Huayhuash Trek

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Features Birding · Commonly Backpacked · Geological Significance · Hot Spring · Lake · Views · Waterfall · Wildlife

The Huayhuash Trek in Peru is a spectacular high-altitude treks, circling the Cordillera Huayhuash range. Spanning 8-12 days, the trek covers rugged terrain and reaches altitudes of over 5,000 meters (16,400 feet). Trekkers encounter crystal-clear lakes, towering peaks like Yerupajá (Peru's second-highest), and remote Andean villages. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, challenging passes, and pristine nature, the Huayhuash offers a deeply rewarding experience for seasoned adventurers.

Day 1: Huaraz to Quartelhuain (4,170 m)
The journey begins in Huaraz, a city that serves as the gateway to trekking in the Cordillera Huayhuash. From Huaraz, trekkers drive approximately six hours to the trailhead at Quartelhuain, located at 4,170 meters. This first day is a travel and acclimatization day, allowing trekkers to adjust to the high altitude before setting out on the trail. Camps are set up in Quartelhuain, where trekkers spend the night before starting their trek.

Day 2: Quartelhuain to Janca (4,250 m) via Cacanan Punta Pass (4,700 m)
Trekkers leave Quartelhuain and head toward the Cacanan Punta Pass at 4,700 meters. This day introduces trekkers to the steady uphill ascents and descents typical of the Huayhuash circuit. The trail climbs through a rocky, open landscape with distant views of peaks. After crossing the pass, the route descends to the camp at Janca at 4,250 meters, where trekkers camp for the night.

Day 3: Janca to Mitucocha (4,300 m) via Punta Carhuac Pass (4,650 m)
Day three includes a steady climb up to Punta Carhuac Pass at 4,650 meters. This pass offers views of the Cordillera Huayhuash peaks, including Yerupajá and Siula Grande. The descent leads to Mitucocha, a campsite by a lake, where trekkers set up camp at 4,300 meters. The scenery around Mitucocha includes lake views and surrounding peaks, providing a quiet area to rest.

Day 4: Mitucocha to Carhuacocha (4,138 m) via Alcaycocha Pass (4,650 m)
The trail on day four continues up a gradual incline toward the Alcaycocha Pass at 4,650 meters. After crossing the pass, trekkers descend to the lake at Carhuacocha, a campsite at 4,138 meters surrounded by several peaks, including Jirishanca and Yerupajá. The lake provides a point to rest before the following day's more challenging ascent.

Day 5: Carhuacocha to Huayhuash (4,350 m) via Siula Pass (4,800 m)
Day five takes trekkers over the Siula Pass, one of the highest points on the trek, at 4,800 meters. The ascent involves a steady climb with views of nearby peaks and valleys. Descending from the pass, the trail leads to Huayhuash camp at 4,350 meters, where trekkers rest for the evening. This stage often requires a longer day of trekking due to elevation gain and the length of the route.

Day 6: Huayhuash to Viconga (4,407 m) via Portachuelo Pass (4,650 m)
Trekkers leave Huayhuash camp and head up toward Portachuelo Pass at 4,650 meters. This day includes both gradual inclines and steeper sections leading to the pass. After crossing, the descent leads toward Viconga camp at 4,407 meters. Here, trekkers have the option to visit the nearby hot springs, which provide an opportunity to rest and alleviate some muscle fatigue.

Day 7: Viconga to Huanacpatay (4,300 m) via Punta Cuyoc Pass (5,000 m)
On day seven, trekkers ascend to the highest pass on the trek, Punta Cuyoc at 5,000 meters. The climb is demanding, with sections that require careful pacing. Once at the top, trekkers begin a descent to Huanacpatay camp at 4,300 meters. The path here involves both rocky trails and open valleys, leading to a sheltered area for the night's camp.

Day 8: Huanacpatay to Huatiac (4,350 m)
Day eight involves a less strenuous day of gradual ascent and descent, heading toward Huatiac camp at 4,350 meters. The route takes trekkers through rolling valleys and sections of grassland. The camp at Huatiac is often quieter, providing an opportunity for a more relaxed pace and some recovery time in preparation for the final days of the trek.

Day 9: Huatiac to Cashpapampa (4,600 m) via Tapush Pass (4,750 m)
On day nine, trekkers ascend Tapush Pass at 4,750 meters, another high point on the circuit. The trail up to the pass includes steady climbs, and the descent afterward leads to Cashpapampa at 4,600 meters. This day's route is shorter but involves higher elevation, so steady pacing is essential.

Day 10: Cashpapampa to Jahuacocha (4,066 m) via Yaucha Pass (4,800 m)
Day ten involves crossing the Yaucha Pass at 4,800 mete