Cordillera Huayhuash

With its snow-capped peaks, glacial lakes, and dramatic landscapes, the Cordillera Huayhuash is ideal for trekkers seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure. Whether you’re hiking the famous Huayhuash Circuit or exploring shorter trails, this destination promises an unforgettable experience.

The Cordillera Huayhuash is located in the Peruvian Andes, stretching over 30 kilometers. It lies south of the better-known Cordillera Blanca and Huascarán, but for seasoned trekkers, Huayhuash is often considered even more rewarding due to its stunning views and fewer crowds. With six of Peru’s highest peaks, including Yerupajá, the second-highest mountain in Peru at 6,634 meters (21,765 feet), Huayhuash offers a striking blend of natural beauty and formidable terrain.

In contrast to the more popular and accessible trekking routes in Peru, such as the Inca Trail, the Cordillera Huayhuash remains largely undiscovered by many international trekkers. Apart from its powerful portrayal in the documentary-drama Touching the Void, which recounts a harrowing tale of survival in the range, this remote area is seldom explored by outsiders.

There are no marked trails or signposts, making a knowledgeable guide invaluable. Its seclusion makes it perfect for those looking to truly escape into nature.

Reaching the Cordillera Huayhuash’s breathtaking vistas demands considerable effort: at high altitudes, the ascents are challenging and physically demanding. But the reward is a profound connection to nature that few get to experience.

Best Time to Trek Cordillera Huayhuash

The best time to trek in the Cordillera Huayhuash is during the dry season, which lasts from April to September. Known as the "Andean Summer," this period offers the most stable weather, with clear skies and minimal rainfall. Daytime temperatures are moderate, but nights can be quite cold, especially at higher altitudes, where temperatures often dip below 0°C (32°F).

Between June, July, and August, the weather can be particularly windy, creating a chill factor that makes proper layering essential. Be sure to pack layers to stay warm, especially in exposed or open areas. Trekkers should also be prepared with a high-quality sleeping bag, thermal clothing, and a reliable windproof jacket to stay comfortable.

From October to March, the region experiences heavy rainfall, making the trails muddy, slippery, and sometimes difficult to navigate. The risk of landslides and overflowing rivers also increases during this time, posing additional hazards. Many trekking agencies suspend operations during the wet season due to safety concerns. Therefore, if you're planning a Cordillera Huayhuash adventure, aim for the dry months to ensure the full route is available to explore and to have the best possible experience.

Cordillera Huayhuash Routes

There are several Cordillera Huayhuash routes available, ranging from short, moderate treks to the challenging full circuit. These routes are famous for their scenic beauty, including crystal-clear lakes and panoramic views of the towering peaks.

The circuit also holds historical significance, as parts of it follow ancient trade routes once used by indigenous Andean communities. These pathways served as vital links for commerce and communication, connecting isolated villages to exchange goods, such as textiles, potatoes, or quinoa. As trekkers navigate these historic routes, they are walking in the footsteps of generations of Andean people who lived in harmony with this rugged and remote terrain.

Read on to learn more about some of the most popular trekking routes in the range.

The Best of Cordillera Huayhuash

For those with limited time, shorter Cordillera Huayhuash routes provide a taste of the region’s beauty. Ranging from 4 to 6 days, these treks are perfect for travelers eager to experience the best of the Cordillera Huayhuash without committing to the full circuit. You will still be treated to some of the most iconic spots, including the turquoise alpine lakes of Laguna Jahuacocha and Laguna Carhuacocha.

Though the shorter treks require less time, they still involve steep ascents and high altitudes, so proper acclimatization and fitness are essential. Altitudes on these routes often exceed 4,000 meters (13,000 feet), where the thinner air can make physical exertion more demanding and increase the risk of altitude sickness. Trekkers are advised to spend a few days acclimating at lower altitude before starting their adventure.

Embrace the challenge; it’s all part of the journey. With every step, you’ll find the reward waiting in the form of sweeping views and transformative moments that feel uniquely yours.

The Huayhuash Circuit

The Huayhuash Circuit is the ultimate challenge for trekkers. It is often regarded as one of the world’s most spectacular long-distance treks. The full circuit spans approximately 130 kilometers (81 miles) and typically takes 10 to 12 days to complete. The trek reaches altitudes over 5,000 meters (16,404 feet), with several high passes offering spectacular panoramas of peaks such as Yerupajá, Siula Grande, and Jirishanca.

Trekkers will also pass through remote Andean villages and farming communities, like Pocpa and Huayllapa, where they can interact with locals and experience traditional ways of life, often unchanged for generations. This engagement with Peruvian culture adds a meaningful dimension to your journey, allowing for connections that extend beyond the physical trek.

The Huayhuash Circuit has also drawn elite endurance athletes attempting to set speed records. Ultrarunner Darcy Piceu holds the fastest known time (FKT) for the Huayhuash Circuit. In 2019, she completed the trek in 29 hours and 15 minutes, a testament to the growing popularity of fast-packing and adventure running in the region.

Here is an example of the classic route through the Huayhuash Circuit:

Day 1: Huaraz – Llámac – Cuartelwain (4170m)

Arrive in Huaraz, and travel to Llámac, the starting point of your trek. From here, begin your journey towards Cuartelwain, where you'll set up camp at an altitude of 4170 meters.

Day 2: Cuartelwain – Qaqanan Pass (4750m) – Mitucocha (4230m)

Ascend to Qaqanan Pass, reaching a height of 4750 meters, before descending towards the scenic Mitucocha at 4230 meters for an overnight stay.

Day 3: Mitucocha – Carhuac Pass (4600m) – Carhuacocha (4138m)

Trek towards Carhuac Pass, crossing the 4600-meter mark, before descending into the serene Carhuacocha at 4138 meters.

Day 4: Carhuacocha – Carnicero Pass (4630m) – Huayhuash (4330m)

Ascend over Carnicero Pass at 4630 meters, and continue to Huayhuash, where you’ll camp at an altitude of 4330 meters.

Day 5: Huayhuash – Portachuelo Pass (4750m) – Viconga (4400m)

Cross the Portachuelo Pass at 4750 meters, then descend towards the tranquil camp at Viconga at 4400 meters.

Day 6: Viconga – Cuyoc Pass (5000m) – Guanacpatay (Elefante Pampa) (4450m)

Challenge yourself with the high-altitude Cuyoc Pass at 5000 meters, followed by a descent to Guanacpatay, also known as Elefante Pampa, at 4450 meters.

Day 7: Guanacpatay – San Antonio Pass (4990m) – Cutatambo (4250m)

Climb the San Antonio Pass at 4990 meters, then descend into the peaceful valley of Cutatambo at 4250 meters.

Day 8: Cutatambo – Visit the Base Camp and Glacier of Siula Grande Mountain (Route of Joe Simpson)

Today, explore the base camp and glacier of Siula Grande, famous for the harrowing survival story depicted in the documentary Touching the Void. This historical route offers dramatic views of the towering mountain.

Day 9: Cutatambo – Huayllapa (3500m)

Descend towards Huayllapa, a picturesque Andean village nestled at 3500 meters, where you'll rest for the night.

Day 10: Huayllapa – Tapush Pass (4800m) – Qashpapampa (4500m)

Cross the challenging Tapush Pass at 4800 meters, then descend to Qashpapampa at 4500 meters for the evening.

Multi-Sport Adventure in the Cordillera Huayhuash

Exploring the Cordillera Huayhuash can be done in various ways, depending on your level of experience and preferred adventure style. For those seeking variety, a multi-sport adventure in the Cordillera Huayhuash combines trekking with activities like running and mountain biking, allowing you to maximize your adventure.

Keep in mind that it is important to research routes carefully or hire a guide to help plan your transition points if combining multiple activities.

Here’s an overview of some of the most popular multi-sport experiences

Trek

Trekking is the best way to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Cordillera Huayhuash. Whether you’re embarking on a shorter trek or the full Huayhuash Circuit, trekking offers a slow and intimate way to experience the landscape, providing an unforgettable connection to nature.

Pro tip: Acclimatization is crucial for a successful trek. Spend a few days in Huaraz to allow your body to adjust to the high altitude before embarking on your journey. If you choose to trek without a guide, it's essential to hire pack animals, such as mules or donkeys, to carry the necessary food and supplies. You can easily arrange for pack animals in Huaraz to ensure you're well-prepared for the challenging terrain ahead.

Running

If you're someone who thrives on adrenaline, trail running through the Cordillera Huayhuash is your perfect match. The rugged terrain and high altitudes make running a thrilling challenge. Experienced trail runners can cover significant distances in a shorter time, allowing them to experience the highlights of the range without spending weeks on the trail. However, be prepared to spend at least 3 days acclimatizing to the altitude.

This kind of adventure demands excellent fitness and a strong sense of determination, but the rewards are immense, including the unique perspective of covering a legendary trekking region at a runner's pace—an intense yet rewarding adventure.

Bike

For those who prefer wheels over feet, mountain biking in the Cordillera Huayhuash offers a unique and exhilarating way to explore the range. While there are no official mountain biking routes in the region, some trekking trails can be adapted for skilled bikers and include steep climbs and sharp descents. The entire circuit is not available for biking, but certain sections can be tackled in a 2-day stretch, allowing bikers to experience some of the range’s most scenic and challenging areas.

Conclusion

Ready to challenge yourself in one of the most beautiful regions of the Peruvian Andes? The Cordillera Huayhuash offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature and push your limits. Whether you choose to trek, run, or bike through its dramatic landscape, the Cordillera Huayhuash promises a rewarding and immersive experience in one of the most wild and beautiful regions of the Peruvian Andes. Prepare for memories that will last a lifetime.

For more information on trekking routes and how to plan your adventure, contact an Explorandes Travel Specialist today.