From Huaraz: 9-Day Llanganuco to Alpamayo Base Camp Trek
Experience the 9-day Llanganuco to Alpamayo Base Camp Trek. Camp at remote glacial lakes, cross stunning mountain passes, and witness Peru’s beauty.
From Huaraz: 9-Day Llanganuco to Alpamayo Base Camp Trek
Explore the stunning Cordillera Blanca on this challenging 9-day trek from the iconic Llanganuco Lakes to the renowned Alpamayo Base Camp. This high-altitude adventure features glacial lakes, dramatic mountain passes, and breathtaking vistas of some of Peru’s most famous peaks, including Alpamayo, Chacraraju, and Taulliraju. Perfect for experienced trekkers seeking an unforgettable journey, this trek combines physical challenge with incredible natural beauty.
| Departure & Return Location | Your Hotel in Huaraz |
| Departure Time | 4:00 AM |
| Estimated Return Time | 7:00 PM |
| Guide Languages Available | Guides fluent in English and Spanish |
| Key Attractions | Llanganuco Lakes, Portachuelo Pass, Punta Union, Jancarurish, Laguna Cullicocha, Nevados Alpamayo |
Huaraz – Llanganuco Lakes – Portachuelo Pass – Vaqueria – Paria
Your journey begins with an early morning departure from your accommodation in Huaraz (3,100m / 10,170 ft). The scenic drive through the Callejón de Huaylas Valley offers a chance to witness vibrant Andean villages and the spectacular backdrop of the Cordillera Blanca. The route passes through picturesque towns like Yungay, a town rich with history, and eventually enters the breathtaking Huascarán National Park.
The turquoise waters of the Llanganuco Lakes (3,800m / 12,467 ft), surrounded by lush vegetation and towering peaks, provide an ideal photo stop. The drive continues over the iconic Portachuelo Pass (4,785m / 15,699 ft), where sweeping views of Huascarán, Chopicalqui, Pisco, and Huandoy mountains create a postcard-perfect scene.
Arriving at Vaqueria (3,700m / 12,139 ft), your trekking adventure officially begins. The trail ascends gradually through the lush Paria Valley, with vibrant wildflowers and a backdrop of snow-capped peaks. After approximately 5 hours of trekking, you’ll reach the first campsite at Paria (3,890m / 12,762 ft), where you’ll spend your first night under the stars.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 5 hours, 8 km
Transport: Approx. 4 hours
Paria – Tuctubamba
Today’s journey is a shorter and more leisurely trek, allowing you to adjust to the altitude and soak in the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. From the Paria Valley, follow the river upstream as the trail meanders gently through lush grasslands and scattered boulders. After two hours of hiking, you’ll arrive at the serene Tuctubamba Campsite (4,100m / 13,451 ft), nestled amidst towering peaks.
After setting up camp, there’s an optional side trek to the Punta Unión Pass (4,750m / 15,584 ft). This climb rewards you with spectacular panoramic views down the Santa Cruz Valley, with Nevado Taulliraju dominating the skyline. The side trek adds an extra challenge and excitement to the day, but even if you opt to relax at camp, the beauty of Tuctubamba is sure to captivate.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking: 2–5 hours, 5–10 km (depending on the side hike)
Tuctubamba – Alto de Pucaraju Pass – Huecrococha Lake
Today’s trek is more demanding, but the rewards are unparalleled. The trail climbs steadily through rugged terrain, leading to the Alto de Pucaraju Pass (4,640m / 15,223 ft). The ascent is steep and rocky, requiring careful footing, but the summit offers breathtaking views of iconic peaks like Taulliraju, Chacraraju, and Paria. The pass is a perfect spot to rest, take photos, and marvel at the grandeur of the Cordillera Blanca.
The descent from the pass takes you through a colorful hillside adorned with lupine flowers and verdant meadows. The trail eventually leads to the tranquil shores of Laguna Huecrococha (4,000m / 13,123 ft), a picturesque glacial lake surrounded by soaring peaks. The campsite here is peaceful and offers an incredible opportunity to unwind after a challenging day.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 7–8 hours, 14 km
Huecrococha – Tupa Tupa Pass – Jancapampa
The day begins with a gradual climb through an enchanting high-altitude landscape, where the trail winds past small streams and colorful wildflowers. After a few hours, the path reaches the Tupa Tupa Pass (4,360m / 14,304 ft). From the summit, enjoy sweeping views of the rugged peaks and expansive valleys of the Cordillera Blanca.
The descent into the Jancapampa Valley is long but gentle, taking you through a lush, green valley dotted with traditional farmhouses. The campsite at the head of the valley, near Jancapampa (3,700m / 12,140 ft), is lively, often visited by local Quechua villagers and their curious children. Their presence adds a cultural dimension to the trek, offering a glimpse into the traditional Andean way of life.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 7–8 hours, 15 km
Jancapampa – Yanacon Pass – Huillca
Leaving the Jancapampa Valley, the trail gradually ascends through a scenic and expansive valley. The terrain becomes more rugged as you climb steadily toward the Yanacon Pass (4,610m / 15,125 ft). This challenging ascent is rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and dramatic landscapes.
The descent from the pass takes you into the remote Huillca Valley, a pristine and tranquil area rarely visited by other trekkers. The campsite at Huillca (4,100m / 13,451 ft) offers a peaceful setting for the night, surrounded by unspoiled natural beauty and the towering Andes.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 7–8 hours, 14 km
Huillca – Mesapata Pass – Gara Gara Pass – Jancarurish
This day begins with a gradual ascent through the serene Huillca Valley as the trail climbs toward the Mesapata Pass (4,460m / 14,632 ft). The ascent is relatively gentle, offering plenty of time to take in the breathtaking surroundings and enjoy the quiet solitude of this remote part of the Andes.
Once over the Mesapata Pass, the trail traverses through rocky terrain before beginning the steeper ascent to the Gara Gara Pass (4,830m / 15,846 ft). This high point of the day offers extraordinary panoramic views of the Cordillera Blanca, with towering peaks such as Jancarurish, Quitaraju, and the iconic Alpamayo dominating the skyline.
The descent is equally stunning, as the trail leads you past Laguna Jancarurish (4,250m / 13,943 ft), a shimmering glacial lake nestled below the majestic Alpamayo. Tonight, you’ll camp in Jancarurish, at the foot of this mountain often hailed as the most beautiful in the world.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 7–8 hours, 15 km
Jancarurish – Ruina Pampa – Vientunan Pass – Osoruri
After a hearty breakfast, the day begins with an easy, flat walk through the Ruina Pampa Valley, where the trail meanders gently alongside streams and meadows. This tranquil section provides a perfect warm-up for the more challenging climb ahead.
The trail then ascends steadily toward the Vientunan Pass (4,770m / 15,649 ft). The climb is steep and rocky but offers rewarding views of the surrounding glaciers and peaks. From the pass, you’ll enjoy incredible vistas that make the effort worthwhile.
Descending from the pass, you’ll enter the Osoruri Valley, a remote and peaceful area where the campsite at Osoruri (4,550m / 14,928 ft) is set. This high-altitude camp offers a stunningly clear night sky, perfect for stargazing and reflecting on the journey so far.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 6–7 hours, 13 km
Osoruri – Cullicocha Pass – Cullicocha Lake – Wishcash
Today begins with a gradual ascent to the Cullicocha Pass (4,860m / 15,945 ft), the highest point of the trek. The climb is challenging but highly rewarding, as the summit offers magnificent views of the surrounding peaks, including the impressive Santa Cruz Massif.
Descending from the pass, the trail leads to the stunning Laguna Cullicocha (4,650m / 15,256 ft). This glacial lake, with its vivid turquoise waters and dramatic backdrop of snow-capped peaks, is a highlight of the trek. Take a moment to rest and capture photos of this magical spot.
The day ends with a descent to Wishcash (4,350m / 14,272 ft), the final campsite of the trek. This serene location offers sweeping views over the valleys below and is the perfect place to spend your last night in the Cordillera Blanca wilderness.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 6–7 hours, 13 km
Wishcash – Hualcayan – Huaraz
The final day of the trek begins with a steady descent along a zigzagging trail toward the village of Hualcayan (2,900m / 9,514 ft). As you descend, you’ll notice the changing landscapes, transitioning from rugged alpine terrain to lush valleys with terraced farmlands and traditional Quechua homes.
At Hualcayan, your private transport will be waiting to take you back to Huaraz (3,100m / 10,170 ft). Enjoy the scenic drive back, reflecting on the incredible landscapes and challenges you’ve conquered during this unforgettable trek. Celebrate your accomplishment with a well-earned rest back in town.
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.
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Exclusions:
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Packing List
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