Mini Huayhuash Trek 4 Days

Itinerary – Mini Huayhuash Trek 4 Days / 3 Nights

Day 1: Huaraz – Conococha – Chiquián – Llamac – Quartelhuain Camp (4,170 m)

We begin the adventure early in the morning with a private transfer from Huaraz heading south, following the road that crosses the high plains of Conococha, an immense landscape where the waters of the Santa River are born. From this privileged viewpoint, you’ll enjoy your first complete panorama of the Huayhuash Range, whose snowy peaks dominate the horizon.

We descend to the inter-Andean valley to visit Chiquián, a traditional town with one of the most beautiful views of the massif. We continue towards Llamac, where the scenery changes again: the route narrows, we follow the riverbank, and the mountains begin to rise powerfully around us.

After approximately 5 hours of driving, we arrive at Quartelhuain (4,170 m), our first campsite. Here you will meet the muleteers and their pack animals, who will accompany us throughout the trek. After setting up camp, you will have the afternoon free to rest, hydrate, and enjoy the mountains surrounding the valley.

• Transport time: 5 hours
• Camp altitude: 4,170 m
• Activity: acclimatization – rest – meeting the muleteers

Day 2: Quartelhuain – Rondoy / Sambuya Pass (4,750 m) – Solteracocha & Jahuacocha Lakes (4,050 m)

We start early with a hearty breakfast, as one of the most beautiful stages of the trek awaits us. We follow a gentle trail that gradually climbs up the northern flank of Cerro México.

After about one hour of hiking, we begin the sustained ascent toward Rondoy or Sambuya Pass (4,750 m). The climb is demanding, but once at the top the reward is incomparable: a front-row view of legendary mountains such as:

• Rondoy (5,870 m)
• Jirishanca (6,094 m)
• Yerupajá (6,634 m), the second highest mountain in Peru
• Yerupajá Chico & Yerupajá Sur
• Hanging glaciers and massive vertical walls

From here, a long but beautiful descent leads us to Solteracocha Lake and finally Jahuacocha Lake, one of the most stunning in the range, where we set up camp with spectacular panoramic views.

• Hiking time: 6 hours
• Elevation gain/loss: +570 m / -700 m
• Camp altitude: 4,050 m (Jahuacocha)

Day 3: Jahuacocha Lake – Llaucha Pass (4,850 m) – Jahuacocha

This day is dedicated to exploring one of the best viewpoints in the entire Huayhuash Range. We start from the campsite and gradually climb to Llaucha Pass (4,850 m), a lookout offering the full grandeur of the range.

From here, the massif rises like a massive wall of ice:

• The twin summits of Yerupajá
• The vertical and elegant Jirishanca
• The mythical Siula Grande, setting of the true story told in Touching the Void

Many mountaineers consider this view one of the most impressive landscapes in the Andes. It is also an excellent place to spot the Andean condor, which often soars over the area.

After enjoying the viewpoint, we return to Jahuacocha by the same trail. Free afternoon to rest, take photos, and enjoy a warm dinner in front of an unforgettable mountain backdrop.

• Hiking time: 6 hours
• Elevation gain/loss: +800 m / -800 m
• Maximum altitude: 4,850 m

Day 4: Jahuacocha – Llamac – Return to Huaraz

We wake up early to enjoy our last sunrise over the illuminated mountains. After breakfast we begin the descent through the valley, following the Jahuacocha River and later the Achín River until reaching the village of Llamac (3,250 m).

Here the trek officially ends, and we board our private transportation back to Huaraz, once again traveling through the Andean valleys and enjoying the final views of the magnificent Huayhuash.

Arrival in Huaraz in the afternoon and the end of the expedition.

• Hiking time: 4 h 30
• Elevation gain/loss: +220 m / -1,020 m
• Drive back to Huaraz: 4 h 30

Included

• Pre-departure briefing: Informative meeting before the trek (at your hotel or office).
• Transportation: Huaraz → trailhead and return from Llamac → Huaraz.
• Camping equipment: Mountain tents (2-person), sleeping pads. Single tent available for +USD 30.
• Full meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner (vegetarian/vegan options available).
• Cooking and dining equipment: Tables, chairs, dinnerware, and dining tent.
• Certified trekking guide: Spanish or English (other languages upon request).
• Cook: Preparation of varied and nutritious meals.
• Muleteer and pack animals: According to group size.
• Duffle bag: Up to 7 kg (includes sleeping bag + personal belongings).
• Entrance fee to the Huayhuash Reserve.
• Emergency horse: For evacuation only.
• First-aid kit.

Price

Cost per person: USD 520
Minimum group size: 2 travelers

This price includes the full logistical service: certified trekking guide, camping equipment, all meals, muleteers and pack animals, transportation, and full assistance throughout the expedition.

Packing List – Mini Huayhuash Trek 4 Days

Documents & Money

• Passport or ID (mandatory)
• Cash in Peruvian soles for entrance fees, snacks, or personal expenses
• Travel insurance recommended

Clothing (High-Mountain Gear)

• Thermal or down jacket
• Waterproof jacket (Gore-Tex or similar)
• Trekking pants (two pairs)
• Thermal pants for cold nights
• Long-sleeve breathable shirts
• Thermal base layer (top and bottom)
• Thermal gloves + waterproof gloves
• Warm hat and sun hat
• Buff or fleece neck gaiter
• Trekking socks (3 to 4 pairs)
• Enough underwear
• Comfortable clothes for camp

Footwear

• Waterproof trekking boots (already broken-in)
• Sandals or lightweight shoes for camp

Personal Gear

• Sleeping bag (-10°C to -15°C recommended)
• Trekking poles (highly recommended for descents)
• Headlamp + extra batteries
• Daypack (20–30 L)
• Duffle bag (provided, max. 7 kg)
• Reusable water bottle or hydration system (1–2 L)
• Quick-dry towel
• Dry bag or Ziploc bags for electronics and documents

Hygiene & Personal Care

• Sunscreen SPF 50+
• Lip balm with SPF
• Toilet paper
• Hand sanitizer
• Wet wipes
• Basic toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, small shampoo, etc.)

Personal Medication & First Aid

(Our tour includes a first-aid kit; this list is for personal items)

• Personal medication (mandatory if under treatment)
• Altitude sickness pills (optional, after medical advice)
• Anti-diarrheals, basic painkillers
• Bandages or tape if you have chronic injuries

Snacks (Recommended)

• Energy bars
• Nuts, chocolates, gummies
• Electrolytes or hydration powder

Useful Accessories

• Camera or phone + power bank
• UV sunglasses
• Extra rain poncho
• Waterproof cover for backpack

Policies – Mini Huayhuash Trek 4 Days

1. Reservations and Payments

• The reservation is confirmed with a 100% payment before the start of the trek.
• All payments may be made via bank transfer, deposit, or the platforms authorized by the agency.
• Prices are expressed in U.S. dollars (USD).

2. Cancellations and Changes

• Cancellations made more than 15 days before the trek: rescheduling available at no extra cost, no refunds.
• Cancellations between 14 and 7 days before the trek: 50% of the total amount is non-refundable.
• Cancellations within 7 days before departure: no refunds.
• Date changes are subject to availability and may incur additional logistical fees.

3. Trek Conditions

• Travelers are responsible for having adequate physical condition and proper acclimatization prior to the trek.
• Participation implies acceptance of the natural risks of the Huayhuash Range: altitude, cold temperatures, unpredictable weather, steep trails, and remote environments.
• The agency may modify the itinerary due to weather, safety concerns, roadblocks, or force-majeure events.

4. Health and Safety

• Travelers must inform the guide of any medical condition, allergies, or medication before starting the trek.
• Travel insurance that covers mountain evacuation is strongly recommended.
• The emergency horse is for evacuation only and not for personal transportation.

5. Equipment and Load

• The passenger’s duffle bag must respect the 7-kg limit.
• The agency is not responsible for fragile or valuable items inside the luggage carried by pack animals.

6. Exclusions and Personal Expenses

• Travelers are responsible for expenses not included in the program (entrance fees, drinks, extra meals, accommodation in Huaraz/Cajatambo, transportation to Lima, etc.).
• Tips are voluntary and not mandatory.

7. Cultural and Environmental Respect

• Travelers must respect local communities, their traditions, and sacred places.
• It is strictly forbidden to leave trash, disturb wildlife, damage vegetation, or remove natural elements.

8. Agency Responsibility

• The agency guarantees qualified staff and well-maintained equipment.
• The agency is not responsible for losses, accidents, or delays caused by external factors (weather, road conditions, community decisions, etc.).