From Huaraz: 10-Day Santa Cruz to Alpamayo Trek
Adventure awaits on this 10-day trek through Santa Cruz and Alpamayo. Traverse lush valleys, glacial passes, and serene campsites.
From Huaraz: 10-Day Santa Cruz to Alpamayo Trek
Embark on a breathtaking journey through the Cordillera Blanca, combining the iconic Santa Cruz Circuit with the lesser-trekked Alpamayo route. This 10-day adventure takes you through serene valleys, high-altitude passes, and pristine glacial lakes, with awe-inspiring views of iconic peaks such as Alpamayo, Taulliraju, and Quitaraju. Perfect for seasoned trekkers, this trek offers a mix of challenging ascents, dramatic landscapes, and cultural encounters.
| Departure & Return Location | Your Hotel in Huaraz |
| Departure Time | 6:00 AM |
| Estimated Return Time | 4:00 PM |
| Guide Languages Available | Guides fluent in English and Spanish |
| Key Attractions | Punta Unión Pass, Laguna Jancarurish, Laguna Cullicocha, Nevado Alpamayo, Yanacon Pass, Cullicocha Pass |
Huaraz – Cashapampa – Llamacorral
Your adventure begins with an early morning pick-up from your accommodation in Huaraz (3,100m / 10,170 ft). A scenic three-hour drive through the Callejón de Huaylas Valley takes you to Cashapampa (2,900m / 9,514 ft), the starting point of the trek. Along the way, enjoy photo stops of traditional Andean villages, terraced farmlands, and snow-capped peaks.
From Cashapampa, the trek begins with a steep ascent for the first two hours, transitioning to a more gradual climb as the trail follows the Quebrada Santa Cruz Valley. Arrive at Llamacorral (3,750m / 12,303 ft) in the late afternoon, where you’ll camp beside the river surrounded by towering cliffs.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 5 hours, 10 km
Transport: Approx. 3 hours
Llamacorral – Taullipampa
After breakfast, continue trekking deeper into the Santa Cruz Valley, passing the serene Jatuncocha Lake, whose turquoise waters mirror the surrounding peaks. The trail is relatively flat, making for an easier day of hiking as you enjoy panoramic views of the towering Andean mountains.
The final hour of the hike ascends gently to Taullipampa (4,250m / 13,943 ft), a campsite situated at the base of Nevado Taulliraju. Surrounded by peaks like Artesonraju, Paria, Rinrijirca, Quitaraju, and Alpamayo, this campsite offers one of the most stunning settings of the trek.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 5 hours, 12 km
Taullipampa – Punta Unión Pass – Paria
Today’s trek is one of the most challenging and rewarding. After breakfast, begin the steady ascent to the Punta Unión Pass (4,750m / 15,584 ft), a highlight of the trek. The trail climbs through rocky terrain, and as you near the pass, the views of the Cordillera Blanca become increasingly dramatic.
From the top of the pass, enjoy breathtaking vistas of glacial peaks and valleys before descending into the Huaripampa Valley. Pass two small glacial lakes before arriving at Tuctubamba (4,100m / 13,451 ft), where you’ll camp for the night.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 7 hours, 14 km
Tuctubamba – Alto de Pucaraju Pass – Huecrococha Lake
Begin the day with a steep ascent to the Alto de Pucaraju Pass (4,640m / 15,223 ft). The climb is challenging, but the summit rewards you with spectacular views of peaks like Taulliraju, Chacraraju, and Paria.
From the pass, descend through a picturesque landscape of lupin-covered hillsides, eventually reaching the serene Laguna Huecrococha Lake (4,000m / 13,123 ft). The lake’s tranquil setting, surrounded by rugged peaks, is the perfect spot to unwind after a day of trekking.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 7–8 hours, 13 km
Huecrococha – Tupa Tupa Pass – Jancapampa
The day begins with a gradual ascent to the Tupa Tupa Pass (4,360m / 14,304 ft), offering sweeping views of the Cordillera Blanca’s snow-capped peaks. From the pass, descend into the Jancapampa Valley, a lush area dotted with traditional farmhouses and grazing livestock.
Arrive at the campsite at the head of the Jancapampa Valley (3,700m / 12,140 ft), where you’ll often encounter local Quechua families and curious children.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 7–8 hours, 15 km
Jancapampa – Yanacon Pass – Huillca
The day begins with a gradual ascent through the Jancapampa Valley, where you’ll pass by traditional Andean farmsteads, grazing livestock, and picturesque streams. After approximately three hours, the trail becomes steeper as you climb toward the Yanacon Pass (4,610m / 15,125 ft).
The challenging ascent is rewarded with incredible views of the surrounding peaks and valleys, with the rugged beauty of the Cordillera Blanca on full display. After a brief rest at the pass, descend through rocky terrain into the Huillca Valley, a serene and remote area that feels worlds away from modern civilization. Camp is set up at Huillca (4,100m / 13,451 ft), where you can relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 7–8 hours, 13 km
Huillca – Mesapata Pass – Gara Gara Pass – Jancarurish
Today is a day of double passes, offering both physical challenge and stunning scenery. The trek begins with a gradual ascent to the Mesapata Pass (4,460m / 14,632 ft). From here, the trail traverses the ridge before ascending once more to the Gara Gara Pass (4,830m / 15,846 ft).
The climb is rewarded with spectacular views of the surrounding peaks, including Jancarurish, Quitaraju, and the iconic Alpamayo, often referred to as the most beautiful mountain in the world. Descend to Laguna Jancarurish (4,250m / 13,943 ft), a picturesque glacial lake located at the foot of Alpamayo. Camp is set up at Jancarurish, where you can enjoy unparalleled views of this majestic mountain.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 7–8 hours, 14 km
Jancarurish – Ruina Pampa – Vientunan Pass – Osoruri
After breakfast, begin the day with an easy walk through the flat valley of Ruina Pampa. From here, the trail ascends steadily toward the Vientunan Pass (4,770m / 15,649 ft). The climb is challenging but offers breathtaking views of the Cordillera Blanca’s towering peaks and glaciers.
From the pass, descend into the remote Osoruri Valley, where the campsite is set up at Osoruri (4,550m / 14,928 ft). This high-altitude campsite offers a serene and isolated setting, perfect for reflecting on the day’s journey.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 6–7 hours, 12 km
Osoruri – Cullicocha Pass – Cullicocha Lake – Wishcash
Begin the day with a gradual ascent to the Cullicocha Pass (4,860m / 15,945 ft), the highest point of the day. From the pass, take in breathtaking views of the Santa Cruz Massif and other towering peaks of the Cordillera Blanca.
Descend to the sparkling Laguna Cullicocha (4,650m / 15,256 ft), a glacial lake that reflects the surrounding peaks like a mirror. Take some time to enjoy the serene atmosphere and snap some unforgettable photos.
The trail continues downward to the final campsite at Wishcash (4,350m / 14,272 ft), perched above the valleys with sweeping views of the Andes.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 6–7 hours, 13 km
Wishcash – Hualcayan – Huaraz
On the final day, the trek descends steeply along a zigzagging path to the village of Hualcayan (2,900m / 9,514 ft). As you make your way down, take in the changing landscapes, from high-altitude terrain to the verdant valleys below.
At Hualcayan, our private transport will be waiting to take you back to Huaraz (3,100m / 10,170 ft). Relax and reflect on the incredible journey during the scenic drive, celebrating the completion of this challenging and unforgettable trek.
Accommodation: Not included (return to Huaraz)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Hiking: Approx. 4 hours, 8 km
Transport: Approx. 3 hours
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Payment Terms & Cancellation Policy
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Payment Terms
Beginning Your Adventure – Booking Confirmation and Deposit
Your journey starts with a commitment: a 50% deposit of the total tour cost. This initial investment is pivotal in activating the extensive preparatory process, ensuring every aspect of your tour is curated to perfection.
Final Payment: The Last Step Before Your Journey Begins
The remaining 50% of the tour cost is due no later than 30 days before the commencement of your tour. This timely payment is critical to finalize all logistical arrangements, guaranteeing a hassle-free start to your adventure.
Expansive Payment Options for Ease and Flexibility
In line with our commitment to your convenience, Peru Tripper accepts a variety of payment methods, including bank transfers, credit cards, and PayPal. Please be aware that additional fees may apply depending on the payment method selected. Detailed payment procedures and potential fees can be found on our dedicated payment page.
Implications of Late Payments – Protecting Your Reservation
Adherence to the payment schedule is crucial. Late payments can unfortunately lead to the cancellation of your reservation, with the deposit being retained as a non-refundable fee. We urge you to maintain timely payments to safeguard your tour plans.
Policy for Last-Minute Adventurers
For those inspired to join this tour on short notice, namely less than 15 days before departure, full payment is required at the time of booking. This ensures that we can expedite all necessary preparations for your inclusion.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation Terms for Clients
We recognize that life is ever-changing. However, due to the elaborate planning and expenses involved in preparing for this tour, we maintain a strict no-refund policy after booking confirmation. This underscores the importance of obtaining comprehensive travel insurance, which can offer protection against unforeseen cancellations.
Navigating Unpredictable Circumstances – Force Majeure
In extraordinary situations beyond our control, such as natural disasters or political upheavals, Peru Tripper will strive to offer alternative arrangements. This may include rescheduling your trip or issuing a credit for future travel, based on current availability and discretion.
Navigating Through Force Majeure
In the event of extraordinary and uncontrollable circumstances, such as natural disasters or significant political unrest, Huaynas Expeditions adopts a flexible approach. We prioritize your safety and satisfaction, offering to reschedule your trip or provide a credit for future travel, subject to availability.
Emphasizing the Need for Comprehensive Travel Insurance
To cover unexpected events, including trip disruptions and medical emergencies, we cannot stress enough the importance of securing comprehensive travel insurance. It’s your safety net, ensuring peace of mind throughout your journey. Please note, Peru Tripper does not bear responsibility for costs arising from incidents not covered by your travel insurance.
Standard Inclusions
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Exclusions:
Not included in our standard tour packages. Consider additional costs. Deluxe packages may cover some exclusions, as specified in the Additional Inclusions section.
Additional Inclusions
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Packing List
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