Huayhuash Trek 8 Days from Huaraz Guided Peru Expedition
Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Award Winner
Huayhuash Trek: One of Peru’s Greatest Hiking Adventures
The Huayhuash Trek 8 Days is one of Peru’s most spectacular hiking adventures, taking you deep into the breathtaking Cordillera Huayhuash from Huaraz. Cross high mountain passes above 4,500 meters, camp beside crystal-clear glacial lakes, and admire legendary peaks such as Yerupajá and Siula Grande. This fully guided expedition combines stunning scenery, authentic camping experiences, and one of the world’s most rewarding multi-day treks.
Availability
April – October
Price
From USD 579
Duration
8 Day / 7 Night
What's Included in Your Huayhuash Trek
Inclusions
✓ Hotel or hostel pick-up in Huaraz
✓ Professional bilingual trekking guide (English / Spanish)
✓ Round-trip transportation from Huaraz
✓ 7 nights of camping accommodation
✓ All lunches and dinners during the expedition, plus breakfasts from Day 2 onward (Breakfast on Day 1 and dinner on the final day are not included)
✓ Experienced cook and kitchen staff
✓ Pack horses and muleteers to transport camping equipment
✓ Horse support for expedition logistics
✓ Comfortable tents, blankets, and inflatable sleeping mats
✓ Kitchen and camping equipment
✓ Daily boiled drinking water (approximately 2 liters per person)
✓ Solar charging station (subject to weather conditions)
✓ Emergency oxygen cylinder and first aid kit
✓ An unforgettable guided adventure through the Cordillera Huayhuash
Additional Expenses & Optional Upgrades
✗ Domestic or international flights
✗ Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
✗ Tips for guides and trekking staff
✗ Personal expenses, snacks, and beverages
✗ Breakfast on Day 1
✗ Dinner on the final day
✗ Huayhuash National Park entrance fee
(approximately S/300 or USD 85, payable locally)
✗ Trekking pole rental (available for USD 10)
✗ Sleeping bag rental (available upon request for USD 20 for the entire trek)
Why Choose This Trek?
✔ Cross spectacular mountain passes above 4,500 m with breathtaking panoramic views.
✔ Camp beside turquoise glacial lakes in the heart of the Cordillera Huayhuash.
✔ See iconic peaks including Yerupajá, Siula Grande, and Jirishanca.
✔ Fully supported expedition with experienced guides, cooks, and pack horses.
✔ Escape the crowds and explore one of Peru’s most remote and scenic trekking routes.
✔ Recognized as one of the world’s best treks, combining challenge, nature, and unforgettable landscapes.
Full Itinerary
Day 1 – Huaraz to Janca Camp via Cacananpunta Pass (4,800 m)
Journey into the Heart of the Cordillera Huayhuash
Depart from Huaraz at 4:00 AM and drive to Matacancha, where your 8-Day Huayhuash Trek officially begins. Hike through breathtaking Andean scenery toward Cacananpunta Pass (4,800 m), enjoying panoramic views of rugged peaks, valleys, and the striking Pucacocha Lagoon. After crossing the pass, descend to Janca Camp, where you’ll spend your first night surrounded by Peru’s spectacular mountain wilderness.
Highlights: Cacananpunta Pass • Pucacocha Lagoon • First high-altitude hike • Janca Camp
Day 2 – Carhuac Pass & Turquoise Lagoon Camp
Alpine Passes and Crystal-Clear Lakes
After breakfast, begin a scenic ascent to Carhuac Pass (4,650 m), rewarded with sweeping views of towering 6,000-meter peaks. Continue through one of the most picturesque sections of the Huayhuash Circuit, descending to a peaceful campsite beside a vibrant turquoise glacial lagoon. This moderate trekking day combines unforgettable landscapes with time to relax and acclimatize in the heart of the Andes.
Highlights: Carhuac Pass • Turquoise glacial lagoon • Panoramic mountain views • Scenic campsite
Day 3 – Three Lagoons Viewpoint & Siula Pass (4,800 m)
One of the Most Spectacular Days of the Huayhuash Trek
Today’s route leads past pristine alpine lakes before reaching the famous Three Lagoons Viewpoint, renowned for its breathtaking scenery. Admire legendary peaks including Yerupajá, Jirishanca, and Siula Grande before crossing Siula Pass (4,800 m). Descend alongside shimmering lagoons and finish the day at camp after one of the most rewarding hikes in the Cordillera Huayhuash.
Highlights: Three Lagoons Viewpoint • Yerupajá • Jirishanca • Siula Pass • Alpine lakes
Day 4 – Trapezium Pass (5,000 m)
Reach One of the Highest Points of the Expedition
Wake early for another unforgettable challenge as you ascend to Trapezium Pass (5,000 m), one of the highest and most scenic points on the trek. The route rewards hikers with dramatic views of snow-capped summits, remote valleys, and sparkling lagoons before descending through rugged Andean landscapes to camp. This day perfectly showcases why the Huayhuash Trek is considered among the world’s greatest mountain adventures.
Highlights: Trapezium Pass • 5,000-meter crossing • Glacier views • Remote Andean wilderness
Day 5 – San Antonio Viewpoint & Descent to Huayllapa
The Most Iconic Panorama of the Huayhuash Circuit
Wake early for one of the expedition’s most unforgettable moments as you hike to San Antonio Viewpoint (5,020 m), widely considered the finest panoramic overlook in the entire Cordillera Huayhuash. From the summit, admire a breathtaking landscape of jagged peaks, glaciers, turquoise lagoons, and deep Andean valleys stretching to the horizon.
After taking in the scenery, descend through the scenic Calinca Ravine toward the traditional village of Huayllapa, where you’ll experience a different side of Peru’s mountain culture.
Highlights: San Antonio Viewpoint • 5,020 m altitude • Huayllapa Valley • Panoramic Huayhuash scenery
Day 6 – Tapush Pass & Diablo Mudo Base Camp
Into The Shadow of Diablo Mudo
Today’s route climbs steadily toward Tapush Pass (4,800 m), offering magnificent views of Diablo Mudo (5,223 m) and the surrounding glaciers. Along the way, pass pristine alpine lakes, including beautiful Susucocha Lagoon, while trekking through one of the quietest sections of the Huayhuash Circuit.
The combination of dramatic mountain scenery and peaceful campsites makes this one of the expedition’s hidden gems.
Highlights: Tapush Pass • Diablo Mudo • Susucocha Lagoon • Glacier landscapes
Day 7 – Punta Yaucha Pass & Jahuacocha Lagoon
The Legendary Postcard of Huayhuash
Ascend to Punta Yaucha Pass (4,750 m) before reaching one of the most photographed viewpoints in Peru. From here, enjoy spectacular vistas over Jahuacocha Lagoon, Solterococha Lagoon, and some of the highest peaks in the Cordillera Huayhuash, including Yerupajá, Peru’s second-highest mountain.
Descend to camp beside the shimmering lagoon for an unforgettable final night surrounded by towering Andean giants.
Highlights: Punta Yaucha Pass • Jahuacocha Lagoon • Yerupajá Peak • Solterococha Lagoon
Day 8 – Final Trek & Return to Huaraz
A Memorable Farewell to the Andes
On your final morning, enjoy one last hike through pristine Andean landscapes before descending toward Pocpa, where private transportation awaits for the return journey to Huaraz.
This closing stage offers a final opportunity to appreciate the extraordinary scenery that has made the Huayhuash Trek one of the highest-rated multi-day hikes in South America.
After approximately four hours of hiking and a scenic drive back to Huaraz, your unforgettable 8-day Huayhuash adventure comes to an end.
Highlights: Final mountain vistas • Pocpa Valley • Return to Huaraz • Completion of the Huayhuash Circuit
What to Bring
DOCUMENTS & MONEY
- Passport
- Travel insurance
- Cash (Peruvian soles) for own expenses
OPTIONAL BUT USEFUL
- Snacks or energy bars
- Rain cover for backpack
GEAR & ESSENTIALS
- Daypack (15–25L) to be carried by you
- Waterproof backpack cover
- Camelbak or water bottle (at least 2L capacity)
- Headlamp/flashlight with batteries
- Sunglasses and sunhat
- Trekking poles (recommended)
- Sleeping bag (can be rented)
- Rain poncho
- Trekking shoes
PERSONAL ITEMS
- Sunscreen, lip balm (SPF 90+)
- Insect repellent
- Travel-size toiletries
- Quick-dry towel
- Personal medications
- Toilet paper & hand sanitizer
- Wet wipes or biodegradable soap
CLOTHING
- Thermal layers (important for nights at high altitude)
- Quick-dry hiking pants & long sleeves
- T-shirts and a fleece or down jacket
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Sleepwear and change of clothes for each day
- Hat and gloves (especially for cold mornings)
- Comfortable hiking boots + camp shoes/sandals
- Several pairs of hiking socks
- Swimsuit (for hot springs)
Frequently Asked Questions
How difficult is the Huayhuash Trek?
The Huayhuash Trek 8 Days is considered a challenging high-altitude trek and is recommended for hikers with good physical fitness. The route crosses several mountain passes between 4,700 and 5,000 meters, with daily hikes lasting 4–8 hours. Proper acclimatization in Huaraz before departure is highly recommended.
What is the highest altitude on the Huayhuash Trek?
The highest point reached during this itinerary is approximately 5,020 meters (16,470 feet) at San Antonio Viewpoint, where trekkers enjoy one of the most spectacular panoramic views in the Cordillera Huayhuash.
How long are the daily hikes on the Huayhuash Trek?
Daily hiking distances generally range from 10 to 18 kilometers, taking approximately 4 to 8 hours depending on terrain, weather conditions, and the day’s route.
Do I need technical climbing skills for Huayhuash?
No. The trek does not require technical mountaineering or climbing experience, but participants should be comfortable hiking for several consecutive days at high altitude over uneven terrain.
What level of fitness is required for the Huayhuash Trek?
A good level of physical fitness is strongly recommended. Regular hiking, endurance training, or cardiovascular exercise before the trip will help you enjoy the experience safely and comfortably.
Is acclimatization necessary before hiking Huayhuash?
Yes. Spending at least two days in Huaraz before starting the trek greatly reduces the risk of altitude sickness and improves overall performance during the expedition.
Who is the Huayhuash Trek suitable for?
The trek is ideal for adventurous travelers and experienced hikers looking for one of the best multi-day trekking experiences in Peru, with breathtaking mountain scenery and remote wilderness.
What are the main challenges of the Huayhuash Trek?
The primary challenges include high altitude, long hiking days, steep mountain passes, and changing weather conditions. However, the incredible scenery and sense of achievement make it one of South America’s most rewarding treks.
Ready for the Adventure of a Lifetime?
Join the Huayhuash Trek 8 Days and discover why it is considered one of the world’s greatest hiking expeditions. Trek across spectacular 5,000-meter passes, camp beside crystal-clear glacial lakes, and experience the breathtaking beauty of the Cordillera Huayhuash.
✓ Cross iconic mountain passes above 5,000 m
✓ Explore pristine turquoise lagoons and remote valleys
✓ Camp under star-filled Andean skies
✓ Travel with experienced local guides and small groups
👉 Reserve your Huayhuash Trek today and experience one of Peru’s most unforgettable adventures.
Very Important
GOOD TO KNOW
Group Size
Minimum 2 – Maximum 12 participants for a more personalized expedition.
Difficulty
Challenging (4/5). Designed for experienced hikers with excellent physical fitness. Previous multi-day trekking experience is highly recommended.
Maximum Altitude
Approximately 5,000 m (16,404 ft) above sea level.
Acclimatization Required
A minimum of 2 full days in Huaraz before departure is mandatory.
Total Distance
Approximately 112 km (70 miles) over 8 days.
BOOKING CONDITIONS
- Reservations should be confirmed at least two (2) months in advance due to limited departures and complex logistics.
- Full payment (100%) is required to secure the expedition.
- Last-minute bookings are subject to operational availability.
- Participants must complete at least two full days of acclimatization in Huaraz before departure.
- Contact our team via WhatsApp for urgent booking requests.
CANCELLATION POLICY
- Cancellations requested 5 or more days before departure qualify for a partial refund, subject to a 23% administrative and operational fee.
- Cancellations made within 5 days of departure or no-shows are 100% non-refundable.
- Refunds are processed through the original payment method.
- Banking fees, PayPal charges, exchange rate differences, and third-party transaction costs are non-refundable.
DATE CHANGES
- Requests must be submitted at least 5 days before departure.
- Changes are subject to availability.
- The standard 23% administrative fee applies.
- Requests received after the deadline cannot be guaranteed.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
Comprehensive travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking, medical emergencies, evacuation, and trip cancellation is strongly recommended. Upon request, Peru Bucket List can provide supporting documentation for eligible insurance claims.
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ITINERARY MODIFICATIONS & PARTICIPANT RESPONSIBILITY
Expedition Flexibility
The itinerary may be adjusted due to weather, safety considerations, or operational requirements. Additional costs arising from personal requests or unforeseen circumstances are the responsibility of the participant. Emergency evacuation or medical expenses are not included and should be covered by personal travel insurance.
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