From Huaraz: 6-Day Santa Cruz to Ulta Valley Trek
Trek through Peru’s Andes on the 6-day Santa Cruz to Ulta Valley route. A journey of pristine lakes, towering peaks, and cultural immersion.
From Huaraz: 6-Day Santa Cruz to Ulta Valley Trek
Discover the stunning beauty of the Cordillera Blanca on this 6-day trek that combines the classic Santa Cruz Circuit with the lesser-trekked Ulta Valley route. Journey through lush valleys, high mountain passes, glacial lakes, and traditional Andean villages while taking in breathtaking views of some of Peru’s most iconic peaks, including Huascarán, Alpamayo, and Taulliraju. This trek is ideal for adventurers seeking both challenge and unparalleled scenery.
| Departure & Return Location | Your Hotel in Huaraz |
| Departure Time | 6:00 AM |
| Estimated Return Time | 6:00 PM |
| Guide Languages Available | Guides fluent in English and Spanish |
| Key Attractions | Cashapampa Village, Punta Unión Pass, Yanayacu Pass, Laguna Jatuncocha, Laguna Taullipampa, Nevado Huascarán, Cordillera Blanca |
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 brings us to the village of Cashapampa (2,900m / 9,514 ft), the starting point of the trek. Along the way, enjoy stops to photograph the vibrant countryside, traditional Andean villages, and the snow-capped peaks of the Cordillera Blanca.
From Cashapampa, the trail ascends steeply for the first two hours, offering stunning views of the Santa Cruz Valley. The trail then levels out as we follow the river, gradually climbing through lush vegetation and rocky terrain. By late afternoon, we arrive at our campsite at Llamacorral (3,750m / 12,303 ft), nestled beside the river and surrounded by towering cliffs.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 5 hours, 10 km
Transport: Approx. 3 hours
Llamacorral – Taullipampa
After breakfast, we continue trekking deeper into the Santa Cruz Valley. The trail is mostly flat, allowing you to enjoy the spectacular scenery at a relaxed pace. As we walk, we pass the turquoise waters of Jatuncocha Lake, whose reflections of the surrounding peaks create perfect photo opportunities.
The last hour of the hike ascends gently toward the campsite at Taullipampa (4,250m / 13,943 ft). This campsite offers some of the best views of the trek, sitting at the base of the majestic Nevado Taulliraju and surrounded by other towering peaks such as Paria, Artesonraju, Rinrijirca, Quitaraju, and Alpamayo. Spend the evening enjoying the incredible mountain views under a starry sky.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 5 hours, 12 km
Taullipampa – Punta Unión Pass – Paria
Today’s trek begins with a steady ascent to the Punta Unión Pass (4,750m / 15,584 ft), one of the highlights of the trek. The trail climbs gradually for about three hours, with each step revealing more of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Upon reaching the pass, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Cordillera Blanca, including close-up views of Taulliraju and the neighboring glacial peaks.
After celebrating your accomplishment and taking plenty of photos, begin the descent into the Huaripampa Valley. The trail passes two small glacial lakes and winds through picturesque landscapes before reaching our campsite at Paria (3,890m / 12,762 ft).
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 7 hours, 14 km
Paria – Colcabamba – Molinopampa
Today’s trek takes us through the scenic Huaripampa Valley, a lush area dotted with traditional farmhouses and grazing livestock. The trail is mostly downhill, making it a relaxing day of walking. Along the way, you’ll pass friendly locals tending their crops and children playing along the path.
By mid-afternoon, we arrive at Molinopampa (3,600m / 11,811 ft), a tranquil campsite located on the edge of a small village. This is an excellent opportunity to observe daily life in a remote Andean community while enjoying the surrounding natural beauty.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 6 hours, 12 km
Molinopampa – Campo Avalancha
The day begins with a gradual ascent through a forest of quenual trees, a unique high-altitude species that thrives in the Andean region. As the trail climbs higher, you’ll pass small glacial lakes and cross rugged terrain, eventually reaching a zigzagging path that leads to the campsite at Campo Avalancha (4,600m / 15,091 ft).
From this high-altitude campsite, enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding peaks, including the striking Nevado Contrahierbas Mountain. This remote and dramatic setting offers a perfect end to the day’s trek.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 5 hours, 10 km
Campo Avalancha – Paso Yanayacu Pass – Ulta Valley – Huaraz
The final day of the trek begins with a challenging ascent to the Paso Yanayacu Pass (4,850m / 15,912 ft), the highest point of the trek. From the pass, you’ll enjoy breathtaking close-up views of Nevado Chopicallqui and Huascarán, the highest peak in Peru.
After savoring the incredible vistas, begin the descent into the Ulta Valley, passing small glacial lakes and enjoying the ever-changing landscapes. The trail eventually flattens out as we approach the road, where our private transport will be waiting to take us back to Huaraz (3,100m / 10,170 ft).
Reflect on the incredible journey as you relax during the scenic drive back to town, where you’ll celebrate the completion of this unforgettable trek.
Accommodation: Not included (return to Huaraz)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Hiking: Approx. 5 hours, 12 km
Transport: Approx. 2.5 hours
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Special Discounts
- Group Discount: Automatically applied during online booking.
- Save 5% per person for groups of 5-9 people.
- Save 8% per person for groups of 10-14 people.
- Save 10% per person for groups of 15 or more people.
Payment Terms & Cancellation Policy
Kindly take a moment to read our Payment Terms & Cancellation Policy before booking. Happy adventuring!
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
All package options include the following:
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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Deluxe Packages Include:
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Packing List
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Packing Tips
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