Peru · Trekking

4-Day Santa Cruz Trek from Huaraz with Punta Unión Pass

4 Days Round trip from Huaraz Moderate pace

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The journey

Trip highlights

01 Explore the Cordillera Blanca, the highest tropical mountain range in the world
02 Follow the scenic Santa Cruz trek through lakes, glaciers, and dramatic Andean landscapes
03 Reach Punta Unión Pass at 4750 m for breathtaking views of the Cordillera Blanca
04 Acclimatize with a hike to the enchanting Laguna Churup

Explore the remarkable Cordillera Blanca, the highest tropical mountain range on the planet and part of the majestic Andes. This 4-day trekking adventure takes you through dazzling landscapes dotted with more than 50 peaks above 15,000 feet, 700 glaciers, and 300 lakes. Follow the scenic Santa Cruz trek to Punta Unión Pass, with breathtaking views of Alpamayo, Taulliraju, Artesonraju, and other iconic summits, while encountering the region's rich flora and fauna. The journey also includes an acclimatization hike to the enchanting Laguna Churup.

Many people believe that the white pyramid of Alpamayo is the most beautiful mountain in the world.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 4 Days

Tour type Shared

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Included · Budget

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Languages English, Spanish

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

From Huaraz to Cashapampa and Trek to Llamacorral

Today we head to the starting point of our trek.
We travel by private transport through the Santa River Valley, descending as far as Caraz and then continuing along a narrow route toward the Santa Cruz Valley. Farmers cultivate the green fields here, although agriculture is very difficult in this region.
We arrive at the village of Cashapampa (2900 m), where our trek begins and our local team is waiting: donkey drivers whose pack animals will carry our baggage from this point onward.
Starting amid the lush vegetation of the valley, we continue deeper into this unique mountain landscape.
After approximately 4 1/2 hours of trekking, we arrive at our campsite in Llamacorral.

Overnight Camp (-/L/D)

Day 02

Through Santa Cruz Gorge to Taullipampa

We climb through the Santa Cruz Gorge and pass alongside the lakes of Ichiccocha and Jatuncocha.
At the edge of the trees, the lupines enchant us with every shade of blue. This is also a paradise for local ducks.
Next, we continue to Lake Arhueycocha (4450 m), which is also the departure point for climbing Alpamayo.
We enjoy fantastic views of the peaks of Alpamayo, Quitaraju, and Artesonraju - the mountain said to have inspired the Paramount Pictures logo.
Many people believe that the white pyramid of Alpamayo is the most beautiful mountain in the world. Camp at Taullipampa.

Overnight Camp (B/L/D)

Day 03

Cross Punta Unión Pass and Descend to Huaripampa

At first, the climb is easy through meadows, but the trail soon becomes dry, rocky, and steep.
This route has been used since pre-Inca times to reach Punta Unión, an imposing mountain pass, and the ascent takes about 2 hours.
The majestic mountains of the Cordillera Blanca visible today include Taulliraju, Huandoy, Huascarán, the Pucajircas, Artesonraju, and many others.
The descent is also steep and passes through the beautiful high-mountain landscape around the lakes of Morococha.
We finally reach the Huaripampa Valley, where we camp for the night.

Overnight Camp (B/L/D)

Day 04

Trek to Vaquería and Return to Huaraz via Portachuelo Pass

After descending through the forests and whitewater rivers of the Huaripampa Valley, we pass through Vaquería, a typical village of the high Andes. The farmers here raise small animals and cultivate some crops.
At this elevation, flowers still bloom, and their colors brighten the landscape.
From the village, we climb to Portachuelo de Llanganuco Pass at 4650 meters, where you will have fantastic views of several snow-covered mountains.
With a bit of luck, we may also see vicuñas. These timid relatives of llamas graze at elevations of 5500 m, and it is no surprise that they produce the finest wool in the animal kingdom. Tired and happy, we arrive back at the hotel.

Overnight Hotel (B/L/-)
Included meals: B=breakfast; L=lunch; D=dinner

Where this trip takes you

Punta Unión Pass, Alpamayo, Laguna Churup

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Huaraz 1 city · 4 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Acclimatization tour to Laguna Churup
Peruvian trekking guide
Cooks and helpers from 6 people
All meals during the tour
Donkey driver and donkeys
Camping tents (2 persons)
Kitchen equipment
Transportation as per the tour schedule / Huaraz

What's Not Included

International round-trip flights to Lima, Peru
Transfer from the airport for bookings with individual flights arriving or departing at different times
Exit tax at Lima airport
Travel accident and health insurance
Luggage insurance and trip cancellation coverage
Meals in restaurants in Lima and Huaraz
Pick-up from Lima airport to the hotel
Transfer from the hotel to the airport and bus station
Public bus transport or domestic flight with LC-Peru
Hotel Casa Andina: 2 nights in Lima, or another hotel
Hotel San Sebastián: 4 nights in Huaraz, or another hotel
Entrance fees to Huascarán National Park
Personal expenses
Personal equipment (such as boots, ice axe, crampons, harness, sleeping bag, mat, Goretex, etc.)
Tips

What to bring

Clothing

Waterproof trekking boots (broken in and comfortable).
Lightweight, moisture-wicking T-shirts (2-3).
Long-sleeve base layers for warmth.
Fleece or insulated jacket.
Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants.
Trekking pants (quick-dry).
Thermal underwear for cold nights.
Warm gloves and a hat/beanie.
Sun hat or cap with a wide brim.
Comfortable clothes for camp and sleeping.

Camping Gear (if not provided by the tour operator)

Sleeping bag (rated for -10°C/14°F or lower).
Sleeping pad/mat.
Lightweight tent (if not included).

Accessories

Daypack (20-30L) with a rain cover.
Trekking poles (collapsible and lightweight).
Headlamp with extra batteries.
Sunglasses with UV protection.
Reusable water bottles or a hydration bladder (at least 2 liters).
Water purification tablets or filter.
Camera (optional, but highly recommended).
Quick-dry towel.
Lightweight travel blanket or liner.

Toiletries and Personal Items

Sunscreen (SPF 50+).
Lip balm with UV protection.
Biodegradable soap and shampoo.
Toothbrush and toothpaste.
Small first aid kit (including blister pads, pain relievers, and altitude sickness medication).
Insect repellent.
Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
Toilet paper.

Snacks and Food (if not fully provided by the tour operator)

High-energy snacks (nuts, granola bars, dried fruits, chocolate).
Electrolyte tablets or powders for hydration.
Instant coffee or tea (optional).

Documents and Money

Passport (or copy).
Travel insurance details.
Cash (small bills in Peruvian soles for tips or small purchases).

Optional Items

Gaiters (for wet or muddy conditions).
Lightweight camp shoes or sandals.
Portable charger or solar power bank.
Notebook and pen for journaling.
Small garbage bags to carry out trash.

Know before you go

Here's a detailed "Know Before You Go" guide for the 4-day Santa Cruz Trek in the Cordillera Blanca:

Know Before You Go: Santa Cruz Trek (4 Days)

1. Location and Overview

The Santa Cruz Trek is located in Huascarán National Park, in the Cordillera Blanca, Peru.
It's a high-altitude trek offering breathtaking views of glaciers, turquoise lagoons, and snow-capped peaks, including Alpamayo, considered one of the most beautiful mountains in the world.
The trek covers approximately 50 km (31 miles) and takes 4 days to complete.

2. Difficulty Level

Moderate to challenging: suitable for trekkers with a decent level of fitness and some previous hiking experience.
The trek involves steep ascents and descents, particularly at Punta Unión Pass (4,750 m/15,580 ft).
Altitude is a key factor, so proper acclimatization is essential.

3. Best Time to Go

Dry season (May to September): clear skies and stable weather make this the ideal time.
Avoid the rainy season (November to March), when trails can be muddy and visibility is reduced.

4. Acclimatization

Spend 2-3 days acclimatizing in Huaraz (3,052 m/10,013 ft) before starting the trek.
Consider shorter day hikes to places like Laguna 69 or Wilcacocha Lagoon to prepare your body for the altitude.

5. Permits and Fees

The trek is within Huascarán National Park, and an entry fee of approximately S/30 (Peruvian soles) is required.
Permits can be purchased in Huaraz or at the park entrance.

6. What to Expect on the Trek

Remote camping: nights are spent at campsites in scenic locations, such as Llamacorral and Taullipampa.
Altitude and weather: cold nights (down to -5°C/23°F) and sunny but cool days.
Spectacular views: lagoons like Ichiccocha, Jatuncocha, and Arhuaycocha, plus peaks like Alpamayo, Taulliraju, and Artesonraju.

7. Packing Essentials

See the "What to Bring" section for a detailed packing list.
Highlights: warm layers, waterproof gear, sturdy trekking boots, and a sleeping bag rated for cold temperatures.

8. Guides and Tours

While the trek can be done independently, hiring a guide or joining a tour is highly recommended.
Benefits include logistical support, mule transport for gear, meals, and safety in case of emergencies.

9. Health and Safety

Altitude sickness: symptoms include headaches, nausea, and fatigue. Stay hydrated, ascend slowly, and bring altitude medication (e.g. acetazolamide).
Emergency rescue: ensure your guide has experience and access to communication devices. In remote areas, helicopter rescue may be needed.
Water safety: drink purified or filtered water at all times.

10. Cultural and Environmental Tips

Respect local communities and their traditions.
Pack out all trash and use biodegradable products to minimize environmental impact.
Avoid disturbing wildlife or damaging trails.

11. Transportation

Starting points: the trek typically begins in Cashapampa (2,900 m) and ends in Vaquería (or vice versa).
Transportation can be arranged from Huaraz to these trailheads (approx. 3-4 hours).

Logistics