Alta Via Huayhuash Trek

The Alta Vía Huayhuash is a demanding and spectacular variation of the classic Huayhuash circuit, designed for experienced trekkers who seek solitude, challenge, and raw alpine beauty. This high-level route ventures beyond marked trails into remote terrain, circling the towering peaks of the Cordillera Huayhuash — including Yerupajá (6,634 m), Siula Grande (6,344 m), Sarapo, and Trapecio. With glacial passes, moraine traverses, and exposed ridgelines, this is a true high-altitude adventure through one of the world’s most beautiful mountain ranges.

Certified IFMGA/UIAGM mountain guide
All meals during the expedition
Camping equipment (tents, kitchen gear, etc.)
Pack animals (donkeys) and arrieros (muleteers) for gear transport
Private transport from Huaraz to Alta Via and back
Group climbing gear (ropes, ice screws, snow stakes, etc.)

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PREPARATION

Fitness

Excellent physical condition is required. Expect sustained hiking days between 6 to 9 hours with significant elevation gain and loss. The trek involves daily ascents to above 4,800 meters and prolonged exposure to high altitude.

Technical

Moderate to high. The route includes rocky and uneven trails, glacier tongues, scree fields, and occasional snowfields depending on the season. While no ropework or climbing gear is needed, a steady step, mountain experience, and confidence in remote terrain are essential.

Altitude

5,150 meters (Cerro Mirador)
Average camp elevation ranges from 4,100 to 4,500 meters.

Itinerary

Day 1 – Lima to Huaraz

Travel from Lima to Huaraz (3,100 m), the capital of Peruvian mountaineering, by private vehicle or comfortable tourist bus. The day is used for rest and gear organization before heading into the mountains.

Day 2 – Acclimatization Hike: Laguna Uruscocha

A short drive takes us to the village of Pashpa, from where we begin a gentle ascent to Laguna Uruscocha. This glacial lake is surrounded by forest and distant peaks, making it an ideal acclimatization hike before entering the Huayhuash range.
⏱️ 6 hours round-trip

Day 3 – Huaraz to Rondoy (4,100 m)

We depart Huaraz and drive south through the Callejón de Huaylas to the village of Chiquián, with sweeping views of the Cordillera Blanca. From here, we descend into the Huayhuash valley via Llamac and Pocpa before arriving at our first camp near Rondoy.
⏱️ Full travel day + short walks

Day 4 – Rondoy to Mitucocha via Gara Pass (4,900 m)

Our adventure begins in earnest as we leave the classic route behind. We climb toward the rugged and lesser-used Gara Pass, navigating rocky slopes and scree with dramatic views of the Huayhuash peaks. After reaching the pass, we descend into the quiet, open valley of Janca and set camp near Mitucocha Lagoon.
⏱️ 6–7 hours

Day 5 – Mitucocha to Carhuacocha via Alkay Pass (4,800 m)

We leave the valley and ascend across volcanic terrain toward Alkay Pass, where we are treated to unforgettable views of Jirishanca, Siula Grande, and Yerupajá. From here, we descend into the Carhuacocha basin, one of the most stunning sites in the Andes.
⏱️ 6–7 hours

Day 6 – Carhuacocha to Carnicero Lagoon via Siula Pass (4,830 m)

We have two options today: the high crest route for alpine views of vertical faces, or the panoramic route via the famous lookout above the three lagoons. Both lead us over Siula Pass, from where we descend into the valley of Carnicero.
⏱️ 7–8 hours

Day 7 – Carnicero to Trapecio Camp (4,700 m)

Today is a high traverse day as we pass beneath the icy flanks of Jurao and Carnicero. Our route winds around alpine ridgelines and rocky outcrops. We set up camp at 4,700 meters, facing the awe-inspiring Trapecio Peak.
⏱️ 6–7 hours

Day 8 – Trapecio to Sarapococha via Trapecio Punta (5,010 m) and Jurao Glacier (5,150 m)

We cross Trapecio Punta, a rugged and exposed pass, before traversing the tongue of the Jurao Glacier. The descent involves rocky moraines and steep slopes, eventually bringing us into Cutatambo Valley near Laguna Sarapococha, the famous setting of Touching the Void.
⏱️ 7–8 hours

Day 9 – Sarapococha to Segya via Cerro Mirador (5,150 m)

We climb to the summit of Cerro Mirador, a high viewpoint with the best 360° panoramas of the entire Huayhuash: Siula Grande, Sarapo, Jurao, Yerupajá, and more. We then descend to the peaceful lagoon of Segya, camping in the wild Caramarca Valley.
⏱️ 7–9 hours

Day 10 – Segya to Jahuacocha via Rasac Pass (5,120 m)

We skirt the western flank of Nevado Rasac and climb to Rasac Pass. Snow can appear depending on the season. After a steep descent, we pass near Laguna Rasac and continue to the lakeside of Jahuacocha, our final alpine campsite.
⏱️ 7 hours

Day 11 – Rest Day at Jahuacocha

After multiple challenging days, we rest at one of the most scenic campsites in the Cordillera. Optional walk to Laguna Solteracocha, or simply relax by the water with dramatic views of Yerupajá.
⏱️ Optional 2–3 hours

Day 12 – Jahuacocha to Llamac – Return to Huaraz

We climb gently to Llamac Pass for a final view of the mountains, then descend to the village of Llamac. A private vehicle picks us up for the journey back to Huaraz.
⏱️ 5–6 hours hike + 4-hour drive

Day 13 – Huaraz to Lima

Morning or afternoon return to Lima by private vehicle or tourist bus. End of services.