10-Day Huayhuash Circuit Trek in Peru with Santa Rosa Pass

Morning - Your Adventure Begins in Huaraz

Your unforgettable journey into the Cordillera Huayhuash begins with an early departure from Huaraz. Travel through traditional Andean villages, picturesque valleys, and spectacular high-altitude landscapes toward Cuartelhuain, the starting point of our trek.

Meet our experienced local trekking team, including guides, cooks, and muleteers, who will accompany you throughout this extraordinary mountain adventure.

Afternoon - Cross Cacananpunta Pass

Begin your first trekking stage, gradually ascending toward Cacananpunta Pass.

• Enjoy panoramic views of remote Andean valleys and dramatic mountain landscapes.

• Experience your first high-altitude mountain crossing.

• Descend toward the beautiful Mitucocha Lagoon, surrounded by majestic snow-covered peaks.

• Admire the impressive Jirishanca mountain rising above the surrounding landscape.

Evening - Your First Night Beneath the Andes

Arrive at our campsite beside Mitucocha Lagoon, where our support team will welcome you with afternoon tea.

Relax, photograph the breathtaking mountain scenery, and enjoy a freshly prepared dinner surrounded by the peaceful atmosphere of the Andes.

Spend your first night camping beneath the spectacular mountains of the Cordillera Huayhuash.

Overnight: Mitucocha campsite.

Included meals: Trail snack, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner.

Morning - Wake Up Beneath the Majestic Jirishanca Mountain

Wake up surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of Mitucocha Lagoon, with the towering, snow-covered Jirishanca Mountain dominating the horizon.

After enjoying a freshly prepared breakfast, begin your second trekking day through the remote landscapes of the Cordillera Huayhuash.

Follow the mountain trail toward Alcay Pass, surrounded by vast Andean valleys, dramatic peaks, and spectacular high-altitude scenery.

Afternoon - Cross Alcay Pass and Discover Carhuacocha

Continue ascending toward Alcay Pass, where spectacular panoramic views reveal the extraordinary beauty of the Huayhuash mountain range.

• Admire the rugged mountain peaks and impressive high-Andean landscapes.

• Enjoy scenic viewpoints overlooking remote valleys.

• Descend through beautiful mountain terrain toward Carhuacocha Lagoon.

• Marvel at the magnificent snow-covered peaks of Yerupajá, Siula Grande, and Jirishanca rising above the turquoise waters.

As you approach Carhuacocha, discover one of the most iconic landscapes of the entire Huayhuash Circuit, a paradise for mountain lovers and photographers.

Evening - Sunset Over the Huayhuash Giants

Arrive at our campsite beside Carhuacocha Lagoon, where our support team will welcome you with afternoon tea.

Relax beside the lake and admire the changing colors of the towering mountains as the afternoon light fades.

Enjoy a freshly prepared mountain dinner and experience the peaceful atmosphere of camping beneath some of Peru's most spectacular peaks.

Overnight: Carhuacocha campsite.

Included meals: Breakfast, trail snack, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner.

Morning - Discover the Famous Three Lagoons

Wake up beside the spectacular Carhuacocha Lagoon, surrounded by the towering snow-covered peaks of the Cordillera Huayhuash.

After a freshly prepared breakfast, begin one of the most breathtaking trekking days of your entire expedition.

Follow the scenic trail along Carhuacocha before ascending toward the famous Three Lagoons Viewpoint, one of the most iconic photographic locations in the Peruvian Andes.

• Discover the stunning turquoise waters of Gangrajanca, Siula, and Quesillococha lagoons.

• Admire the dramatic glaciers and towering peaks of Yerupajá and Siula Grande.

• Capture unforgettable photographs of three glacial lakes surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery.

• Experience the extraordinary beauty of the remote Cordillera Huayhuash.

Afternoon - Cross Siula Pass

Continue ascending through rugged high-altitude terrain toward Siula Pass, surrounded by impressive peaks and spectacular Andean landscapes.

From the mountain pass, enjoy sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding valleys, glacial formations, and distant mountain ranges.

After taking time to appreciate the scenery, descend through the remote high-Andean landscape toward the Huayhuash campsite.

Evening - Relax Beneath the Andean Stars

Arrive at our campsite, where our trekking team will welcome you with a warm afternoon tea.

Relax after this rewarding mountain adventure while our professional cook prepares a freshly made dinner.

As evening falls, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the Andes, surrounded by mountains and an extraordinary high-altitude landscape.

Overnight: Huayhuash campsite.

Included meals: Breakfast, trail snack, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner.

Morning - Journey into the Wild Heart of the Huayhuash Mountains

Wake up surrounded by the peaceful beauty of the Huayhuash campsite, where towering mountains and vast Andean landscapes create an unforgettable setting.

After enjoying a freshly prepared breakfast, begin your ascent toward the spectacular Trapecio Pass, one of the most impressive high-altitude crossings of the expedition.

As you gain elevation, the landscape becomes increasingly dramatic, revealing rugged mountain ridges, glacial formations, and breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks.

• Admire the imposing Trapecio Mountain and its dramatic rocky slopes.

• Walk through remote high-altitude terrain surrounded by magnificent Andean scenery.

• Discover breathtaking mountain panoramas and beautiful glacial landscapes.

• Experience the extraordinary solitude of the Cordillera Huayhuash.

Afternoon - Cross Trapecio Pass and Descend into Elephant Valley

Reach Trapecio Pass and enjoy spectacular panoramic views across one of the wildest sections of the Huayhuash Circuit.

Take a moment to appreciate the towering mountains, immense valleys, and extraordinary natural beauty surrounding you.

After crossing the pass, begin your descent toward the remote Elephant Valley, a breathtaking location surrounded by rugged peaks and spectacular high-Andean landscapes.

Along the way, enjoy opportunities to photograph the dramatic mountain scenery and experience the peaceful atmosphere of this isolated region.

Evening - Camp in the Remote Elephant Valley

Arrive at our campsite in Elephant Valley, where our experienced support team will welcome you with a warm afternoon tea.

Relax after a rewarding trekking day while our professional expedition cook prepares a freshly made dinner.

As darkness falls, experience the tranquility of the Andes beneath a magnificent mountain sky, far from the noise and distractions of everyday life.

Overnight: Elephant Valley campsite.

Included meals: Breakfast, trail snack, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner.

Morning - Begin the Ascent to the Highest Pass of Your Adventure

Wake up in the remote Elephant Valley, surrounded by towering Andean peaks and the extraordinary silence of the Cordillera Huayhuash.

After enjoying a freshly prepared breakfast, prepare for one of the most challenging and rewarding trekking days of your 10-day expedition.

Begin your ascent toward Santa Rosa Pass, following rugged mountain trails through spectacular high-altitude landscapes.

As you climb higher, admire the dramatic scenery of the surrounding glaciers, rocky mountain ridges, and snow-covered summits.

• Challenge yourself on the ascent toward Santa Rosa Pass, approximately 5,100 meters above sea level.

• Discover spectacular views of the towering mountains and glaciers of the Cordillera Huayhuash.

• Experience the thrill of trekking through one of the most remote and breathtaking mountain regions in Peru.

• Enjoy unforgettable photographic opportunities along the route.

Afternoon - Reach Santa Rosa Pass and Admire the Majestic Siula Grande

Reach Santa Rosa Pass at approximately 5,100 meters, the highest point of your Huayhuash trekking adventure.

Standing at this remarkable mountain viewpoint, take a moment to celebrate your achievement while surrounded by some of the most impressive landscapes in the Peruvian Andes.

Weather permitting, admire magnificent views of Siula Grande, its dramatic glacial formations, and the spectacular surrounding mountain peaks.

Siula Grande is internationally known for the extraordinary mountaineering survival story featured in the book and documentary Touching the Void.

After enjoying the panoramic scenery, begin your descent toward the breathtaking Cutatambo Valley, nestled beneath the imposing mountains of the Huayhuash range.

Follow the trail through beautiful glacial landscapes and remote Andean terrain until reaching our campsite.

Evening - A Magical Night in Cutatambo Valley

Arrive at our campsite in Cutatambo, surrounded by spectacular peaks and peaceful high-altitude scenery.

Our support team will welcome you with warm afternoon tea, providing the perfect opportunity to relax after this demanding mountain crossing.

Enjoy a freshly prepared dinner and share the excitement of reaching the highest point of your expedition.

As night falls, experience the extraordinary tranquility of Cutatambo, one of the most memorable camping locations on the Huayhuash Circuit.

Highest altitude: Approximately 5,100 m - Santa Rosa Pass.

Overnight: Cutatambo campsite.

Included meals: Breakfast, trail snack, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner.

Morning - Explore the Spectacular Cutatambo Valley

Wake up surrounded by the majestic mountains of Cutatambo, one of the most beautiful and remote valleys in the Cordillera Huayhuash.

After enjoying a freshly prepared breakfast, begin your journey through the spectacular Andean landscape, leaving behind the towering glaciers and snow-covered peaks of the previous days.

Follow the trail along the valley, surrounded by dramatic rock formations, mountain streams, and impressive natural scenery.

• Admire the magnificent peaks and glacial landscapes surrounding Cutatambo.

• Discover beautiful mountain streams and remote Andean valleys.

• Observe the changing vegetation as the trail gradually descends to lower elevations.

• Enjoy spectacular photographic opportunities throughout the journey.

Afternoon - Discover the Traditional Andean Village of Huayllapa

Continue descending through beautiful mountain valleys toward Huayllapa, a traditional village nestled in the remote Peruvian Andes.

As you approach the village, notice how the landscape transforms from rugged alpine terrain into greener valleys, agricultural fields, and traditional mountain settlements.

Experience a different side of the Huayhuash Circuit as you discover the cultural heritage and everyday life of the local Andean community.

• Walk through the picturesque surroundings of Huayllapa.

• Discover traditional Andean houses and agricultural landscapes.

• Learn about local customs and mountain lifestyles through your guide.

• Appreciate the connection between the local community and the surrounding natural environment.

Evening - Experience the Peaceful Atmosphere of Huayllapa

Arrive in Huayllapa and settle into your designated overnight area, surrounded by the peaceful atmosphere of this remote Andean village.

Enjoy a warm afternoon tea and take time to relax after your trekking journey.

Our expedition cook will prepare a freshly made dinner, offering a welcome opportunity to recover your energy before the next high-altitude stages.

Spend a relaxing evening appreciating the tranquility of the village and the authentic character of the Peruvian Andes.

Overnight: Huayllapa camping area.

Included meals: Breakfast, trail snack, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner.

Morning - Leave Huayllapa and Ascend into the High Andes

Wake up in the traditional Andean village of Huayllapa, surrounded by peaceful mountain landscapes and the authentic atmosphere of rural Peru.

After enjoying a freshly prepared breakfast, begin one of the most physically demanding ascents of the Huayhuash Circuit.

Leaving the village behind, follow the mountain trail as it gradually climbs through agricultural landscapes, grassy hillsides, and increasingly rugged high-altitude terrain.

As you gain elevation, enjoy the remarkable transformation of the landscape and the spectacular views opening across the surrounding valleys.

• Discover the changing scenery as you ascend from Huayllapa.

• Admire panoramic views of remote Andean valleys and mountain ridges.

• Experience the challenge of trekking back into the high-altitude wilderness.

• Enjoy photographic opportunities throughout the ascent.

Afternoon - Cross Tapush Pass and Discover Gashpapampa

Continue climbing toward Tapush Pass, one of the important mountain crossings on the western section of the Huayhuash Circuit.

As you approach the pass, the landscape opens into breathtaking high-Andean panoramas, with rugged peaks, vast mountain slopes, and remote valleys extending into the distance.

Reach Tapush Pass and take a moment to appreciate your achievement while enjoying the extraordinary natural beauty of the surrounding mountains.

• Admire the impressive mountain scenery from Tapush Pass.

• Experience the silence and isolation of the high Andes.

• Capture memorable photographs of the surrounding peaks and valleys.

• Descend toward the remote Gashpapampa camping area.

Evening - Camp Beneath the Mountains of Gashpapampa

Arrive at our campsite in Gashpapampa, surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery and the peaceful atmosphere of the Cordillera Huayhuash.

Our support team will welcome you with warm afternoon tea while you relax after the demanding ascent.

Enjoy a freshly prepared dinner, share stories from the day's adventure, and recover your energy for the next spectacular stage of the expedition.

As night falls, appreciate the tranquility of this remote mountain campsite beneath the Andean sky.

Overnight: Gashpapampa campsite.

Included meals: Breakfast, trail snack, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner.

Morning - Ascend to Yaucha Pass and Admire the Huayhuash Giants

Wake up surrounded by the peaceful mountain landscapes of Gashpapampa and enjoy a freshly prepared breakfast before beginning another unforgettable trekking day.

Follow the ascending trail toward Yaucha Pass, one of the most spectacular viewpoints on the western side of the Cordillera Huayhuash.

As you gain elevation, the scenery becomes increasingly impressive, revealing vast Andean valleys, rugged mountain ridges, and magnificent snow-covered peaks.

Reach Yaucha Pass and discover an extraordinary panorama of the Huayhuash mountain range.

• Admire the towering Yerupajá, the highest mountain in the Cordillera Huayhuash at approximately 6,635 meters.

• Marvel at the dramatic pyramid-shaped summit of Jirishanca.

• Discover spectacular views of Rondoy, Rasac, and neighboring snow-covered mountains.

• Capture breathtaking photographs of glaciers, valleys, and the remote Andean wilderness.

Weather permitting, enjoy one of the most memorable panoramic viewpoints of your entire expedition.

Afternoon - Descend Toward the Breathtaking Jahuacocha Lagoon

After enjoying the mountain views from Yaucha Pass, continue along the trail toward the beautiful Jahuacocha Valley.

As you descend, the landscape gradually reveals one of the most iconic destinations of the Huayhuash Circuit: Jahuacocha Lagoon.

Surrounded by towering snow-covered peaks, dramatic rock walls, and beautiful alpine scenery, Jahuacocha offers an unforgettable setting for nature lovers and mountain photographers.

• Enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding mountain range.

• Admire the majestic Yerupajá and Jirishanca rising above the valley.

• Discover the peaceful waters and remarkable natural beauty of Jahuacocha Lagoon.

• Photograph one of the most famous landscapes in the Peruvian Andes.

Continue toward our campsite beside the lagoon, where the extraordinary mountain scenery creates a truly unforgettable atmosphere.

Evening - Experience a Magical Sunset at Jahuacocha

Arrive at our beautiful campsite near Jahuacocha Lagoon, surrounded by some of the most impressive mountains in the Cordillera Huayhuash.

Our support team will welcome you with warm afternoon tea as you relax and admire the breathtaking scenery.

As the afternoon light changes, watch the snow-covered peaks transform into beautiful shades of gold and pink, weather permitting.

Enjoy a freshly prepared dinner while sharing memorable experiences with your fellow trekkers.

Spend the evening appreciating the peaceful atmosphere of Jahuacocha, where towering mountains, fresh Andean air, and extraordinary natural beauty create an unforgettable camping experience.

Overnight: Jahuacocha campsite.

Included meals: Breakfast, trail snack, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner.

Morning - Wake Up in Paradise at Jahuacocha Lagoon

Wake up to one of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Peruvian Andes, surrounded by the peaceful waters of Jahuacocha Lagoon and the magnificent snow-covered peaks of the Cordillera Huayhuash.

As the morning sunlight illuminates the mountains, admire the extraordinary scenery of Yerupajá, Jirishanca, and Rondoy rising above the valley.

Enjoy a freshly prepared breakfast while appreciating the tranquility of this spectacular natural setting.

Today is designed to offer a more relaxed experience after several challenging trekking days, allowing you to fully enjoy the incredible beauty of Jahuacocha.

• Admire the impressive mountain skyline surrounding the lagoon.

• Capture beautiful photographs of the lake, glaciers, and snow-covered peaks.

• Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of one of the most iconic locations in the Huayhuash Circuit.

• Relax and recover your energy while surrounded by pristine Andean nature.

Afternoon - Optional Panoramic Viewpoint Hike

For travelers seeking another mountain adventure, our guide can organize an optional hike toward a panoramic viewpoint overlooking Jahuacocha and the surrounding peaks, depending on weather and trail conditions.

As you gain elevation, enjoy increasingly impressive views of the lagoon and its spectacular mountain surroundings.

From the viewpoint, weather permitting, admire a breathtaking panorama of the Cordillera Huayhuash, with remarkable views of Yerupajá, Jirishanca, Rondoy, and the surrounding valleys.

• Discover a different perspective of Jahuacocha Lagoon from above.

• Enjoy magnificent panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

• Take unforgettable photographs of the dramatic Andean landscape.

• Experience the beauty and tranquility of this remote mountain environment.

Travelers who prefer to rest may remain at the campsite, enjoy the scenery, explore the immediate surroundings, or spend the afternoon relaxing beside the lagoon.

Evening - Celebrate Your Final Night in the Cordillera Huayhuash

Return to our campsite and enjoy a warm afternoon tea while reflecting on the extraordinary experiences of the past nine days.

As the sun begins to set, admire the changing colors of the mountains surrounding Jahuacocha, creating a magical atmosphere for your final night of camping.

Our expedition cook will prepare a delicious dinner, offering the perfect opportunity to share stories, celebrate personal achievements, and enjoy the company of your fellow adventurers.

Spend your final evening beneath the Andean sky, surrounded by the spectacular peaks and peaceful beauty of the Cordillera Huayhuash.

Overnight: Jahuacocha campsite.

Included meals: Breakfast, trail snack, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner.

Optional activity: Guided panoramic viewpoint hike, subject to weather, trail conditions, and the guide's safety assessment.

Morning - Say Goodbye to the Majestic Jahuacocha Lagoon

Wake up for your final morning in the spectacular Cordillera Huayhuash, surrounded by the peaceful waters of Jahuacocha Lagoon and the towering snow-covered peaks of Yerupajá, Jirishanca, and Rondoy.

Enjoy your last freshly prepared breakfast at camp while admiring the extraordinary mountain scenery that has accompanied you throughout this unforgettable expedition.

After breakfast, say farewell to our beautiful campsite and begin the final trekking stage toward Mancan Punta Pass.

The trail gradually ascends through beautiful high-Andean landscapes, offering one last opportunity to appreciate the magnificent mountain range.

• Enjoy your final views of Jahuacocha Lagoon and the surrounding snow-covered peaks.

• Ascend toward Mancan Punta Pass through scenic mountain terrain.

• Capture memorable photographs of the spectacular Andean landscape.

• Celebrate the achievement of completing the challenging Huayhuash Circuit.

Afternoon - Descend to Pocpa and Return to Huaraz

After crossing Mancan Punta Pass, begin your final descent toward Pocpa, a small Andean village surrounded by beautiful mountain landscapes.

As you descend, take in the changing scenery and reflect on the extraordinary experiences of the past ten days, from turquoise glacial lakes and dramatic mountain passes to remote valleys and unforgettable campsites.

Upon reaching Pocpa, meet our private transportation for the return journey to Huaraz.

There will be an opportunity to have lunch in Pocpa before continuing the journey. Please note that lunch on the final day is not included and is paid directly by each traveler.

Travel through the beautiful Andean countryside as we make our way back to Huaraz.

Arrival in Huaraz - The End of an Unforgettable Adventure

Arrive in Huaraz, marking the conclusion of your extraordinary 10-day expedition through the Cordillera Huayhuash.

Take home unforgettable memories of spectacular glaciers, turquoise lagoons, towering mountain peaks, and the incredible personal achievement of completing one of Peru's most remarkable high-altitude trekking adventures.

Thank you for exploring the Cordillera Huayhuash with Paramount Explorer. We hope the memories of this extraordinary journey stay with you for a lifetime.

Tour finishes: Huaraz, Peru.

Included meals: Breakfast and trail snack.

Not included: Lunch in Pocpa, paid directly by the traveler.

Transportation: Return transfer from Pocpa to Huaraz included.