Leave by private bus from Huaraz around 6:30. The road follows the river Rio Santa and passes several villages before arriving in the village of Vaqueria. 

Cross the Portachuelo Pass, the highest point of the trip (4,767m). 

Enjoy one of the best views to observe the highest mountains of Cordillera Blanca. On the way to Vaqueria, stop at the beautiful lake sister lakes called Llanganuco. 

Arrive and load the donkeys with everything except what you wish to carry in your small day pack. 

Hike an easy 3 hours to your first camp Paria. 

Wake up with hot tea in your tent and have breakfast ready around 6:30.

The trail starts ascending towards the Punta Union, a pass at 4,750 m. This old trail was heavily used in pre-Columbian and colonial times as a route for transporting goods from the eastern side of the Andes to the main valley. 

Enjoy amazing panoramic views down the Santa Cruz Valley to the west, and views of the Huaripampa Valley to the east. The peaks of Santa Cruz surrounded by Andean vegetation of Quenual, the snow-capped peaks of Paria and Taulliraju, Artesonraju and Huaripampa will all come into view. We will see Mt. Taulliraju looming above us and on the other side, its glacial lake. 

See the all of Santa Cruz Canon, Alpamayo, Artesonraju, Taulliraju, Rinrihircas, Chacraraju, Chopicalqui and Pucajircas. 

After taking a break for half-hour, go down to our next camp Taullipampa.

Pass the lakes Icchicocha, Hatuncocha and Arhuaycocha. The lake Arhuaycocha boasts one of the most spectacular views of the entire Cordillera Blanca! 

Notice a steady change in vegetation as we follow the river to Cashapampa. 

Go on a 2-3 hour drive back to Huaraz.