Huayhuash Trek Itinerary | Hiking New Zealand

DAY 1

ARRIVE LIMA

Welcome to Peru! On arrival at Lima’s Jorge Chávez International Airport, you’ll be greeted and taken on a private transfer to your hotel in the lively Miraflores district. Most flights land in the evening, so no activities are scheduled today. Instead, settle in, stretch your legs with a stroll if you wish, and get a first taste of Peru’s vibrant atmosphere. Relax, your
guided adventure is about to begin.

ACCOMMODATION

The welcoming 4-star Hotel Miramar is set in the heart of Lima’s vibrant Miraflores district, just steps from the coastal boardwalk, renowned restaurants, and boutique shopping. The hotel combines comfort and warmth with an unbeatable location. With attentive, personalised service and easy access to the city’s highlights, it’s the perfect place to unwind and recharge while exploring Lima.

DAY 2

JOURNEY TO HUARAZ

Leave behind the sprawling coastal metropolis of Lima and begin the dramatic journey inland. The route takes you through Peru’s arid coastal desert before ascending steeply into the heart of the Andes. Travelling by bus, rather than flying, allows you to gain altitude gradually—an important step in acclimatising for the trek ahead. By late afternoon you’ll arrive in Huaraz (3052m), a lively town at the gateway to the Cordillera Blanca. Check into your hotel and begin adjusting to the thinner air. Includes breakfast.

ACCOMMODATION

Centrally positioned in the historic heart of Huaraz, Hotel Suiza Peruana offers a charming blend of classic elegance and modern comfort. Just minutes from cultural landmarks, museums, and lively local markets, this boutique hotel features warm personalised service, and a welcoming atmosphere. It’s the perfect base for exploring, relaxing, and savouring the local experience.

DAY 3

ACCLIMATISATION HIKE TO LAKE CHURUP

10 km (6.2 miles), 5–6 hours hiking, elevation +800 m (2,625 ft) -800 m (2,625 ft)

Today is dedicated to acclimatisation. A rewarding hike leads to Lake Churup (4450m), an alpine jewel tucked beneath the cliffs of Nevado Churup (5493m). The trail winds through rocky terrain and alpine grassland, steadily climbing to the lake’s turquoise waters. After returning, you’ll transfer to the cosy Lazy Dog Inn, your eco-lodge retreat for the next two nights. Set high above the valley with sweeping views, it’s the perfect spot to relax by the fire and enjoy home-cooked meals while your body adapts to altitude.

Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner

ACCOMMODATION

Perched at 3,670 metres in the Cordillera Blanca, The Lazy Dog Inn is a mountain ecolodge where comfort, culture and adventure come together. Stay in handmade adobe suites or cosy cabins all with hot baths or showers, fireplaces, private terraces and sweeping views of towering peaks. It's the perfect base to acclimatise for our Andean adventure.

DAY 4

ACCLIMATISATION HIKE TO LAGUNA LLACA

23 km (14.3 miles), 6–7 hours hiking, elevation +950 m (3,117 ft) -950 m (3,117 ft)

From the inn, set out on a spectacular day hike to Laguna Llaca (4474m). The trail begins gently across open hillsides before climbing into a raw, glacial landscape. Snow-capped summits loom above as you reach the lake, its waters shimmering beneath the ice-clad bulk of Ranrapalca. Return to the inn in the afternoon for another hearty dinner and a relaxing evening. Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.

ACCOMMODATION

Perched at 3,670 metres in the Cordillera Blanca, The Lazy Dog Inn is a mountain ecolodge where comfort, culture and adventure come together. Stay in handmade adobe suites or cosy cabins all with hot baths or showers, fireplaces, private terraces and sweeping views of towering peaks. It's the perfect base to acclimatise for our Andean adventure.

DAY 5

DRIVE TO CUARTELHUAIN CAMP

Approx 5 hours driving

Settle in for a scenic drive through the heart of the Andes. The road winds past rustic villages like Chiquián and Llamac, where traditional adobe homes and terraced hillsides give a glimpse into rural life. Eventually, the journey brings you to Cuartelhuain (4100m), your first campsite. Here you’ll meet the trekking team and pack animals that will carry gear along the trail. After setting up camp, stretch your legs with a short acclimatisation walk before enjoying a hearty dinner beneath a sky crowded with stars.

Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.

ACCOMMODATION

Camp at remote sites in spacious two-person tents, with a communal tent provided for dining and relaxing. A toilet tent is set up when required.

DAY 6

TREK TO MITUCOCHA VIA CACANAN PASS

12 km (7.5 miles), 6–7 hours hiking, elevation +600 m (1,969 ft) -550 m (1,804 ft)

Climb steadily to Punta Cacanan Pass (4700m). From the pass, you’ll get your first clear view of the Huayhuash peaks, their ice-carved summits rising above the valley. Descend to Mitucocha (4150m), where camp is set beside a quiet alpine lake beneath the peaks of Rondoy and Jirishanca.

Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.

ACCOMMODATION

Camp at remote sites in spacious two-person tents, with a communal tent provided for dining and relaxing. A toilet tent is set up when required.

DAY 7

TREK TO CARHUACOCHA VIA CARHUAC PASS

11 km (6.8 miles), 5–6 hours hiking, elevation +500 m (1,640 ft) -400 m (1,312 ft)

Today’s climb takes you up and over Carhuac Pass (4650m), where the horizon opens to reveal more jagged peaks. A gentle descent leads to Carhuacocha (4250m), one of the most iconic campsites of the circuit. The lake here reflects Yerupajá, Peru’s second-highest mountain, and its snow corniced ridges, creating a photographer’s dream. All meals included.

Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.

ACCOMMODATION

Camp at remote sites in spacious two-person tents, with a communal tent provided for dining and relaxing. A toilet tent is set up when required.

DAY 8

TREK TO HUAYHUASH VIA SIULA OR CARNICERO PASS

14 km (8.7 miles), 6–8 hours hiking, elevation +650 m (2,133 ft) -550 m (1,804 ft)

Depending on conditions todays hike will cross one of two passes. Siula Pass (4800m), with views of glacial lakes below, or Carnicero Pass (4600m), the gentler option. Both routes lead to Huayhuash (4250m), where camp is set in a wide meadow with mountain walls rising on all sides.

Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.

ACCOMMODATION

Camp at remote sites in spacious two-person tents, with a communal tent provided for dining and relaxing. A toilet tent is set up when required.

DAY 9

TREK TO VICONGA VIA PORTACHUELO PASS

11 km (6.8 miles), 5–6 hours hiking, elevation +400 m (1,312 ft) -400 m (1,312 ft)

A day of contrasts, traverse stark, rocky landscapes to crest Portachuelo Pass (4650m), then descend towards the tranquil shores of Viconga Lake. Here, natural hot springs await, the perfect place to ease tired muscles while gazing at the surrounding peaks.

Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.

ACCOMMODATION

Camp at remote sites in spacious two-person tents, with a communal tent provided for dining and relaxing. A toilet tent is set up when required.

DAY 10

CROSS CUYOC PASS TO SAN ANTONIO - ELEPHANT CAMP

10 km (6.2 miles), 5–7 hours hiking, elevation +550 m (1,804 ft) -600 m (1,969 ft)

The trek reaches its highest point today as you climb to Cuyoc Pass (5000m). From this lofty saddle, the panorama takes in the Cordillera Huayhuash and neighbouring Cordillera Raura, a vast expanse of icy summits and glaciers. Descend to camp at San Antonio, a remote site nicknamed “Elephant Camp” for the distinctive rock formation nearby.

Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.

ACCOMMODATION

Camp at remote sites in spacious two-person tents, with a communal tent provided for dining and relaxing. A toilet tent is set up when required.

DAY 11

TREK TO CUTATAMBO VIA SAN ANTONIO PASS

9 km (5.6 miles), 5–6 hours hiking, elevation +400 m (1,312 ft) -1,000 m (3,281 ft)

Another climb, this time to San Antonio Pass (4990m), reveals an unforgettable view over the dramatic peaks of Siula Grande and Sarapo. From here, descend through the remote and wild Sarapo Valley, dotted with wildflowers and glacial streams, before camping at Cutatambo.

Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.

ACCOMMODATION

Camp at remote sites in spacious two-person tents, with a communal tent provided for dining and relaxing. A toilet tent is set up when required.

DAY 12

REST DAY OR OPTIONAL HIKE TO SIULA GRANDE BASE CAMP

After days of demanding trekking, you may simply want to rest and soak in the wilderness. For those with energy to spare, a side hike leads to Lake Sarapococha and the base camp of Siula Grande-the scene of Joe Simpson’s and Simon Yates’s harrowing survival tale, Touching the Void. Standing here, the scale of the mountain and story alike comes to life.

Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.

ACCOMMODATION

Camp at remote sites in spacious two-person tents, with a communal tent provided for dining and relaxing. A toilet tent is set up when required.

DAY 13

TREK TO HUATIAC VIA HUAYLLAPA VILLAGE

14 km (8.7 miles), 7–8 hours hiking, elevation +840 m (2,756 ft) -770 m (2,526 ft)

Descend into lush valleys to the village of Huayllapa (3700m), where a slower pace of Andean life prevails. Spend time wandering the narrow streets and chatting with locals. A small shop sells basic provisions and soft drinks, a welcome change of pace before tackling a steep climb to Huatiac (4300m). This blend of cultural encounter and physical challenge makes the day especially rewarding.

Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.

ACCOMMODATION

Camp at remote sites in spacious two-person tents, with a communal tent provided for dining and relaxing. A toilet tent is set up when required.

DAY 14

CROSS TAPUSH AND YAUCHA PASSES TO JAHUACOCHA

15 km (9.3 miles), 7–8 hours hiking, elevation +700 m (2,297 ft) -1,000 m (3,281 ft)

A demanding day crossing two passes, Punta Tapush (4750m) and Punta Yaucha (4800m). The effort is rewarded with arrival at Jahuacocha (4000m), a large glacial lake framed by towering peaks.

Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.

ACCOMMODATION

Camp at remote sites in spacious two-person tents, with a communal tent provided for dining and relaxing. A toilet tent is set up when required.

DAY 15

FINAL TREK, JAHUACOCHA TO LLAMAC VIA PAMPA LLAMAC PASS

12 km (7.5 miles), 5–6 hours hiking, elevation +300 m (984 ft) -900 m (2,953 ft)

Climb steadily to Pampa Llamac Pass (4300m), taking in one last stunning view of the Huayhuash peaks stretched along the horizon. From the pass, descend through open hillsides to the village of Llamac. Here, we meet our vehicle for the drive back to Huaraz. Awaiting us are the comforts of one of Huaraz’s best hotels, a well-earned reward after a truly unforgettable adventure.

Includes breakfast and lunch.

ACCOMMODATION

Nestled in a prime location, Hotel Andino blends comfort with warm hospitality, just moments from key city landmarks, galleries, and dining hotspots. The hotel offers well-appointed rooms with thoughtful touches, complemented by attentive service and an inviting atmosphere. With its convenient position and serene spaces, Hotel Andino is the perfect place to unwind after such an incredible trek

DAY 16

FREE DAY IN HUARAZ

Spend a leisurely day enjoying Huaraz. Browse markets, explore town, or treat yourself to a massage.

Includes breakfast and dinner.

ACCOMMODATION

Nestled in a prime location, Hotel Andino blends comfort with warm hospitality, just moments from key city landmarks, galleries, and dining hotspots. The hotel offers well-appointed rooms with thoughtful touches, complemented by attentive service and an inviting atmosphere. With its convenient position and serene spaces, Hotel Andino is the perfect place to unwind after such an incredible trek.

DAY 17

RETURN TO LIMA

You will be collected from your hotel and driven to the airport in time for your flight back to Lima. Additional hotel nights in Lima can be arranged if you wish to stay on in Lima.

Please advise at the time of booking.

Includes breakfast.

ACCOMMODATION

The welcoming 4-star Hotel Miramar is set in the heart of Lima’s vibrant Miraflores district, just steps from the coastal boardwalk, renowned restaurants, and boutique shopping. The hotel combines comfort and warmth with an unbeatable location. With attentive, personalised service and easy access to the city’s highlights, it’s the perfect place to unwind and recharge while exploring Lima.

DAY 18

OPTIONAL DEPARTURE DAY

If you choose to stay an additional night in Lima, we can arrange a private transfer to the airport for your departure. With its vibrant food scene, historic centre, and excellent museums, Lima is well worth exploring if you have the time.

Huayhuash Trek

ARRIVE LIMA

JOURNEY TO HUARAZ

ACCLIMATISATION HIKE TO LAKE CHURUP

10 km (6.2 miles), 5–6 hours hiking, elevation +800 m (2,625 ft) -800 m (2,625 ft)

ACCLIMATISATION HIKE TO LAGUNA LLACA

23 km (14.3 miles), 6–7 hours hiking, elevation +950 m (3,117 ft) -950 m (3,117 ft)

DRIVE TO CUARTELHUAIN CAMP

Approx 5 hours driving

TREK TO MITUCOCHA VIA CACANAN PASS

12 km (7.5 miles), 6–7 hours hiking, elevation +600 m (1,969 ft) -550 m (1,804 ft)

TREK TO CARHUACOCHA VIA CARHUAC PASS

11 km (6.8 miles), 5–6 hours hiking, elevation +500 m (1,640 ft) -400 m (1,312 ft)

TREK TO HUAYHUASH VIA SIULA OR CARNICERO PASS

14 km (8.7 miles), 6–8 hours hiking, elevation +650 m (2,133 ft) -550 m (1,804 ft)

TREK TO VICONGA VIA PORTACHUELO PASS

11 km (6.8 miles), 5–6 hours hiking, elevation +400 m (1,312 ft) -400 m (1,312 ft)

CROSS CUYOC PASS TO SAN ANTONIO - ELEPHANT CAMP

10 km (6.2 miles), 5–7 hours hiking, elevation +550 m (1,804 ft) -600 m (1,969 ft)

TREK TO CUTATAMBO VIA SAN ANTONIO PASS

9 km (5.6 miles), 5–6 hours hiking, elevation +400 m (1,312 ft) -1,000 m (3,281 ft)

REST DAY OR OPTIONAL HIKE TO SIULA GRANDE BASE CAMP

TREK TO HUATIAC VIA HUAYLLAPA VILLAGE

14 km (8.7 miles), 7–8 hours hiking, elevation +840 m (2,756 ft) -770 m (2,526 ft)

CROSS TAPUSH AND YAUCHA PASSES TO JAHUACOCHA

15 km (9.3 miles), 7–8 hours hiking, elevation +700 m (2,297 ft) -1,000 m (3,281 ft)

FINAL TREK, JAHUACOCHA TO LLAMAC VIA PAMPA LLAMAC PASS

12 km (7.5 miles), 5–6 hours hiking, elevation +300 m (984 ft) -900 m (2,953 ft)

FREE DAY IN HUARAZ

RETURN TO LIMA

OPTIONAL DEPARTURE DAY

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