From Huaraz: 8-Day Scenic Huayhuash Trek via Trapecio Pass
Discover the beauty of the Andes on this 8-day Huayhuash Trek via Trapecio Pass. Trek through glacial valleys, cross high-altitude passes, and camp by stunning lakes.
From Huaraz: 8-Day Scenic Huayhuash Trek via Trapecio Pass
Experience the ultimate Andean adventure on this 8-day trek through the breathtaking Cordillera Huayhuash. Traverse high mountain passes, turquoise glacial lakes, and picturesque valleys as you immerse yourself in one of the most stunning trekking circuits in the world. This challenging route takes you to Trapecio Pass (5,050m / 16,564 ft), where you’ll enjoy unmatched views of towering peaks like Yerupaja, Siula Grande, and Jirishanca. Along the way, camp beside pristine mountain lakes and experience the untouched beauty of the Peruvian Andes.
| Departure & Return Location | Your Hotel in Huaraz |
| Departure Time | 6:00 AM |
| Estimated Return Time | 6:00 PM (Day 8) |
| Guide Languages Available | Guides fluent in English and Spanish |
| Key Attractions | Trapecio Pass, Lake Jahuacocha, Punta Yaucha Pass, Punta Tapush Pass, Carhuacocha Lake, San Antonio Pass, Glacial Lagoons |
Huaraz – Cuartelhuain
Your adventure begins with an early morning departure from Huaraz (3,100m / 10,170 ft). Our private transport takes you south through the picturesque Callejón de Huaylas Valley, offering breathtaking views of the Cordillera Blanca to the east and the Cordillera Negra to the west. Passing traditional Andean villages and lush farmlands, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation of the region’s rich Quechua culture and agricultural heritage.
The journey continues as we ascend to Lake Conococha (4,080m / 13,386 ft), where you can pause to admire the serene waters framed by the surrounding peaks. Afterward, we descend briefly before arriving at our first campsite at Cuartelhuain (4,180m / 13,714 ft). Nestled in a scenic valley, this campsite is the perfect spot to relax and acclimatize to the altitude as the crew sets up camp and prepares a delicious dinner.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Transport: Approx. 6 hours
Cuartelhuain – Punta Cacanan Pass – Mitucocha
The trekking adventure begins in earnest today as we ascend the zigzagging trail toward the Punta Cacanan Pass (4,700m / 15,420 ft). This challenging climb is rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and peaks. At the top, you’ll be treated to your first sweeping vistas of the Cordillera Huayhuash.
From the pass, the trail descends into the valley, where you’ll have two options to reach the Mitucocha Campsite (4,250m / 13,944 ft): the standard route or a more adventurous path with a steep descent and unparalleled views of the surrounding mountains.
Mitucocha is a tranquil glacial lake surrounded by dramatic peaks, including Jirishanca, Rondoy, and Ninashanca. Upon arrival, enjoy a hearty dinner and take in the stunning alpine scenery as the sun sets over the peaks.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 6–7 hours, 12 km
Mitucocha – Carhuac Pass – Lake Carhuacocha
Today’s trek takes you further into the heart of the Cordillera Huayhuash. After breakfast, the trail ascends gradually toward the Carhuac Pass (4,650m / 15,256 ft). This section of the trek is less steep than previous days, allowing you to enjoy the surrounding beauty at a more leisurely pace.
Reaching the pass, you’ll be greeted with breathtaking views of some of the range’s most iconic peaks, including Yerupaja (the second-highest peak in Peru), Siula Grande (made famous in the book and film Touching the Void), and Jirishanca.
From the pass, the trail descends to the Lake Carhuacocha (4,150m / 13,615 ft), a large glacial lake known for its vibrant turquoise waters. Our campsite, located near the lake’s edge, offers one of the most picturesque settings of the trek. Spend the afternoon exploring the lakeshore or relaxing and soaking in the surrounding beauty.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 5–6 hours, 11 km
Lake Carhuacocha – Siula Pass – Huayhuash
This day is a trekker’s dream, offering some of the most spectacular scenery of the entire circuit. Begin the day by following the trail along the edge of Lake Carhuacocha, with towering peaks like Yerupaja and Siula Grande reflected in the calm waters.
As the trail ascends, you’ll pass three stunning glacial lakes: Gangrajanca, Siula, and Quesillococha, their vivid hues of blue and green providing a stark contrast to the rugged landscape. The climb continues to the Siula Pass (4,800m / 15,748 ft), the day’s highest point. From here, enjoy unparalleled views of the Cordillera Huayhuash, including the peaks and glaciers that have made this region famous.
After taking in the breathtaking vistas, descend into the valley to reach the Huayhuash Campsite (4,300m / 14,108 ft), where a hot meal and a well-earned rest await.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 6–7 hours, 13 km
Huayhuash – Trapecio Pass – Huanacpatay
Today is one of the most challenging yet rewarding days of the trek. After an early breakfast, the trail begins with a steady ascent through a rocky landscape, leading toward the Trapecio Pass (5,050m / 16,564 ft). The climb is gradual at first but becomes steeper as we near the pass, with the magnificent Trapecio Peak coming into view.
Reaching the pass is a true highlight, offering sweeping views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. From this vantage point, marvel at the turquoise glacial lagoons and the towering mountains that define the dramatic landscape of the Cordillera Huayhuash.
The descent from the pass is steep and rocky, leading us past sparkling glacial lakes and into the Huanacpatay Valley (4,350m / 14,272 ft). The trail offers close-up views of rugged terrain and high-altitude flora as we make our way to the Huanacpatay Campsite.
This day’s challenging nature makes an early start essential, allowing plenty of time to enjoy the breathtaking scenery.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 7–8 hours, 14 km
Huanacpatay – Huayllapa – Huatiac
The day begins with a gentle descent along the Huanacpatay Valley, where the trail meanders through lush meadows and follows a glacial river. After a few hours, you’ll reach the small village of Huayllapa (3,660m / 12,008 ft), one of the few settlements along the Huayhuash Circuit. Here, you can take a short break to interact with the friendly locals and learn about traditional Andean life.
After leaving Huayllapa, the trail takes on a more challenging nature with a steep ascent toward Huatiac (4,350m / 14,272 ft). The climb is made more strenuous by the midday sun, but the effort is well worth it as you ascend through a dramatic landscape of rugged peaks and grassy slopes.
Arriving at Huatiac Campsite, you’ll find yourself in a serene meadow surrounded by high-altitude beauty, perfect for unwinding after a long day.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 6–7 hours, 12 km
Huatiac – Punta Tapush Pass – Punta Yaucha Pass – Lake Jahuacocha
Today is a thrilling day of trekking, crossing two high-altitude passes that provide some of the most dramatic views of the trek. The first challenge is the ascent to Punta Tapush Pass (4,750m / 15,584 ft). The climb is steady, offering sweeping views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
After descending briefly, the trail rises again toward the Punta Yaucha Pass (4,800m / 15,748 ft). The switchback path is rocky in places but leads to a vantage point with spectacular views of the Cordillera Huayhuash peaks, including Yerupaja, Siula Grande, and Jirishanca.
From the pass, the trail descends through a picturesque valley filled with lupines and other high-altitude flora. The descent brings us to Lake Jahuacocha (4,150m / 13,615 ft), one of the most beautiful campsites on the trek. The turquoise waters of the lake, framed by towering snow-capped peaks, create a postcard-perfect setting for your final night in the Huayhuash.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 7–8 hours, 14 km
Lake Jahuacocha – Pampa Llamac – Llamac – Huaraz
The final day of the trek begins with a gentle walk along the Jahuacocha Valley, where you’ll have your last opportunities to soak in the beauty of the Cordillera Huayhuash. The trail then ascends gradually to the Pampa Llamac Pass (4,300m / 14,108 ft). At the pass, enjoy a final panoramic view of the entire range, a fitting farewell to this remarkable trek.
From the pass, the trail descends steadily into the village of Llamac (3,300m / 10,827 ft), where our private transport will be waiting. Relax and reflect on your journey during the drive back to Huaraz (3,100m / 10,170 ft), where you’ll enjoy the comforts of a hotel and celebrate your incredible achievement.
Accommodation: Not included (return to Huaraz)
Meals: Breakfast
Hiking: Approx. 5 hours, 12 km
Transport: Approx. 5 hours
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