The most breathtaking high-altitude trekking route in the Southern Hemisphere—rivalling Nepal’s legendary EBC! Nestled in Huaraz, Peru, the Huayhuash Circuit is a majestic trail that holds its own against the world’s most celebrated treks. Many adventurers hail Huayhuash as the crown jewel of hiking in the Peruvian Andes, immortalized by Joe Simpson’s gripping tale “Touching the Void,” which brought this rugged landscape to life.
Spanning from 8 to 15 days, the Huayhuash Circuit offers both a challenging high route and a more accessible regular path. For an unforgettable experience, I highly recommend dedicating at least 12 days to fully immerse yourself in this awe-inspiring journey, allowing ample time for proper acclimatization and exploration.
Of course, if your schedule doesn’t permit such an extended adventure, Huaraz still boasts a variety of shorter treks ranging from one to ten days. Day hikes include stunning destinations like Lake 69, Lake Paron, Lake Wicacocha, Lake Churup, and the Pastoruri Glacier, each offering a glimpse into the region’s natural splendor.
For those seeking a balance between duration and beauty, the iconic Santa Cruz Trek is unparalleled. Spanning three to four nights (or four to five if you prefer a slower pace), it combines snow-capped peaks with crystalline alpine lakes. Pair it with Laguna 69 for added charm, and marvel at the enchanting Llanganuco Twin Lakes along the way.
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Basic Information:
📍 Location: Central Peru, near Huaraz
📃 Name: Cordillera Huayhuash
✈ Arrival: Fly into Lima, then take a bus or flight to Huaraz, followed by a scenic ride to Llaclla
📄 VISA: Peruvian visa required
💵 Currency: Peruvian Nuevo Sol
💱 Exchange Rate: 1:0.512
🗣 Language: Spanish
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Trekking Itinerary 🏞
· Duration: 12 Days 🗓
· Distance: Approximately 120 Kilometers 🛤
· Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous 💪
· Start Point: Cuartelwain 🚶♂️
· End Point: Llámac 🚶♀️
· Altitude: 3,300 – 5,000 Meters 🏔
· Best Season: May through Late September (before the rainy season) 🌦️
♥ Highlights:
– A quintessential route hailed as one of the top ten best treks globally 🏅
– Traverse the entire mountain range with expert local guides leading the way 🧭
– Encounter the untamed grandeur of the Andes, including Yerupajá—the second tallest tropical peak at 6,634 meters above sea level
