Embark on an epic 8-day Huayhuash trek and conquer Nevado Chopicalqui’s summit. Experience Peru’s stunning alpine challenges and breathtaking scenery.
Embark on an epic 8-day Huayhuash trek and conquer Nevado Chopicalqui’s summit. Experience Peru’s stunning alpine challenges and breathtaking scenery.
From Country of Origin – Arrival in Lima
Lima - Upon arrival in Lima, the team will greet you at the airport and arrange your transfer to the designated group hotel for an overnight stay. After checking in, you can relax or explore the surroundings at your leisure. A pre-dinner orientation meeting is scheduled, provided all participants have…
From Country of Origin – Arrival in Lima
Lima - Upon arrival in Lima, the team will greet you at the airport and arrange your transfer to the designated group hotel for an overnight stay. After checking in, you can relax or explore the surroundings at your leisure. A pre-dinner orientation meeting is scheduled, provided all participants have arrived. If some members are arriving later, the meeting will be postponed to the following day.
From Lima → Travel to Huaraz Journey from Lima to Huaraz by bus (400 km, approximately 8 hours) or by a 1-hour flight
Huaraz - Travel from Lima to Huaraz by bus (400 km, approx. 8–9 hours) or opt for a 1-hour flight. Enjoy the scenic views along the way. Arrival in Huaraz is expected during the day.
Huaraz – Laguna Wilcacocha (3,725 m) – Acclimatization Hike, Cordillera Negra
Laguna Wilcacocha - Start the day with an early breakfast at the hotel before beginning the tour at 8:30 a.m. from Huaraz. Head to the Cordillera Negra for a scenic hike to viewpoints at 3,725 meters, including a small lagoon nestled in the mountains. From this spectacular vantage point, enjoy impressive panoramic views of the Cordillera Blanca. Afterward, descend via Puente Santa Cruz (3,050 m).
Huaraz – Private Transfer, trekking Laguna Churup (4,550 m) – Second Acclimatization Hike
Laguna Churup - Drive to Pitec (3,880 m) and hike to Churup Lake with views of Nevado Churup, Rimarima, and Huamasraju. Located a short drive from Huaraz, Laguna Churup is one of the most beautiful and accessible high-altitude lakes in the Cordillera Blanca. Situated at approximately 4,450 meters above sea level, this stunning turquoise lagoon lies within Huascaran National Park. The hike to the lake takes around 3–4 hours round trip and offers a rewarding experience with rocky sections, some light scrambling, and spectacular views of the surrounding peaks. Laguna Churup is a perfect acclimatization hike and an excellent introduction to trekking in the Peruvian Andes.
Huaraz → Private transfer to our campsite at Cuartehuain (4,100 m)
Cordillera Huayhuash - The journey begins in Huaraz, departing at 8:30 a.m. Drive south toward Conococha, where the trekking adventure officially begins. Head east and then continue south, gradually enjoying the first impressive views of the mountain range.
Pass through the traditional Andean villages of Chiquián and Llamac (the trek’s finishing point) before arriving at the campsite in Cuartehuain. Here, burros (donkeys) and arrieros (muleteers) will be waiting to assist with the expedition logistics.
Cuartehuain → Trekking to Gara Pass (4,910 m) → Camp Mitucocha (4,300 m)
Cordillera Huayhuash - From the campsite at Cuartehuain, hike toward Lake Garagocha (4,500 m). Begin a rising diagonal ascent across limestone slabs with good friction, reaching the base of a final 40-meter rock wall just below the pass (approx. 1 hour).
A broad terrace rises to the left; follow it about 150 meters north of the main col. From there, climb a steep 25-meter rock step (grade 5.3), using small horizontal ledges, before reaching easier but loose terrain above.
Aim for the lowest visible point on the skyline, reaching Garagocha Pass (4,910 m). The ridge is narrow and exposed, offering a dramatic alpine atmosphere.
The descent continues right (SE) along narrow ledges for about 20 meters to a rappel anchor. Make a 30-meter rappel down a gully to a broad ledge. From there, scramble up the northern end of the ledge to the apex of a large scree fan, then descend across open grassy slopes to the southern end of Lake Mitococha (4,230 m).
Camp Mitucocha → Trekking to Alcay Pass (4,800 m) → Camp Carhuacocha (4,180 m)
Cordillera Huayhuash - After breakfast at Lake Mitococha, begin the ascent along grassy slopes to the east of the lake, gradually gaining height to reach a natural bench with expansive views of the surrounding peaks. From here, turn southeast and continue steadily toward the pass (4,740 m), following a sustained uphill trail across high Andean terrain.
Proceed toward Alcaycocha Lake (4,670 m), a beautiful high-altitude lagoon nestled beneath rugged slopes. From the southern side of the lake, descend along loose scree slopes, carefully making the way down to the creek that flows from Lake Carhuacocha.
Continuing along the valley floor, arrive at the campsite near the spectacular Lake Carhuacocha (4,180 m), surrounded by the impressive peaks of the Huayhuash range — one of the most scenic campsites of the entire circuit.
Camp Carhuacocha → Trekking to Siula Pass (4,830 m) → Huayhuash Camp (4,400 m)
Cordillera Huayhuash - Leaving the spectacular setting of Lake Carhuacocha, begin the hike through a small valley east of the moraine wall surrounding Gangrajanca Lake. The route takes you along the eastern shore of Gangrajanca, passing the recently formed lake from a massive rockslide on its western side. Continue past Siula Lake, keeping it to the left as you gradually gain elevation.
From here, follow trails across a steep grassy slope, making a steady ascending traverse. After reaching a broad shoulder, the landscape opens into a beautiful hanging valley framed by towering peaks.
At the head of the valley, a well-defined switchback trail leads upward to Siulá Punta Pass (4,834 m), one of the most impressive viewpoints of the circuit, offering dramatic panoramas of surrounding glaciers and high summits.
From the pass, descend along a long, gentle valley, eventually reaching the campsite near Huayhuash Lake (4,400 m), surrounded by classic Andean scenery.
Camp Huayhuash → Trekking to Trapecio Valley (4,700 m) - Camp
Camp Trapecio Punta → Trekking to Jurau Glacier → Camp Sarapococha
Cordillera Huayhuash - Leave camp and begin the climb to the crest of a grassy moraine, with a dramatic cliff band towering above. The trail leads around the cliff left, across easy terrain, opening onto a stunning hanging plateau dotted with alpine lakes. Following a scree trail, reach the continental divide at Trapecio Pass (4,910 m) after about 2.5 hours of hiking.
From here, turn south and scramble up reddish rock to a high notch at 5,110 m. The effort is rewarded with breathtaking views of Carnicero, Sarapo, and towering Siula Grande. Passing through the notch, descend carefully to the Huayhuashjanca Glacier, crossing flat, aerated ice riddled with crevasses—a true alpine experience.
Continuing along the moraine, descend to a pristine campsite between Jurau Lake (4,343 m) and a smaller adjacent lake to the west. A short walk up the valley brings you to Joe Simpson’s Camp, marked by a striking 10-meter angular boulder, a perfect spot to rest and reflect on the day’s dramatic landscapes.
Camp Sarapococha → Trekking to Cerro Mirador (5,150 m) → Segya (4,400 m)
Cordillera Huayhuash - From Sarapococha Lake, begin the ascent toward the terminal moraine, following a trail along the valley’s left wall. The path leads onto a broad shoulder with spectacular views over Sarapococha Lake, while small cliffs rise. Beyond the cliffs, tackle steep grassy slopes via switchbacks, continuing upward across grass and scree toward Velilina Pass (5,060 m), reached after ~3.5 hours of steady hiking.
From the pass, follow a breathtaking alpine traverse north. The 180-degree panoramas along this ridge are among the most striking on the Huayhuash Circuit, including a view of the famous Simpson Crawl to the right. Skirting rocky outcrops, ascend to Cerro Mirador, reaching the high point of the circuit at 5,152 m.
Continuing north, pass over a 5,097 m summit toward Rasac, also known as “The Toad,” before descending to Seria Pass. From there, the trail eases as you reach a magnificent campsite at the outflow of Caramarca Lake, surrounded by stunning high-altitude scenery.
Camp Segya → Trekking crossing to Rasac Pass (5,120 m) → Camp Jahuacocha (4,050 m)
Camp Jahuacocha → Trekking to pass Sambunya Pass (4,750 m) → Rondoy (4,000 m) – Return to Huaraz
Cordillera Huayhuash - Begin the final day in the high Andes with a steady ascent toward Sambunya Pass (4,750 m), offering one last breathtaking panorama of the Huayhuash range. From the pass, descend toward the main road at Llamac (3,300 m), gradually leaving the high alpine terrain behind.
From Llamac, continue by vehicle back to Huaraz, arriving in the afternoon. The evening is spent at leisure, reflecting on the unforgettable landscapes and experiences of the Huayhuash Circuit.
Rest day in Huaraz (optional hot springs, laundry) or Climbing Nevado Mateo 5150m full day tour, back to Huaraz
Huaraz - Rest or Adventure in Huaraz Today offers a choice between a relaxing day in Huaraz—enjoying optional hot springs, laundry, and leisure—or a full-day climb of Nevado Mateo (5,150 m), returning to Huaraz in the evening.
Huaraz (3,100 m) → Private Transport to Quebrada Llanganuco → Trekking to Chopicalqui Moraine Camp (4,900 m)
Chopicalqui - Depart from Huaraz in private transport, enjoying a scenic 3–3.5 hour drive through the stunning Llanganuco Valley, flanked by the snow-capped peaks of the Cordillera Blanca. Upon arrival, begin the trek to Chopicalqui Base Camp (4,350 m), taking in panoramic views of glacial valleys, turquoise lagoons, and towering Andean peaks along the way.
From Base Camp, continue onward to Moraine Camp (4,900 m), situated on a stable glacial moraine that provides an ideal staging point for the upcoming ascent. The camp offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers, making it a perfect high-altitude acclimatization stop.
Moraine Camp → Trekking & Climbing to Chopicalqui High Camp (5,350 m)
Chopicalqui - Begin the day by ascending the rocky moraine, gradually gaining altitude and panoramic views of the surrounding glaciers and peaks. The route then leads across the Chopicalqui Glacier, where you carefully navigate around crevasses and icy sections, before reaching the High Camp at 5,350 m. This camp serves as a crucial acclimatization and staging point for the summit attempt.
Summit Day: Chopicalqui (6,354 m) → Base Camp
Chopicalqui - Today attempt the summit of Chopicalqui, one of the most iconic peaks of the Cordillera Blanca. The climb is highly technical, involving navigation through seracs and crevasses, culminating in a steep 75°–80° slope near the summit. Reaching the top rewards with breathtaking panoramic views of surrounding snow-capped peaks and glaciers.
After celebrating at the summit, carefully descend back to Base Camp, reflecting on a challenging and unforgettable alpine achievement.
Base Camp → Private Transport to Huaraz
Huaraz - Descend from Base Camp and make the way back through the scenic Llanganuco Valley, enjoying final views of the Cordillera Blanca’s glaciers and peaks along the route. Upon arrival in Huaraz, check in to the hotel and have the evening at leisure.
Transfer from Huaraz to Lima by bus (400 km, 8–9 hours) or by flight (1 hour). Arrival in Lima, transfer to your hotel.
Lima - Transfer from Huaraz to Lima either by bus (400 km, 8–9 hours) or by flight (1 hour). Upon arrival in Lima, transfer to your hotel.
Today leave Huaraz and begin the journey back to Lima. You have the option of a scenic full-day bus transfer, which takes approximately 8–9 hours and passes through the stunning Andean highlands, valleys, and traditional villages, offering a final glimpse of the Cordillera Blanca.
Alternatively, for a quicker return, you may choose a 1-hour flight from Huaraz to Lima. Upon arrival in Lima, you will be transferred to your hotel or the airport, concluding this unforgettable Andean adventure.
Transfer from Lima to the airport for your international departure and journey home
Lima - Today marks the conclusion of your unforgettable journey through the Andes. After breakfast at your hotel in Lima, you will be transferred to the airport for your international flight home. Take with you memories of the breathtaking landscapes, high-altitude adventures, and cultural experiences of Peru. Safe travels!

- Pick up at the airport in Lima to the Hotel
- Hotel Kamana * in Lima
- Hotel Rubi * in Huaraz
- Transfer from the Hotel to the airport and bus station
- Transportation as tour schedule / Huaraz
- if 6 pax, we use a good tourist bus
- Entrance fees to the Huascaran National Park & Huayhuash
- Peruvian Trekking qualified and experienced local guide/s…
- Pick up at the airport in Lima to the Hotel
- Hotel Kamana * in Lima
- Hotel Rubi * in Huaraz
- Transfer from the Hotel to the airport and bus station
- Transportation as tour schedule / Huaraz
- if 6 pax, we use a good tourist bus
- Entrance fees to the Huascaran National Park & Huayhuash
- Peruvian Trekking qualified and experienced local guide/s
- Peruvian Mountain Guide AGMP-UIAGM for Nev. Chopicalqui
- Porters for Nevado Chopicalqui
- Donkey driver and donkeys
- Cooks and helpers
- All meals during the tour
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Kitchen equipment
- Camping tents (2 persons)
- Acclimatization Tour as our program
- International flights USA – Lima – USA / Peru round trip
- Transfer from the airport for bookings of individual flights with different arrival/departure times
- Travel accident and health insurance
- Luggage insurance and trip cancellation
- Meals in restaurants in Lima and Huaraz
- Personal expenses
- Personal equipment (such as boots, ice ax,…
- International flights USA – Lima – USA / Peru round trip
- Transfer from the airport for bookings of individual flights with different arrival/departure times
- Travel accident and health insurance
- Luggage insurance and trip cancellation
- Meals in restaurants in Lima and Huaraz
- Personal expenses
- Personal equipment (such as boots, ice ax, crampons, harness, sleeping bag, mat, Goretex, etc.)
- Tips four our local team
- Please note: Insurance for emergency evacuation is required for this trip. Call for more details.
The Huayhuash Alpine Circuit presents an exhilarating 8-day mountaineering adventure through the breathtaking Peruvian Andes. Spanning 65 km with a total elevation gain of 5,000 m, this trail is ideal for seasoned adventurers looking for a unique experience. Traverse iconic locations such as Garagocha Col and Rasac Pass, encountering varied terrains…
The Huayhuash Alpine Circuit presents an exhilarating 8-day mountaineering adventure through the breathtaking Peruvian Andes. Spanning 65 km with a total elevation gain of 5,000 m, this trail is ideal for seasoned adventurers looking for a unique experience. Traverse iconic locations such as Garagocha Col and Rasac Pass, encountering varied terrains that require mountaineering expertise.
For those aiming for a high-altitude peak, the 4-day Chopicalqui Climb offers an exceptional challenge. Standing at 6,354 m, Nevado Chopicalqui demands proficiency with ice axes and crampons, excellent fitness, and previous high-altitude experience. Day 1 involves the approach and setting up base camp; Day 2 focuses on acclimatization and establishing a high camp; Day 3 is dedicated to the summit attempt at dawn followed by descent; Day 4 marks the return to Huaraz. This demanding mini-expedition combines technical mountaineering with stunning glaciated landscapes.
Prepare to discover these legendary Peruvian summits in pristine alpine settings.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.