Huayhuash Circuit - Peru Trekking Holiday

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A dramatic high altitude trek in the Andean range made famous in Joe Simpson's 'Touching the Void'

The small yet magnificent Huayhuash Range (pronounced 'why-wash') is richly glaciated, steep and dramatic, and is home to Peru's second highest peak, Yerupaja (6634m).

This demanding trek around the range is one of the world's most spectacular mountain circuits, and the true walking enthusiast is rewarded with unequalled views of its turquoise glacial lakes, jagged snow-capped peaks and stunning hanging glaciers that extend thousands of metres from the peaks.

Itinerary

[detailed itinerary...]

Countries visited: Peru

Day 1

Fly to Lima.

Day 2

Drive to Huaraz.

Day 3

Full day hike to Lake Huilcacocha to aid acclimatisation.

Day 4

Drive to Chiquian with stop at alapaca textile factory; overnight in hostel.

Day 5

Drive to Cuartelwain and camp for the night.

Day 6

Hike over Continental Divide and descend to camp below big peaks.

Day 7

Cross Carhuac Pass with splendid views of Yerupaja; camp alongside Lake Carhuacocha.

Day 8

Rest day to explore magnificent glaciers and lakes.

Day 9

Stiff climb over Punta Carnicero Pass; camp at Huayhuash.

Day 10

Climb over Portachuelo Pass; re-cross Continental Divide.

Day 11

Cross Cuyoc Pass; descend to riverside camp.

Day 12

Walk up Sarapococha Valley; camp near Siula Grande.

Day 13

Rest day to explore Joe Simpson's Base Camp.

Day 14

Trek to remote Huayllapa village then tough climb to high camp.

Day 15

Cross sixth pass and camp in wooded valley.

Day 16

Continue to Yaucha Pass; short optional ascent of Cerro Yaucha.

Day 17

Rest day at beautiful Lake Jahuacocha.

Day 18

Final pass, then descend to Matacancha.

Day 19

Return to Huaraz.

Day 20

To Lima.

Day 21

Depart.

Day 22

Arrive London.

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Images from HUAYHUASH CIRCUIT

Note: Click on a thumbnail to enlarge.

Trekkers on Yaucha Pass, Cordillera Huayhuash, Yerupaja behind

Viewing mountain Suila Grande on the Cordillera Huayhuash trek

Trekkers above Laguna Carhuacocha, beneath Siula Grande, Huayhuash

Trekkers above lake Carhuacocha in Cordillera Huayhuash

Jurau in the Cordillera Huayhuash in Northern Peru

Trekkers on Yaucha Pass, Cordillera Huayhuash, Yerupaja behind

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Average Review Rating:
based on 4 reviews.

For me this was a truly wonderful trek - fantastic scenery every day, challenging but perfectly possible (Im 53), and a great…

Philippa Hare
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One of the great treks of the world

Thomas Gerald Fox
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What a great way to spend your 50th

Sara Livesey
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