The Huayhuash trek 5 days is a challenging high-altitude hike in the Cordillera Huayhuash. You’ll cross several mountain passes over 4,600 meters, including the steep San Antonio and Siula passes. Most days involve hiking 8 to 15 kilometers, with 5 to 7 hours of walking.

The trail is non-technical, but the high altitude, steep climbs, and multi-day endurance make it physically and mentally demanding. This trek is best for hikers with good fitness and prior acclimatization (4 days in Huaraz). You don’t need to be a professional athlete — just well-prepared and ready for adventure. With the support of our experienced guides, the Huayhuash trek in Peru becomes a safe and very rewarding experience.

The 5-day Huayhuash trek covers about 55 to 65 kilometers, depending on the exact route. You hike for 5 to 7 hours each day. There are longer versions too:

• 8-day Huayhuash trek
• 10-day trek

It is possible to do the Huayhuash trek without a guide, but it’s only recommended for very experienced hikers. The trails are remote and not always marked. Most travelers join a guided tour for safety, comfort, and local knowledge.

The best time for the Huayhuash Trek in Peru is between May and September. These are the dry season months with clear skies and stable weather. June, July, and August are the most popular.

The Huayhuash Trek 5 Days usually costs between $380 and $500 USD, depending on group size and services. This includes transport, food, guide, mules, and camping gear. It’s a great value for a remote mountain trek.

You’ll need strong gear to stay safe and comfortable in the mountains. Here’s what you should bring:

• Warm clothing (layers, thermal base, mid-layer fleece or down)
• Waterproof jacket and rain protection
• Hat, gloves, and sunglasses
• Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots
• A good sleeping bag for cold nights

After booking, we’ll send you a complete packing list for your Huayhuash trek 5 days.

Yes, up to a day before the start of the trek, you can attend the briefing. Usually the briefing is around 19.00h (7pm). The location of the briefing is determined a few days before the trek is planned.

Yes, during the briefing or the same morning of the trek itself, you will receive a duffle bag. You can take your stuff with you up to 5kg. A mule/donkey will carry this for you. We strongly advise to also bring your own day backpack (25L-35L).

If you’re going to Lima after the trek, you can give your extra luggage to our team before the tour starts. This can be done during the briefing or in the morning when we pick you up. We will send your luggage to Barranca/Lima, where you can collect it after the trek ends in Huayllapa. In some cases, it’s also possible to send it directly to Lima, depending on available transport. The final price depends on the weight and destination. All details will be explained clearly during the pre-trek briefing.

Sometimes, there’s also the option to rent a mule for your extra luggage. In that case, your bags (up to 30 kg) will come with you during the Huayhuash trek. This depends on availability, so please ask us in advance.

If you’re returning to Huaraz after the trek, the easiest option is to leave your luggage at your hotel. Most hotels and hostels in Huaraz offer free storage or charge a small fee. You can also store your luggage safely with us if needed.

During the trek, there are no showers at the campsites. Most people use wet wipes or a small bar of soap with a small towel and water that is available. At the end of Day 5 in Huayllapa, you’ll have the option to stay in a local hostel with basic showers (not included in the tour). Here, you usually also have access to internet. You can also stay at our campsite in your tent, as normal.

Yes, the 5-day Huayhuash Trek includes a stop at the beautiful Three Lakes Viewpoint. This is one of the most beautiful parts of the route, where you’ll see three turquoise lakes surrounded by snow-capped peaks. The viewpoint is usually visited on day 3 of the trek, weather permitting.

We highly recommend using proper mountain boots for the Huayhuash Trek. The route includes high passes, rocky trails, mud, and sometimes snow. Good hiking boots provide better grip, ankle support, and protection.
Sneakers are not suitable for this terrain and may increase the risk of slipping or injury. For your safety and comfort, mountain boots are strongly advised.

There is no electricity at the campsites, so we strongly recommend bringing a power bank to keep your phone or camera charged. On day 5 in Huayllapa, you may have the chance to charge your devices at a local hostel (for a small fee), but this is not guaranteed. We also recommend keeping your phone on airplane mode during the trek to save battery. It’s best to come prepared with enough battery for the full trek.

On day 6, we advice to leave early in the morning from Huayllapa (around 3:00 AM). You will arrive in Lima in the late afternoon or early evening. The trip takes about 9 to 10 hours in total and includes local transport. Costs vary depending on the option you choose. The price ranges from 125 soles (shared transport) to 300 soles (private taxi). We advise you to bring this amount in cash. We’ll explain all details, including routes, times, and prices, after your booking is confirmed.

To enjoy this trek safely and comfortably, we recommend arriving in Huaraz at least 4 days before the start of the tour. This gives your body time to acclimatize to the altitude. You can improve acclimatization with short acclimatization hikes like Lake 69 or Lake Rocotuyoc. We recommend doing 3 acclimatization hikes.

It’s also helpful to train your fitness in advance, focusing on cardio and leg strength. Make sure your hiking boots are well broken in, and pack layered clothing for cold and changing mountain weather.

After booking, we’ll send you a complete preparation guide with tips and tricks to be ready!