The Perfect Pyramid of the Andes
Named "The Most Beautiful Mountain in the World" in 1966, Alpamayo's perfect pyramid shape and steep ice faces make it one of the most sought-after climbs in the Cordillera Blanca.
Alpamayo (5,947m / 19,511ft) stands as one of the most iconic peaks in the Peruvian Andes. Its striking pyramid shape covered in steep, fluted ice faces has captivated mountaineers for decades.
We climb via the French Direct Route on the Southwest Face, featuring steep ice and snow climbing up to 70 degrees. This route offers the most direct line to the summit while minimizing objective hazards.
This expedition requires advanced mountaineering skills including ice climbing, crevasse navigation, and experience at high altitude. The technical challenge combined with spectacular beauty makes Alpamayo a dream climb for experienced mountaineers.
Private transport from Huaraz through the Callejón de Huaylas to Cashapampa trailhead. Begin trekking up the beautiful Santa Cruz Valley with views of the Cordillera Blanca peaks. First camp at Llamacorral, a grassy meadow.
Continue trekking through the Santa Cruz Valley, passing the stunning turquoise lakes. Descend to Quebrada Arhuaycocha and establish base camp beneath Alpamayo.
Trek to Moraine Camp through rocky terrain. This day helps with acclimatization and familiarization with the route.
Move to Moraine Camp, then continue up to High Camp (Col Camp). Steep sections lead to the High Camp. Set up camp beneath Alpamayo's impressive Southwest Face in preparation for the summit attempt.
Alpine start at 1:00 AM. Climb steep ice slopes (60-70°) on the French Direct Route. Cross the bergschrund and ascend 8-9 pitches of technical ice climbing to reach the perfect pyramid summit. Incredible 360° views of the Cordillera Blanca. Rappel descent back to High Camp.
Descend from High Camp through the glacier back to Base Camp. Pack up and celebrate the successful summit. Rest and recovery day.
Trek back through the Santa Cruz Valley to Cashapampa. Private transport returns to Huaraz. Celebratory dinner in town. End of expedition.
Alpamayo's iconic Southwest Face
Steep ice up to 70 degrees
At 5,500m beneath the face
360° Cordillera Blanca panorama
Through crevassed terrain
Join us on this iconic expedition to summit Alpamayo. Limited spots available for experienced mountaineers with advanced ice climbing skills seeking the ultimate Andean challenge.
📋 Booking: Reserve minimum 30 days in advance
💰 Payment: 50% deposit at booking, balance due before start
💵 Currency: All payments in US Dollars (USD)