ALTA VIA HUAYHUASH TREK
The Ultimate High-Altitude Adventure in Peru's Cordillera Huayhuash
Certified IFMGA/UIAGM Mountain Guide
About Alta Via Huayhuash
The Alta Vía Huayhuash is a demanding and spectacular variation of the classic Huayhuash circuit, designed for experienced trekkers who seek solitude, challenge, and raw alpine beauty. This high-level route ventures beyond marked trails into remote terrain, circling the towering peaks of the Cordillera Huayhuash — including Yerupajá (6,634 m), Siula Grande (6,344 m), Sarapo, and Trapecio. With glacial passes, moraine traverses, and exposed ridgelines, this is a true high-altitude adventure through one of the world's most beautiful mountain ranges.
Itinerary
Day 1 – Drive to Huayhuash: Huaraz to Rondoy Base Camp
We depart Huaraz and drive south through the Callejón de Huaylas to the village of Chiquián, with sweeping views of the Cordillera Blanca. From here, we descend into the Huayhuash valley via Llamac and Pocpa before arriving at our first camp near Rondoy.
⏱️ Full travel day + short walksDay 2 – Gara Pass to Mitucocha (Janca Valley)
Our adventure begins in earnest as we leave the classic route behind. We climb toward the rugged and lesser-used Gara Pass, navigating rocky slopes and scree with dramatic views of the Huayhuash peaks. After reaching the pass, we descend into the quiet, open valley of Janca and set camp near Mitucocha Lagoon.
⏱️ 6–7 hoursDay 3 – Alkay Pass to Carhuacocha
We leave the valley and ascend across volcanic terrain toward Alkay Pass, where we are treated to unforgettable views of Jirishanca, Siula Grande, and Yerupajá. From here, we descend into the Carhuacocha basin, one of the most stunning sites in the Andes.
⏱️ 6–7 hoursDay 4 – Siula Pass to Carnicero Valley
We have two options today: the high crest route for alpine views of vertical faces, or the panoramic route via the famous lookout above the three lagoons. Both lead us over Siula Pass, from where we descend into the valley of Carnicero.
⏱️ 7–8 hoursDay 5 – Traverse Beneath Jurao and Carnicero
Today is a high traverse day as we pass beneath the icy flanks of Jurao and Carnicero. Our route winds around alpine ridgelines and rocky outcrops. We set up camp at 4,700 meters, facing the awe-inspiring Trapecio Peak.
⏱️ 6–7 hoursDay 6 – Trapecio Punta to Sarapococha (Cutatambo Valley)
We cross Trapecio Punta, a rugged and exposed pass, before traversing the tongue of the Jurao Glacier. The descent involves rocky moraines and steep slopes, eventually bringing us into Cutatambo Valley near Laguna Sarapococha, the famous setting of Touching the Void.
⏱️ 7–8 hoursDay 7 – Cerro Mirador Summit to Caramarca Valley
We climb to the summit of Cerro Mirador, a high viewpoint with the best 360° panoramas of the entire Huayhuash: Siula Grande, Sarapo, Jurao, Yerupajá, and more. We then descend to the peaceful lagoon of Segya, camping in the wild Caramarca Valley.
⏱️ 7–9 hoursDay 8 – Rasac Pass to Jahuacocha
We skirt the western flank of Nevado Rasac and climb to Rasac Pass. Snow can appear depending on the season. After a steep descent, we pass near Laguna Rasac and continue to the lakeside of Jahuacocha, our final alpine campsite.
⏱️ 7 hoursDay 9 – Rest Day at Jahuacocha
After multiple challenging days, we rest at one of the most scenic campsites in the Cordillera. Optional walk to Laguna Solteracocha, or simply relax by the water with dramatic views of Yerupajá.
⏱️ Optional 2–3 hoursDay 10 – Llamac Pass to Llamac Village / Return to Huaraz
We climb gently to Llamac Pass for a final view of the mountains, then descend to the village of Llamac. A private vehicle picks us up for the journey back to Huaraz.
⏱️ 5–6 hours hike + 4-hour driveDay 11 – Return to Lima
Morning or afternoon return to Lima by private vehicle or tourist bus. End of services.
Galería de Imágenes
Explora la belleza del trek Alta Vía Huayhuash a través de nuestras imágenes
Ready for the Alta Via Huayhuash?
Join us for this extraordinary high-altitude adventure through one of the world's most spectacular mountain ranges. Experience remote terrain, dramatic passes, and unforgettable views of the Cordillera Huayhuash.
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Member of International Federation of Mountain Guide Associations (IFMGA)
Member of AGMP (Peruvian Mountain Guide Association)