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High alpine lakes in the Huayhuash, Peru - Huayhuash Circuit, Peru
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Huayhuash Circuit

Huayhuash Circuit trek in Peru through high-altitude passes, glacial lakes and remote Andean peaks.

Peru
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 9 reviews

19 Days from

$5060 USD

Trip Code: HYC
View dates to Book
Essential Information

Extra trip options & supplements

*Prices listed are per person

Single Supplement - Tent Only
$190 USD
Single Supplement (hotel + tent)
$390 USD
Duration
  • 19 Days
Activities
  • 12 day trek
  • 2 day Walks
Style
  • Classic Adventures  
Accommodation
  • 6 nights hotel
  • 12 nights camping
Meals
  • 13 Dinners
  • 16 Lunches
  • 18 Breakfasts
Difficulty Grading  
6 / 10

Moderate to Challenging

Carbon Footprint  

24kg of CO2-e PP per day

(439kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)

Huayhuash Circuit Trip highlights

  • Complete the full 127km Huayhuash Circuit, one of Peru’s most remote trekking routes
  • Cross multiple high mountain passes around 5000m / 16404ft
  • View major Andean peaks including Yerupaja (6640m / 21785ft) and Jirishanca
  • Camp beside glacial lakes and alpine meadows in isolated mountain settings
  • Acclimatise with day walks in the Cordillera Blanca from Huaraz
  • Experience local communities and high-altitude ecosystems

Overview

The Huayhuash Circuit is a multi-day high-altitude trek in Peru featuring 127km of remote mountain trails, high passes and glacial landscapes. It is one of South America’s most challenging and rewarding treks completng a full loop arpound the Cordillera Huayhuash in northern Peru. This journey explores a remote mountain range known for its high passes, glacial lakes and peaks exceeding 6000m, including Yerupaja, the second highest mountain in Peru. After acclimatisation in Huaraz and the Cordillera Blanca, the trek completes a full circuit of the Huayhuash range over multiple days at altitude. Along the way, you camp in alpine environments, pass through indigenous communities and traverse diverse ecosystems. A highlight includes a visit toward Siula Grande Base Camp and an ascent of Cerro Bella Vista, offering expansive views across the Andes.

Itinerary

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Arriving in Lima, you are transferred to your hotel in the Miraflores district. Peru’s capital sits along the Pacific coast and blends colonial history with modern city life. The remainder of the day is free to rest or explore, with time to prepare for the journey into the Andes. Accommodation: Dazzler Miraflores Hotel or similar

Meals: Nil

Today you will travel to Huaraz, the gateway to Peru’s spectacular Cordillera Blanca. The scenic drive takes you from the Pacific coast into the heart of the Andes, passing through dramatic mountain landscapes, fertile valleys, traditional villages and winding roads that steadily climb in elevation. As you approach Huaraz, the towering snow-capped peaks of the Cordillera Blanca begin to dominate the horizon. Set at 3,052 m (10,013 ft), Huaraz is the ideal place to begin acclimatizing to the altitude before your trek. Upon arrival at your hotel, you’ll meet your guide for a trip briefing and have time to make any final preparations for the adventure ahead. Accommodation: Hotel Suiza Peruana or similar

Meals: B,L

You undertake a day walk in the Cordillera Negra to Laguna Wilcacocha. The trail provides views across to the peaks of the Cordillera Blanca. This walk supports acclimatisation ahead of the trek. You return to Huaraz in the afternoon. Our second day hike is to Laguna Churup, a glacial lake beneath Nevado Churup. The trail ascends steadily and includes some steeper sections. Reaching the lake, the turquoise waters reflect the surrounding peaks, offering a clear sense of the high-altitude environment you will encounter on the Huayhuash Circuit trek. Accommodation: Hotel Suiza Peruana or similar

Meals: B,L

Travelling south from Huaraz (5hrs drive) via Conococha and Pacllon you reach the trailhead at Pukatzaka. At the trail head our “arrieros” (muleteers) and “burros” (donkeys) will be waiting and the trek begins with a gradual ascent to Jahuacocha Lake. This is your first view of the Huayhuash range. Camp is set beside the lake in an alpine setting. Accommodation: Camping

Meals: B,L,D

The trail climbs steadily to Sambunya Pass, where peaks of the Cordillera Huayhuash surround you. From the pass, views extend across valleys and alpine terrain shaped by glacial activity. The route then descends into Rondoy Valley with varied vegetation. A gradual climb leads to Matacancha camp. The day introduces sustained high-altitude trekking. Accommodation: Camping

Meals: B,L,D

Ascending toward Cacananpunta Pass, the terrain becomes steeper and more rugged. Reaching the pass, the eastern side of the range opens, revealing peaks including Jirishanca (6094m / 19993ft) and Rondoy (5879m / 19288ft). The trail descends toward Janca village and surrounding river valleys. Optional time may allow a visit to Mitucocha Lake. The scale of the surrounding mountains becomes more apparent as the circuit progresses. Accommodation: Camping

Meals: B,L,D

The trail climbs gradually to Carhuac Pass before descending toward Laguna Carhuacocha. As you approach the lake, the peaks of Yerupaja (6640m / 21785ft) and Yerupaja Chico rise above the valley. These peaks form part of the central Huayhuash massif. The lake’s position provides clear views of glacial faces and surrounding ridgelines. Camp is set above the lake in an alpine setting. Accommodation: Camping

Meals: B,L,D

A gradual ascent follows a valley lined with glacial lakes, including Gangrajanca and Siula. Surrounded by peaks such as Yerupaja and Siula Grande, the scale of the Andes becomes more pronounced. Climbing to Siula Pass (4836m / 15866ft), views extend across multiple valleys before descending to Huayhuash camp. The route reflects the remote nature of this trekking region in Peru. Accommodation: Camping

Meals: B,L,D

You ascend to Portachuelo Pass with views of Trapecio, Puscanturpa and León Huacanan (5427m / 17805ft) in the Cordillera Raura. The surrounding peaks reflect the transition between mountain ranges. The descent leads to Viconga Lake, set below glaciated slopes. Nearby thermal springs provide an opportunity to rest after several days of trekking. The area offers wide views across high-altitude terrain. Accommodation: Camping

Meals: B,L,D

A steady ascent leads to Cuyoc Pass, one of the highest points on the Huayhuash Circuit trek. From the pass, views extend across both the Huayhuash and Cordillera Raura ranges. The surrounding mountains exceed 5000m / 16404ft and dominate the skyline. The descent leads into the Huanacpatay Valley. Camp is set within a broad alpine landscape. Accommodation: Camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today you cross Santa Rosa Pass, the highest point of the Huayhuash Circuit. From here, glacial lakes including Siula and Jurau are visible below. The surrounding peaks rise sharply from the valley floors. The descent leads into the Jurau Valley. Camp is set at Cutatambo in a high mountain setting. Accommodation: Camping

Meals: B,L,D

A day walk from camp leads to Cerro Bella Vista, one of the highest viewpoints of the trek. From the summit, panoramic views extend across the Huayhuash range and surrounding peaks. The elevation provides perspective on the scale of the circuit. After time at the summit, you return to camp. The day offers some of the most expansive views of the trek. Accommodation: Camping

Meals: B,L,D

Descending through the Jurau Valley, the route follows river systems toward the village of Huayllapa. The landscape transitions from alpine terrain to agricultural land. A final climb leads to Huatiac camp, where views include Diablo Mudo (5223m / 17136ft). The day reflects the variation in terrain along the Huayhuash Circuit. Camp is set with views of the surrounding mountains. Accommodation: Camping

Meals: B,L,D

The trail climbs to Tapush Pass, following less-defined paths across alpine terrain. Along the way, glacial lakes and meadows reflect the high-altitude environment. Surrounding peaks rise above 5000m / 16404ft, reinforcing the scale of the terrain. Descending to Gashpapampa, camp is set within a remote section of the range, with limited signs of habitation. Accommodation: Camping

Meals: B,L,D

Crossing Yaucha Pass, the final major pass of the trek, you gain wide views across the Huayhuash range. From here, views extend across the Huayhuash range including peaks such as Yerupaja (6640m / 21785ft) and Jirishanca (6094m / 19993ft). The descent leads back to Jahuacocha Lake. This marks the completion of the full circuit. Camp is set near the lake with wide mountain views. Accommodation: Camping

Meals: B,L,D

A final descent leads back to Pukatzaka, marking the end of the Huayhuash Circuit trek. Here you farewell the trekking crew who have supported the journey. A vehicle transfer takes you to Chiquian, transitioning from the remote mountains back toward towns and roads. Accommodation: Hotel in Chiquian or similar

Meals: B,L,D

You travel back to Lima for your final night in Peru. The journey marks the transition from high mountain landscapes to coastal city life. The remainder of the day is free for rest or final exploration. Accommodation: Dazzler Miraflores Hotel or similar

Meals: B

After breakfast, you are transferred to the airport for your onward flight. The trip concludes today.

Meals: B

Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.

Ready to start your adventure?

3 scheduled departures between 2 Sep 2026 and 1 Sep 2027.

  • Departs 2 Sep 2026 – ends 20 Sep 2026 (19 days)
  • Departs 8 May 2027 – ends 26 May 2027 (19 days)
  • Departs 1 Sep 2027 – ends 19 Sep 2027 (19 days)
View dates to Book

What's included?

Included

  • 18 breakfasts, 15 lunches and 13 dinners
  • Airport transfers if arriving on Day 1 and departing on Day 19
  • Expert bilingual guide
  • Comfortable and central hotels
  • All internal transportation via private vehicle, except for Lima to Huaraz which is on a comfortable tourist class coach for groups up to 9 travellers. Your guide will accompany you throughout.
  • The use of a gear pack including sleeping bag, fibre filled jacket and thermarest sleeping mat
  • Group camping equipment
  • Pack animals or porters on trek to carry personal gear
  • Portable altitude chamber carried on trek
  • Accommodation in our fully serviced wilderness campsites on trek
  • Group medical kit
  • Filtered drinking water

Not included

  • Flights (international & domestic)
  • Excess baggage costs
  • Travel Insurance (compulsory)
  • Personal items such as laundry and alcoholic beverages (except wine on last trek day)
  • Any items not listed as included

About your guide

Javier has been guiding treks and expeditions in the Andes since 1982, making him one of the most experienced high-altitude guides working in the region today. Based in Cusco, he holds Wilderness First Aid, CPR and Airway Management certification through the National Outdoor Leadership School's Wilderness Medicine Institute — training he draws on constantly when leading groups through remote, high-altitude terrain.

Javier is a popular guide among our travellers, known for the storytelling and professionalism he brings to every trek he leads, weaving in local history and culture along the way.

Please note: while we make every effort to have Javier lead this trip, guide availability can change. If he's unavailable, we'll assign a local guide of equal experience and calibre to ensure the same standard of leadership and safety on the trail.

Reviews (9)

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Spectacular trip. Javier and Lucia were superb guides. Highly recommended to book and travel via World Expeditions.

Andries|New Brunswick, Canada
30 Sep 2025
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Wow, the Huayhuash Circuit is an amazing expedition, I had a blast. Of course, the trek had to end, well because it's pretty hard and it's a loop, but there were so many magical moments, I wanted it to just keep going…

Everything was so well organized with great attention to all the logistics, the guides Javier and Virgilio were exceptional, the cooks and the wranglers were so awesome, it was a trek of a lifetime for me !!!!!

I’m sure you’ll be hearing from me again with interest in another World Expedition down the road!!!

Steven|Minnesota United States
5 Jun 2025
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Javier and Roger guided us to a fabulous Huayyuash trip. It lived up to my high expectations. The equipment was top notch. The food was excellent and the staff looked after us superbly well. i would highly recommend

Robin John Grant|New Plymouth
13 Oct 2022
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Beautiful trek all along. Sight after sight. Javier great guide, great support team. Proud Peruvians, only prouder to lead us discovering their country. Marco great chef for lunches on the way and on campsites. Great variety un the menus.

Luc Lapierre|Montreal, Quebec
12 Oct 2022
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The trek was first rate. The support prior to departure could have been better [failed to follow-up with room reservations]. Distributing duffle-bags was not done in a manner that helped trekkers

Michael Williams|Atlanta, Georgia
5 Oct 2022
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This is a great expedition - one of the best. World Expeditions stands above the rest with excellent guides, horsemen, and cooks. However the terrain is rugged and the weather can be a challenge. We had days of sub zero temperatures requiring all the warm clothes in our possession. Our team of 9 worked well,together, led inspirationally by Javier and Roger. If there was any shortcoming it was the single salt shaker with small holes that blocked - and if that was the only issue you can tell it is a great trip. Wayne

Wayne Elliott Butt|New Plymouth, UK
4 Oct 2022
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Another excellent experience/trek provided by World Expeditions. Knowledgeable staff in the area certainly assisted with the whole experience. For those thinking should I shouldn't I - do it you will not regret it!! :)

N. Salsbury|Christchurch, New Zealand
23 Oct 2019
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I’ve done many treks in different locations including Nepal, India, Bhutan just to name few… and would say the Huayhuash is up there with the best. If you can afford it, please go & trek the Huayhuash Circuit Trek in Peru. It is one of the most beautiful, spectacular, breathtaking places I have ever seen. The trek is challenging but absolutely worth every step. I thoroughly enjoyed the experience. This trek would rank as one of my favourite all-time experiences. Every day on the trail offered something new and inspiring. The entire crew were superb and our guides Javier & Virgilio and local crew looked after us so well and made the experience even more special. I cannot recommend this trip with World Expeditions more highly. And finally thanks to the weather's god, it is important and we were lucky.

M. Hefetz|Israel
23 Oct 2019
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Bruce|Georgia United States
3 Jun 2025

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Extra trip info

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A 127km high-altitude trekking circuit in northern Peru around the Cordillera Huayhuash mountain range.

It is a challenging trek with multiple days above 4000m / 13123ft and several passes above 5000m / 16404ft.

Santa Rosa Pass at 5078m / 16660ft.

The full circuit typically takes around 12 days of trekking, excluding acclimatisation.

Yes, prior multi-day trekking experience and a high level of fitness are recommended.

The best season to trek is during the from April to September, known as the "Andean Summer".

  • Full 127km circuit with carefully planned acclimatisation
  • Fully supported trek with dedicated crew and camping logistics
  • Carry a day pack only during the trek. Personal gear and camping equipment will be carried by our trek animals.
  • Expert guides with knowledge of the Huayhuash region
  • Safety is our foremost priority and we carry a portable altitude chamber, emergency oxygen, group medical kit and satellite phone on the trek.
  • Remote route through high-altitude ecosystems and communities

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