at Mitucocha Camp. It’s better to ease into the trek than do two big climbs on the first day in the backcountry.

Day 3: Carhuacocha

Elevation gain: 1,400 feet/ 430m

The climb up Carhuac is rewarded by views of snow-capped peaks on the descent. The campsite is beside an alpine lake and is an excellent spot to catch some sunset photos of the lake and mountains. This campsite is not very large, so expect to be in close proximity to any other trekkers.

Day 4: Huayhuash

Elevation gain: 1,300 feet/ 400m

Today is one of the most spectacular days as far as scenery goes. There are several alpine lakes that act as mirrors to the surrounding peaks.

You can even jump in one if you’re feeling bold and not afraid of the cold. Expect to hear and see giant chunks of ice breaking from the surrounding cliffs and crashing to the ground.

Day 5: Viconga

Elevation gain: 1,380 feet/ 420m

Today is just as scenic as all the rest, but perhaps the highlight of this day is the Viconga campsite. There is a hot spring for weary trekkers to soak in while enjoying the surrounding mountains. The man-made concrete tubs are filled with natural hot spring water, and it’s the perfect way to end a long day.

Day 6: Cuyoc Camp

Elevation gain: 2,330 feet/ 710m

This is the biggest elevation gain of the hike so far. However, it’s not as steep as previous climbs and you should be well acclimatized by now. Take it slow. You’ll be rewarded at the top with views of peaks and colorful mountains.

Day 7: Huatiaq

Elevation gain: 2,525 feet/ 770m; however, there will be additional elevation gain if you choose to take the scenic route in the morning

The guidebook suggests two days to reach Huatiaq from Cuyco Camp, but it is possible to do in one. This is also the day you can go to Huayllapa to resupply. You can start your morning by choosing your route: a more scenic, uphill climb. Or an easier walk down the valley if you’ve had enough of stunning mountain scenery.

There’s a small shop in Huayllapa where you can buy basic supplies. They don’t have anything too extravagant; just Ramen noodles, oatmeal packets, and packages of cookies.

After visiting the village, start the steep climb up to the campsite.

Day 8: Incahuain

Elevation gain: 2,750 feet/ 840m

This is the last full day of trekking the circuit. There are two passes today, and after you can choose to do a ridgeline walk if you want to get some bonus views. The ridgeline is not too difficult, so you might want to give it a go. Finally, after more alpine lake views, you descend down to your final campsite of the trek.

Day 9: Llamac

Elevation gain: 1,100 feet/ 340m

Set off early if you’re planning on taking public transportation back to Huaraz. The bus leaves around 11:30am. There is one final low pass to get over, then you hike down into the village of Llamac.

Things You'll Need for Your Cordillera Huayhuash Trek

Gear checklist.

Backpack (about 50L)
Trekking poles
Tent (there are no trees for tying tarps or hammocks)
Sleeping bag , around 20 F (-7C) and a sleeping pad (in case you aren't hiking with a tour operator)
Camp stove and fuel canister, can be purchased in Huaraz
Water bottles, capacity for 2-3L
Water treatment method
Navigational equipment: map, compass, guidebook, GPS or SmartPhone
Hiking clothes
Trail runners / hiking boots
Rain jacket
Down jacket / warm synthetic layer
Long-sleeve base layer shirt
Base layer bottoms
Warm hat and gloves
Sunscreen and trekking sunglasses

You're welcome to check out our multi-day hiking list for more helpful ideas on what to pack for Cordillera Huayhuash.

Recommended Guidebooks and Maps

Peru’s Cordilleras Blanca & Huayhuash: The Hiking & Biking Guide is the most comprehensive resource on the circuit.

Please Note: The latest version of this guidebook will go on sale on Amazon on 1 September 2023 . So, make sure you're first in line to buy it!

You can also download the maps.me maps of the region, since a lot of the trail is marked on the app.

If you’re trekking without a guide, we recommend buying a map at one of the trekking shops in Huaraz.

Please Note : It’s important that hikers who go without the assistance of a guide and mules are aware of what they’re getting into. This is a high-altitude trek through a remote region of the Andes with no road access. Should something go wrong, it would not be easy for help to arrive.

Hikers must be fully equipped with enough food to last until the village of Huayllapa. The threat of acute mountain sickness is real, and hikers should have an understanding of symptoms and treatment.

Furthermore, there are no trail signs and sometimes the path is not obvious. Trekkers should have a basic understanding of navigation and carry a map, compass, and GPS or SmartPhone with the regional maps downloaded for offline use.

Cordillera Huayhuash FAQs

When is the best time to hike cordillera huayhuash.

May to September are the best times to hike the Cordillera Huayhuash Circuit.

The weather is cold, but dry. Expect frost on your tent every morning and have layers accessible during the day.

The other months of the year are the wet season, and the passes will likely be difficult to cross because of snow.

What can I expect on a typical Cordillera Huayhuash trek?

There are no permits for this trek but bring enough money for the land use fees. They amount to 205 soles ($62).

Take the local buses to get to the trailhead. Arrange your ticket the day before at the El Rapido bus station in Huaraz.

The bus to Chiquian leaves at 5am, and from there you will catch a different bus to Pocpa. On the last day of your hike, catch the 11:30am bus out of Llamac.

Either bring food for the trek from home or buy it in Lima, as Huaraz does not have many good options for backpacking food.

How difficult is the Cordillera Huayhuash Circuit Trek?

The Cordillera Huayhuash Circuit is an extremely difficult trek, especially if you are planning to self-navigate and carry your own gear.

While the distances may seem small, keep in mind that it is at a high altitude with drastic elevation changes.

Furthermore, there is no easy way to get out should you experience symptoms of acute mountain sickness.

Therefore, it is crucial that you take several days to acclimatize in Huaraz and do a day hike before beginning the circuit.

Is it safe to hike the Cordillera Huayhuash Circuit alone?

In terms of is the region safe for tourists, yes, very much so. In terms of if the mountains are safe for you personally, this really depends on your experience.

Ask yourself these questions:

Do you feel comfortable navigating your own way in the mountains?
Have you gone on a backcountry trip of similar length before?
Do you have experience hiking at high elevations?

If the answers are yes, then you are probably ready.

Where do I find water along the Cordillera Huayhuash Circuit?

All of the Cordillera Huayhuash campsites have water sources, and there are streams throughout the day as well. Just be sure to fill up before you start up the passes, as you might hike several hours between water sources during the day.

Is acute mountain sickness a risk with Cordillera Huayhuash?

Yes. Do proper research ahead of time on what the symptoms of mountain sickness are and be aware of how to treat it. You can read about acute mountain sickness.

Do I need travel insurance for Cordillera Huayhuash?

If you plan to hike Cordillera Huayhuash Circuit, make sure that you are adequately insured for up to 4,000m. Get a quote from World Nomads .

Do I need to know Spanish for Cordillera Huayhuash?

Not necessarily, but it is helpful if you learn a few Spanish phrases. While traveling around Peru, it will be a challenge to get around if you are only trying to speak English.

Once on the trail, you really don’t need to speak to that many people other than the locals who collect land use fees. If you don’t know Spanish, don’t let it be a deterrent to coming to Peru. Just be ready to have a tough time.

Megan Maxwell

Megan is a long-distance hiker, blogger, author, and outdoor professional. She has travelled all over the world in search of mountains and unique trails. She found her love of hiking on the Appalachian Trail back in 2012 and since then has hiked in the Himalayas, the Andes, and a few countries in Europe. On her blog, Mountains with Megan she provides information on hiking and backpacking all over the world.

We work with local guides to offer great value adventures at unbeatable prices.

Hike Huayhuash: Our Guide to Peru’s Most Beautiful Trek

Hike Huayhuash and get away from it all. Man in red coat hiking green mountain with brown mountain in background.

Blue, green, and turquoise lakes. Icy peaks, flowing rivers, and glaciers. And often not a human in sight. This is your experience if you hike the globally-recognized Huayhuash.

What is Huayhuash?

Huayhuash is a private conservation area managed by local communities. It’s recognized as one of the best hikes in the world. And with only 5-7,000 visitors a year , it’s much less crowded than the Inca Trail (which sees 500 people a day !).

Huayhuash is already well-known in trekking circles, and mountain biking is available now, too.

I think the best part of Huayhuash is that you can create your own adventure. Itineraries vary from three to eighteen days. They are generally moderate to moderately strenuous, so you don’t have to be an expert mountaineer to enjoy Huayhaush.

The crazy thing is, the Huayhuash mountain chain is only 30km (19 miles) long. Yet it includes 3 departments in Peru, campsites at 4,000 meters (13,000 feet) above sea level, hot springs, turquoise lakes, glaciers, and the country’s second tallest mountain.

Why Hike Huayhuash?

Unlike most hikes in the Andes, this landscape here is more open. Because of that you’ll get amazing views of the mountain chain as you walk and rest at campsites. That’s also why Huayhuash is considered one of the world’s best hikes. Highlights include the three lakes, all different colors, and Peru’s second tallest mountain, Yerupaja. Yerupaja is 6,635 meters (21,800 feet) tall.

The movie Touching the Void (based on a true story) takes place in Huayhuash, too. You’ll get up close with the mountain that Joe Simpson and Simon Yates scaled, Siula Grande.

Plus if you hike Huayhuash you’ll directly contribute to local communities who manage the campsites. And you’ll see cool wildlife like llamas, alpacas, viscachas, Andean foxes, and condors.

Last but not least, this hike is more affordable than its more famous competition in Southern Peru .

But Huayhuash is just as good… perhaps better.

Itineraries in Huayhuash

Again, Huayhaush really is a create-your-own-adventure, which is unique for a hike that’s so highly regarded. There are options for all types of budgets and expectations.

To do the WHOLE hike, there are 15-18 day itineraries. But more visitors take a 9-10 day option or the “mini” 7-day hike. Each of these includes the main attractions of the full 18-day hike. Finally, consider a 3-day hike if you’re short on time, funds, or aren’t sure about a longer trek.

Almost all of these start in Llamac in Ancash department and include the view of three lakes. Campsites are usually at over 4,000 meters (13,000 feet) above sea level.

Most Common Itineraries for Huayhuash

3 days: 15-20 km (9-12 miles). You’ll see a few of the major spots, all in the department of Ancash.
7 days: This is the “mini” version and is considered the minimum amount of time to see most of Huayhuash, and it changes depending on visitor preference.
10 days: Generally 110-115 km (about 70 miles); check out the sample itinerary below for more details!
15-18 days: This is the full Huayhuash hike and the only way to see everything.
NOTE: All of these include one or two passes at over 4,000 meters (13,000 feet) a day and start in the village of Llamac in Ancash

Alternative Hiking Options for Huayhuash

Some hikes start in the thermal baths in the department of Lima and include the Raura mountain range, which is adjacent to Huayhuash. A few tour companies offer archaeology-based hikes, and several center on mountain climbing.

9-Day Example Itinerary

The most common itinerary for Huayhuash is 9-11 days. That’s because you see all the “big” attractions and aren’t going to be rushed . This is a moderately strenuous trek which includes several 8-9 hour long hikes.

You start off in Huaraz ( Ancash’s hiking capital and 8 hours from Lima ). From there it’s a 2 hour ride to Chiquian, and from there 1 more hour to Llamac.

Llamac is where trek begins.

From Llamac it’s a forty minute walk to Pocpa, and a further 1.5 hours to the campsite. Another option is to continue hiking uphill to Cuartelhuain for the night.

Start getting used to early mornings! At 7 am start the 2 hr uphill walk to Cacananpunta Pass, located at 4,750 meters or 15,580 feet above sea level. By lunchtime the hiking gets easier and you camp at Mitucocha.

Mitucocha is next to a river and you’ll chill with views of snowcapped mountains from the green valley.

Hike Huayhuash- river with rocks with green shore and snowcaps in background.

This is another 5 hour day of hiking. Today the tallest point is Yanapunta Pass, at 4,650 meters, or 15,260 feet. If you haven’t started, consider coca tea for the altitude.

You end up at Carhuacocha lake to camp for the night.

Yanapunta pass on Huayhuash Hike. People walking on yellow mountain with snowcaps in distance.

It’s the first big day! That’s because you’ll walk for 8 hours, see the 3 lakes, and go over Siula Pass , next to the infamous Siula Grande.

Siula Pass is the tallest pass of the hike so far at 4,785 meters (15,700 feet). From there you’ll get an awesome view of the three lakes and mountain range behind them.

Afterwards it’s all downhill to the Huayhuash campsite.

This is a day of hiking for 5 hours to Viconga, where you can soak in hot springs. In case it’s not obvious, NEVER pass up a chance to soak in hot springs during a long, cold hike!

You’ll also go over Portachuelo Pass, which is about the same height as Siula, and end up at an altitude of 4,350 meters (17,560 feet) to camp for the night.

Nigh sky with starts and lit up tents below.

By now you might be used to getting up at 7am and walking for hours. Which is exactly what you’ll do today. The total hiking time today is about 8 hours.

You’ll summit Cuyoc Pass at 5,000 meters (16,400 feet). From there you’ll view the whole Huayllapa valley and head on down to the campsite. If you have energy go to the Antonio lookout. From there you can view the entire mountain chain .

For three hours you’ll walk to the town of Huayllapa, the first place you can buy limited food and supplies.

Rest up, make some phone calls, or just chill in town, because afterwards it’s 4-5 hours of slogging uphill to the campsite at 4,235 meters (13,900 feet).

This is the longest day. You’ll hike for roughly 9 hours and go over two passes that are over 4,700 meters (15,400 feet) high. At the second pass, you’ll have lunch and enjoy one last great view of Huayhuash.

Hike Huayhuash- person dwarfed by large brown and yellow mountains and blue sky.

Today’s short and 80% of the walk is downhill. You’ll finish at the town of Pacllon. From Pacllon take a bus back to Chiquian and then Huaraz.

Tents on green shore next to river with snowcaps in background.

Afterwards, rest up, eat, and bask in the knowledge that you did the most awesome hike ever.

Start thinking of how to brag to those people who could’ve come but didn’t :)

How to Prepare

How to prepare physically to hike huayhuash.

Since Huayhuash is a multiday trek and the passes you’ll cross are incredibly high, it’s important to be in good hiking shape and to acclimatize to the altitude.

You can acclimatize in the city of Huaraz and take day hikes from there. First I’d take it easy in Huaraz for a couple of days since the city itself sits at 3,000 meters or 10,000 feet. Before arriving, make sure you’re in good shape and able to take on a long, sometimes strenuous hike. Practice makes perfect, so get in plenty of hiking back home beforehand.

Day Hikes from Huaraz

photo of man sitting on boat surrounded by mountains in Huascaran National park

The best hikes from Huaraz include:

Churup: a glacial lake and a hike that is 6 km (almost 4 miles) total. It’s 3 km up, then 3 km downhill.
Huascaran National Park: You can hike for hours among snowpeaks, crystalline lakes, and the famous quenual tree forest in this beautiful park.
Lake 69: Just like Churup, this is a completely uphill climb to a glacial lake. But the trek for Lake 69 is twice as long at 12 km (7.5 miles).
Paron: This lake is the largest in the Cordillera Blanca mountain chain and generally less visited than Lake 69 and Churup. The hike is 20 km (12 1/5 miles) and you may want to spend the night in nearby Caraz to get an early start.
Pastoruri: Pastoruri may be the easiest glacier to visit ever! You’ll spend a few hours on a bus to take the hike , which lasts about an hour.
Rajucolta: A 7-km (4.3 miles) hike to a beautiful glacial lake
Wilcacocha: 7.6 km or 4.7 miles is all you need to find yet another amazing glacial lake near Huaraz!

Huaraz is a cool town with lots of backpackers and hikers. So it’s easy to find a guide, information on how to arrive to trails, and hiking buddies.

Always stay well-hydrated at these altitudes. Avoid alcohol and caffeine initially, and consider an over-the-counter medicine to avoid altitude sickness.

Finally if you want to try a shorter multi-day hike to prepare for Huayhuash I recommend Santa Cruz, yet another hike recognized as one of the best in the world !

Glacier with person approaching. Pastoruri

How to Prepare Mentally for Huayhuash

Whether you think you can or can’t, you’re probably right (Henry Ford).

Remember it’s tents outside every night when you hike Huayhuash. There are no showers and toilets are waterless. So, it’s, ahem, rustic .

If you’ve prepped enough physically, you’ll know. And just knowing may be enough. Of course, who you go with is crucial. When the air is thin, the weather cold, and my legs tired, I always want the most positive people around me.

Finally, just enjoy the hike. It’s not a race, and instead of rushing through and tiring out on Day 4, take your time and set a good pace.

How to Book Huayhuash

Responsible tourism professionals.

Our friends, Hombres y Montañas (Men and Mountains) have worked in Huayhuash for generations. They are a family company and are professionals in responsible tourism.

Connect with them on Facebook to find out more and make a reservation.

Best time of the Year to Hike Huayhuash

May to September is the best time to hike Huayhuash because the rainy season has ended by about mid-May. The best time to go is late May and June . The vegetation will still be green and it doesn’t get as cold at night as in July or August, which are also the most popular months for trekking in the area.

Avoid traveling in the rainy season from November-April, when landslides are common and accommodations can be hard to find.

Where to Stay & Eat in Huaraz

The backpacker classic in Huaraz is Churup.

Cafe Andino and California Cafe are spots to check out for relaxing with a good book and coffee or coca tea.

There are lots of options for Peruvian food and nightlife, with 13 Buhos perhaps the best spot to grab a drink.

What to bring

The essentials.

Obviously, trekking equipment (and climbing gear if that’s your thing). For a hike similar to the one above, you should have this equipment at a minimum:

Backpack with water cover
Rain poncho, especially if it’s not June-September
Rainproof tent
Sleeping bag
Waterproof hiking shoes or boots
2 pairs of hiking pants
A couple of short sleeved shirts (the weather can get surprisingly warm)
2 long sleeved shirts
1 set of pajamas
A bathing suit for Viconga and its hot springs
Down jacket
Sandals to let your feet breathe when not hiking
Quick dry travel towel
Toiletries, including sunscreen and hand sanitizer
Medicine kit
Straw filter or similar products
Travel medical isurance
Snacks! Coca leaves are great for altitude too
A GPS if going alone

Nice-To-Haves

You may want to consider these, depending on your preference and how much you want to bring.

Solar charger for smartphone
Extra camera batteries
Trekking poles
Sleeping pad
Emergency oxygen

TIPS: It’s common to rent equipment in Huaraz, or to even buy used equipment. Most agencies provide some or most of the equipment written above.

Sunset over lake and snowcapped mountains. Hike Huayhuash

The temperature goes down to 0-2 C (32-36 F) at night and is coldest in July. But it goes up to 20C (68F), even at high altitudes, at daytime.

Expect lighter rainstorms in May and Oct. From June through September, known as “Andean summer”, you can get clear blue skies all day, every day.

Huaraz gets up to 20C (68F) during the day and will go down to 5-6C (40’s F) at night.

How to Get There

Buses leave regularly from Lima to Huaraz all day. The trip takes 8 hours. Huaraz has an airport but flights are not always regular.

From the north, buses from Trujillo and Chiclayo go to Huaraz, too.

The cost of hiking Huayhuash is going to depend on a lot of factors , especially number of days and what’s included. Depending on price, agencies may provide 3 square meals a day, a tent, sleeping bag, a team to carry supplies, cooks, entrance to the communities’ campsites, and transportation.

Having said that huge caveat, you can expect to more or less pay these amounts for Huayhuash:

3-day tour: $300
9-11 days: $500-650
15-18 days: Up to $1,400
Personalized 152km (95 mile) hike: $4,000

If going alone, make sure you pay each community for using the trail and campsites. Remember that only ONE community (Huayllapa) has shops, so you’re not restocking daily.

And expect to pay in cash.

These communities provide the following campsites:

Huayllapa: Viconga, Guanacpatayand Huatiaq
Llámac: Cuartewain and Jahuacocha
Pacllon: Qashpapampa and Jahuacocha
Pocpa: Pocpa
Queropalca: Mitucocha and Carhuacocha
Quisuarcancha: Carhuacocha
Siula Grande : Base camp
Tupac Amaru: Huayhuash
Uramaza: Viconga lake and hot springs :)

Huayhuash is among the best hikes in the world, and it’s way less crowded than Peru’s most famous hike, the Inca Trail .

Definitely consider it if adventure is in your blood. Just make sure to acclimatize to the altitude and to prepare your body first.

Again, the mountain chain’s preservation depends on local communities , so be sure to leave no trace and respect the people and wildlife. To get the most out of your trip and hike Huayhuash, check out our partners at Hombres y Montañas Huayhuash ( Facebook ). These guys are responsible tourism professionals who focus on adventure tourism in Ancash.

Unless otherwise noted, all photos by our friend Erick Bernabe from Hombres y Montañas. Muchas gracias, Erick!!

Author: Brad

Obviously, I love Peru, and I love writing. I'm from the great state of Delaware. Very opinionated on punk rock and proper arm wrestling techniques. Grateful for each reader and hope to have brightened your day just a bit. Thanks for visiting my site!! View all posts by Brad

The Huayhuash trek: a high-elevation Eden

Aug 7, 2018 • 5 min read

Take your adventure to the next level with a hike on the Huayhuash circuit © Michael Mellinger / Getty Images

More demanding than southern Peru’s Inca Trail and lesser known than neighboring Cordillera Blanca , the Cordillera Huayhuash suits most better as a postcard image than pursuable feat. From extreme altitudes to breathtaking (sometimes literally so) views, hiking the complete Huayhuash circuit has been noted as one of the most physically and emotionally challenging treks in the country, but also one of the most rewarding.

A panoramic shot of craggy snow-covered peaks with a blue glacial lagoon in the valley © Michael Mellinger / Getty Images

Whether you opt for the full 130km (81 miles) Huayhuash route or one of the many partial hikes, you’ll surely be dizzy with elation (if not elevation) once the adventure comes to an end. But as any long-distance hiker will tell you, it’s all about taking it one step at a time. Take the following tips into consideration when planning your trip:

Nature wins

What does one of the best alpine treks in the world look like? Peru ’s version is a treasure trove of turquoise lakes and thermal springs, barricaded by an army of jagged mountains doused in pristine snow. Along the way, local guides will proudly point out Yerupajá, Peru’s second highest peak (6635m, or 21,768 ft), and can take you to the ridge of Cerro Huacrish for a near panoramic view of the full circuit. Like the condors that hover nearby, you’ll get a bird’s eye view of alpine meadows and extensive grassy fields dotted with sheep, alpaca and other members of the camelid family.

A trekker walks with green hills and rocky peaks in front of them © Diamirstudio / Getty Images

Know where to start

Depending on time and physical restraints, there are various lengths of looping routes to choose from, most of which begin in the small village of Llámac. A popular option is the four-day trek, often referred to as 'mini Huayhuash'. This moderate trek won’t disappoint in terms of stunning views seen from the west side of the mountain range. Of course, to experience the range in all its glory, one must commit to hiking the complete Huayhuash circuit. This route is typically done in just short of a fortnight (10-12 days) at a pace of five to eight hours a day. Since roads to the initial campsite, Quartelhuain, were paved relatively recently, hikers have been known to use this as a starting point; however this would shave off some time and distance from the actual full circuit.

Donkeys graze as the sun hits a snow Huayhuash peak in the background © Kesterhu / Getty Images

We’d all like to be pointed in the right direction every now and then, especially on a hike. Proof of its rugged qualities, Huayhuash is devoid of posted signs for visitors, so even experienced hikers often end up hiring local guides or travel companies to aid in navigation. Find a guide in Huaraz or put it off until you arrive at villages like Llámac or Pocpa where locals will be eager to lead the way (for a fee). Local guides are going to give you the added value of a deeper and more connected understanding of the mountains, from the meaning behind their Quechua names to the flora and fauna nestled in the high altitude. At a minimum, hikers are encouraged to hire a mule driver ( arriero ) and a pack animal to lighten the load.

A nighttime shot of two lit-up tents in the foreground with a starry sky in the background (Milky Way visible) © Kesterhu / Getty Images

Highs climbs, low temps

Snow-capped mountains above, dry plains below. The stunning juxtaposition of colors and natural landscape found in this region of Peru is what keeps hikers coming back. Though recent years have seen some uncharacteristically heavy rain and snowfall in the mid-year months, the prime hiking season is May-September – chilly yet dry. Pack plenty of layers, a good sleeping bag and tent in order to be prepared for temperatures that can drop as low as -10 ° C (14 ° F) when the sun goes down. Help shake off those chills and ask your guide to take you to the Rio Pumarini hot springs, a warm reward when you reach the Viconga campsite near the halfway point.

Have a tight feeling in your lungs and uneasiness in your stomach? Altitude sickness is prevalent on this undulating trail that nears 5000m at its highest and never dips below 4000m. Even those who take caution by pacing themselves and staying hydrated can be affected, so take it as an friendly reminder to slow down and enjoy the moment.

Image of a mountain range valley with two turquoise lakes © Michael Mellinger / Getty Images

Keep it together

For well over a decade, the mountain range has been considered a reserved zone though it is not a national park. Communities in the surrounding area are in charge of keeping their respective campsites clean, and while they do the best they can, there have been issues around littering more recently. Strong winds can easily cause food wrappers to flutter, so a floorless ‘cook’ tent can act as a lightweight shelter or windbreaker to keep items from blowing away (and a stove flame from blowing out).

Small fees are required at each campsite, but be sure to spend time talking to the locals to learn more about the surrounding area and culture. Though campsites will be populated by only a few fellow hikers at most, it’s common to pass quite a few shepherds and cattlemen that live in these secluded areas of the Andean range. Perhaps not until you reach Huayllapa, on the second half of the trek, will you realize for just how long you’ve been disconnected; this is where you can replenish supplies. At the end of the trek, share any leftover food or gear that’s no longer of service to you with your guides or residents of Llámac.

Though infrastructure remains below some tourists’ expectations, now is the time to venture to Huayhuash and, with the guidance of locals, challenge yourself to truly step into nature.

How to get there:

From Lima , the city of Huaraz can be reached by an eight-hour bus ride with companies like Oltursa or MovilTours . LCPerú offers daily flights between the capital city and Huaraz, with a flight time of just under one hour. It’s recommended to spend at least a full day in Huaraz in order to acclimate to the elevation. From the city center you can catch a ride on the bus Turismo Nazario in order to arrive at the village of Llámac (a five-hour ride) where you can begin your hike.

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Complete guide to hike the Huayhuash Circuit independently

The Huayhuash Circuit is considered as one of the best alpine treks in the world. The trail encircles the spectacular mountain range of Cordillera Huayhuash , including the impressive peaks of Yerupajá (6,617 m / 21,709 ft), Siula (6,344 m / 20,814 ft) and Sarapo (6,127 m / 20,102 ft).

Cordillera Huayhuash is still a remote part of the Peruvian Andes. Unlike the more popular Santa Cruz trek or Inca Trail, you will escape the crowds and most of the time won’t have to share this unique setting with anyone. That’s probably because the hike is also higher, longer and more strenuous. While it doesn’t require technical mountaineering skills, be aware that it is a tough trek, especially when hiking independently. The trail takes 8 to 12 days to complete, rarely drops below an altitude of 4,000 m (13,123 ft) and let you cross a pass of 4,650 m (15,256 ft) to 5,050 m (15,568 ft) each day.

That being said, it is definitely doable when you have some experience with multi-day hikes and, rest assured, the reward is priceless. You’ll be constantly surrounded by the scenic untouched beauty of majestic snow-capped granite peaks, stunning alpine meadows, imposing roaring glaciers and pristine azure lakes. But most of all, you’ll collect moments and a sense of accomplishment that will last a lifetime!

The best time to hike in the Cordillera Huayhuash runs from May to September . This is the dry season or the Andean Summer. While temperatures are a bit lower (expect temperatures below -10 °C / 14 °F at night) you’re more likely to witness the giant peaks in full exposure.

In wet season, chances are that you’ll see not much more than clouds, clouds and clouds. Unfortunately, the dry season doesn’t guarantee you a 100% dry trek at all. Be prepared for some rain, hail and even snow.

How to get there

The cheapest way to reach the Cordillera Huayhuash is by public transportation. From Huaraz, you’ll first need to take the bus to Chiquián, which will cost you 10 soles per person and take about 2.5 hours. There you have to change bus to Pocpa (another 15 soles per person) and have 2 options:

Or you get off the bus in Llamac after about 1.5 hours, to hike the full classical circuit. The first stretch to Laguna Jahuacocha basically backtracks the last stretch of the circuit. The trail then continues to Matacancha, past Sambuya Punta (15,551 ft / 4,740 m) and Rondoy Punta (15,584 ft / 4,750 m).
Or you continue on for an extra half an hour to Pocpa, which is the outermost village you’ll get with public transport. Then, you still need to walk about 7.5 miles (12 km) on not-the-most-scenic mining road to Matacancha. This way, you instantly cut 1.5 days without missing too much, which is interesting for those who’re limited on travel time.

The easiest way to get to the Huayhuash Circuito is to book private transportation in Huaraz. There are a couple of advantages. It is more convenient, as you’ll be picked up at your hostel in Huaraz and don’t need to change bus. Moreover, unlike the public bus, the private one brings you all the way to the Quartelwain campsite – also referred to as Matacancha. Therefore, it is much faster and allows you to do the Huayhuash circuito on 8 or 9 days. Once arrived in Matacanha, you can chose to spend the first night there or immedeately start walking. Of course, the downside of this route option is that it is a more expensive solution. How expensive it is for you, is depending on the size of your group. Count on 400 soles for an 8 person minivan.

We were planning to take the cheap but longer option of public transport to Pocpa, as the price difference for a group of two is quite big. However, during our day hike to Laguna 69 we met a group of six Dutch hikers who were planning to start the Huayhuash Circuito on exactly the same day as us. There were 2 spots left in the van – we didn’t doubt. The hectic and time-consuming public transportation option would have cost us 50 soles together. The private transportation with pick-up at our hostel was now only 100 instead of 400 soles. That’s a whole other story!

Our itinerary

We started our trek in Matacancha and followed more or less the classical route, with some slight deviations. For a detailed description of our itinerary, please read our other post .

DAY 1: Huaraz – Matacancha – Qaqanan pass – Mitucocha
DAY 2: Mitucocha – Carhuac pass – Carhuacocha
DAY 3: Carhuacocha – Siula pass – Huayhuash
DAY 4: Huayhuash – Portachuelo pass – Viconga Hot Springs
DAY 5: Viconga Hot Springs – Cuyoc pass – Guanacpatay
DAY 6: Guanacpatay – San Antonio pass – Huayllapa
DAY 7: Huayllapa – Tapush pass– Guspha
DAY 8: Guspha – Yaucha pass – Jahuacocha – Pampa Llamac Pass
DAY 9: Pampa Llamac Pass – Llamac – Huaraz

Note: If you want to return to Huaraz at day 9, you will need to take the bus at 11 am in Llamac. When camping in Jahuacocha on day 8, that means a bitter early start the next morning! That’s why we chose to push ourselves on to the Pampa Llamac Pass and granted ourselves a leisurely last morning in this breathtaking scenery.

Entrance and camping fees

Although you hardly see anyone on the trail, you pass various communities during the trek. To enter each of these communities, you’ll be charged an entrance fee which varies from 10 to 40 soles. The fees cover the usage of the trail, campsites and toilets. Don’t expect any luxury though.

But most of all, the fee system contributes to the safety of the hikers. The local communities now benefit from tourism and sometimes even provide night patrol guards. There were indeed a couple of incidents in the past, but since the introduction of the fee system, the circuit is considered safe. We can confirm that we never felt worried about our safety.

The fees are typically collected at the camp spots. However, always keep your ticket as it is possible you’ll be asked for it along the way too. In total, expect to pay 190 soles per person along the entire circuit, although this can vary according to the route you take.

Altitude sickness

At high elevations, there is less oxygen in the air. If you climb too quickly, your body doesn’t have the time to adjust to this low amount of oxygen. In that case, symptoms like headache, dizziness, nausea and vomiting can occur and ruin your trip. This is called altitude or mountain sickness. In extreme cases – if you don’t admit to it and keep climbing – the consequences can even be fatal. But don’t let that stop you from your big adventure in the mighty Cordillera Huayhuash. If you take the appropriate precautions, there shouldn’t be any problem. It is important to realize that anybody can suffer from altitude illness. Some people are less sensitive to it than others, but nobody is immune to it. Also being fit doesn’t reduce the risk of altitude sickness.

Most people we met during the hikes in Peru were taking acetazolamide tablets (Diamox) to prevent and reduce the symptoms of altitude sickness. We didn’t, as we never took them and thus didn’t know what to expect as side effects. However, we strongly believe the best way to prevent altitude sickness is taking the time to allow your body to adjust to the new height. Therefore, do at least 2 day hikes at high altitude in advance to get acclimatised. Laguna 69 and Laguna Churup are two wonderful choices! It also is important to drink plenty of water.

Before hitting the Huayhuash circuit, we spend 3 nights in Huaraz, from where we did 2 day hikes in the Cordillera Blanca, and didn’t take any medication. Apart from the quite hard headache after our first day hike, we didn’t experienced any problems after all. But do take this seriously, as the Huayhuash Circuito doesn’t allow you to descend to a sufficiently low altitude when feeling sick. Luckily, the Huayhuash route has the advantage of camping at a lower altitude than you’ve been earlier that day. Besides, the highest passes are in the second half of the circuit. This all helps to adjust steadily to the thin air.

There are plenty of water sources in the valleys to allow you not to carry loads of water with you. A bottle of 1.5 litre per person should be fine.

Be aware though that the valleys are pastures for livestock and sheep. Hence, use a water purifier that also combat viruses . Traditional water filters usualy don’t provide protection for viruses. We found a pen-style UV purifying device very convenient. The water sources are clear so they don’t require you to prefilter.

Toilet and washing facilities

Primitive toilets are available at the campsites. Be sure to bring your own toilet paper.

Don’t expect any bathroom facilities on the entire Huayhuash circuit. Why wash , right? That’s exactly what makes the Viconga hot springs so blissfully welcome halfway the trek. There are three pools: one is used to clean yourself, the other two are to relax and enjoy the scenery in a very special way.

Be sure to bring any kind of navigation with you, as you’ll be hiking in a remote area.

If you stick to the classic route with just some minor deviations, an offline (!) map on your smartphone can be sufficient. Your smartphone doesn’t need connection for the GPS to be working. We found Maps.me to be very useful. Be sure to download the map beforehand and provide enough charging capacity and/or a solar charger.

In other cases we recommend bringing a topographic map, which you can buy in Huaraz.

Essentials:

Backpack (65L)
Sleeping bag (up to -10 °C / 14 °F or better)
Sleeping pad

Cooking: We love the ease and taste of freeze-dried food. Mountain House is our favorite!

Meals (e.g. granola and freeze dried meals)
Snacks (e.g. energy/protein bars)
Water bottle
Water purifier (that is effective against viruses!)

Clothing: Think in layers! Some moments you’ll be hiking in tank top, other moments with hat and gloves.

Hiking shoes
3 x pair of hiking socks
3 x underwear
Down/Synthetic jacket
2 x light-weight sweaters
2 x zip-off trousers (or 2 x shorts + 2 x long trousers)
2 x quick-drying T-shirts
Thermal underwear (for the nights)
Pair of wool socks (for the nights)
Swim wear (hot springs)

Electronics: Be aware that you won’t be able to find any power supply during the trek.

GPS or smartphone with offline map
Charger/Powerbank
Spare batteries

Toiletries: You won’t need much, as there are no bathroom facilities, only the hot springs.

Biodegradable soap/shampoo
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Toilet paper
Lip balm and/or Vaseline
First aid kit
Hiking pole(s)

Still some questions? Feel free to ask below!

About the author.

About the post

VIDEO – The aftermovie of our Huayhuash adventure

Laguna Churup: the untouched dauntless sister of Laguna 69

Add yours →

Allo, my wife and are planning to do the whole circuit in 2020. Do you recall the name of the private transportation company you have booked in Huaraz to bring you to Matacancha ? We would like to d the same: hike independent, but used private transport.

Unfortunately not.. We have search for it, but haven’t found it. We joined a group of Dutch hikers, who already booked the transportation. But I’m sure Google can help you out, there are several companies who can provide the trip. We only used it one-way, to go to the start. Afterwards we used public transport, so we could have still changed our itinerary if necessary. Good luck and ENJOY!!

Hi there, This is a great post thank you, I am planning to do Huayhuash next week and wanted to see how much do you think you spent in total for the trip? Just roughly. Was it much different then what you would pay to do it with a guide? Thanks Alex

Hi Alex. Great you will hike the Huayhuash Circuit! No doubt it will be an experience of a lifetime! Actually, we only paid 240 soles per person for the whole trip (plus food ofcourse). That is 50 soles for transportation and 190 soles for the campsites. We brought our own gear, so we didn’t need to rent any. If you check the prices of an organized trip, you’ll quickly see that the difference is huge indeed. If you doesn’t have experience with multiday hiking trips, a guided trek is certainly a good option to see this beautiful piece of nature! Realize that carrying a heavy backpack results in a challenge of a whole other level. However, we always enjoy to have such a stunning landscape all for ourselves. That makes the extra challenge so worth it… 🙂

Super goe geschreven. Tziet er echt de moeite uit. Hopelijk kunnen ik en Matti julie tips gebruiken en deze hike ook eens doen!

Thanks, Debbie! Gewoon doen! 🙂 Deze trail zal enkel maar bekender en dus drukker worden. En dat zou wel eens sneller kunnen gaan dan we zelf willen.

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Trekking Peru's Cordillera Huayhuash

A self-supported journey on peru's stunning huayhuash circuit.

Brian McCurdy Photography

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From our campsite, the green valley rises, steepens, and becomes rocky and cold. Eventually it turns to glacier and then vast, snow-blanketed mountain. I pull the hood of my down jacket tight to my face. The cool, thin air and the enormity of my surroundings rousing me better than the darkest cup of coffee. Around a small ridgeline and between two small knolls, I glimpse our day’s objective, and squint my eyes to pick out the trail winding through the green and scree up to the pass. The scale of this landscape silences me and I wipe chilling tears from my cheeks, feeling immensely grateful for another day in the Cordillera Huayhuash.

The Journey

Peru is most known by tourists for ancient Machu Picchu and many cultured cities rich in archaeology and history, but it’s also home to some of the tallest and most remote mountains in South America. Of the trekkers who visit Peru, most head straight to the Cordillera Blanca just north of Huaraz, enticed by the high concentration of peaks exceeding 6,000 meters (around 20,000 feet). However, the Cordillera Huayhuash (pronounced “why-wash”)—just 19 miles long, 9 miles wide, and only boasting three summits over 6,100 meters—caught our attention. With the Huayhuash’s less touristy vibe and miles of trekking potential, we made the decision to stray south of Huaraz and slightly off the beaten path. And we are thrilled that we did: after biking through the Cordillera Blanca and hiking in the Cordillera Huayhuash, the Huayhuash stands out as one of the most memorable adventures we’ve ever experienced.

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Cordillera Huayhuash Trek

The Alpenglow Approach has been developed over the past two decades, and our expertise in Peru gives you the best experience possible while trekking in the Huayhuash.

CERTIFIED AND PROFESSIONAL GUIDES
HIGH END TRANSPORT AND LODGING
QUALITY LOGISTICS AND MOUNTAIN INFRASTRUCTURE
PORTERING AND FRESH FOOD
Office Staff Support
Jun 08, 2024 – Jun 23, 2024
June 07, 2025 – June 21, 2025

Illuminated tents at night with a sky full of stars during the Cordillera Huayhuash Trek

One of the most beautiful multi-day treks on the planet.

The Cordillera Huayhuash is a spectacular mountain range, with sharp, towering peaks looming high above the trekking trails. This 11-day trek is led by a certified mountain guide and is complete with porters so that you can focus on taking in the views rather than carrying a heavy pack.

Cordillera Blanca Huayhuash Trek Overview

Our Huayhuash Trek will begin in Huaraz. Sitting at nearly 10,000’/3,048m, Huaraz is the perfect place to begin acclimatizing. We spend two days at this altitude, touring the city on the first, and then renting mountain bikes (optional) on the second. From Huaraz, the real adventure begins when we drive to the small village of Llamac. We’ll load up the burros at this point and begin walking along the Quero River towards our first camp above 13,000’.

Six High Mountain Passes

From here, we proceed through more than six high passes throughout eleven glorious days in the Huayhuash of Peru. Our highest pass crossed will be Cuyoc Pass at 16,404’ with most of the other passes cresting 15,000’. We’ll pass beautiful alpine lakes and glimpse mountain peaks taller than 20,000’ as we complete the circuit.

The Alpenglow Difference

Certified and professional guides in the cordillera huayhuash.

Our Huayhuash Trekking Expedition will be guided by one of Alpenglow’s AMGA-certified lead guides. Our lead guides have traveled and climbed extensively in South America and know the Peruvian Andes intimately. Their knowledge of Andean culture as well as the mountains, combined with their passion for teaching others to become competent mountaineers and adventurers, guarantees that your experience will be one to remember!

Quality Logistics and Camp Infrastructure on Huayhuash Trek

When it comes to climbing in the Cordillera Huayhuash, quality = success. We provide the highest quality logistics possible in Peru. Comfortable bus tickets for the drive to Huaraz, porters for all of our gear, professionally trained cooks and fresh food, hangout/dining tents for base camp; you’ll find that our base camp set up is designed to set you up for success as best it can be.

Mountain views on the trail of the Cordillera Huayhuash Trek

Cordillera Huayhuash Trek Itinerary

Three hikers on the Cordillera Huayhuash Trek with stunning peaks on the mountain

Arrive in Lima in the afternoon or evening. We’ll stay one night in Lima in case of delayed flights, etc.

Drive to Huaraz (8 hours) where we base out of Olaza’s Guest House, a small but beautiful hotel (10,000’ / 3,050m).

Organize and acclimatize in Huaraz. Generally speaking, we can spend this day exploring the beautiful city of Huaraz. This not only gets our legs moving, but really gets our acclimatization process jumpstarted.

A second day in Huaraz is spent mountain biking on local trails to continue acclimatization. At the end of two full days in Huaraz, we should be ready to make our drive to the village of Llamac.

Drive (4-5 hours) to Llamac (11,152’/3,400m) before beginning our trek. In Llamac, we’ll meet the backbone of our guide(s) and burro team. From here, we’ll cast off towards Cuartelhuain (13,615’/4,150m) following the Quero River. Our total trekking time today will be 5-6 hours.

Today, we tackle our first challenging pass, the Cacananpunta Pass (15,419’/4,700m). We ascend over a 4-5 hour period to the pass which lies on the Andean Continental Divide. Throughout the day, we’ll have views of Ninashanca (18,395’/5,607m) and Rondoy (19,258’/5,870m). From the pass, we’ll descend for 1-2 hours to our campsite on the shores of Lake Mitucocha (14,107’/4,300m).

Our biggest day of trekking yet – we climb over a second pass called Carhuac Pass (15,255’/4,650m) before dropping into another beautiful valley. Our camp for the night lies on the shores of Laguna Carhuacocha (13,615’/4,150m). Today’s total trekking time should be about 6-7 hours.

Rest Day in Laguna Carhuacocha. We take this day to enjoy our location deep in the wilderness. For those feeling energized, we can go on an exploration hike in the area.

We leave Laguna Carhuacocha and hit our third pass before ending our day in the beautiful village of Huayhuash (14,107’’/4,300m). The Carnicero Pass will be challenging at 15,583’/4,750m, and will once again provide impressive views of the mountains surrounding it. Total walking time today is 6-7 hours.

An early start has us leaving the tranquil village and heading towards Lake Viconga (14,419’/4,395m). Our fourth pass of the trek is Portachuelco Pass (15,583’/4,750m) and provides more great views to remote peaks in the Cordillera Raura. We end the day by soaking in the hot springs of Laguna Viconga. Total trekking time today is 5-6 hours.

Today we cross our highest pass as we move towards camp in Rinconada. The Cuyoc Pass (16,404’/5,000m) will be difficult, but rewarding. We continue our trek by descending from the pass towards Rinconada where we set up camp for the night. Total trekking time today is 4-5 hours.

Today is a much needed easy day of walking through the valley towards the village of Huayllay. From there we ascend a gradual slope up a narrow valley to reach Huatiac (14,107’/4,300m). Total trekking time is 4-5 hours.

Another day, another pass. We leave Huatian in the morning to move towards Tapush Pass (15,748’/4,800m). From there we descend to Gashgapampa (14,763’/4,500m) where we set up camp. Trekking time is 3-4 hours.

From Gashgapampa we head toward Laguna Jahuacocha (13,615’/4,150m) and climb one of our last passes of the trip, Yahucha Pass (15,584’/4,750m). From this pass we will have spectacular views of high peaks, including Yerupaja (the second highest peak in Peru). Trekking time is 4-5 hours.

Waking up on the shores of Laguna Jahuacocha, we are now on our last day of trekking. One final pass stands between us and the finish: Pampa Llamac Pass (14,108’/4,300m). After enjoying our last views of the Cordillera Huayhuash, it is time to bring our trek to a close. A couple more hours will bring us out of the mountains, to the small village of Llamac. From here, we will travel by vehicle back to Huaraz.

We depart from Huaraz back to Lima to catch our flights (after 11pm). Say goodbye to your team and head home!

Our Cordillera Huayhuash Trek Guides

Cordillera Huayhuash Trek Questions

Covid vaccinations are not required, but highly recommended.

Yes. Please reach out to our team with the details of your dietary restrictions and we’ll set you up for success.

We require Rescue Insurance on all of our international expeditions. Rescue insurance will help cover costs in the event that you need to be rescued off the mountain (Ex: Helicopter/medical evacuation). Travel Insurance (which we strongly recommend) can cover issues that would cause you to cancel your trip in advance, like illness. We do recommend Global Rescue who does offer a Comprehensive Travel Protection option to your required Rescue (Evacuation) Insurance.

Expedition doctor, Monica Piris, has been on fourteen 8,000-meter peak expeditions. While Dr. Piris does not travel with our team on all expeditions, she is in 24 communication with our expedition leaders. Dr. Piris also works with each member on his or her pre-acclimatization program.

While no outdoor adventure can be completely free of risk without losing the essence of the activity, hiring a professional guide is a fantastic way to manage and mitigate this risk. Activities like skiing and climbing have what we call “inherent risk”, which can be defined as a risk that cannot be completely mitigated by a professional. That is part of playing in the mountains. We encourage you to reach out to the office if you would like to discuss this in more detail.

THE COST OF YOUR TRIP INCLUDES YOUR LAND COSTS (EXCLUDING IN-TOWN MEALS). THIS INCLUDES: All lodging according to itinerary, including double occupancy lodging while in town and group lodging in mountain huts. Breakfasts in town, all meals while on the mountain Group camping and climbing equipment All park/climbing permits Scheduled in-country transportation Airport transfers Certified guides Covid testing arrangements for re-entry into home country (does not include cost of test)

THE COST OF YOUR TRIP DOES NOT INCLUDE: Flights to/from the city where the expedition begins. Additional nights in hotel outside of the itinerary Airport taxes Visas In-town dinners Immunizations Tips for guides or local staff Travel, rescue, or any other type of insurance Hospitalization or evacuation costs Single supplement charges Excess baggage charges Alcohol Other personal expenses Antigen/PCR Covid test cost The costs of delays or changes to itinerary that are beyond the control of Alpenglow Expeditions or its agents are not included.

When an expedition is more than 90 days out, we require a 20% deposit to guarantee your reservation. Within 90 days we require full payment.

Please click here to review our international cancellation policy.

Climbers must be in excellent physical shape to join this expedition. This is perhaps the most important aspect of high-altitude climbing, and cannot be stressed enough. Regular, challenging exercise for many months in advance of departure is the only way to gain the necessary level of fitness that is needed on big peaks. We highly recommend a structured training regime with a gym or personal trainer to assist you in preparing for climbing at altitude. Please contact us for more information on physical training.

We always consider customs. Custom trips make up more than 50% of our groups. Please reach out to learn more!

Cordillera Huayhuash Trek Equipment List

Bring your favorite baseball hat for shelter from the sun. No white under the brim – the reflection off of it from the sun is blinding.

Recommended: Alpenglow Hat

A comfortable, warm well-fitting hat that covers your ears. Make sure that one of your hats fits under a helmet.

Recommended: Black Diamond Levels Beanie

A multi-purpose neck gator that can also be worn under your hat. Make sure that it covers as much skin as possible and yet is still comfy.

Recommended: Alpenglow Buff

We recommend a tight-fitting balaclava that is worn under your hat. Make sure that it covers as much skin as possible, but is comfortable enough to wear for hours.

Recommended: Black Diamond Coefficient LT Balaclava

Must have dark lenses. Minimal light should come in below, above, or around the sides of the lenses.“Wrap” style is best. Ventilation is important and a retainer strap is very useful (Chums or Croakies).

Recommended: Vaurnet Ice Rounds

All-around gloves for mountaineering, backcountry skiing, and hiking. These gloves (and similar options) are warm, wind-resistant, durable and have a sure grip. You will rarely take these gloves off. They should be snug-fitting, and have some sort of reinforced palm.

Recommended: Black Diamond Tour Gloves

These gloves should be full GORE-TEX®, and insulated. These will be the workhorse glove for any expedition.

Recommend: Black Diamond Mission MX Gloves

A super-thin wicking sock that repels moisture. Liner socks help to reduce the likelihood of blisters. The socks should be thin wool, nylon, or Capilene®. NO COTTON

Recommended: Ice Breaker Merino Liner

Your everyday sock, good for day hikes, trekking, and in-town. It’s good to bring several pairs of these socks. NO COTTON.

Recommended: Darn Tough Hiking Sock

A wool synthetic blend. Pure rag wool socks are not nearly as effective in wicking moisture or retaining their shape and reducing blisters. Bring a few pairs of these socks. NO COTTON.

Recommended: Darn Tough Mountaineering Sock

These light to mid-weight shoes are for everyday use. The ideal shoe is comfortable to wear for multiple days and scrambles decently on rock. A Gore-tex lined shoe stays drier when hiking in rain or snow.

Recommended: La Sportiva TX Guide

Ultra-light base layer that effectively wicks moisture away from your body and is breathable. Quick-dry is important as well. One light-colored shirt is recommended for extremely sunny days.

Recommended Men’s: Black Diamond Lightwire Short Sleeve

Recommended Women’s: Black Diamond Lightwire Short Sleeve

Lightweight, long-sleeve sun hoody that is great for protecting from the sun.

Recommended Men’s: Black Diamond Alpenglow Hoody

Recommended Women’s: Black Diamond Alpenglow Hoody

A long sleeve base layer that is fitted, lightweight and quick drying. Make sure it is long enough to tuck in.

Recommended Men’s: Black Diamond Coefficient Crew

Recommended Women’s: Black Diamond Solution Crew

A polar guard or fleece jacket. This mid-layer will be worn over your base layer most of the trip.

Recommended Men’s: Black Diamond Coefficient LT Quarter Zip

Recommended Women’s: Black Diamond Solution Quarter Zip

A simple, lightweight puffy jacket. This item is good for layering systems and staying warm. We recommend 800-fill down that is packable and resists inclement weather.

Recommended Men’s : Black Diamond Approach Down Hoody

Recommended Women’s: Black Diamond Approach Down Hoody

More breathable than Gore-tex, these soft shell jackets block wind and light precipitation and are great as an outer layer and warm layer under your parka.

Men’s Recommended: Black Diamond Alpine Start Hoody

Women’s Recommended: Black Diamond Alpine Start Hoody

A lightweight, waterproof and breathable jacket WITH A HOOD that can withstand extreme weather conditions. Make sure you have pit-zips and if you are using an old jacket, re-waterproof it.

Recommended Men’s: Black Diamond Liquid Point Shell

Recommended Women’s: Black Diamond Liquid Point Shell

A puffy jacket with a hood that will keep you warm during the coldest of conditions. The higher the quality down, the better (800-fill is best). However, be sure the jacket is still lightweight.

Recommended Men’s: Black Diamond Vision Down Parka

Recommended Women’s: Black Diamond Vision Down Parka

Throw these on under other layers for when the sun begins to beat, or you want to stretch / relax in Basecamp. Lightweight, durable and comfortable. NO COTTON.

Recommended Men’s: Black Diamond Sierra Shorts

Recommended Women’s: Black Diamond Sierra Shorts

Fitted and quick drying. This piece will be a base-layer that will get you through a wide range of temperatures

Recommended Men’s: Black Diamond Coefficient LT Pants

Recommended Women’s: Black Diamond Coefficient LT Pants

Lightweight, durable, quick-drying hiking pant that will be your day-to-day pant during the expedition

Men’s Recommended: Black Diamond Technician Alpine Pant

Women’s Recommended: Black Diamond Technician Alpine Pant

You will spend most of your days in these pants. Choose Schoeller® or a soft-shell equivalent. Breathable + water-resistant.

Men’s Recommended: Black Diamond Men’s Dawn Patrol Pants

Women’s Recommended: Black Diamond Women’s Dawn Patrol Pants

Your waterproof bottom layer for extreme weather days. Make sure you have water-resistant zippers, crampon patches + good pockets.

Recommended Men’s: Black Diamond Men’s Recon Stretch Pants

Recommended Women’s: Black Diamond Women’s Recon Stretch Pants

Full-length side zippers are recommended, for throwing on top of all of your layers.

Recommended: Black Diamond Stance Belay Pants

2 Duffle Bags – At least one bag should be extremely durable, waterproof, and big – between 90L and 120L. You should feel comfortable leaving it in a puddle for several hours. Remember dry clothes are hot commodities in the mountains! Large enough to fit everything you own, plus what you anticipate buying. Two duffel bags are necessary to fit all your equipment for travel (we don’t recommend checking your backpack, best is to put all gear and backpack into your duffle). Once in country, you can consolidate your gear into one duffel and your backpack. It’s common to leave the second duffel with city clothes and other non-necessary items behind in a locked and secure location that your guide will arrange for you.

Note: For ski expeditions such as the Ecuador Ring of Fire, you can replace one of these duffle bags with a ski/splitboard bag.

Recommended: Black Diamond Stonehauler 90L

Mid-size pack for city days and trekking. Streamlined, neat and lightweight (10-20 liters).

Recommended: Black Diamond Bullet 16 Pack

Internal frame pack that is between 50 and 60 liters. Either purchase a matching pack cover, or use garbage bags as liners. Make sure the pack is fitted to YOUR body.

Recommended : Black Diamond Speed 50L Pack

Rated to 0º F. Make certain that the sleeping bag is the right length. DON’T FORGET A COMPRESSION SACK FOR THE SLEEPING BAG. Many climbers also like a silk liner. For the Ecuador Climbing School: If you’re on our 9-Day (non-extension) trip, a 20º F rated bag is ok.

Recommended: Mountain Hardwear Phantom 0°F

72-inch long inflatable pad required. Make sure you also purchase and bring a repair kit + bag for the sleeping pad.

Recommended: NeoAir Xtherm

Foldable foam sleeping pad for sleeping and using as a sit-pad.

Recommended: Thermarest Z-Lite Sleeping pad

Should carry 70-100 ounces. Must be durable and have a reliable closure system. Recommended: MSR Dromlite 2L with Hydration Tube

Two 1 Liter Wide Mouth Nalgene bottles.

Recommended: Nalgene 1 L wide mouth

Wide mouth compressible 1-1.5 liter bottle. Optional but strongly recommended. Often used as a designated pee bottle.

Recommended: Nalgene Flexible Cantene

A lightweight and compact cookware setup. You’ll want a plastic bowl, mug and spoon.

Recommended Kit: MSR 2-Person Mess Kit

A fully insulated thermos is optional but recommended for warm drinks that help with comfort, hydration, and safety on cold days in the mountains.

Recommended: Thermos STAINLESS KING™ DRINK BOTTLE 24OZ

Please bring two L.E.D. Headlamps. One will be intended as a lightweight backup. L.E.D. headlamps are required. Make sure they have 3+ bulbs. Bring extra batteries. We highly recommend a tilting lamp.

Recommended: Black Diamond Storm 450

Backup Headlamp Recommended: Black Diamond Deploy 325

Make sure that they are durable, lightweight + easily adjustable.

Recommended: Black Diamond Pursuit FLZ Trekking Poles

While Alpenglow provides hot drink options every morning, it can be nice to have your own on hand any time you need a boost. With hot water always readily available, having instant coffee packets can give you the energy you need after a long day in the mountains!

Recommended: Alpine Start Original Blend Instant Coffee

Passport (with visa, if necessary)
2 luggage locks (TSA compliant)
Non-cotton underwear
Wag bags, 1 per night camping as to leave no trace
Stuffsacks: assorted sizes, for organizing your clothes and gear
Sunscreen: SPF 30 (or higher)
Lip balm with SPF 15 (or higher)
Personal first-aid kit (Band-aids, Ibuprofen, Cough Drops, Moleskin, Pepto-bismol, Imodium, Personal Medications)
3-4lbs of Snack food (a variety of snack food, some whole food, some bars, some gels)
Hand Warmers
Hand Sanitizer
Mountain Face Mask (optional)
Powerbank (6-10K mAh good for 2-3 phone charges, weighing under 8oz)

Alpenglow is the best

“I’ve been climbing with Alpenglow for over ten years. After my first expedition, I knew I’d found the best team. I feel like I’m a member of the Alpenglow family, and have come to know and love many of their guides, office staff, and programs. Alpenglow is truly the best!”

Climbers alpine climbing up a glaciated slope on an Alpamayo Expedition

Everest Base Camp Trek

Ecuador Climbing School

Beginner mountaineering students on an intro to high-altitude mountaineering course in Ecuador, taught by Alpenglow Expeditions' professional mountain guides, standing on a volcano at sunrise.

Peru Climbing School

Two mountaineering raising their arms in triumph while standing on a glacier at sunrise in Peru.

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Huayhuash Classic Trek

11 Day Trek
Fully Supported
Small Groups Only

Hike one of the most beautiful trekking circuits in the world . This is the most dramatic high altitude trek in the Peruvian Andes with magnificent views of mountains of the Cordillera Huayhuash such as Yerupaja 6634m being the second highest mountain in Peru, Siula Grande made famous by Joe Simpson in his book and film “ Touching the Void ”, Sarapo, Rondoy, Ninashanca, Jirishanca, Rasac, Carnicero, Trapecio and beautiful glacial lakes. The dramatic and beautiful glacial lakes and valleys of the range provide memorable campsites and good trout fishing. Andean condors are seen more often in the Huayhuash than on other Peruvian treks, attesting to the area’s remoteness. Our Huayhuash Classic Trek includes all the best and famous spots in the range such as Siula Lakes, Santa Rosa Viewpoint/Pass, Siula Base Camp and a deep soak in the hot springs of Guñoc – Viconga. You won’t miss anything!.

Trip Highlights

Unique Mountain Views
U–Shaped Valleys
Deep Glacial Lakes
World Class Trek

Departure Dates

Trekking details, trekking itinerary, lets go vamos.

Day 1: Huaraz – Chiquian – Llamac – Pocpa – Pallca – Quartelhuain

You are picked up at your accommodation and begin the journey with a spectacular scenic drive along the Callejon de Huaylas Valley. There are opportunities for photo stops along the way. We drive through many rural villages until we reach our camp at Quartelhuain 4150m. 5 hours drive.

Day 2: Quartelhuain – Cacananpunta Pass – Janca

We slowly climb up to 4690m in the morning to cross the Punta Cacanan then, as we descend, we are rewarded with stunning views of the nearby peaks of Rondoy and Jirishanca. Our camp is situated at Janca Valley 4200m. In the afternoon, we can do a side trip up to Laguna Mitucocha 4250m where we will see Torrent Ducks and Andean Geese. 5 to 6 hours walk.

Day 3: Janca – Carhuac Pass – Laguna Carhuacocha

We ascend towards Paso Carhuac 4630m pass from where we have splendid views of Nevados Carnicero, Siula Grande, Yerupaja, Jirishanca. We then descend to our camp at the beautiful Laguna Carhuacocha 4150m. 5 to 6 hours walk.

Day 4: Carhuacocha – Siula Punta Pass – Huayhuash

We ascend towards Paso Siula Punta 4850m pass with nice views of the surrounding mountains and crossing above the glacier fed lakes of Siula and Quesillococha. From the pass we descend to our camp at Huayhuash 4350m passing a beautiful lake and always enjoying views of the great mountains of the range. 8 hours walk.

Day 5: Huayhuash – Portachuelo de Huayhuash Pass – Viconga

We ascend gradually towards Paso Portachuelo de Huayhuash 4780m pass from where we have great views of the Cordillera Raura. We then descend to the big lake of Viconga and then to our camp at 4350m near by the Viconga Hot springs. 5 to 6 hours walk.

Day 6: Viconga – Cuyoc Pass – Cuyoc

We go over Punta Cuyoc Pass with a sustained uphill hike of 3 hours to a breathtaking 4900m pass. From here we marvel the spectacular views of the mountains. We then descend to our camp at 4500m. 5 hours walk.

Day 7: Cuyoc – Santa Rosa Pass – Cutatambo

We ascend towards the highest pass on the trek Paso Santa Rosa 5100m pass from where there are fantastic views of mountains and lakes. We can see the Siula Glacier where Joe Simpson crawled down in his epic battle for survival, and also Siula Base Camp. We then descend to our camp Cutatambo in Callinca Valley 4265m. 5 to 6 hours total walk.

Day 8: Cutatambo – Huayllapa Village

Today we come down to Peruvian sea level, following Calinca valley for 4 to 5 hours. The community of Huayllapa is one of the highland villages of Lima Region located at 3670m. Villagers are mainly farmers and shepherds and few of them work in tourism sector as cooks and donkey drivers.

Day 9: Huayllapa – Tapush Pass – Gashpapampa

We slowly climb up to 4770m in the morning to cross Punta Tapush Pass, we then descend to Gashpapampa 4500m. 7 to 8 hours walk.

Day 10: Gashpapampa – Llaucha Punta Pass – Huacrish Lookout – Laguna Jahuacocha Lake

We descend before ascending towards Paso Llaucha Punta 4850m pass, with fantastic views of the mountains of Rondoy, Jirishanca, Yerupaja, Rasac and Sacra. From the pass, we hike up to a ridge which takes us to Huacrish Lookout to have an unique views of the Huayhuash Mountain Range. We then descend to our last camp at the beautiful Laguna Jahuacocha 4050m lake. 4 to 5 hours walk.

Day 11: Jahuacocha – Pampa Llamac – Llamac – Huaraz

Today is our final day of trekking, with one last climb up to Paso Pampa Llamac 4300m. We can enjoy our final views over the range before descending steadily down to Llamac. Here we meet our transport and drive back to Huaraz. 5 hours walk and 4 hours drive.

Altitude and Acclimatization

This is a major factor on this trek and we strongly recommend that you arrive in Huaraz at least 4 days before the trek departs and spend time doing day hikes to higher altitude, this will help with acclimatization to the new altitude.

Grading & Fitness

In order to get the most out of the trek you should be in good physical condition. It is not easy to grade the fitness level required for the trek, since it is a subjective matter. However, we have classified this trek as strenuous. We trek approximately six to eight hours per day with several long ascents and descents.

TRIP REVIEWS

Rodolfo, I really appreciated your easy going nature. Thank you for a great trip and great service. Hayden, Australia

Rodolfo and his crew were totally professional, knowledgeable and energetic, always willing to help. They could not have made the trip any better. Evans, USA

I had a really great time in Peru! Thank you again for being a great guide. Illiana, USA

A trek with a 10 out of 10 Wow factor! From start to finish Rodolfo and our trekking team were amazing. Sonia, Australia

FEATURED TRIPS

A Detailed Breakdown of the Huayhuash Trek Map | Route, Campsites, & More

By: Author Charles

Posted on July 24, 2023

If you are taking part of the famous Huayhuash Circuit, one of the most important aspects to understand is the Huayhuash trek map.

The Cordillera Huayhuash can be a complicated area with various campsites, routes, mountain passes, and more all throughout the area.

The purpose of this guide is to give you a detailed breakdown of the Huayhuash Circuit trekking map so you can better understand the layout of the area. By the end of reading through, you should be one step closer to taking on the circuit for yourself.

* Affiliate Disclosure : This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you make a purchase through the links provided, at no additional cost to you. Thanks for supporting the work I put into TripTins!

1) Huayhuash Trek Map

Let’s just start off with a visual view of the Huayhuash trek map. While there are many maps out there, the one below essentially shows everything you will need to know for a hike.

Throughout the remainder of this guide (and your time researching the trail), feel free to refer back to this map to better understand the ins and outs of the area.

In the following sections I will be talking about the various aspects of the Huayhuash map and how to better understand certain parts of it.

→ If you want to download the route onto your phone, be sure to check out the Huayhuash GPX overview

Also be sure to check out the Cordillera Huayhuash Circuit guide up on the site for a complete overview of what the trek entails.

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2) Main Huayhuash Route

I should note that there are many different iterations of the route in general. Some people may opt for the entire circuit while others may just take part of a section of the route.

In between the short and long routes, there are other options to consider too (skipping certain campsites, combining days, etc).

→ Feel free to take a look at the Huayhuash routes overview to learn more about these

In summary though, the red line on the map represents the main Huayhuash route that encircles the entirety of the Cordillera Huayhuash. A classic 10 day route will look something like this:

Day 1 : Matacancha to Mitucocha Day 2 : Mitucocha to Carhuacocha Day 3 : Carhuacocha to Huayhuash Day 4 : Huayhuash to Viconga Day 5 : Viconga to Cuyoc Day 6 : Cuyoc to Cutatambo Day 7 : Cutatambo to Huayllapa Day 8 : Huayllapa to Qashpapampa Day 9 : Qashpapampa to Jahuacocha Day 10 : Jahuacocha to Llamac

Learn More : Be sure to check out the Huayhuash Circuit resource page that includes many helpful travel guides to get you prepared for the trek.

Here are a few things to note about the main red route:

→ From the Cuyoc campsite, you have the option to head over the San Antonio Pass or the Jurau Pass to the Cutatambo campsite . The San Antonio Pass offers some slightly better views but the descent down is known to be more dangerous. You can decide for yourself which one works best for you.

→ Some people spend less time on the trail and skip over the passes down to Cutatambo. Instead they head straight from Cuyoc to Huayllapa . You can see that alternate route on the map as well (passing by the alternative Huanacpatay Campsite) .

→ On some itineraries, there is an extra day spent at the Cutatambo campsite. This gives people the opportunity to explore the Quebrada Sarapococha , head to some lakes and even the Cerro Gran Vista viewpoint. This would make the route mentioned above 11 days instead of 10.

→ At the end of the route, there are two main exit options – the easy route down to Llamac or the more scenic route down to Rondoy . Most people head straight down to Llamac as that is where public transport leaves from. However, if you want to go out with some better views than Rondoy would be your better bet.

→ If finishing in Rondoy, you will either want private transport waiting for you or you will need to walk the dirt road (4+ hours) back to Llamac. If walking back, this means you will need to stay a night in Llamac at the end of the hike (last bus leaves Llamac around 11:30AM).

» Don’t forget to also check out a complete Huayhuash packing list for your trip

3) Alternate Routes

On the map you will see three different colored lines other than the red route. These all represent different ways to go about your hike.

Secondary Route (purple) : in purple you will see a secondary route. These mostly represent “easier” options to avoid some more strenuous hiking . I would not recommend these as they do take away some of the best views of the hike. Definitely stick to the scenic route as much as possible.

One of these purple lines goes from Queropalca to Carhuacocha. This route is only used for mini Huayhuash trekking options.

Trapecio Pass Route (green) : there is an option to save a day on the trail by heading over the Trapecio Pass from Huayhuash to Cuyoc . This would essentially remove the Viconga Campsite from the hike. The pass does offer some unbelievable views but it will have you missing out on the hot springs at Viconga.

Ruta Alpina Route (yellow) : the ruta alpina is the alpine route that makes its way through the interior of the Cordillera Huayhuash. I have not included that entire route here as it is a much more difficult option and one that is rarely used. However, I did include two sections of the ruta alpina that can be added on for trekkers .

This includes the second part of the first day between Matacancha and Mitucocha, and the full second day between Mitucocha and Carhuacocha .

There is much less of a trail here and navigation skills are required. However, you will get much better views than the normal route. Below is a photo from the second day, high above Lake Mitucocha.

4) Campsites

The next topic I wanted to cover are the Huayhuash Circuit campsites. All throughout the circuit you will find basic campsites to set up a tent for the night. Don’t expect too much out of these campsites though.

For the most part, these campsites just include a toilet block (some of which are just holes in the ground while others have flushable toilets), and maybe some sort of water faucet.

The one exception is Viconga where you will find three hot spring thermal pools to enjoy.

All of the campsites are located either along a river or next to a lake. This makes it easy to refill water and even wash your body.

No matter what type of trek you end up taking part of, you will not be staying in each of the campsites listed out on the map. Some routes use more/less campsites than others, so it will just depend on your overall itinerary to understand which ones you stay will at. Below is a list of all the potential campsites:

→ Llamac (village with campsite & end of trail)

→ Matacancha / Cuartelwain (campsite & start of trail)

→ Mitucocha (campsite)

→ Carhuacocha (campsite)

→ Huayhuash (campsite)

→ Viconga (campsite & hot springs)

→ Pampa Cuyoc / Elefante (campsite)

→ Cutatambo (campsite)

→ Huanacpatay (campsite)

→ Huayllapa (village with campsite)

→ Huatiac (campsite)

→ Qashpapampa / Gashpapampa (campsite)

→ Jahuacocha / Incahuain (campsite)

Some notes regarding the lesser used campsites:

Matacancha / Cuartelwain : this campsite marks the starting point of the circuit. You will only stay overnight here if you are starting the hike in Llamac (for those that use public transport), or if you are driven to Matacancha / Cuartelwain the afternoon prior to starting the trail.

Huanacpatay : for those skipping over the San Antonio / Jurau Passes & Cutatambo campsite, you have the option to stay in Huanacpatay instead of Cuyoc.

Huatiac : by staying in Huatiac, you will most likely be saving one day out on the trail. This in turn will have you skipping a night in the village of Huayllapa (more on that next), and having you go straight to Huatiac. See below for how logistics would end up working out:

With Huayllapa

• Cutatambo to Huayllapa (7.3 miles / +100 feet elevation gain) • Huayllapa to Qashpapampa (8.5 miles / +4,100 feet elevation gain) • Qashpapampa to Jahuacocha (6.0 miles / +1,970 feet elevation gain)

With Huatiac

• Cutatambo to Huatiac (10.7 miles / +2,700 feet elevation gain) • Huatiac to Jahuacocha (10.7 miles / +3,000 feet elevation gain)

At the end of the day, you should always be able to add /remove Huayllapa from the route as you see fit .

5) Villages

Also on the Huayhuash map you will see I highlighted three villages on the route. These include:

Llamac : if heading to Huayhuash with public transport, you will end up in Llamac. This is a small village with limited amenities. From there, you will begin the hike along the dirt road to the true starting point at Matacancha / Cuartelwain.

At the end of the hike, the trail heads down from Jahuacocha to Llamac, where you will either be picked up by private transport or hop back on public transport to Huaraz (last bus leaves around 11:30AM).

Huayllapa : the main village of the trail itself is Huayllapa. If you stay in the village, you will have the option to spend a night at a guesthouse and have a home cooked meal. In addition, you can stock up on additional food and snacks for the remainder of the hike.

Queropalca : this village is only used as a starting and/or ending point for mini Huayhuash trekking options. From Queropalca you can head on the easy trail to the Carhuacocha campsite and begin a few days of back & forth trekking.

6) Starting / Ending Points

As mentioned already, the starting point of the Huayhuash Circuit will be at Matacancha / Cuartelwain . If you are using a guided tour, these will all take you right to the trailhead.

However, if you are taking public transport from Huaraz, you will be dropped off in Llamac .

Connecting Llamac and Matacancha / Cuartelwain is a dirt road. So, day 1 of hiking will be more so just hiking along this road instead of hiking the main trail.

The main finish point of the Huayhuash trek will be in Llamac though .

From the Jahuacocha campsite, it is an easy hike down to Llamac to end your time on the circuit. Once you arrive in Llamac, you will either head back in your prearranged transport or hop on the bus if opting for public transport.

Note that there is an alternate finish to the trail in Rondoy . Instead of taking the easy route down to Llamac, you can opt for the more scenic route out to Rondoy heading over the Sambunya Pass.

If going with a guided tour or if you prearranged private transport, this shouldn’t be an issue as they can pick you up here (or just down the road at Matacancha / Cuartelwain).

However, if you don’t have transport set up, the only other option here is to walk the 4+ hours on the dirt road to Llamac. If you end up doing this, you will need to spend the night in Llamac since the last bus leaves around 11:30AM. You may get lucky and be able to hitchhike a ride back to Llamac too.

→ Learn more about how to get to the Cordillera Huayhuash

7) Mountain Passes

The last main highlight I wanted to point out on the Huayhuash trek map are the mountain passes. Each day (besides the route from Cutatambo to Huayllapa), you will be heading up and over a mountain pass.

This means that you will gain at least a couple thousand feet of elevation to start the day and then have a downhill hike to end the day. Some of these passes are more/less difficult than others, but they all do offer some fantastic views.

When taking part of the circuit, I always made it a priority to spend some time just relaxing and taking in the views from the top of these passes. After the long, hard mornings of hiking up, it was always nice to spend time just taking it all in from up top.

Here is a list of passes that you may come across during your time on the circuit:

Cacanan Pass (4,700 meters / 15,420 feet)
Carhuac Pass (4,630 meters / 15,190 feet)
Siula Pass (4,830 meters / 15,845 feet)
Carnicero Pass (4,600 meters / 15,090 feet) – alternate route
Portachuelo Pass (4,770 meters / 15,650 feet)
Trapecio Pass (5,030 meters / 16,500 feet) – optional route
Cuyoc Pass (5,000 meters / 16,400 feet)
San Antonio Pass (5,020 meters / 16,470 feet)
Jurau Pass (5,060 meters / 16,600 feet) – alternate to San Antonio
Tapush Pass (4,790 meters / 15,715 feet)
Yaucha Pass (4,850 meters / 15,910 feet)
Pampa Llamac Pass (4,270 meters / 14,010 feet)
Sambunya Pass (4,750 meters / 15,585 feet) – alternate finish route

Below are pictures from just some of the passes – Siula Pass, Cuyoc Pass, San Antonio Pass, and Sambunya Pass.

I hope by now you have a better understanding of the overall Huayhuash Circuit layout. As you can tell, there is certainly some complexity (and choices to make) when it comes to the circuit.

If you have any questions or comments about the Huayhuash trek map, feel free to add them in below. Also, don’t forget to check out the remaining Huayhuash hiking guides up on the site.

Have fun out there and safe travels!

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Trip Styles
Destinations

Alpine lake in the Cordillera Huayhuash, Peru

Trip Destinations
Peru Hiking Tours
Cordillera Huayhuash Trekking

Cordillera Huayhuash Trek

Lima & huaraz, peru, trip highlights.

Stunning Alpine Scenery
Spectacular Glacier Fed Lakes
4 High Mountain Passes
Unique Local Wildlife
High Elevation over 15,000 Feet
Ancient Inca Ruins
Mountain Solitude
Acclimatization Day Hikes
Guides Choice Trip

Description

This trip takes us into the Cordillera Huayhuash, a tightly bunched, sensational 18-mile long collection of high peaks in the Peruvian Andes. This trekker’s paradise is remote, wild and stunningly beautiful. The range is the home of Siula Grande (20,814′), the location of the famous mountaineering book and movie “Touching the Void.” We acclimatize for several days in Huaraz, Peru by taking spectacular high elevation day hikes in the surrounding mountains and sleeping at a lower elevation in town. We can then head into the higher mountains safely, feeling good and prepared for the upcoming trekking adventure. On this trek we cross four high mountain passes, all over 14,000 feet and three higher than 15,000 feet. We camp next to stunningly beautiful alpine lakes and in broad, grassy valleys with wildflowers and rushing alpine creeks. And all the time we’re staring in awe up at the soaring, snow-laden Andes giants that tower above us with peaks at elevations above 20,000 feet!

$3250 Per Person

$375 single supplement.

DIFFICULTY LEVEL 4

Scale of 1-5. 1 is least difficult; 5 is most difficult

Hiking Distances:

Up to 8.1 mi

Backpack Weight:

Significantly Rugged

Max Daily Elev. ↑↓:

Up to 3000 ft

Heights Exposure:

Significant Exposure

Please Note: Terrain, Elevation Gain and Heights Exposure ratings reflect the section or day of the trip with the maximum difficulty of each. Much of the trip is at easier levels. See the trip itinerary for more detailed information.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS OF THIS TRIP

Hiking uphill or downhill with a 10-20 lb backpack for 7-8 hours
Maintaining balance and footing on variable, uneven steep terrain
River, creek crossings and rock hopping
Hiking at elevations of 15,000+ feet

SOLITUDE LEVEL 3

1 least solitude, 5 most solitude

We rate this Peru hike a solitude 3. Expect hours of solitude at a time on the trail. Camps are usually set up in the vicinity of other groups in beautiful natural settings.

Minimum Guests

Minimum of 2 Guests

We require a minimum of 2 guests to confirm this trip. If a trip date is not confirmed yet, you can register and will be notified when the trip is officially confirmed. We recommend not making final travel arrangements until your trip meets the minimum number of guests and is confirmed.

In most cases, if a trip does not reach the minimum number of guests, you may choose to transfer to another trip date or another trip, or be refunded your payments in full. We make the final determination for these trips 65-60 days before the departure date.

Private Trips

Travel in perfect company by booking a private trip exclusively for your group!

Our sliding scale for private trips is based on the final number of guests in your group. Rates are per person and do not include sales tax, national park fees or guide gratuity. The final rate is based on the actual number of guests on the trip and may adjust based on cancellations or additions.

Please Note: you can also enjoy a private trip at our normal scheduled rates by filling any empty tour to capacity. However, if group members drop from the tour those spots will automatically become available on our website for instant booking. By purchasing a private trip at the rates listed below, your trip will remain exclusive to your group regardless of cancellations.

Private Rates FOr This Trip

2 People: Rate x 2.5
3 People: Rate x 2
4-5 People: Rate x 1.5
6-10 People: Rate x 1.15
11-12 People: Rate x 1
13+ people: contact us for availability and pricing

*all rates are per person and single supplements apply

Learn About Our Private Trips

On this Peru trekking trip , a Wildland Trekking representative will pick you up from the Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima, Peru. We transport you to our hotel (included) in the popular Miraflores district of Lima. The afternoon/evening is yours to rest, explore the city, and eat on your own. Be sure to drink copious amounts of water en route, as flying and traveling will certainly dehydrate you, and the elevation in Huaraz tomorrow is over 10,000 feet. Being hydrated (i.e. drinking lots of water and not drinking alcohol in excess), well fed, and being well rested are all critical components of dealing with significant elevation changes and properly acclimatizing. Proper self-care is important before, and during the trek.

Aerial view of Lima Peru Miraflores coastline cityscape

Shuttle: 7-8 hours

This morning breakfast is included at the hotel and then the group will meet at 7am to share a private vehicle transfer to Huaraz, Peru. Along our scenic drive we will stop for lunch and restroom breaks whenever needed. Once we arrive in town, we’ll get checked into our rooms and the afternoon will be yours to relax or explore the city. At 6pm we will have our scheduled orientation meeting. After our meeting we will walk to our favorite, local Huaraz restaurant for dinner.

Hiking Distance: 3.5 mi (5.6 km)
Elevation Gain: 1755 feet (535 m)
Elevation Loss: 2060 feet (628 m)
Trekking Duration: 4-5 hours

This morning we enjoy a Peruvian breakfast at the hotel in Huaraz. Following breakfast, we pack our day packs and head to Chiwipampa, where we find the trailhead for our hike. We’ll set out on a 2-3-hour hike along locally farmed fields and beautiful sections of trail lined with the unique native plant species up to Wilcacocha Lake. At the lake, we’ll have lunch and take in the amazing panorama of the whole Cordillera Blanca Mountain range while helping our bodies acclimatize. After lunch, we descend to our transportation and ride back to Huaraz, where we’ll have free time until we meet for dinner.

Hiking Distance: 3.8 mi (6.1 km)
Elevation Gain: 2360 feet (720 m)
Elevation Loss: 2360 feet (720 m)
Trekking Duration: 5-7 hours

This morning will serve as a second acclimatization day. After another delicious hotel breakfast we’ll pack our day packs and drive roughly 1 hour to the village of Pitec. At Pitec, we begin to hike slowly on our way up to Churup Lake. The walk will take 3-4 hours and once we arrive, we’ll have lunch and enjoy the amazing glacial lake and stunning mountain scenery. When we are ready, we’ll descend down a different trail between 2-3 hours until we get back to Pitec. Upon arrival at Pitec, we board our transportation for the 1-hour drive back to Huaraz. We will have time to freshen up before meeting for dinner.

Shuttle: 8-10 hours
Camp Elevation: 12,569 feet

This morning after a filling breakfast we depart Huaraz and drive approximately 4 hours to the ruins of Wanuku Pampa. Wanuku Pampa is an ancient ruin built by the Inca (Quechua) people on the trading highway from Cusco, Peru to Quito, Ecuador. We’ll have lunch and spend some time exploring the ruins and historical area. When we are ready, we’ll continue our drive 4-5 hours more to Queropalca where our night’s camp will be set up and ready for us. Tonight’s dinner will be our first of many meals prepared by our team’s chef. After dinner your guide will provide the plan for the start of our multi-day trek tomorrow!

Views at Wanuku Pampa, an ancient ruin built by the Inca

Hiking Distance: 6 mi (9.7 km) / (Optional Hike: 2.25 mi/12.1km)
Elevation Gain: 1620 feet (494 m) / (Optional Hike Gain: 1525 feet/465 m)
Elevation Loss: 585 feet (178 m) / (Optional Hike Loss: 1525 feet/465 m)
Trekking Duration: 4-5 hours / (Optional Duration: 1-2 additional hours)

After a nutritious breakfast, we’ll breakdown camp and pack our gear onto the mules. From here, we lace up our boots and begin hiking. We’ll be accompanied on our walk today with breathtaking mountain views of Siula Grande, Yerupaja and Ninashanca. We walk 4-5 hours until we arrive at the Carhuacocha Lake camp (13,615′), where we’ll have a relaxed lunch and camp for the next 2 nights. With our extra time here, you can relax at the lake and take in the amazing scenery. For anyone wanting an extra challenge and to explore a bit more, we can hike up to a viewpoint high above the lake before our much deserved dinner prepared by our chef and served by our camp staff.

Hiking Distance: 8.1 mi/13 km
Elevation Gain: 2650 feet (808 m)
Elevation Loss: 2650 feet (808 m)
Trekking Duration: 6-7 hours

After a relaxed breakfast, we’ll leave our camp set-up and start our day hike up the valley to the Laguna Quesillococha, Laguna Siula, and Laguna Jancacocha. We will spend some time taking in the spectacular scenery from viewpoints along the way and pick a great spot to have our packed lunch. The prize view of the day comes from climbing up to our highest point of our hike and looking back over our trail and the lakes. After taking in this extremely picturesque vista, we’ll start heading back to camp the way we came. Today’s hike might be strenuous but is absolutely one of the highlights of the trip. At camp we’ll have time to change clothes and rest until our dinner is served.

Hikers taking a break along the Huayhuash trek

Hiking Distance: 7.5 mi (12.1 km)
Elevation Gain: 1800 feet (549 m)
Elevation Loss: 1515 feet (462 m)

After breakfast this morning we’ll pack up camp and start off on our trek for the day. We begin hiking for roughly 3 hours until we reach the Carhuac pass (15,255′). At the pass we’ll stop to appreciate and photograph awe-inspiring views of the giant mountains Jirishanca (20,098′) and Ninashanca (18,396′). We’ll enjoy our lunch and take in the sweeping views around us before descending to Mitucocha camp (13,878′). Upon arrival at camp, we are greeted by our crew with hot drinks and snacks. You’ll have free time to relax or explore the area around Lago Mitucocha before dinner is served.

Hiking Distance: 5.6 mi (9 km)
Elevation Gain: 2475 feet (755 m)
Elevation Loss: 2200 feet (671 m)
Trekking Duration: 7-8 hours

After an early breakfast, we pack up and leave camp by 8 am. We begin our ascent to our second pass, Cacanan (15,419′). Once again, we are surrounded by gigantic, glaciated mountains and breathtaking views. We are literally hiking in the Land of Giants today, which for most guests is an indescribably rich and humbling experience. We’ll have lunch at or near the pass and descend to the Quartelhuain camp (13,468′). Tonight’s camp is picturesquely set in a high meadow landscape beneath the surrounding towering peak of the Cordillera Huayhuash. We’ll have time to relax and take photos of this amazing camp before another chef prepared meal.

Hiking Distance: 8 mi (12.9 km)
Elevation Gain: 2675 feet (815 m)
Elevation Loss: 2995 feet (913 m)
Trekking Duration: 8-9 hours

After another breakfast in camp, we’ll pack up and begin our 3-4 hour ascent to our third pass and the highest elevation we’ll reach on our trek, Sambuya Pass (15,584′). As we hike we’ll soak up fantastic views of the mountains Ninashanca, Jirishanca, Yerupaja and Rondoy. After lunch, we’ll head down to our final camp at Jahuacocha lake (13,287′). Upon arrival at camp, we’ll have free time to relax with hot drinks and snacks. Dinner will be served with the outstanding views from camp as our backdrop. Your guide will provide the plan for our last day of hiking before we enjoy another well-deserved night of sleep in the Cordillera mountains.

hiker at high alpine lake along huayhuash trek

Elevation Gain: 2040 feet (622 m)
Elevation Loss: 4665 feet (1422 m)
Trekking Duration: 5-6 hours

After a delicious breakfast, we begin hiking on a mostly flat trail until a short climb to our fourth and final pass, Pampa Llamac (14,108′). We’ll make sure to take a long break here and soak in our final panoramic views of the surrounding mountains before descending to the end of our hike at Llamac Village (10,827′). Here we’ll have lunch and board our private vehicle for the 4.5 hour drive back to Huaraz. Upon arrival in Huaraz, we’ll check into our hotel rooms, have showers and meet for our final celebratory dinner together. Here we will say goodbye to our guide and thanks for a successful trip.

This morning breakfast is served at our hotel before our private group transfer back to Lima leaves at 7am. Along the way we will stop for restroom breaks and lunch. We will drop guests at the Lima airport no later than 3pm. Departure flights should be planned after 6pm. Our Adventure Consultant team can help book any extra add-on hotel rooms and airport transfers in Lima if desired. What an adventure it has been, thank you for choosing Wildland Trekking!

Please Note : We always do everything in our power to follow the set itinerary, however occasionally trips are subject to itinerary changes based on a variety of circumstances, including but not limited to: lodging/campground availability, extreme weather, political or bureaucratic obstacles, earthquakes, fires, flooding and more. Normal terms and conditions apply to trips with itinerary changes.

Trip Dates & Booking

Trip dates & booking.

Click on a date to register. You can also click here to request new dates or book through customer service.

AVAILABLE TO BOOK

This trip is available and bookable online! Click on the date to register now or contact us online to book through our award-winning customer service team!

This trip has 1 or 2 spots remaining and is bookable online! Click on the date to book now or contact us online to book through customer service.

REQUEST A RESERVATION

This trip is exclusively booked through customer service due to logistics with lodging, permits, staffing, availability, or something else. Please contact us online or call us at 800-715-HIKE (4453) to request a reservation.

Don't see your dates? Call us! We may be able to add new trip dates.

Trip details, what's included.

A detailed trip packet that takes the guesswork out of your travel, training, packing, and preparing for the trip
Trained hiking guide(s) with years of personal wilderness and hiking experience, medical certifications, and a passion for leading people into breathtaking landscapes. See Guide Bios .
Transportation for the duration of the tour starting on Day 1 and ending on Day 12
Lodging before and after the trekking portion of the trip (Day 1-11)
All camping gear and supplies (including a dining tent and kitchen tent)
Porters or mules to transport all gear, food, and most personal items
Professional camp chef
Drinking water and hot water for washing face, hands…etc.
Use of a backpack and trekking poles
Meals for the duration of the tour (from breakfast day 1 to lunch on Day 12)
Emergency equipment including a company-issued first-aid kit and communication device

What's Not Included

Transportation to Lima, Peru
Trip insurance that includes medical coverage and at least $200,000 in evacuation and repatriation coverage (strongly encouraged)
Bar bills, drink bills, extra snacks, telephone bills, wifi bills and other personal expenses (shopping/ laundry)
All expenses due to unavoidable events e.g. flight cancellation, personal illness, strikes, etc. (we recommend trip insurance coverage for these variables)
Clothes, raingear , and footwear
Sunscreen, toiletries and personal items
Water bottles and a headlamp or flashlight (disposable plastic water bottles are prohibited; please have refillable water bottles or hydration bladders)
Guide gratuities are optional and at the discretion of each customer. A suggested guideline is to reward outstanding service with a tip of 10-15% of the total trip cost. Please tip your lead guide and they will distribute responsibly to the crew. Local currency is preferred, or USD is also appreciated.
See the Packing Lists page for more information

Click here to see a printable, downloadable trip information packet with more detailed guidance about what to pack.

Meals: What to Expect

This Peru hiking tour features a combination of in-town meals and meals prepared by our staff. We’ll have dinners at carefully selected restaurants in Huaraz as well as meals prepared on the trail by a professional camp chef.

For optimal taste and energy, we supplement all our meals with spices, herbs, oils, cheeses, butter, sugar, and fruits and vegetables. In addition, we provide you with an assortment of trail snacks* (nuts, dried fruit, chocolate, & cookies) to eat at your own discretion.

We can often accommodate vegan, vegetarian, kosher and non-gluten diets and make adjustments for food allergies. These and other special dietary requests may require an additional fee, and in some countries may be more difficult to accommodate than others. Please inquire with us for more information about the specific trip you’re interested in.

*Common trail snack brands and items found easily in the US are not readily available in this destination. (i.e. protein bars, trail bars, beef jerky, etc…) We recommend guests that prefer these types of trail snacks to bring a few of their own choice items from home.

Gear We Provide

We provide all group gear which includes the following:
Trekking poles
Tents, sleeping bags, sleeping pads
Company-issued first-aid kit
Emergency communication device(s)

Guest Packing List

When you register for this tour you’ll receive access to a printable, downloadable trip information packet with a detailed packing list specific to this trip ( click here to see it now.) All trips require a sturdy pair of hiking shoes or hiking boots, rain gear, a recommended clothing system, a headlamp or flashlight, a hydration system (water bottles and/or bladder) and other items specific to each trip.

Additionally, some guests choose to bring their own sleeping bag. We supply high quality, synthetic fill bags that are professionally laundered after every trip. Synthetic fill is non-allergenic, insulates when damp and stands up well to repeated washings, but is heavier and bulkier than down. If you’re able to bring your own down sleeping bag, there are multiple benefits . If not, we’ve got you covered!

Frequenly Asked Questions

We have compiled the most frequently asked questions that Wildland Trekking guests have about visiting and trekking the Cordillera Huayhuash. Learn the answers to these commonly asked questions about traveling in Peru by using the link below!

Trekking Cordillera Huayhuash – FAQs

Trip Logistics

How do i register.

Reserve your spot today! In the Trip Dates & Booking section of this page, the green and red dates are bookable online by simply clicking on the date, and blue dates must be booked through our customer service team for a variety of possible reasons. To email our customer service team, you can click here to get the ball rolling. Our adventure consultants will confirm availability, and if you’re ready to register we’ll email you a link to a registration profile. You’ll have 72 hours to complete your profile (and that of any dependents) and pay the deposit.

Feel free to call us for more info – we’re here 7 days a week!

Where Do We Meet?

We will meet you at the Lima airport on Day 1 and transport you to the first night’s hotel (included). Our Peru communications team will be in contact approximately 45 days before your trip to coordinate your rendezvous and answer any last-minute questions you have.

Click here to see a printable, downloadable trip information packet with more detailed guidance about flights, shuttles, recommended lodging and more.

Travel to Lima, Peru

TRAVEL TO LIMA, PERU

Transportation to and from the origin city of Lima, Peru is the guest’s responsibility. You will need to arrive in Lima on the first day of the trip at any time. Our team will rendezvous with you at the airport and transport you to our hotel. Accommodations are included on Day 1. Your departure from Lima should be scheduled for the final day of the tour with flights departing no earlier than 6pm.

The group travels to/from Huaraz, Peru together in a private shuttle.

You can reach Lima from many U.S. and European international airports. Some of the primary U.S. departure cities include Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Atlanta, Washington D.C., Minneapolis, Chicago, New Orleans, Salt Lake City, Phoenix, and Los Angeles. The duration of nonstop flights to Lima is 5-9 hours.

Pre and Post-trip On Request Lodging

We secure limited amounts of pre and post trip lodging in Lima, Peru as an optional add-on for guests of this trip. This lodging is on request, and is available on a first come, first serve basis. If interested, please reach out directly to our team to check availability.

Safety Precautions

Your safety is our top priority. Our hiking tours are led by professional hiking guides, all of whom are wilderness-certified first responders or EMT’s, each with years of guiding and wilderness experience. Guides adhere to standardized risk management protocols in case of any potential or actual incident, and all tours carry an emergency communication device and comprehensive first-aid kit. Additionally we have a “24/7” system through which guides or guests can reach Wildland support personnel at any time.

In the interest of your safety, it’s important to refer to the Center for Disease Control website for up-to-date recommendations on immunizations before your trip.

Essential Eligibility Criteria

Essential Eligibility Criteria (“EEC”) have been specifically identified to help you understand the skills and abilities necessary to participate on each Wildland trip, and they apply uniformly to all potential trip participants, irrespective of the presence or absence of any disability.

Once you identify a trip in which you may be interested, please carefully review the EEC and itinerary details. If after reviewing the EEC that apply to your desired trip, you determine you need an accommodation in order to meet the EEC, please contact us prior to registering to discuss your requested accommodation.

The EEC exist for your own safety and the safety and enjoyment of all participants. If you are unable to meet the EEC for the trip, with or without an accommodation, you are not eligible for that trip. If you register and arrive for a trip for which you do not meet the EEC, you will be disqualified from participation on the trip and will be dismissed or evacuated from the trip without a refund.

Our approach to international travel is to combine the best of two worlds: the dialed-in details, professionalism and consistency Wildland trips are known for; and the cultural immersion and intimate regional knowledge that only locals can provide. To excel with this approach, we vet and hire the best local guides, welcome them into the Wildland family and train them to meet our standard of excellence with every aspect of a trip. But along with managing logistics and safety, your guides will teach you about the area’s history and culture, and provide a level of familiarity and intimate detail only locals can.

Check out our Meet Our Team page for staff bios.

Guide Working Parameters

Guides are required to take 8 hours off each 24-hour period to sleep, recuperate, take personal/down time…etc. In addition, as part of the 8 hours off they must sleep/rest or be in their tents/rooms uninterrupted for a minimum of 5 hours each night. We ask guests to respect these requirements and to not interrupt guides’ off time and sleep time unless there is a true emergency.

Age Restrictions

Age restrictions on this trip are as follows:

12 and older to join scheduled tours (mixed groups)
5 and older to join private tours, with final approval and specific logistical requirements (such as porter or stock assist) determined on a case by case basis

Trip Insurance

For your protection, we strongly recommend the purchase of field evacuation, repatriation, and medical trip insurance. International travel is expensive, and the modest cost of trip insurance is a sound investment in an uncertain world.

If you wish to purchase trip insurance, we recommend IMG/iTravelinsured. They are one of the world’s leading providers of travel insurance.

For information on recommended IMG/iTravelinsured policies please click here .

For even greater information, or if you simply prefer communicating with a real, live person, feel free to contact our exclusive agent Michael Bennett. Michael will help you identify the best product for your needs, and there is no cost associated with his assistance. You may contact him at:

Email: [email protected] US by Phone: 877-305-9083 Direct/International by Phone: 702-448-3664

If you already have insurance or wish to purchase from anyone other than IMG/iTravelinsured, we recommend careful consultation with the provider to ensure appropriate coverage. This is because many providers have a number of policy exclusions.

Weather in Peru

Peru is home to part of the Amazon Rainforest as well as the towering Andes Mountains. Most of our treks in the region reach elevations well above 10,000 feet, some reaching or exceeding 15,000 feet. Because of the wild elevation changes, the temperatures and weather can also vary wildly. The temperatures will be colder and potentially wetter as we hike to higher elevations than Huaraz (below charted averages) in the mountains. Camp/nightly temperatures are commonly well below freezing on this trek.

The average temperatures and precipitation in the Huaraz region are:

Accommodations

LOS GIRASOLES HOTEL

This stylish hotel sits in a beautiful neighborhood in the popular Miraflores district in Lima. The hotel’s tasty restaurant and relaxing rooftop terrace are great places to decompress from your travels and the hotel’s location near the Central Park and other main attractions makes this a perfect starting point for your Peruvian vacation and exploration of Lima.

ANDINO CLUB HOTEL

This wonderful hotel is situated a short distance from the main square and cultural center of Huaraz, and has beautiful gardens and appealing, spacious rooms. It boasts stunning panoramic views of the Callejón de Huaylas (the valley between 2 mountain ranges), including 8 towering peaks higher than 6,000 meters!

PREMIER CAMPING

Our Peru Treks feature premier camping with comfortable sleeping tents, kitchen tents, dedicated chefs, and a team of porters to carry, set up, and break down camp each day. We provide all top-of-the-line gear. Our guests regularly rave about the camping accommodations on our Peru adventures!

* These exact accommodations are not guaranteed. In some instances alternative accommodations of similar quality and location may be used.

Trip Reviews

Average customer ratings:.

5.0 (5 reviews)
Most recent

Best Experience!

This is my third trip with Wildland and far away the best experience! Our guide Heimer was experienced, patient and understanding with all members of the group. The assistant guide, chef and donkey driver were equally as fantastic and made the experience wonderful. The views throughout the trip were stunning and the solitude was exactly what I was looking for. I can't recommend this trip enough, it's a hidden gem in Peru!

Spectacular

My trip with Heimer and his team exceeded my expectations. Not only was this scenery amongst the most spectacular I have ever seen but Heimer and his team took such great care of us. All we had to worry about was hiking and everything else was completely taken care of. Every detail was perfect. I would 1000% recommend this trip- you won’t regret it. Don’t forget to get some altitude meds from your doctor before you go- they are a lifesaver!

PHENOMENAL - JUST DO IT!!!

What a truly phenomenal experience! It's hard to even begin to describe how amazing this trip was. First off, we felt like we had a guardina angle watching over us, as WildlandTrekking arrange all of our transports from the airport to the hotel to Huaraz ... and back. Everything went super smoothly. The hotels in Lima and Huaraz were wonderful. Huaraz is an amazing and vibrant city that we enjoyed very much. The acclimating day hikes were incredible (day two is quite difficult but amazing!). And, then for the main trek itself! PHENOMENAL! Our main guide Heimer was just THE BEST! And, his crew, so friendly, helpful, and cheerful the whole trip. The treks and views were out of this world. The meals in the dining tent, breakfast, lunch and dinner were delicious and much appreciated. Every detail of this trip was well planned and very special. I will admit, the hiking was much more difficult than I imagined ... because of the high altitude and difficulty breathing ... but the crew's excellent care before, after, and along the way each day, balanced out the challenge. Who wouldn't like tea and snacks at 4 pm in a dining tent, after a long day's hike! If you think you might like to do this trip and are up for the physical challenge, then I say, don't hesitate! Just do it. It is truly an adventure from start to finish! (Honestly, I was kind of dreading the long drives, BUT we got to see so much of Peru this way, from huge vistas to tiny villages. So, while the drives are long, they are also a part of the adventure.)

See All Guest Reviews!

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Meals (breakfast, all snacks, lunch, afternoon tea, large dinner) during the trek
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Single tents available on request
Private Transfer during the trekking
First Aid Kit
International flight
Transfer airport Lima to Hotel
Hotels in Lima / Huaraz
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Huayhuash community fees US$75 per person
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Achalau Huayhuash

Tourists in Mitucocha, behind Hirishanca peak

Achalau in the Quechua language means “how beautiful”, which is a good description of this perfect eight-day trek through the Huayhuash. This route visits almost all of the places the classic complete loop does, the main difference being that the days’ walks are longer, so it’s a bit more strenuous. Along the way you will visit many lakes such as Mitucocha, Carhuacocha, Siulacocha, Viconga, etc., and see at close range soaring snow-covered peaks like Hirishanca, Siula Grande, Yerupaja, Ninshanca, Etc.

Duration: 8 days Distance: 110 Km Approx. Rating: Moderate - strenuous Start: Cuartelwain Finish : Llámac Elevation: 3300 – 5000m

Itinerary at a glance:

Day 1: Huaraz - Llámac - Cuartelwain 4170m. Day 2: Cuartelwain – Qaqanan pass 4750m - Carhuac pass 4600m - Carhuacocha 4138m. Day 3: Carhuacocha - Carnicero pass 4630m - Huayhuash 4330m. Day 4: Huayhuash – Portachuelo pass 4750m - Viconga 4407m. Day 5: Viconga - Cuyoc pass 5000m - Guanacpatay 4300m. Day 6: Guanacpatay – Huayllapa 3600m - Inkawain 4600m Day 7: Inkawain - Tapush pass 4800m - Qashpapampa - Yaucha pass 4750m - Jahuacocha 4070m. Day 8: Jahuacocha - Pampa Llámac pass 4300m – Llámac - Huaraz

Making a break below Carnicero and Jurau mountains

Other options:

• There is an alternative footpath (short cut) from Carhuacoca to the Huayhuash camp site that passes very close to the mountains Siulá, Carnicero, Jurao, and the lakes Gangrajanka, Siulacocha and Quesillococha, the latter of which is also known as Tres Lagunas (three lakes). If you are considering this route you will definitely want a guide to show you the way.

• From Viconga campsite to the Guanacpatay valley the walk is not long, so upon arriving in the Guanacpatay valley, in about two hours you can climb to the San Antonio viewpoint (5000m) from which you have a nice view of Siula Grande. This mountain was the scene of the Joe Simpson’s famously barely-survived ordeal recounted in the book and the film, “Touching the Void”. You also have views of the lakes Jurao and Sarapococha, and other peaks. You return to the campsite in Guanacpatay by descending the route of your ascent.

To keep in mind:

• Before beginning this trek, it is essential to have at least two days of acclimatization. You can take one of the daily tours to the Llanganuco lakes or to the Chavin de Huantar ruins (by car) and/or you can do day hikes in the Cordillera Blanca around Huaraz. • Bring a water bottle with you, in the summer season it can get very hot. • Bring warm clothes along, because in the mountains the temperature can quickly fall below 0 °C, especially in the early morning, at night, and even when the sun drops behind the clouds. • Walk at your own rhythm, breathe deeply, and enjoy the beautiful views of Cordillera Huayhuash.

If you are interested in this tour and/or you need further information CONTACT US

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Full Circuit Huayhuash

Home » Trekking Huayhuash » Full Circuit Huayhuash

Distance: 134 -156 Duration: 12 to 14 days Altitude between: 2,750 -5,020m. Rating: difficult - moderate Starting point: Cuartelhuain Arrival point : llamac The full circuit of the cordillera huayhuash is one of the most beautiful and impressive , the full trek takes approximately from 12 to 14 days ,winds through sucha yerupaja at 6,634m. the second highest peak in the Peruvian andes jirishanca siula grande ,rondoy ,ninashanca,huacrish ,sarapo,ratsac. This trail passes imconparably lakes , mountains tiny villages . in tthis full trekking we will visit base camp of joe simpson ( touching the void ) and we can see west face of siula grande , in this full trek we going to have two small and easy climbing pumarinry 5,450m and diablo mudo 5,350m. ( optional ) , for all trek you need be acclimatized .

Day 01.- Huaraz 30,90m – llamac 3,300m – cuartelhuain 4,100m. Day 02.- Cuartelhuain - cacanan pass 4,700m. – mitucocha 4,150m. Day 03.- Mitucocha – carhuac pass 4,600m. –carhuacocha 4,200m. Day 04.- Carhuacocha rest day vist to siula and quesillococha Day 05.- Carhuacocha siula pass 4,850m.- huayhuash 4,200m. Day 06.- Huayhuash – portachuelo pass 4,650m. – viconga ( hot spring ) 4,300m. Day 07.- Viconga - summit pumarinry 5,450m.( optional ) - cuyoc pass 5,000m.- Huanacpatay 4,150m. Day 08.- Huanacpatay - cutatambo 4,100m. Day 09.- Cutatambo rest day visit to base Joe Simpson sarapococha Day 10.- Cutatambo – Huayllapa village – huatiac 4,250m. Day 11.- Huatiac – tapush pass 4,800m. – cashpapampa 4,300m. Day 12.- Cashpapampa – summit Diablo mudo 5,350 (optional ) – jahuacocha 4,100m. Day 13.- Jahuacocha visit to cerro Amarillo Day 14.- Jahuacocha - pampa llamac pass 4,300m. – llamac – Huaraz

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Three Marvelous Days in Moscow

April 3, 2017 by Robert Schrader 2 Comments

I’ll never forget the sense of anticipation I felt looking down onto Moscow as my flight from Warsaw descended, the city shrouded in the pitch black of early winter. The Russian capital had long been on my bucket list, and in just a couple of hours I’d be walking across Red Square toward St. Basil’s Cathedral, hopefully with some snow falling, to begin my 3 days in Moscow.

My Moscow itinerary lived up to all of my expectations. Well, except for one—I imagined a city as grand as Moscow would be difficult to comprehend in a short period of time, but that was not the case. Indeed, seeing Moscow in 3 days provided me a nuanced impression of the city, albeit one I want to build upon with future visits.

Where to Stay in Moscow

Moscow has a reputation as one of the most expensive cities in the world, which means it should be one of the most expensive cities in the world for hotels. Thankfully, at least as of early 2022, the Russian ruble is still very weak, which means that prices for even “nice” hotels in Moscow or comparable to or even lower than their counterparts in the rest of Europe.

If you’re looking for a boutique stay in Moscow, I recommend the Stoleshnikov Boutique Hotel ; otherwise, the city is full of hostels and budget hotels that will serve you during your three days in Moscow itinerary.

How to Divide Up Your 3 Days in Moscow

Day 1: moscow 101.

Although Moscow is a sprawling metropolis, many of the city’s key attractions are centralized—namely, around Red Square , located just north of the Moskva River . The obvious sights here include the impressive Kremlin and iconic St. Basil’s Cathedral but extend north, to the Bolshoi Theatre and also southward, to the river itself and the dramatic vistas the bridges over it provide.

To be sure, you should spend most of your first of three days in Moscow in close proximity to Red Square, in spite of how much more geographical ground there is to discover. Punctuate visits to important points of interest by getting an ice cream at the grandiose GUM department store, or treat yourself to a panoramic view of central Moscow by heading up to the roof of Children’s World department store.

Day 2: Beyond Red Square

Your strategy changes on the second of your Moscow 3 days itinerary, when your focus broadens. How this happens, of course, may vary. If it’s art and culture you’re after, for example, you might make a visit to the Russian State Library and the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts . For architecture, you could visit less-celebrated Moscow churches such as the Cathedral of Christ the Savior , make a tour of the so-called “Seven Sisters” (a.k.a. Stalin’s Skyscrapers ) or even ride the Moscow Metro to Moscow City , which is home to some of the tallest skyscrapers in Europe.

Moscow is also home to a great number of green spaces, most notably the massive Gorky Park , but most dramatically VDNKh —located near the base of the Ostankino TV Tower , it features monuments to all the former Soviet republics. Tverskaya Street , a thoroughfare that extends northward from Red Square.

Day 3: Exploring the Golden Ring

Moscow is large and full enough of things to do that you could remain in the city center for the entirety of your third of Moscow 3 days, but I recommend traveling instead out into the so-called “ Golden Ring ” of historical cities around it. Well-known cities include Suzdal , Vladimir and Kostroma , and are all defined by colorful and well-maintained kremlins, which feature dramatic and picturesque churches and other structures that will be highlights of your Moscow 3 day itinerary.

If you’re traveling independently and using public transport, the easiest Golden Ring city to see as part of your 3 days in Moscow itinerary is Sergiyev Posad , which is accessible via direct suburban commuter train from Yaroslavskaya Railway Station —the journey time is about one hour. Sergivey Posad’s Kremlin is not only picturesque (my Russian friend commentated that one church within it, Mikheevskaya Tserkov , is “Russia’s Sistine Chapel”) but is a great place to enjoy a traditional, filling and warming Russian lunch, specifically at the dumpling house Varenichnaya . Both sweet vareniki filled with sour cherries, or hearty potato and chicken pelmeni will fuel you as you explore Moscow in three days.

Is 3 Days Enough in Moscow?

I can’t lie: This Moscow itinerary is packed full, even by my standards. You’ll have to wake up early every morning and sleep late every night in order to fit it all in, to say nothing of how much more difficult it will be if you travel to Russia in winter like I did (more on that in just a few paragraphs).

Of course, whether you pare down my recommendations to a more appropriate curation of Moscow in 3 days or can devote 5 days or even a week to Moscow from the outset, one thing is for certain: Moscow is far more beautiful and dynamic than the Soviet reputation that precedes it would suggest.

Other FAQ About Travel to Moscow

How much money do i need per day in moscow.

Depending on the exchange rate, you can expect to spend anywhere between 75-200 USD per person, per day in Moscow. How much you spend also depends whether you’re traveling individually or as part of a couple or group, how many meals per day you enjoy in restaurants (versus on the street/in shops) and the relative luxury or simplicity of the Moscow hotel you choose.

Do they speak English in Moscow?

The good news? You can get by only speaking English in Moscow, particularly in the immediate and heavily-touristic center of the city. The trick? While English-language signage is increasingly common, and while you may not need to speak Russian, being able to read the Cyrillic alphabet will make your time in Moscow (and in Russia more broadly) a great deal smoother.

When is the best time to visit Moscow?

Traveling to Russia during colder months not only forces you to move slower (and look less stylish—well, for most of us) as you explore what to see in Moscow in 3 days, but the lack of daylight can make it difficult to squeeze everything into a particular day, and even to stay awake. The good news? Summer, while not necessarily as iconic as winter, is an absolutely gorgeous time to visit Moscow.

The Bottom Line

Is a Moscow itinerary 3 days in length enough? Although Moscow is a huge, sprawling city, you don’t need a huge amount of time to get to know it. Spend day one exploring Red Square and surrounds, day two exploring Moscow’s secondary attractions and day three taking a day trip into the so-called “Golden Ring.” You’ll get a colorful impressive of Moscow—and, more importantly, a nice introduction for your trip to Russia , since it will likely start here.

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5-Day Moscow Itinerary

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Moscow in 5 days
1-Day Moscow Itinerary
2-Day Moscow Itinerary
3-Day Moscow Itinerary
4-Day Moscow Itinerary

Day 1: most popular attractions, day 2: north side of town, day 3: off the beaten path, day 4: proximity is everything, day 5: keep it simple.

Zaryadye Park

The Moscow Kremlin

Alexander garden, bolshoi theatre, okhotny ryad, where to eat, stolovaya 57.

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All-Russian Exhibition Center

Museum of cosmonautics, park ostankino, ottepel', restoran 7 nebo.

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Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

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Sokolniki Park

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Moscow throughout the year

Moscow in January
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Moscow Itinerary: How To Spend 3 Days In Moscow

By: Author Lotte

Posted on Last updated: March 2, 2023

Categories Trans Mongolian Express

ultimate-Moscow-itinerary-phenomenalglobe.com

Moscow is the capital of Russia and there are few cities in the world that have played such a significant part in history.

Home to the Kremlin, the Red Square, the colorful St. Basil's Cathedral, and many more famous landmarks, Moscow is a city like no other.

This Moscow itinerary will help you plan your trip and make the most of your time in Moscow. From the best places to see in Moscow to how to get around, this post has got you covered.

Moscow itinerary

Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). We're very grateful when you use our links to make a purchase:-).

Moscow 3 day itinerary: map with highlights

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What to do in Moscow in 3 days

Day 1: The Red Square, GUM Department Store, St. Basil's Cathedral, Lenin's Mausoleum, and the State Historical Museum.
Day 2: The Kremlin, the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, Gorky Park, and the Bolshoi Theatre.
Day 3: Izmailovsky Market, Bunker 42, and Zaryadye Park.

The famous pedestrian street Nikolskaya Street (Никольская улица) located in Kitay-Gorod Moscow with thousands of fairy lights.

Important things to know when planning a trip to Moscow

The best time to plan a trip to Moscow is April-May and September-October . During these months temperatures are (generally) quite comfortable, though even in April there can be a bit of snow! The summer months are hot, both in regard to temperature as well as activities in the city. While it's a nice time to visit, it's also the busiest time of the year to visit Moscow. Hotel prices reflect this as well and summer definitely isn't a great time for budget travelers to visit Moscow. Winter in Moscow is cold, and I mean seriously cold (-15°C isn't rare). However, if you can withstand the subzero temperatures and freezing winds, it can be a magical time to visit. A snow-covered St. Basil’s Cathedral is a sight you will never forget. Keep in mind that days are short in winter and be sure to bring plenty of warm winter clothes!

The official currency in Russia is the Russian Ruble (₽ or RUB). Here you can find the current exchange rates, at the time of writing €1 is approximately 70RUB and $1 is around 62RUB.

Yes, you probably do. Getting a visa for Russia requires a bit of time and effort. You need to fill out several forms and provide a detailed travel itinerary and information about your accommodation. Also, you will need a Visa Support Letter which can be provided by your travel agency or your hotel. Depending on your nationality, there may be additional requirements, please refer to the information provided on the website of your country's Embassy in Russia.

While most of the things to see in Moscow listed in this post are within walking distance of each other, sometimes you will have to travel a bit further afield. The best way to get around in Moscow is by metro. It's cheap and efficient and a sightseeing activity in itself, because Moscow has the most beautiful metro stations in the world ! Among the most exquisitely decorated stations are Komsomolskaya, Novoslobodskaya, Mayakovskaya, Taganskaya, and Prospect Mira Station, but there are many more worthwhile stations to be found in the Moscow underground. You can purchase a single ticket from one of the ticket machines or get a rechargeable Troika Card when you plan on taking the metro several times. Read more details on how to use the Moscow metro here . If you prefer to get around by taxi, that's possible too. We used the Gett app to order a taxi (similar to Uber) to avoid confusion about our intended destination and having to negotiate in Russian. A convenient extra for families is the Gett Kids option, these cars are outfitted with a car seat.

The best things to do in Moscow

While you could easily spend a week in Moscow (or more), most of us, unfortunately, don't have that much time available.

This 3-day Moscow itinerary will guide you to the most popular and important places to visit in Moscow, as well as to some of the more unusual things to do in Moscow.

Below you can find the list of the Moscow sightseeing highlights included in this post.

The Red Square

Gum department store, st. basil's cathedral, lenin's mausoleum, the state historical museum, the kremlin, cathedral of christ the saviour.

The Bolshoi Theatre

Izmailovsky Market

Zaryadye park.

Planning a trip to Moscow? Click through to read about the best things to do in Moscow and practical information to plan your Moscow trip. #Moscow #Russia #CityTrip

Plan your trip like a pro with these tools: ✈️ Find the best flight deals on Kiwi.com . ? Get the best car rental deal for your road trip on Rentalcars.com . ?️ Find your dream accommodation on Booking.com or Agoda . ? Book the best tours via Get Your Guide , Viator or Klook . ? Plan your journey with the Lonely Planet . ?️ Travel safely and get reliable travel insurance from Safety Wing .

Moscow itinerary day 1

There is no better place to start your first day in Moscow, than at the world-famous Red Square.

This square is considered the central square of Moscow, not just because all the major streets start here, but also because no matter where you look when standing on this square, there are historic buildings all around.

Starting with the impressive GUM store and going clockwise, there is the colorful Saint Basil's Cathedral, the Kremlin, Lenin's Mausoleum, the State Historical Museum, and the Kazan Cathedral.

However, before entering any of these Moscow must-see attractions, allow yourself a moment to take in the view and let it sink in that you're standing on historical grounds (and a UNESCO site).

The Red Square was the official address of the Soviet government and played an important part in history. Many military parades have been held (and are still being held) here. It's the place where protests have taken place, as well as high-profile concerts from famous international artists.

All in all, it's one of the places in Moscow you can't miss during your Moscow city trip!

Red Square with GUM department store in Moscow

Yulia from That's What She Had: it might seem like visiting a department store is not something you’d do on the first visit to Russia’s capital.

But GUM is not like any other department store and is well worth your time, if only for its unique architecture.

First of all, it’s located right on Red Square which makes it an easy stop on your Moscow trip itinerary. Second, GUM is not a simple mall, but an institution built in the late XIX century.

The abbreviation stands for Glavniy Universalniy Magazin or Main Universal Store. Its impressive facade extends for over 240 meters along the eastern side of Red Square.

Inside you’ll find a beautiful glass ceiling supported by a metal framework, not unlike the ones found in the old train stations of Great Britain.

While shopping in GUM will cost you an arm and a leg, there’s one reason why tourists and locals come here anyways: traditional Russian food at Stolovaya #57. Stolovaya is Russian for canteen and this is where you can get your pelmeni , borsch , and pirozhki fix!

Afterward, don’t forget to get the famous plombir ice cream in one of the kiosks on the ground floor.

Saint Basil's Cathedral with its colorful domes is easily recognizable and one of the most popular Moscow tourist attractions. The building, built on orders from Ivan the Terrible, was completed in 1561 to commemorate the victory over Kazan and Astrakhan.

Until the construction of Ivan the Great Bell Tower (which can be found within the walls of the Kremlin), it was the tallest building in Moscow.

The design of St. Basil's Cathedral is truly unique; it's shaped like the flame of a bonfire and not one building in a similar style can be found in the whole of Russia.

A legend tells the story of how Ivan the Terrible had the architects of the Cathedral blinded so they could never build anything comparable.

This is a myth, however, but the fact remains that Saint Basil's Cathedral is one of a kind and it's not surprising it has become the symbol of Russia.

Wendy from The Nomadic Vegan: Lenin Mausoleum is hard to miss. It's a stepped-pyramid construction that sits right at the base of the Kremlin walls on the western side of Red Square.

Entrance is free but note that opening hours are quite limited, with visiting hours lasting only from 10 am to 1 pm on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday.

If seeing Lenin's embalmed body is important to you, be sure to take this into account when planning your itinerary in Moscow.

One of my top tips for travelers to Russia is to arrive early, well before the mausoleum opens, as the queue is usually quite long. However, usually, the queue does move pretty quickly.

This is especially true now that they have lifted the ban on bags and cameras.

It used to be that all cameras, smartphones, and bags of any size had to be checked at a left-luggage office nearby. But now you can bring a small handbag or backpack as well as your camera and phone.

Photography inside the mausoleum is still strictly forbidden, but you are allowed to take photos of the graves of various other important Russian figures that line the path leading to the mausoleum.

Once you finally enter the mausoleum, the atmosphere is surprisingly peaceful and uncrowded. It doesn't feel nearly as rushed as when visiting Mao Ze Dong's tomb in Beijing or Ho Chi Minh's body in Hanoi , for example.

The illumination of the body is very well done and would make for superb photography if it wasn't forbidden. As an added bonus, just after you exit, you'll see the grave of Joseph Stalin outside.

Rai from A Rai Of Light: the imposing crimson building at the northern end of the Red Square is the State Historical Museum.

By decree of Alexander III, the museum was built with the support of Russian historians, philosophers, and artists. The red brick building, dating from 1875, was designed in the Russian revival style by Vladimir Shervud.

The National Museum of Russia houses a collection of over four million items, devoted to the history of the country's ancient and imperial period.

The exhibitions include many items previously owned by members of the Romanov dynasty, such as documents, artwork, personal items, furnishings, and decorations from the palace interiors.

Another exhibit features relics of the prehistoric tribes that once inhabited this region.

Notable items include ancient manuscripts, birch-bark scrolls, a longboat excavated from the banks of the Volga River, and the largest coin collection in Russia, sourced from the museums in St Petersburg .

The State Historical Museum is open daily from 10 am to 6 pm. The entrance fee is 700₽ per adult.

Moscow itinerary day 2

When listing the best Moscow things to do, one cannot miss the Kremlin! The Kremlin houses the current seat of power in Russia and has done so for several decades.

Within its walls, the offices of the Russian Government can be found. During Soviet rule, the Kremlin was where all the important decisions were made but its history goes back for many centuries.

The first mention of the Kremlin in history books was in 1147, however, the current citadel dates from the 16th century.

The Kremlin is one of the major fortifications found in Europe, with walls that are up to 6.5 meters thick and 19 meters high in particular sections.

Inside the complex, there are many government buildings, however, these aren't accessible to the public.

Around Cathedral Square you'll find (as the name suggests) many churches and cathedrals, such as the Cathedral of the Archangel, Annunciation Cathedral, the Church of Laying Our Lady's Holy Robe, and Ivan the Great Bell-Tower.

While Cathedral Square is definitely worth visiting, the highlight of the Kremlin is a visit to the Armoury.

Inside you can find an impressive collection of Faberge eggs, beautiful dresses worn by Catherine the Great, intricately decorated thrones used by the Tsars, and much more. Unfortunately, photography is forbidden inside the Armoury.

Practical information about visiting the Kremlin

In order to visit both Cathedral Square and the Armoury, you will have to buy two separate tickets. A ticket to Cathedral Square costs 700₽ and a ticket to the Armoury is 1000₽. Prices mentioned are for adults, children below 16 years old are free.

Tickets can be bought at the ticket office onsite on the same day, however, there's no guarantee tickets will be available, especially during peak season.

Conveniently, tickets can be bought online as well, which is highly advisable if you want to make sure you'll be able to visit the Kremlin during your city trip to Moscow.

How much time to spend at the Kremlin

Be sure to allow plenty of time to explore the Kremlin, at least half a day but it's easy to spend more time as there is so much to see.

Please note there isn't any food sold inside the Kremlin, so bring a snack and enough water (especially in summer when it can get pretty hot).

Luggage storage

Backpacks aren't allowed inside the Kremlin, they can be stored (for free) in the cloakroom, but you can bring your camera and a small purse.

We could also take our Babyzen Yoyo stroller inside, which was very convenient as our 10-month-old son could take a nap while we explored the sights.

After the original Cathedral of Christ the Saviour was demolished by Stalin in 1931, a new version was completed in 2000.

The imposing building is the tallest Orthodox Christian church in the world (103 meters high), and is beautiful on the outside as well as on the inside.

Visiting the Cathedral is free of charge and it's open any day of the week from 10 am to 5 pm (except on Mondays when the opening hours are 1 to 5 pm).

When visiting the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour it's important to dress appropriately. For men, this means no shorts or tank tops.

Women can't enter with mini skirts or shorts, strap tops, or anything too revealing. Also, women are advised to cover their heads with a scarf as a sign of respect.

Inside the Cathedral photography isn't allowed, but believe me when I say there is plenty to see. There are beautiful frescoes, colorful icons, impressive statues, and other vivid decorations.

For a beautiful view over Moscow, walk up the stairs to the 40-meter high observation deck (entrance fee 400₽).

Visit Gorky Park

Helen from Holidays from Hels : Gorky Park, named after the Soviet writer Maxim Gorky, has recently undergone extensive regeneration to become Moscow's central leisure hub for young Muscovites.

Every day of the week you can find many Moscow residents strolling along the banks of the river in the summer, hiring bikes, picnicking on the grass, or dining at one of the many restaurants.

Open-air cinemas, petanque, and ping pong are all on offer. Not to be missed is the iconic white stone entranceway and museum, complete with columns carved with Soviet hammers and sickles.

In winter, look out for the ducks waddling across the frozen Moskva River, and watch boats attempting to navigate through the cracked ice. However, the real winter highlight is to try ice skating on one of the biggest rinks in Europe!

Ice skating in Gorky Park

The park’s maze of pedestrian pathways is transformed into one huge skating rink, which can play host to up to four thousand skaters.

Not surprisingly, Russians are talented ice skaters and there is a good chance you will find yourself next to a pirouetting ballerina.

Handily, you will find you will already be wearing most of what you need – gloves, hat, scarf, and thick socks and you can hire skates on-site. Lockers are included in the price if you don’t fancy skating with your day pack.

Disco tunes fill the air, and the whole arena is backlit in spectacular neon lights. Rest your weary legs and warm up at one of the cafes dotted along the frozen pathways, with the added bonus of not having to take off your skates.

Opening times

The rink is open from 10 am until 11 pm on weekdays and until midnight at weekends but closes between 3 and 5 pm. Like most attractions in Moscow, the rink is closed on Mondays.

The prices range from 350-650₽ and go up in the evening, which is the best time for the light show. Arriving at 5 pm, just as the rink opens for the evening session will give you time to find your ice legs before it fills up with more confident skaters.

Whilst waiting for the rink to open, try out the nearby tubing track where you can shoot down a snowy hill on an inflatable ring repeatedly for a very enjoyable half an hour!

How to get to Gorky Park by metro

The nearest metro is Park Kultury Station, on the other side of the river. As always, check out in advance what this looks like in the Russian Alphabet so you know when to get off!

Bolshoi Theatre

James Ian at Travel Collecting : one of the best places to go in Moscow is the famous Bolshoi Theater, located only a short walk from Red square. Bolshoy means big in Russian, and the theatre is not only big but also beautiful.

There are two ways to see the theater: on a guided tour or by watching a performance .

Take a guided tour

English tours are held on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 11:30 am. Tickets for these tours can be bought (on the same day) at the ticket office located in the Historic building of the theatre (door #12).
A ticket costs 2000₽ per person, tours last one hour, and the number of people on a tour is limited to a maximum of 20. The tour takes you inside the theater and to the historic main stage.

Watch a performance

My favorite way to see the theater, though, is to enjoy a performance and experience the theater as a patron.

The entrance is a little underwhelming when you first arrive, the street lobby is small and quite plain and you will be immediately directed up to your floor.

There are helpful attendants on each floor to guide you to the correct door. Arrive a little early and head up to the Grand Salon on the top floor where you can enjoy a glass of champagne while people-watching (Russians dress up for the theater).

Then head to your seat and take in the stunning theater before enjoying the famous Bolshoi Ballet or another performance.

Be sure to book a show at the historic stage, there is a modern stage as well but that isn't nearly as much fun.

Moscow itinerary day 3

Karen from WanderlustingK : one of the most interesting Moscow places to visit is the Izmailovsky Market .

This flea market and tourist attraction a bit outside of the tourist center is a recreation of a Tzar’s Palace, known as a Kremlin, produced in a colorful 16th-century style.

The market is filled with tiny stalls that sell everything from snacks to kitsch to authentic items from Soviet times such as hats, pins, and other pieces of memorabilia.

You'll also find authentic antiques such as vases, paintings, and other religious items if you're looking to splurge within the interior parts of the market.

Negotiating in English is not always possible as many vendors only speak Russian, so be sure to practice your Russian numbers and see how well you can do with haggling.

It's important to carry cash when you visit given that many vendors do not accept cards. We ended up purchasing a series of hats at the market, along with a beautiful hot tea glass with a metal holder with a typical Russian scene.

Elsewhere in the market, you’ll also find a few tourist shops that sell typical Russian products. It takes a few hours to see the market in full, so arrive early as the best items go quickly!

Lindsey from Have Clothes, Will Travel : Bunker-42 was once a top-secret, Soviet military complex. Stalin commissioned its construction after the United States succeeded in creating a nuclear bomb.

An impressive 65 meters (or about 213 feet) underground, was the desired depth to protect Russia’s top officials from a nuclear attack.

Bunker 42 became operational in 1954. Fortunately, it was never needed for its true purpose, and instead it was used as the command center of strategic bombers for nearly 30 years.

Nowadays it's a museum dedicated to the Cold War and visiting is a truly unique experience!

You will need to join a tour in order to see the museum. You can call ahead to book your tour (the number is: +7 499 703-44-55), there are several English tours throughout the day that are held at 13:30, 16:30, and 18:30 (the price is 2200₽).

On Mondays, there is an extra tour at 17:30, which lasts an additional 30 minutes and costs 2800₽ per person. There is also the option to book a private tour. However, I am unsure of the price for this.

You will have to wait until exactly 15 minutes before your tour begins before you'll be admitted inside. After paying for your tickets and a quick restroom stop you will descend 65 meters underground…

Another option for visiting Bunker-42, if you would rather not do the tour, is to visit the restaurant inside Bunker-42. Actually, I highly recommend visiting the restaurant before or after a tour as well!

While the food is not that great, it’s worth visiting for a drink. The restaurant is also located within the bunker and is decorated in the old Soviet style.

From time to time there will be live performances and visiting Bunker 42 is definitely an experience worth having while in Moscow! After all, how many people can say they've had a drink in a top-secret Soviet military bunker?

If you’re visiting Moscow during peak season (June-July-August), it would be worth making a reservation, to avoid having to wait. Otherwise, I would not say you need to worry about a reservation at the restaurant.

Bunker-42 is a short cab ride away from Red Square (10-15 minutes). But I recommend taking the metro to get there. The closest station is Taganskaya, which is a beautiful metro station very much worth visiting.

Pedestrian boardwalk in Park Zaryad'ye (also called Zaryadye Park)

Park Zaryad'ye or Zaryadye Park is a lovely place for a stroll and a nice place to relax after a day of sightseeing in Moscow, especially when exploring Moscow with kids.

There are many things to see and do in this park, but I recommend starting your visit at The River Overlook , a 70-meter-long boardwalk with beautiful views over the river and the Kremlin.

Other interesting places to visit in Zaryadye Park are the Ice Cave, The Museum of Nature, and The Glass Crust. But most importantly, do as the Muscovites do and find yourself a nice place in the park to sit down and relax.

Enjoy the view, do some people-watching, and take a moment to think back about all the Moscow top sights you've seen in the past couple of days.

Where to stay in Moscow

There is a huge amount of hotels in Moscow, ranging from budget hostels to exquisite 5-star hotels. Below you can find three well-reviewed Moscow hotels (rating of 8.5+ on Agoda and Booking ).

3-star hotel in Moscow: MIRROS Hotel Mokhovaya

This 3-star hotel is one of the best budget Moscow hotels and is all about location! From the hotel, it's just a 10-minute walk to the Kremlin and only 600 meters to the Christ the Savior Cathedral.

Set in a historic 19th-century mansion, the hotel features classic rooms with ensuite bathrooms.

The staff is friendly and there is a metro station nearby (Borovitskaya), making it easy to get to the Moscow attractions a bit further afield.

Click here to book

Modern hotel in Moscow: Barin Residence Myasnitskaya

The Barin Residence Myasnitskaya is a newly built hotel, located about 1.2km from the Red Square (about a 15-20 minute walk).

The rooms and bathrooms are very modern and clean, the beds are comfortable and room service is available. This hotel is an excellent choice for travelers looking for a nice hotel without a hefty price tag.

Luxury hotel in Moscow: Hotel National Moscow

Hotel National is potentially the best Moscow hotel. It's a gorgeous 5-star hotel located just a stone's throw away from the Bolshoi Theater, the Red Square, and the Kremlin.

The building was designed by architect Alexander Ivanov and completed in 1903 and has been welcoming international travelers ever since.

With its imperial architecture, luxury design, and charming classic rooms (some with a view of the Kremlin!), the Hotel National is a unique property.

Furthermore, you can enjoy an indoor pool, sauna, and fitness center as well as the well-reviewed Beluga restaurant that serves both Russian and European dishes.

While this hotel doesn't come cheap, your stay at the Hotel National will make your trip to Moscow an unforgettable experience.

Moscow itinerary and travel guide: in conclusion

I hope this guide to Moscow will help you plan a trip to this interesting Russian city. Feel free to ask any questions you may have by leaving a comment or sending me an email !

Below you can find my other posts about the Trans Mongolian Express , and the stops we made along the way:

St. Petersburg itinerary
Irkutsk and Lake Baikal itinerary
Ulaanbaatar itinerary
Trans-Mongolian Express travel guide

Planning a trip to Moscow? This detailed Moscow itinerary will help you plan your trip and discover the best things to do in Moscow. #Moscow #Russia #CityTrip

This post was updated in December 2020.

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Day 1: Moscow 101. Although Moscow is a sprawling metropolis, many of the city's key attractions are centralized—namely, around Red Square, located just north of the Moskva River. The obvious sights here include the impressive Kremlin and iconic St. Basil's Cathedral but extend north, to the Bolshoi Theatre and also southward, to the ...
5-Day Moscow Itinerary
Feel free to follow our itinerary exactly or tailor it to your own needs — happy wandering! Table of contents. Moscow in 5 days. Day 1: Most popular attractions. ... For day 3, if you don't mind the extra trek, today covers more off the beaten path places like Park Pobedy Na Poklonnoy Gore. Not quite as popular as St. Basil's Cathedral, but ...
Moscow Itinerary: How To Spend 3 Days In Moscow
What to do in Moscow in 3 days. Day 1: The Red Square, GUM Department Store, St. Basil's Cathedral, Lenin's Mausoleum, and the State Historical Museum. Day 2: The Kremlin, the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, Gorky Park, and the Bolshoi Theatre. Day 3: Izmailovsky Market, Bunker 42, and Zaryadye Park.