Cordillera Huayhuash, Ancash Andes
Peru Cordillera Huayhuash Alpine Circuit
Regarded as one of the top five alpine treks on the planet: circling the glaciated teeth of Yerupajá (6,634m) and Siula Grande across 8 high Andean passes exceeding 4,600m.
- Region
- Cordillera Huayhuash, Ancash Andes
- Country
- Peru
- Difficulty
- Alpine Technical
- Terrain
- Alpine Ridge
- Distance
- 130 km
- Elevation gain
- +7800 m
- Max altitude
- 5020 m
- Duration
- 9 - 12 Days
- Best months
- May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
- Permit
- Local Quechua Community Backcountry Access Registration (Comunidades Campesinas)
Immerse in pure high-altitude Andean wilderness. Camp on the shores of jewel-like glacial lakes reflecting icefalls that roar in the silence of the night, while watching condors soar overhead.
Cultural notes: Passes through remote Quechua agrarian villages (Pocpa, Llamac, Queropalca). Respect community campsite fees that directly fund local schools and trail stewardship.
Wildlife notes: Andean Condors, Vicuñas grazing in high puna grasslands, Vizcachas (Andean chinchillas) sunbathing on boulders, and Torrent Ducks.
Key hazards
- High cumulative fatigue from daily passes over 4,700m
- Freezing Andean night temperatures dropping to -10°C
- Remote terrain with zero road access for 8 consecutive days
Essential gear
- -15°C Goose Down Sleeping Bag & R-Value 4.5+ Inflatable Pad
- Diamox & Altitude Acclimatization Schedule
- Satellite SOS Beacon & Solar Charging Kit
- Sturdy High-Ankle Waterproof-Breathable Trekking Boots
- Suggested pack list:
- - -15°C 850FP Down Sleeping Bag (1050g, mandatory)
- - Solar Charger Panel 21W (420g, mandatory)
- - High-Altitude Diamox & Medical Kit (180g, mandatory)
Waypoint-by-waypoint
| # | Waypoint | Dist. | Elev. | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pocpa Roadhead Trailhead (camp) | 0 km | 3400 m | Mule team load distribution and community trail fee payment. |
| 2 | Laguna Jahuacocha Camp (camp) | 28 km | 4070 m | Unbeatable reflection of Yerupajá and Jirishanca peaks. |
| 3 | Punta Cuyoc High Pass (5,020m) | 65 km | 5020 m | Highest pass on standard circuit; panoramic vista of Raura and Huayhuash icefields. |
| 4 | Laguna Carhuacocha (camp) | 98 km | 4138 m | Iconic sunrise spot with triple-peak reflection in calm morning waters. |
