The Classic Huayhuash Trek 10D/9N itinerary
Day 01: Huaraz – Chiquian – Cuartelhuain (4180m)
- Morning:
- Depart from Huaraz.
- Travel to Chiquian and then to Cuartelhuain.
- Afternoon:
- Arrive at Cuartelhuain (4180m).
- Evening:
Day 02: Cuartelhuain – Cacanan Punta Pass (4700m) – Mitucocha
- Morning:
- Hike to Cacanan Punta Pass (4700m).
- Afternoon:
- Evening:
Day 03: Mitucocha – Carhuac Pass (4630m) – Carhuacocha
- Morning:
- Hike to Carhuac Pass (4630m).
- Afternoon:
- Evening:
Day 04: Carhuacocha – Siula Pass (4850m) – Huayhuash
- Morning:
- Hike to Siula Pass (4850m).
- Afternoon:
- Evening:
Day 05: Huayhuash – Portachuelo Pass (4750m) – Viconga
- Morning:
- Hike to Portachuelo Pass (4750m).
- Afternoon:
- Evening:
Day 06: Viconga – Cuyoc Pass (5000m) – Elefante Camp (4200m)
- Morning:
- Hike to Cuyoc Pass (5000m).
- Afternoon:
- Descend to Elefante Camp (4200m).
- Evening:
Day 07: Elefante Camp – Huayllapa Village (3500m)
- Morning:
- Hike to Huayllapa Village (3500m).
- Afternoon:
- Explore Huayllapa Village.
- Evening:
- Stay overnight in the village.
Day 08: Huayllapa Village – Tapush Pass (4750m) – Gashpa (4500m)
- Morning:
- Hike to Tapush Pass (4750m).
- Afternoon:
- Descend to Gashpa (4500m).
- Evening:
Day 09: Gashpa – Yaucha Pass (4800m) – Jahuacocha (4150m)
- Morning:
- Hike to Yaucha Pass (4800m).
- Afternoon:
- Descend to Jahuacocha (4150m).
- Evening:
Day 10: Jahuacocha – Llamac – Transport to Huaraz
- Morning:
- Afternoon:
- Evening:
Our upcoming departure dates for Classic Huayhuash Trek 10D/9N
The dates below are confirmed departures, but we have many more dates where we are still looking for people to join. Especially during high season, new groups are forming all the time. Don’t see your date? Contact us — we may still have a spot, or we can start a new group for you.
We also offer the option to do this tour privately. Contact us to learn more, and we’ll make an offer according to your needs.
Description of Classic Huayhuash Trek 10D/9N
The Classic Huayhuash Trek is one of the world’s classic trekking circuits, renowned for its stunning mountain scenery, pristine glacial lakes, and traditional Andean culture. Spanning approximately 150 km with elevations up to 5000 meters, this trek is challenging and best suited for experienced hikers.
Tour summary
Day 1: Huaraz to Cuartelhuain
- Start the adventure by traveling from Huaraz to Cuartelhuain, passing through the scenic town of Chiquian. The day ends with setting up camp and resting.
Day 2: Cuartelhuain to Mitucocha via Cacanan Punta Pass
- The hike begins with a challenging ascent to the Cacanan Punta Pass, followed by a descent to the beautiful Mitucocha, where you will camp for the night.
Day 3: Mitucocha to Carhuacocha via Carhuac Pass
- Continue the journey by hiking to the Carhuac Pass, then descending to Carhuacocha. The campsite offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
Day 4 of the Classic Huayhuash Trek: Carhuacocha to Huayhuash via Siula Pass
- Hike to the highest point of the trek, the Siula Pass, and then descend to the Huayhuash campsite. This day offers breathtaking views of the Siula Grande.
Day 5: Huayhuash to Viconga via Portachuelo Pass
- The trek continues over the Portachuelo Pass and down to Viconga, where you can relax and enjoy the hot springs.
Day 6: Viconga to Elefante Camp via Cuyoc Pass
- Ascend to the highest pass of the trek, the Cuyoc Pass, then descend to Elefante Camp for the night.
Day 7: Elefante Camp to Huayllapa Village
- A long descent to the traditional Andean village of Huayllapa, where you will stay overnight and experience local culture.
Day 8: Huayllapa Village to Gashpa via Tapush Pass
- Hike to the Tapush Pass and then descend to Gashpa, where you will camp.
Day 9: Gashpa to Jahuacocha via Yaucha Pass
- Climb to the Yaucha Pass and then descend to the picturesque Jahuacocha, the final campsite.
Day 10: Jahuacocha to Llamac and Return to Huaraz
- The trek concludes with a hike to Llamac and transportation back to Huaraz.
Background information about the Classic Huayhuash Trek
Location and significance
The Cordillera Huayhuash is considered one of the most beautiful mountain ranges in the world. It is famous for its sharp peaks, pristine glacial lakes, and traditional Andean villages. The trek offers a unique opportunity to explore this remote and stunning region.
Natural beauty
The Classic Huayhuash Trek features some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Andes. Hikers will encounter towering peaks, including Yerupajá (the second-highest peak in Peru), and turquoise glacial lakes like Carhuacocha and Jahuacocha. The area is also rich in biodiversity, with unique Andean flora and fauna.
Cultural experience
The trek passes through several traditional Andean villages, where hikers can experience local culture and hospitality. The communities in this region have preserved their traditional way of life, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Andes.
Challenges and rewards
The Classic Huayhuash Trek is a challenging adventure, with high passes and rugged terrain. The altitude and weather can be demanding, making it suitable for experienced hikers. However, the rewards are immense, with unparalleled scenic beauty and a profound sense of achievement.
Accessibility
Starting from Huaraz, the trek requires good acclimatization to the high altitude. It is recommended to spend a few days in Huaraz before beginning the trek to avoid altitude sickness. The trek itself covers a variety of landscapes, from high mountain passes to deep valleys, providing a comprehensive experience of the Cordillera Huayhuash.
