From Huaraz: 9-Day Huayhuash Circuit Trek via Trapecio Pass
Challenge yourself with the 9-day Huayhuash Trek, featuring Trapecio Pass and glacial lakes. Discover Peru’s rugged beauty and create memories for a lifetime.
From Huaraz: 9-Day Huayhuash Circuit Trek via Trapecio Pass
Explore the heart of the Andes on this epic 9-day Huayhuash Circuit Trek, featuring the stunning Trapecio Pass. Traverse high-altitude trails, visit glacial lakes, and admire the majestic peaks of the Huayhuash Range, including Yerupaja, Peru’s second-highest mountain. This challenging adventure offers breathtaking scenery, encounters with traditional Andean culture, and a true sense of accomplishment.
| Departure & Return Location | Your Hotel in Huaraz |
| Departure Time | 6:00 AM |
| Estimated Return Time | 5:00 PM (Day 9) |
| Guide Languages Available | Guides fluent in English and Spanish |
| Key Attractions | Trapecio Pass, Siula Pass, Lake Jahuacocha, San Antonio Pass, Lake Carhuacocha, Yerupaja Peak |
Huaraz – Chiquian – Llamac – Cuartelhuain
Your journey begins early in the morning with a scenic drive south from Huaraz (3,100m / 10,170 ft). Our private transport takes us through the towns of Recuay and Chiquian (3,400m / 11,155 ft), known as the “Gateway to Huayhuash.” Along the way, enjoy spectacular views of the Andean landscape, including lush green valleys, terraced farmlands, and distant snow-capped peaks.
The road continues past the charming villages of Llamac (3,300m / 10,827 ft) and Pocpa, where traditional adobe houses dot the hillside. As we climb higher into the mountains, the Cordillera Huayhuash begins to dominate the horizon with its jagged peaks and dramatic scenery.
By mid-afternoon, we arrive at our first campsite at Cuartelhuain (4,170m / 13,681 ft), nestled in a tranquil valley surrounded by towering ridges. After settling in, relax and enjoy the fresh mountain air as the crew sets up camp and prepares a delicious dinner. This evening offers your first glimpse of the breathtaking beauty of the Huayhuash Range under a star-studded sky.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Transport: Approx. 5 hours
Cuartelhuain – Cacananpunta Pass – Janca
The trekking adventure begins! After a hearty breakfast, we start the day with a gradual climb along a zigzagging path toward the Cacananpunta Pass (4,700m / 15,420 ft). This challenging ascent offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys, as well as the opportunity to spot Andean wildlife like condors, llamas, and vicuñas grazing in the high-altitude grasslands.
At the pass, pause to admire the incredible vistas stretching in all directions. The pass also marks a significant geographical milestone as the divide between the Pacific and Amazon watersheds.
From here, the trail descends to our campsite at Janca (4,200m / 13,780 ft). This area is known for its sweeping views of nearby peaks and serene alpine atmosphere. After lunch, you’ll have the option to take a short hike to explore the nearby Lake Mitucocha, which is surrounded by the imposing peaks of Jirishanca, Ninashanca, and Rondoy.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 6–7 hours, 12 km
Janca – Carhuac Pass – Lake Carhuacocha
After breakfast, we continue our journey deeper into the Cordillera Huayhuash, following a gently ascending trail toward the Carhuac Pass (4,650m / 15,256 ft). This section of the trek is less demanding, allowing you to fully appreciate the surrounding beauty, with rolling grasslands and dramatic ridgelines.
Reaching the pass, take a moment to enjoy the stunning panoramic views of the iconic peaks of Carnicero, Siula, Yerupaja, and Jirishanca, their glaciers glinting in the sunlight. From here, we descend along a scenic path into the valley below, where the turquoise waters of Lake Carhuacocha (4,140m / 13,583 ft) come into view.
Our campsite is located near the lake, offering breathtaking views of the water framed by towering peaks. In the evening, enjoy the tranquility of this remote location and perhaps take a leisurely walk along the lakeshore to capture photos of this postcard-perfect setting.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 6–7 hours, 11 km
Lake Carhuacocha – Siula Pass – Huayhuash
This is one of the most spectacular days of the trek. The trail begins by skirting the edge of Lake Carhuacocha, with the towering peaks of Yerupaja and Siula Grande reflected in its turquoise waters. As we ascend higher, the scenery becomes even more dramatic, passing three stunning glacial lakes: Gangrajanca, Siula, and Quesillococha. These vivid blue and green lakes, fed by melting glaciers, create a breathtaking contrast against the rugged mountain backdrop.
The ascent culminates at the Siula Pass (4,830m / 15,846 ft), one of the highest points on the trek. From here, enjoy unparalleled views of the surrounding peaks and valleys, including the dramatic Siula Grande, made famous in Joe Simpson’s book Touching the Void.
The descent from the pass takes us into a serene valley, where our campsite at Huayhuash (4,300m / 14,108 ft) awaits. As the sun sets, the jagged peaks of the Huayhuash Range are bathed in golden light, creating a truly magical scene.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 8–9 hours, 13 km
Huayhuash – Trapecio Pass – Cuyoc
The day begins with a steady ascent toward the Trapecio Pass (5,000m / 16,404 ft), one of the highest and most thrilling sections of the trek. The trail climbs through rugged terrain, with increasingly expansive views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Reaching the pass is an unforgettable moment, as the dramatic landscapes of the Trapecio Range and the Cuyoc Valley stretch out before you.
The descent from the pass leads us into the Cuyoc Campsite (4,450m / 14,600 ft), located in a quiet, scenic valley surrounded by towering peaks. Along the way, we’ll pass glacial lakes and enjoy stunning views of the rugged Andean terrain. This is a day that will leave you in awe of the sheer majesty of the Cordillera Huayhuash.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 7–8 hours, 12 km
Cuyoc – San Antonio Pass – Huayllapa
After breakfast, the day begins with a challenging ascent to the San Antonio Pass (5,020m / 16,470 ft), the highest point of the trek. The steep trail is demanding but immensely rewarding, offering jaw-dropping views at the top. From the pass, you can see the Siula Grande Glacier, immortalized in Joe Simpson’s Touching the Void, as well as nearby glacial lakes and the stunning peaks of Trapecio, Carnicero, and Yerupaja Chico.
After soaking in the incredible scenery, begin the descent into the Callinca Valley (4,250m / 13,943 ft), where the terrain softens and the air feels warmer. The trail then winds through gentle, verdant landscapes as it leads to the charming Andean village of Huayllapa (3,660m / 12,008 ft). This lower-altitude settlement offers a refreshing contrast to the stark alpine landscapes of previous days.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 8 hours, 15 km
Huayllapa – Tapush Pass – Gashpapampa
Leaving Huayllapa behind, the trail begins with a steep ascent along a narrow path, passing terraced farmlands and small herds of livestock. The climb leads to the Tapush Pass (4,770m / 15,650 ft), where you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of Diablo Mudo, a striking snow-capped peak that looms above the surrounding landscape.
From the pass, the trail descends gently past the tranquil Lake Susucocha, a glacial lake surrounded by rocky terrain. The descent continues to our campsite at Gashpapampa (4,600m / 15,091 ft), a remote location nestled amidst rolling hills and rugged peaks.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 7 hours, 13 km
Gashpapampa – Yaucha Pass – Lake Jahuacocha
The penultimate day begins with a brief descent to Ancush, where the ascent to the Yaucha Pass (4,800m / 15,748 ft) begins. This section of the trek is particularly rewarding, with jaw-dropping views of the peaks Rondoy, Jirishanca, Yerupaja, Rasac, and Tsacra along the way.
From the pass, we make a short detour to the Huacrish Lookout, a vantage point offering unparalleled views of the stunning Lake Jahuacocha (4,170m / 13,681 ft) and Solteracocha below. The descent into the valley is gradual, and you’ll find yourself surrounded by verdant slopes and glistening waters as you approach the campsite.
Tonight’s campsite at Lake Jahuacocha is one of the most beautiful on the trek, with the turquoise lake framed by towering snow-capped peaks. Spend the evening reflecting on your journey and enjoying the serene beauty of this iconic location.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 7 hours, 14 km
Lake Jahuacocha – Pampa Llamac – Llamac – Huaraz
On the final day of the trek, the trail begins with a gentle walk through the Jahuacocha Valley, where you’ll have one last opportunity to admire the towering peaks of the Cordillera Huayhuash. The trail gradually climbs to the Pampa Llamac Pass (4,300m / 14,108 ft), where you’ll pause to take in the sweeping views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
From the pass, begin a steady descent into the village of Llamac (3,300m / 10,827 ft). Here, our private transport will be waiting to take you back to Huaraz (3,100m / 10,170 ft). As you reflect on your incredible journey, enjoy the drive back to civilization, where a warm bed and well-earned rest await.
Accommodation: Not included (return to Huaraz)
Meals: Breakfast & lunch
Hiking: Approx. 5 hours, 12 km
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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.
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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.
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Packing List
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