Overview
The enormous fluted ice peaks and turquoise lakes of Peru’s Cordillera Blanca have long made it a world-class destination for trekking. More than 70 summits here top 18,000 feet, including Huascarÿn (22,204'), Peru’s highest peak, and Alpamayo (19,506'), an extraordinary pyramid renowned as one of the most beautiful mountains in the world. Our 10-day trek is a dramatic one—and a challenge due to the altitude—but well rewarded with exhilarating days on the trail, spectacular lakeside campsites, and views of glaciers and ice-draped summits at every turn.
Itinerary at a Glance
Days 1-3
To Huaraz / Acclimatization Hikes
From Lima, head north along the Pan American Highway to the mountain town of Huaraz (10,200'), the trekking hub of the Cordillera Blanca. You'll acclimatize to the altitude with day hikes, including a fascinating one to the archaeological site of Wilkahuain, with its burial chambers dating from the time of the pre-Inca Wari people. Another hike brings you up to deep blue Lake Churup, set at 14,700 feet at the base of the Churup Glacier.
Days 4-6
Hualcayán to Quebrada de los Cedros
Heading out to the farming community of Hualcayán, you join our trekking crew and pack animals. On trek, our camps are at 13,000 feet or higher, usually with views of beautiful glacial lakes, and we cross a total of seven passes over 15,000 feet! On your first two passes, you’ll have sensational views of the main summits of Nevado Santa Cruz, with a hike to Cullicocha (15,184') for views of Santa Cruz Glacier. Descending into the wide, green Quebrada de los Cedros, you’ll see Inca terraces on the far side of the valley.
Days 7-10
Alpamayo / Option to Alpamayo Base Camp / Huillca
Savor your first panoramas of the perfect pyramid of Alpamayo, with an Exploration Day to visit the base camp below emerald-green Laguna Jancarurish (14,380'). Crossing two passes brings us breathtaking views of the jagged summits of Pucajirca as we make our way to the village of Huillca.
Days 11-14
Jancapampa / Huaripampa / Huaraz / Lima
There are stunning glacier views en route as you ascend Pucajirca Pass, with a descent into a valley dotted with waterfalls and lakes. Your last two passes are Tupatupa Pass, with panoramas down the eastern cordillera, and Pucaraju Pass, where the knife-edged peak of Taulliraju towers above. Return to Lima and depart on Day 14.
Trekking the Cordillera Blanca Private Journey
Highlights
Highlights
Details
10-day trek on steep trails, 6-8 hours a day, altitudes between 13,000-15,929 feet, optional climb of 18,881-foot peak
