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Cordillera Huayhuash, Peru - Huayhuash Circuit, Peru
Cordillera Huayhuash, Peru
Yerupaja Peak in the Huayhuash range - Huayhuash Circuit, Peru
Yerupaja Peak in the Huayhuash range  | Matej Mejovsek
Hiker in the Cordillera Huayhuash alpine landscape - Huayhuash Circuit, Peru
Hiker in the Cordillera Huayhuash alpine landscape
High alpine lakes in the Huayhuash, Peru - Huayhuash Circuit, Peru
High alpine lakes in the Huayhuash, Peru  | Ken Harris
The peaks of the Huayhuash, Peruvian Andes - Huayhuash Circuit, Peru
The peaks of the Huayhuash, Peruvian Andes  | Ken Harris
Landscape of the Huayhuash region, Peru - Huayhuash Circuit, Peru
Landscape of the Huayhuash region, Peru  | Ken Harris
The stunning peaks of the Cordillera Huayhuash - Huayhuash Circuit, Peru
The stunning peaks of the Cordillera Huayhuash  | Pablo Segovia
Breathtaking rugged landscape of the Huayhuash mountains, Peru - Huayhuash Circuit, Peru
Breathtaking rugged landscape of the Huayhuash mountains, Peru  | Ken Harris
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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

15 Days from

$ 

Trip Code: HYC
View dates to Book
Essential Information
Duration
  • 15 Days
Activities
  • 12 day trek
  • 2 day walks
Style
  • Classic Adventures  
Accommodation
  • 3 nights hotel
  • 11 nights camping
Meals
  • 11 Dinners
  • 14 Lunches
  • 14 Breakfasts
Difficulty Grading  
7 / 10

Challenging

Carbon Footprint  

24kg of CO2-e PP per day

(360kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)

Huayhuash Circuit Trip highlights

  • Complete a challenging high-altitude trek through the remote Cordillera Huayhuash
  • Enjoy two acclimatisation walks in the Cordillera Blanca before beginning the circuit
  • Cross high alpine passes, including Santa Rosa Pass at 5,057m / 16,591ft
  • Trek beneath Yerupajá, Peru's second-highest mountain
  • Discover the turquoise glacial lakes of Carhuacocha, Mitucocha and Jahuacocha
  • Explore the dramatic Siula Grande landscape featured in Touching the Void
  • Enjoy fully supported wilderness camping with experienced local trekking staff

Overview

Trek the Huayhuash Circuit, a challenging journey through the remote Cordillera Huayhuash of northern Peru. Following two acclimatisation walks in the Cordillera Blanca, venture into a wilderness of turquoise glacial lakes, towering snow-capped peaks and mountain passes exceeding 5,000m / 16,404ft. Trek beneath the summits of Yerupajá (6,634m / 21,765ft), Siula Grande and Jirishanca, explore landscapes made famous by Touching the Void, and encounter traditional Andean communities. Led by experienced bilingual local guides, enjoy fully supported wilderness camping with dedicated cooks, comfortable tents, freshly prepared meals, private composting toilet facilities and pack animals carrying your main luggage. With remote campsites and strong local support, this journey offers experienced trekkers an adventure in the heart of the Peruvian Andes.

Itinerary

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Upon arrival in Huaraz, the gateway to Peru's Cordillera Blanca and Huayhuash mountain ranges, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure to relax after your journey, explore the town and begin adjusting to the altitude before your trek begins. Accommodation: Hotel Cordillera or similar

Meals: Nil

Our first acclimatisation walk takes us into the Andean foothills overlooking the Cordillera Blanca. A short drive from Huaraz brings us to Rumichuco Bridge, where we begin a gradual ascent through traditional farming communities, passing adobe houses, cultivated fields and alpine wildflowers. As we gain altitude, views unfold across the snow-covered peaks of the Cordillera Blanca, including Huascaran, Peru's highest mountain at 6,768m / 22,205ft. Along the way, we may encounter local Quechua families going about their daily activities in this mountain region. After approximately four hours of ascending, we reach Ararcocha Lake (3,693m / 12,116ft), where mountain panoramas reward our efforts. Continuing onwards, we arrive at Wilcacocha Lake (3,725m / 12,221ft), enjoying a picnic lunch beside its waters before meeting our vehicle for the return journey to Huaraz. Hiking: 5.6km / 3.5mi Ascent: 838m / 2749ft | Descent: 37m / 121ft Driving time: Approximately 1 hour, 25km/15.5mi Accommodation: Hotel Cordillera or similar

Meals: B,L

Today we travel north through the Callejón de Huaylas Valley toward Huascarán National Park, where some of the highest peaks in Peru dominate the landscape. Passing through Carhuaz, a traditional Andean town known for its local markets, we continue toward Yungay. Here, we stop at Campo Santo, a memorial to the devastating earthquake and avalanche of 1970, when a massive flow of ice, rock and debris from Mount Huascarán buried much of the town, claiming thousands of lives. The memorial gardens and monuments provide a moving reminder of this tragedy. Continuing into Huascarán National Park, we enter the Llanganuco Valley, where the turquoise waters of Chinancocha and Orconcocha Lakes lie beneath towering mountain walls. We stop to appreciate the scenery before ascending the winding road to Portachuelo de Llanganuco Pass (4,707m / 15,443ft). From this spectacular viewpoint, we enjoy sweeping views of the glaciated peaks of Huascarán, Huandoy, Pisco, Chacraraju and Chopicalqui. The scale of the surrounding mountains provides an introduction to the high-altitude landscapes we will encounter during our trek. Leaving our vehicle, we begin a descent along an Inca trail, passing native vegetation, wildflowers and rocky slopes with views across the surrounding valleys. After approximately two hours of hiking, we stop for a picnic lunch before meeting our vehicle for the return journey to Huaraz. Having now spent time walking at elevations approaching 4,700m / 15,420ft, we are better prepared for the demanding days ahead in the Cordillera Huayhuash. Hiking: 2.3km / 1.4mi | Ascent: 90m / 295ft | Descent: 390m / 1,280ft Driving time: Approximately 5–6 hours total, 205km / 127.4mi Accommodation: Hotel Cordillera or similar

Meals: B,L

Leaving Huaraz early this morning, we travel south toward the Cordillera Huayhuash, a compact but formidable mountain range renowned for its dramatic peaks, remote valleys and challenging trekking routes. Our journey initially follows a paved road toward Chiquián, a small Andean town set against a backdrop of rugged mountains. Along the way, we stop at a viewpoint overlooking the Huayhuash range, where we may catch our first glimpse of Yerupajá (6,634m / 21,765ft), Peru's second-highest mountain. Beyond Chiquián, the road becomes unpaved as we continue toward Llamac, one of the main gateways to the Cordillera Huayhuash. Passing through Pocpa and the mining area of Pallca, we gradually gain elevation and enter increasingly remote mountain country. As we approach the Rondoy Valley, the landscape opens into broad grasslands surrounded by snow-covered peaks. Small settlements and grazing livestock provide occasional signs of human activity in this otherwise isolated environment. We reach Cuartelhuain (4,198m / 13,773ft), where our trekking crew establishes our first wilderness campsite. Surrounded by the peaks of the Huayhuash, we settle in for the evening and prepare for our first full day on the trail. Hiking: None – travel day Driving time: Approximately 5 hours, 157km / 97.6mi Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Our first full day of trekking takes us across Cacananpunta Pass (4,684m / 15,367ft), at the northern end of the Cordillera Huayhuash. Leaving camp, we begin a steady ascent through open grasslands, gradually climbing toward the pass. The surrounding landscape becomes increasingly rugged as we gain elevation, with rocky ridges and high mountain slopes rising above the trail. Cacananpunta lies on the continental divide, separating watersheds that drain toward the Pacific Ocean from those flowing east toward the Amazon Basin and Atlantic Ocean. This exposed mountain pass is also a place to watch for Andean condors, which can sometimes be seen soaring above the ridgelines. After taking time to appreciate the views, we descend through a landscape of colorful rock formations and alpine grasslands toward Janca Camp (4,244m / 13,924ft). Our campsite is situated near Lake Mitucocha, whose turquoise waters reflect the impressive peaks of Ninashanca, Rondoy and Jirishanca. Today's relatively short walk allows us to continue acclimatizing to the altitude. Those feeling energetic can join an optional afternoon hike to Mitucocha Lake for closer views of the surrounding mountains. Hiking: 8km / 5.0mi | Ascent: 565m/ 1865ft | Descent: 524m/ 1730ft Optional hike to Mitucocha Lake: 3.8km / 2.4mi, +43m/142ft, -56m/185ft Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today we continue deeper into the Cordillera Huayhuash, crossing Carhuac Pass (4,633m / 15,200ft) before descending to one of the most scenic campsites on the circuit. The trail climbs steadily from Janca through open mountain terrain, with the ascent generally more gradual than yesterday's crossing. As we approach the pass, views open toward Yerupajá (6,634m / 21,765ft), the highest peak in the Huayhuash range, along with neighboring summits rising above the surrounding valleys. After crossing Carhuac Pass, we begin our descent toward Lake Carhuacocha. The trail eventually reaches the edge of a hanging valley, where we are rewarded with our first views of the lake's striking blue-green waters far below. Continuing downhill, we reach our campsite at approximately 4,179m / 13,711ft, situated below the lake and surrounded by towering peaks and hanging glaciers. The setting is particularly impressive, with the steep mountain walls of the Huayhuash rising directly above the valley. As the afternoon light changes, the surrounding peaks take on different colors, providing excellent opportunities for photography. We spend the evening enjoying this remarkable mountain setting and preparing for tomorrow's longer trek. Hiking: 9.5km / 5.9mi | Ascent: 406m/1352ft | Descent: 467m/1555ft Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

An early start is worthwhile this morning, particularly for photographers hoping to capture the first light illuminating Yerupajá and the surrounding peaks above Lake Carhuacocha. Today's trek is one of the longer and more demanding days of the circuit, taking us through a succession of high mountain valleys and glacial lakes before crossing Siula Pass (4,836m / 15,866ft). Leaving camp, we begin a gradual ascent through a green valley surrounded by some of the most recognizable peaks of the Huayhuash, including Yerupajá, Yerupajá Chico, Siula Grande, Jirishanca, Santa Rosa and Carnicero. Along the way, we pass the beautiful glacial lakes of Gangrajanca, Siula and Quesillacocha, their turquoise waters contrasting with the steep rock faces and glaciers above. The final approach to Siula Pass involves a steep climb over rocky terrain, requiring sustained effort at high altitude. From the pass, we enjoy far-reaching views across the surrounding mountains before beginning our descent. Our trail leads down toward Huayhuash Camp (4,353m / 14,281ft), situated beneath Mount Trapecio and the three summits of Jurau. After a challenging day, we settle into camp for a well-earned meal and rest. Hiking: 13.8km / 8.6mi | Ascent: 924m/3077ft | Descent: 624m2078ft Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today we tackle one of the highest passes of the trek, ascending to Trapecio Punta (5,029m / 16,499ft). Leaving Huayhuash Camp, we begin a sustained climb through increasingly rugged mountain terrain. The ascent gains approximately 700m / 2,297ft as we make our way toward the pass, where the thinner air adds to the physical demands of the climb. Reaching Trapecio Punta is a significant achievement, with impressive views toward Mount Trapecio, Puscanturpa and the southern peaks of the Cordillera Raura. After taking time to appreciate the mountain panorama, we begin a steep descent over rocky terrain. The trail drops approximately 250m / 820ft before crossing an old glacial moraine, where the landscape bears evidence of the glaciers that once shaped these valleys. Continuing through the high mountain environment, we eventually reach the broad grasslands of Pampa Cuyoc. Our campsite (4,530m / 14,862ft) lies beneath the imposing slopes of Cuyoc Peak, surrounded by rugged mountains and open alpine terrain. Hiking: 11km / 6.8mi | Ascent: 781m/2600ft | Descent: 575m/1915ft Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Another challenging day awaits as we climb to Santa Rosa Pass (5,065m / 16,617ft), the highest point of our trek. The trail ascends steeply from Pampa Cuyoc, requiring careful footing and a steady pace as we gain elevation. The effort is rewarded at the pass, where an extraordinary panorama of the Cordillera Huayhuash unfolds before us. On a clear day, we can identify the towering summits of Yerupajá, Siula Grande, Sarapo, Rasac and Jurau, their steep rock faces and glaciers forming a dramatic mountain skyline. After taking time to appreciate the views, we begin our descent toward the Calinca Valley. The route leads through rugged mountain terrain before gradually opening into a broader valley beneath the imposing walls of Siula Grande and Sarapo. Our destination is Cutatambo Camp (4,288m / 14,068ft), situated near the area where British mountaineer Joe Simpson established his base camp before his 1985 ascent of Siula Grande with Simon Yates. Their extraordinary survival story, recounted in Touching the Void, brought international attention to this remote corner of the Peruvian Andes. We spend the night surrounded by the impressive peaks of Sarapo and Carnicero, with time to appreciate the remarkable landscape after another demanding day on the trail. Hiking: 6.7km / 4.2mi | Ascent: 630m/2098ft | Descent: 836m/2784ft Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today provides a welcome opportunity to rest or explore the dramatic mountain scenery surrounding Cutatambo Camp. For those wishing to take a break from trekking, the campsite offers a wonderful setting to relax beneath the towering peaks and glaciers of the Cordillera Huayhuash. Alternatively, we can join an optional hike toward the base of Siula Grande, following the route associated with Joe Simpson and Simon Yates's famous 1985 expedition. The trail leads through rugged glacial terrain toward Joe Simpson's Rock and the moraine overlooking Sarapococha Lake (4,625m / 15,174ft). Along the way, we enjoy close views of the immense mountain walls, glaciers and rocky ridges that define this remote valley. The excursion provides a fascinating perspective on the mountaineering history of the Huayhuash and the challenging environment encountered by climbers attempting its formidable summits. After exploring the area, we return to Cutatambo Camp for another night beneath the mountains. Optional hiking: 8.6km / 5.3mi | Ascent: 629m/2095ft | Descent: 629m/2095ft Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today is one of the more physically demanding days of the circuit, combining a long descent into the warmer Huayllapa Valley with a sustained afternoon climb to our next campsite. Leaving Cutatambo, we retrace our route down the Calinca Valley, following the trail past mountain streams and waterfalls as we gradually lose elevation. The landscape changes noticeably as we descend, with the stark alpine environment giving way to greener slopes and cultivated farmland. We eventually reach Huayllapa (3,596m / 11,798ft), a remote Andean village where agriculture and livestock farming remain central to daily life. Passing through the settlement provides an opportunity to observe the contrast between the high mountain environment and the communities living in the lower valleys. After a break, we begin a steep afternoon ascent toward Huatiac. The climb is particularly demanding after the morning's descent, and the warmer temperatures at lower elevations can add to the challenge. Our trail eventually reaches Huatiac Camp (4,298m / 14,101ft), situated in a high grazing meadow beneath Diablo Mudo, whose name translates as the "Mute Devil." We settle into camp after a rewarding but strenuous day, enjoying views of the surrounding mountains as the afternoon light fades. Hiking: 16.4km / 10.2mi | Ascent: 924m/3077ft | Descent: 863m/2874ft Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

After yesterday's demanding walk, today's shorter trek provides an opportunity to enjoy the mountain scenery at a more relaxed pace. Leaving Huatiac Camp, we begin a steady ascent toward Punta Tapush Pass (4,790m / 15,715ft). The trail crosses open alpine terrain, with views extending toward the surrounding ridges and peaks of the western Huayhuash. Reaching the pass, we pause to appreciate the landscape before beginning our descent toward Gashpapampa. The walk down takes approximately one hour, leading us into a broad mountain valley where our campsite is situated at 4,556m / 14,948ft. With a relatively short hiking day, we have time to relax and enjoy the surroundings. As evening approaches, the setting sun illuminates the slopes of Diablo Mudo, providing a memorable backdrop to our campsite. Hiking: 6.5km / 4.0mi | Ascent: 541m/1800ft | Descent: 239m/796ft Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today we cross our final major mountain pass before descending to one of the most beautiful lakes in the Cordillera Huayhuash. Leaving Gashpapampa, we initially descend into the Angoshcancha Valley, passing through native queñual forest. These hardy, high-altitude trees, with their distinctive peeling bark, provide important habitat for Andean wildlife. From the valley, we begin our ascent toward Yaucha Pass (4,848m / 15,906ft), following a trail that becomes increasingly rocky as we approach the scree-covered slopes near the top. The pass offers far-reaching views across the Huayhuash range, with many of the peaks we have trekked beneath during the past week visible on the horizon. On clear days, we may also see the distant snow-covered summits of the Cordillera Blanca. This is another good location to watch for Andean condors, which sometimes soar along the mountain ridges. After crossing the pass, we begin a very long descent toward Jahuacocha Lake (4,076m / 13,373ft). The first sight of the lake is a fitting reward for our efforts. Its turquoise waters lie beneath the towering western faces of Yerupajá, Jirishanca, Rasac and Rondoy, creating one of the defining landscapes of the Huayhuash Circuit. We establish camp near the lakeshore, surrounded by glaciers and imposing mountain walls. Hiking: 10km / 6.2mi | Ascent: 465m/1550ft | Descent: 1072m/3570ft Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today we enjoy a full day at Jahuacocha Lake, one of the most rewarding locations to spend additional time on the Huayhuash Circuit. Situated at 4,076m / 13,373ft, the lake lies beneath the immense glacier-covered western faces of Yerupajá, Jirishanca, Rasac, Rondoy and El Toro. The surrounding landscape offers excellent opportunities for photography, particularly in the early morning when the first light catches the snow-covered peaks and reflects across the lake. The area is also home to a variety of Andean birdlife, including puna ibis and Andean geese, which can often be observed along the lakeshore and surrounding wetlands. For those wishing to explore further, an optional hike leads toward Solteracocha Lake (4,206m / 13,799ft), situated beneath Yerupajá. The route provides additional perspectives of the mountain's steep western face and the glacial terrain surrounding it. Alternatively, we can spend the day relaxing at camp, walking around the lakeshore or simply enjoying the peaceful mountain setting. Back at camp, we enjoy a traditional pachamanca lunch, a Peruvian cooking method in which food is prepared using heated stones in an earth oven. This provides a memorable cultural experience and an opportunity to celebrate our time in the mountains before tomorrow's final trek. Optional hiking: 5.8km / 3.6mi | Ascent: 278m/925ft | Descent: 278m/925ft Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Our final day in the Cordillera Huayhuash begins with an early breakfast beside Jahuacocha Lake before setting out on the last stage of our trek. Leaving camp, we begin a gradual ascent toward Mancanpunta Pass (4,572m / 15,000ft). As we gain elevation, the surrounding peaks provide a final opportunity to appreciate the scale and beauty of this remarkable mountain range. At the pass, we pause to take in the views across the Huayhuash and reflect on the journey through its remote valleys, high mountain passes and glacial landscapes. We then begin our descent along a steep, gravelly trail toward Pocpa (3,483m / 11,427ft). As we lose elevation, the rugged alpine environment gradually gives way to cultivated hillsides and the landscapes of the lower Andean valleys. On reaching Pocpa, we meet our private vehicle and farewell our trekking crew, whose experience and support have been an important part of our journey. Our drive takes us through Chiquián and back toward Huaraz, with views of the surrounding Andean ranges along the way. Returning to Huaraz marks the completion of a challenging and rewarding expedition through one of Peru's great trekking regions, with memories of remote mountain camps, turquoise lakes and some of the most impressive peaks in the Andes. Hiking: 9.4km / 5.8mi | Ascent: 549m/1828ft | Descent: 1104m/3676ft Driving time: Approximately 4.5 hours, 143km / 88.9mi Note: If you would like to book a post trip night of accommodation, please contact our reservations staff.

Meals: B,L

Ready to start your adventure?

6 scheduled departures between 1 May 2027 and 24 Oct 2027.

  • Departs 1 May 2027 – ends 15 May 2027 (15 days)
  • Departs 5 Jun 2027 – ends 19 Jun 2027 (15 days)
  • Departs 3 Jul 2027 – ends 17 Jul 2027 (15 days)
  • Departs 31 Jul 2027 – ends 14 Aug 2027 (15 days)
  • Departs 4 Sep 2027 – ends 18 Sep 2027 (15 days)
  • Departs 24 Oct 2027 – ends 7 Nov 2027 (15 days)
View dates to Book

What's included?

Included

  • All meals during the trek
  • Double occupancy tents
  • Bilingual guide
  • Comfortable hotel in Huaraz
  • All internal transportation
  • Use of a gear pack including duffle bag, sleeping bag, fibre filled jacket and sleeping mat
  • Pack horses and horse handlers
  • Fully serviced campsites on trek
  • Acclimatisation hikes to Wilcacocha and Llanganuco Portachuelo
  • All park entry fees
  • Group medical kit including a portable altitude chamber, emergency oxygen and satellite phone
  • Arrival transfer to hotel

Not included

  • International and domestic flights
  • Travel Insurance (compulsory)
  • Visa (if applicable)
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Meals not listed in the itinerary
  • Excess baggage charges
  • Any items not listed as included

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

Extra trip info

Will My Trip Run?FAQsWhy Book With Us

Every departure date advises whether the date is confirmed, and roughly how full it is. Here is what each one means.

Is the departure confirmed?

Guaranteed to go This departure has reached its minimum number and will run.
It is the point travellers should wait for before booking any non-refundable flights.
Close to guaranteed This appears only when a date is close to reaching minimum numbers. If it shows 1 or 2 to guaranteed, book as a pair on a date needing two and it reaches its minimum. Your booking confirms the date for everybody already booked.

How full is the date I am looking at?

Space is filling or Space is filling fast This date has bookings and places are still open. Filling fast means limited spots available, so don't leave your decision too late.
Closing soon Down to its last few places, or close enough to departure that we are finalising numbers. Still bookable online.
Closed Not bookable online - either full, or inside the notice we need to arrange permits, flights and logistics. Ask us anyway, you never know!

Availability questions answered

Will this trip actually go ahead, or could it be cancelled?

If a date shows Guaranteed to go, it runs regardless of further bookings.

What does 2 to guarantee mean?

It means two travellers are enough to confirm the departure. It could be 2 more to add to the group, or the date only needs 2 people to run. Either way, if you book for two people, the date will become guaranteed to run.

What happens if my departure does not reach minimum numbers?

You will know the status before you book. Every date on this page is labelled, and dates marked “Guaranteed to go” are running regardless of further bookings. Where a date has not reached its minimum we either offer a surcharge to operate for a smaller group size so it can still run, or we cancel it. We contact you directly either way.

Will I get my money back if you cancel a departure?

If we cancel a departure due to not meeting minimum trip numbers, you receive a full refund of everything you have paid us less any non recoverable costs, where insurance may cover you. We cannot refund money committed elsewhere – additional non refundable deposits advised at the time of booking, flights, visas, vaccinations, gear - which is why it is worth waiting for “Guaranteed to go” before booking other arrangements around this trip date. Please read our Booking Terms and Conditions before you book.

Why can't I book some dates online?

Each trip closes online a set time before departure. Permits, internal flights and hut or campsite bookings all have to be arranged before we take payment. Call or enquire as it might still be possible to organise last minute places.

The date I want is closed. What are my options and why does it say to enquire?

Cancellations happen and places do open up on closed dates, so it is worth being on our list. We can also tell you which nearby date on the same trip has space, which is usually the faster route.

None of these dates suit me. Can you run this trip on another date?

Yes, as a private departure. We can run this trip on a date you choose, for your own group - family, friends, a club, or in many cases, just for the two of you. Tell us when you want to travel and who is coming, and we will build it around that.

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This is a challenging high-altitude trek requiring excellent fitness, stamina and previous multi-day trekking experience. The route includes steep ascents, rocky mountain trails and several high passes, with some walking days lasting up to nine hours.

Trekking in Peru's Cordillera Huayhuash, a remote range known for its snow-capped peaks, turquoise glacial lakes and high mountain passes. This circuit offers views of Yerupajá and Siula Grande, combining high-altitude trekking with remote wilderness and traditional Andean culture.

Trekking days range from approximately 4–9 hours of walking, depending on the terrain, altitude and weather conditions. The itinerary also includes flexible days at Cutatambo and Jahuacocha, allowing time for optional walks or rest.

Waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support and grip are recommended, along with lightweight shoes for use around camp.

The itinerary includes two acclimatisation day hikes from Huaraz before beginning the main trek.

The highest point is Santa Rosa Pass at 5,057m / 16,591ft, followed by Trapecio Punta at 5,020m / 16,470ft. Several other mountain passes exceed 4,500m.

The Cordillera Huayhuash is home to a variety of Andean wildlife, including condors, Andean geese and puna ibis. We may also encounter grazing alpacas and traditional livestock, along with native high-altitude vegetation.

Yes. The trek offers views of Yerupajá, Peru's second-highest mountain, and Siula Grande from several locations, including Carhuacocha Lake, Siula Pass and Santa Rosa Pass, subject to weather conditions.

In Huaraz we stay in 3-star hotel centrally located and during the trek, accommodation is in twin-share tents at remote wilderness campsites.

Your complimentary trekking pack includes a sleeping bag, sleeping mat and warm jacket for use during the trek.

No, pack horses transport the main expedition equipment and luggage, while you carry a daypack containing daily essentials.

Yes, all meals during the trek are included and freshly prepared by the expedition cook and kitchen team.

Please advise us of any dietary requirements well in advance so we can confirm what can be accommodated in this remote environment.

Yes

Private eco-toilet tents with portable sit-down toilets are provided exclusively for our group at each campsite, while washing facilities are basic, with no hot showers available during the trek.

The main trekking season extends from April to October, with the generally drier months offering favourable conditions for high-altitude trekking.

Yes. The itinerary explores the remote mountains surrounding Siula Grande, where Joe Simpson and Simon Yates undertook their famous mountaineering expedition recounted in Touching the Void. There is an opportunity to explore the area associated with their base camp near Cutatambo.

Yes, travel insurance is compulsory for this trip.

Visa requirements depend on your nationality and current Peruvian entry regulations, so travellers should check the latest requirements before departure.

  • Trek through one of Peru's most remote mountain ranges, beneath the towering peaks of Yerupajá, Siula Grande and Jirishanca
  • Enjoy two acclimatisation walks in the Cordillera Blanca before embarking on the challenging Huayhuash trek
  • Enjoy fully supported wilderness camping with experienced cooks, dedicated trekking staff and pack animals to transport equipment
  • Carry a day pack only during the trek. Personal gear and camping equipment will be carried by our trek animals
  • Travel with experienced bilingual local trekking guides who bring extensive knowledge of the region's mountains, culture and environment
  • Safety is our foremost priority and we carry a portable altitude chamber, emergency oxygen, group medical kit and satellite phone on the trek.

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