Trailblazing adventure
Inspired by their restless curiosity for real exploration of Peru’s awe-inspiring landscapes, our trekking company trailblazes trips off the well-trodden tourist trail. From launching exclusive new routes to establishing adventure hubs Piuray Outdoor Center and Titikayak, they value fearless innovation that takes adventure to new heights.
Passionate local guides
With decades of experience among them, our elite group of guides are unrivalled in the knowledge and passion they bring to their roles. Highly respected hosts, storytellers, educators, entertainers, explorers, adventurers, and conduits of local culture, our friendly and knowledgeable expert guides dramatically enhance your Peru adventure.
Deep local expertise
The talented team of travel enthusiasts offers first-hand knowledge with personal service. Passionate about travel, Destination Specialists share their in-depth travel knowledge to consistently craft quality trips that exceed expectations. Providing timely responses that anticipate your questions and 24/7 support, their meticulous approach turns your trip ideas into reality.
Unforgettable experiences
Pass below towering peaks - Huascarán, Alpamayo, Taulliraju, Huandoy, Chacraraju and many others in the glacial canyons of Peru’s first mountain National Park and Biosphere Reserve. Enjoy stunning Andean views, dramatic natural scenery, and distinctive, vibrant cultures.
Overview
Huaraz or ¨The Peruvian Switzerland¨ as some of the adventurers call it, holds one of the most beautiful circuits of the world’s highest tropical mountain range, passing below towering peaks - Huascarán, Alpamayo, Taulliraju, Huandoy, Chacraraju and many others in the glacial canyons of Peru’s first mountain National Park and Biosphere Reserve. You’ll enjoy stunning Andean views, dramatic natural scenery, and distinctive, vibrant cultures. Ranking: easy to moderate with just one high mountain pass, you’ll experience an abundance of diverse regions and immerse in spectacular beauty on this unforgettable journey amidst glacial mountains, pristine wilderness, and crystal-pure lakes.
Detailed itinerary
Day 1 | Huaraz - Vaqueria - Paria
Getting an early morning start, we’ll drive along the Santa Valley passing several villages along the way until we reach present-day Yungay. The road winds slowly up into the gulley between the Huascaran massif and the Huandoy three-pronged peak. As we near the overhanging valley, we arrive at the boundary of Huascaran National Park. Llanganuco, as the area is known, has two crystalline turquoise lakes, Chinancocha and Orconcocha. We’ll continue driving to Portachuelo de Llanganuco Pass at 4750 m (15,584 ft) From here we can observe the highest mountains of the Cordillera Blanca including Huascaran, Huandoy´s Peak, Pisco, Chacraraju, and Chopicalqui. Finally, we will descend to Vaquería, at 3700 m (12,139 ft). This is where we’ll begin our trek.
Walk down towards a trail that winds to the left, over a small ridge into the remote Huaripampa Valley, nestled among mountains. Slowly head up this valley, passing a small settlement of farmers, going about their agricultural activities. Walking through areas of verdant Andean flora, you’ll catch sight of snow-capped Chacraraju. Taulliraju will also come into view as you stride alongside pastoral meadows and fields. Camp in the Paria Valley at 3875 m (12,713 ft). (L / D)
Driving distance: 119 km (74 mi) – Time: 5 hours
Trekking distance: 11.2 km (7 mi) – Time: 5 hours
Day 2 | Paria - Punta Union Pass - Taullipampa
Start on an ascending trail towards Punta Union Pass at 4750 m (15,583 ft) This ancient trail saw heavy traffic in pre-Columbian and Colonial times as a route for transporting goods from the eastern side of the Andes to the main valley. As you approach the pass, Mt. Taulliraju will loom above you, and on the other side, a pristine glacial lake and bright white glacier will add colour and contrast to the amazing views down the Santa Cruz Valley. The peaks of Quitaraju, Artesonaju, and Rinrijirca will come into view as well as the two lakes of Ichiccocha and Jatuncocha. The trail descends into Taullipampa, where you will spend the night at 4180 m (13,713 ft). (B / L / D)
Trekking distance: 11 km (6.8 mi) – Time: 7-8 hours
Day 3 | Taullipampa - Alpamayo Lookout - Llamaccorral
Today continue your hike down the Santa Cruz Valley, past the side-valley of Arhuaycocha, with great views of snow-capped mountain peaks, including Mt. Alpamayo. Ascend to an amazing viewpoint to observe the majestic Alpamayo Mountain in all its glory. The landscape changes and scree slopes appear on each side of the marshy meadow as well as a smattering of boulders fallen from the eroded walls above. Finally, towards the end of the day, hike out of the ever-narrowing canyon into Llamacorral, where you will camp at 3783 m (12,411 ft). (B / L / D)
Trekking distance: 14 km (8.7 mi) – Time: 6-7 hours
Day 4 | Llamacorral - Cashapampa - Huaraz
A steep descent brings you to Cashapampa (2944 m / 9658 ft) in the early morning. Meet your private vehicle that will take you back to Huaraz and relax as the road winds slowly down to the main valley, arriving in Huaraz in the afternoon, where you’ll unwind after a memorable journey amidst some of the most spectacular terrain on earth. (B)
Trekking distance: 7 km (4.3 mi) – Time: 4 hours
Driving distance: 96 km (60 mi) – Time: 3 hours
End of services
B- Breakfast / BL- Box Lunch / L- Lunch / D- Dinner
Why we love it
Comfortable camping
Turquoise lakes
Stunning Scenery
Bucket List Trip
Ready for Trekking but want more flexibility?
We offer a full range of trekking options throughout Peru from shorter 2 day hikes to longer 12 days trips and several more challenging options. Hikes include the famous Inca Trail as well as treks in the ’Swiss Alps of Peru’ region Huaraz and others.
Gallery
All images courtesy of ©Explorandes