Backpacker trek
Huayhuash Trek 6 days
The Huayhuash Trek 6 days combines five demanding hiking days with a sixth day reserved for onward travel. Experience Carhuacocha, the Three Lakes viewpoint, Siula Pass, Laguna Carnicero and Trapecio Pass with licensed local guides.
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See all dates1 confirmed departure currently available
- Huayhuash highlights in 5 hiking days
- Licensed, local, English-speaking guide
- Main luggage carried for you by our donkeys and donkey drivers
- Travel directly to Lima on day 6. Luggage and transport planning included
Confirmed means the departure is set to run. When a departure is still forming, we show exactly how many more trekkers are needed.
October 2026
November 2026
How forming departures, deposits and refunds work
A green confirmed label means this departure is set to run and you can book your place. We will not cancel it because too few people join. Only exceptional safety, legal or other events beyond our reasonable control could require a change or cancellation. If we cancel before the trek starts, you can choose another available date or receive a full refund of what you paid for the trek.
We confirm or cancel a forming departure no later than 3 days before its scheduled start. If we cannot run it and you do not want another available date, we refund 100% of what you paid for that trek booking. If you cancel before our decision, our normal traveler cancellation terms apply.
Booking for two or more? Ask us about opening a new date. We can promote it to other trekkers. We may also offer a semi-private option at a price agreed with you in advance. A requested date is confirmed only when we confirm it in writing.
For bookings made more than 15 days ahead, the deposit is 50% and the balance is due 15 days before departure. Bookings accepted within 15 days require full payment when booked.
Included
Guiding & staff
- Briefing at our Andes Treks office in Huaraz the evening before the trek
- English-speaking, licensed Huayhuash guide
- Assistant(s) for added safety (from 8+ persons)
- Professional mountain cook
- Donkey drivers and donkeys
Equipment
- 4-season Doite tent (per 2 persons)
- −11°C down sleeping bag (limit)
- Comfortable R-value 4.6 sleeping pad
- Foam mattress (R-value 1.8+) underneath the sleeping pad
- Sea to Summit mummy liner for extra hygiene
- Dining tent, tables, stools and other camping equipment
- Personal duffle bag (up to 5 kg)
Food & water
- All meals prepared with fresh, local ingredients
- Breakfast and coffee, lunch and dinner
- Daily tea-time and snacks provided
- Safe, boiled drinking water throughout the trek for refill (from day 2)
Logistics
- Pick up at your stay in Huaraz (city center)
- Transport Huaraz – start point
- Planning help to continue to Lima/return to Huaraz on day 6
- Left-behind luggage drop off at Cruz del Sur in Huaraz for shipment to Lima
- Luggage storage in Huaraz at our office
Safety
- Emergency horse
- Radio communication
- First aid kit & evacuation protocol
- Emergency oxygen
- Stretcher
Excluded
- Huayhuash entrance fees paid directly to local communities (approximately 250 Peruvian soles)
- Trekking poles (highly recommended, available for rent)
- Camping pillow
- Costs for luggage shipment to Lima and luggage plastic wrapping by bus company Cruz del Sur
- International and domestic flights
- Transport end point – Huaraz or Lima
- Personal travel insurance (highly recommended)
- Hotel nights in Huaraz before and after the trek
- Personal trekking clothing and footwear
- Additional snacks and personal drinks
- Alcoholic beverages
- Tips for guides, cook, and support staff
- Personal medical expenses
- Any costs caused by early departure from the trek
- Extra services not listed under “Included”
These optional extras are not included in the trek price. You choose them inside the WeTravel booking process: after you click Book now, the booking form lists every extra below with its price, and you add the ones you want before you pay.
| Extra | Price (USD) |
|---|---|
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Entrance to Huayhuash region
Or pay 250 soles at the briefing... This add-on covers the required entrance and community access fees for the Huayhuash region throughout your selected trek. The Huayhuash Circuit crosses land managed by several local Andean communities. These entrance fees support the communities that maintain the trails, campsites, access roads and natural areas used during the trek. The exact fees depend on your chosen itinerary, the number of trekking days and the communities visited. By adding this option, Andes Treks will arrange and manage the applicable entrance payments for your complete itinerary, so you do not need to carry separate amounts or organize payments at each checkpoint. Recommended for a smooth and worry-free trekking experience. Subject to availability and possible changes in local community fees or access conditions. |
$89.00 |
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Professional trekking poles
Rent a pair of professional trekking poles for the full duration of your Huayhuash trek... The Huayhuash Circuit includes steep ascents, long descents, rocky trails, loose gravel and uneven mountain terrain. Trekking poles provide additional balance and stability while helping to reduce pressure on your knees, ankles and leg muscles. They are especially useful during long downhill sections, high mountain passes and wet or slippery conditions. The poles are adjustable, lightweight and suitable for multi-day trekking at high altitude. We provide professional trekking poles from trusted brands such as Leki or Black Diamond. The exact brand and model provided may vary. Your trekking poles will be provided before departure and can be used throughout your complete trek. Highly recommended for greater comfort, stability and confidence on the trail. Subject to availability. |
$30.00 |
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Daypack 32L
Rent a comfortable 32-litre daypack for the full duration of your trek... A 32L daypack offers enough space for the essential items you need during each trekking day, including water, snacks, rain protection, warm layers, sun protection, personal medication, a camera and other small belongings. The practical size makes it spacious enough for mountain conditions without being unnecessarily large or heavy. It is ideal for carrying your daily essentials while the main luggage allowance is transported separately according to the conditions of your selected trek. The daypack will be provided before departure and remains available for your complete Huayhuash itinerary. A convenient choice for travelers who do not want to bring or purchase their own trekking backpack. Subject to availability. The exact brand, model and design may vary. |
$24.00 |
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Private 4-seasons tent
Enjoy additional privacy and personal space with your own tent throughout the trek... Standard accommodation is normally based on two travelers sharing one tent. By selecting the private tent add-on, you will have a tent reserved exclusively for your individual use for every camping night included in your itinerary. A private tent gives you more room to organize your belongings, change clothes and relax comfortably after each trekking day. It is especially recommended for solo travelers, light sleepers or anyone who values greater privacy during a multi-day mountain adventure. Your private tent will be transported, installed and packed away by the trekking team at each campsite. Upgrade your trek with more privacy, space and comfort at camp. Subject to availability. The exact tent brand, model and size may vary. |
$54.00 |
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Premium sleeping bag -18 degrees celsius
Rent a premium cold-weather sleeping bag for the full duration of your Huayhuash trek... Nights in the Huayhuash mountains can be extremely cold, particularly at high-altitude campsites. This premium sleeping bag is designed for cold mountain conditions and has a temperature rating of approximately -18°C limit. It provides significantly more warmth and insulation than a standard trekking sleeping bag, helping you rest and recover properly between demanding trekking days. The sleeping bag is lightweight for its warmth level and suitable for multi-day camping in the high Andes. Your sleeping bag will be prepared before departure and available for every camping night included in your trek. Please note that temperature ratings are general manufacturer guidelines. Individual comfort can vary depending on weather conditions, altitude, clothing, sleeping mat and personal sensitivity to cold. One of the most valuable comfort upgrades for a warm and restful night in the mountains. Subject to availability. The exact brand and model may vary. |
$36.00 |
Camping equipment provided for Huayhuash Trek 6 days.
Every item shown below is included in your trek price.
Doite 4-season tent Pro Aconcagua
The Doite Pro Aconcagua 3P is a strong expedition tent designed for extreme mountain conditions. By default this tent is shared per 2 persons. It offers excellent waterproof protection and is built to handle heavy rain, strong winds, and low temperatures. With space for up to three people, it provides a reliable and comfortable shelter for demanding treks and high-altitude expeditions.
IncludedMarmot down feather sleeping bag Limit -11°C
The Marmot down sleeping bag uses 650-fill-power duck down for lightweight, packable warmth and comfort on cold mountain nights. ISO tested: Comfort -5°C / Limit -11°C.
IncludedInflatable sleeping pad R 4.6
This R4.6 ultralight inflatable pad is designed to provide comfort and warmth. We place it on top of the foam sleeping pad to add extra insulation, protection, and comfort during the night.
IncludedFoam sleeping pad R 1.8+
This lightweight closed-cell foam sleeping pad provides reliable insulation from the ground and cannot be punctured. We place it underneath the inflatable sleeping pad to add extra insulation, protection, and comfort during the night.
Included- Huaraz – Pocpa - Cuartelhuain - Janca
- Janca – Paso Carhuac – Carhuacocha
- Carhuacocha – 3 lakes viewpoint – Huayhuash
- Huayhuash – Trapecio Pass – Campo Elefante
- Campo Elefante – San Antonio Pass – Huayllapa
- Huayllapa – Lima/Huaraz
Daily elevation profile for Huayhuash Trek 6 days.
- 550 m | 1804 ft
- 392 m | 1286 ft
- 735 m | 2411 ft
- 724 m | 2375 ft
- 554 m | 1817 ft
The Huayhuash Trek 6 days is a compact but demanding journey through one of Peru’s most spectacular mountain ranges. Over five hiking days, you cross high passes, camp beside glacial lakes and experience celebrated locations including Carhuacocha, the Three Lakes viewpoint, Laguna Carnicero and Trapecio Pass.
This itinerary is designed for experienced hikers who want to see major Huayhuash highlights but cannot complete the longer circuit. Day 6 is reserved for onward travel to Lima or a return to Huaraz, so the program includes five full days of hiking.
You trek with Andes Treks, supported by licensed local guides and a trained trekking team. We manage the camps, meals, pack animals and route logistics so you can focus on the experience.
Five days of hiking through the Huayhuash region
The route covers approximately 57 kilometres with around 3,000 metres of elevation gain. It begins in the northern Huayhuash and finishes in the village of Huayllapa.
Although shorter than the complete circuit, the trek remains physically demanding. Several days involve sustained climbs, steep descents and passes approaching 5,000 metres above sea level. Proper acclimatisation and good fitness are essential.
The trek takes place within the wider Cordillera Huayhuash landscape, recognised by Peru’s National Service of Natural Areas Protected by the State for its exceptional mountain scenery and ecological importance. You can read more about the region on the official SERNANP Cordillera Huayhuash page.
Highlights of the Huayhuash Trek 6 days
- Carhuacocha: Camp beside a glacial lake beneath Yerupajá, Siula Grande and Jirishanca.
- Three Lakes viewpoint: See the turquoise lakes of Siula, Quesillococha and Gangrajanca from above.
- Siula area: Cross one of the trek’s most dramatic high-mountain landscapes.
- Laguna Carnicero: Hike through a remote valley surrounded by imposing peaks.
- Trapecio Pass: Complete a challenging high-altitude crossing with expansive views across the southern Huayhuash.
- Huayllapa: Finish the hiking route in a traditional Andean mountain community.
Licensed guides and safety-focused trekking
Every departure is led by a licensed trekking guide familiar with the Huayhuash, its altitude and its changing conditions. Our team monitors participants throughout the trek and adapts the pace when necessary.
Route decisions are made according to weather, trail conditions and the wellbeing of the group. This may occasionally require changes to the planned itinerary. Safety always takes priority over reaching a particular pass or campsite.
We recommend reviewing official high-altitude travel guidance from the CDC, especially if you have limited experience above 4,000 metres or have an existing medical condition.
What the trekking team manages
Our team takes care of the main trek logistics, including camp setup, meals and transportation of your main luggage by pack animals. You only carry a daypack with water, clothing and personal essentials while hiking.
We work with local guides, cooks, drivers and animal handlers. Our approach is intended to keep the benefits of trekking within the region while respecting its communities and natural environment.
Difficulty and fitness
The Huayhuash Trek 6 days is rated challenging. Its shorter duration does not make it an easy trek: the five hiking days are concentrated and include significant elevation changes.
You should be comfortable hiking for several consecutive days over uneven terrain. Previous multi-day trekking experience is strongly recommended. Training should include long walks, hills, stair climbing and consecutive hiking days with a loaded daypack.
Altitude and acclimatisation
This trek reaches elevations close to 5,000 metres. Arriving directly from sea level without adequate acclimatisation significantly increases the likelihood of altitude problems.
We recommend spending several days in Huaraz before departure and completing one or more acclimatisation hikes. Even well-trained hikers can be affected by altitude, because physical fitness does not prevent altitude illness.
Inform us before booking if you have a heart or lung condition, a history of serious altitude illness or another medical concern that could affect your participation. A doctor familiar with high-altitude travel can provide personalised advice.
Weather and mountain conditions
Conditions in the Huayhuash can change quickly. Strong sunlight, cold nights, rain, wind and occasional snow are possible during the same trek. Temperatures at camp can fall below freezing.
Bring layers suitable for both warm daytime hiking and cold evenings. Waterproof clothing, sun protection and an appropriately rated sleeping bag are essential. Official practical information for travelling in Peru is available through Peru’s official tourism portal.
Day 6: Travel to Huaraz or Lima
Day 6 does not include hiking. It is reserved for travelling onward to Lima or returning to Huaraz after finishing the route in Huayllapa.
This onward transport is not included in the trek price. We will help you plan the journey and coordinate shared transport with other participants whenever possible. The final transport option, departure time and cost depend on the group, availability and destination.
Do not book a tightly timed flight or international connection for the same day. Mountain conditions and road travel can cause delays. Please also review our terms and conditions before confirming your booking.
Is this the right Huayhuash Trek for you?
This itinerary is a good choice if you:
- Want to experience major Huayhuash highlights in a limited amount of time.
- Have good fitness and preferably previous multi-day trekking experience.
- Are properly acclimatised before departure.
- Accept that five demanding hiking days are packed into a compact itinerary.
- Are comfortable with basic mountain camps and changing weather conditions.
If you prefer a more gradual itinerary with additional time in the mountains, consider the Huayhuash Trek 8 days or the more extensive Huayhuash Trek 10 days.
Book your Huayhuash Trek
Join us for five memorable hiking days through glacial valleys, turquoise lakes and some of the most impressive high-mountain scenery in Peru. With licensed guides and a local support team managing the logistics, you can concentrate on the challenge and the landscape.
Huayhuash Trek 6 days map
Recommended packing list for Huayhuash Trek 6 days.
Clothing
Base layers
- Long-sleeve moisture-wicking base layer
- Thermal base layer for cold nights
- Short-sleeve breathable shirts
- Light long-sleeve sun protection shirt
Insulation
- Insulated jacket (down or synthetic)
- Fleece or mid-layer jacket
Outer layers
- Waterproof rain jacket
- Rain pants (especially November to March)
- Windproof softshell jacket
Hiking clothing
- Trekking pants
- Quick-dry pants or shorts
- Warm socks for evenings
- Breathable hiking socks
- Liner gloves
- Warm hat and light beanie
- Multifunctional headwear (buff or similar)
Footwear
- Waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support
- Lightweight shoes or sandals for camp
- Gaiters (optional, useful in snow or mud)
Sleeping & trek gear
- Daypack with rain cover (available to rent)
- Waterproof duffle bag (provided by Andes Treks)
- Trekking poles (available to rent)
- Headlamp with spare batteries
- Microfiber towel
Personal equipment
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Sunblock and lip balm with SPF (30+)
- Insect repellent
- Reusable water bottle or insulated vacuum bottle
- Portable power bank and charging cables
- Personal toiletry kit and wet wipes
- Small dry bags for electronics
Health & safety
- Personal first aid kit
- Personal medication
- Blister treatment and foot care supplies
- Sunscreen for high altitude exposure
Others
- Cash in Peruvian soles for community fees and tips
Is transport back from the six-day trek included?
No. Transport to the trailhead is included, but the six-day trek ends at Huayllapa. We can help arrange a ride from Huayllapa to Barranca for an extra price, which we will confirm before you pay us. You can also arrange your own ride. We do not offer transport from Barranca to Lima, but this can easily be arranged in Barranca.
How do I travel to Lima or Huaraz after the 6-day Huayhuash Trek?
After finishing the trek in Huayllapa, you can continue directly toward Lima or return to Huaraz.
The first part of the journey is by private transport from Huayllapa to Barranca. We coordinate this during the pre-trek briefing with all participants who want to use this option. This allows us to see how many people are joining and, where possible, reduce the cost per person.
We arrange the transfer with a local, reliable transport partner. Pickup is normally from the main plaza of Huayllapa at around 4:00 AM, unless another time or meeting point is coordinated in advance.
The private transfer takes you directly from Huayllapa to Barranca, with an expected arrival at around 11:00 AM.
Current pricing for the private Huayllapa to Barranca transfer is:
- 1 to 7 persons: S/600 in total
- 8 persons or more: S/90 per person
From Barranca, you can continue by shared transport to either Lima or Huaraz. Shared transport costs approximately S/50 per person.
Approximate arrival times are:
- Lima: around 3:00–4:00 PM
- Huaraz: around 4:00–5:00 PM
These transport costs are not included in the trek price. We explain the available options and coordinate the Huayllapa to Barranca transfer with the group during the briefing before departure.
What can I do with my extra luggage during the 6-day Huayhuash Trek?
If you are travelling directly to Lima after the trek, you can leave your extra luggage with our team before departure. The easiest moment to arrange this is during the pre-trek briefing on the evening before the trek starts.
We can send your luggage from Huaraz to Lima with Cruz del Sur. The cost is approximately S/4 per kilo and is calculated by Cruz del Sur. You pay the shipping cost when collecting your luggage in Lima.
You can choose between the following Cruz del Sur terminals:
- Lima Plaza Norte:
View on Google Maps - Lima Javier Prado:
View on Google Maps
Please let us know during the briefing which terminal you prefer.
We normally send the luggage with Cruz del Sur on the evening before day 6. It is usually available for collection from the morning of day 6, so it should already be waiting for you when you arrive in Lima later that day.
Cruz del Sur wraps the luggage in plastic and registers it under your name and passport number. You will need to show your passport when collecting it. We will also send you the pickup receipt by WhatsApp, normally no later than the morning of day 6.
The luggage shipment is handled by Cruz del Sur. Andes Treks is not responsible for loss, missing items, damage, delays or other issues that may occur during transport.
For this 6-day trek, it may also be possible to send your luggage to Barranca, depending on available transport. This can be convenient if you are travelling directly from Huayllapa toward Lima. The cost is S/20 per luggage item. We will confirm whether this option is available during your briefing.
If you are returning to Huaraz after the trek, the easiest option is usually to leave your extra luggage at your hotel or hostel. Most accommodations in Huaraz offer luggage storage for free or for a small fee. You can also leave your luggage safely with us at no extra cost.
How booking works
- 1
Check your departure date
Review our live status first. Confirmed means the departure is set to run; forming dates show exactly how many more trekkers are needed.
- 2
Book your trek
Reserve securely through WeTravel. For bookings made more than 15 days ahead, the deposit is 50% and the balance is due 15 days before departure. Bookings accepted within 15 days require full payment when booked.
- 3
We contact you personally
Our Huaraz team confirms your selected departure and trip details directly with you.
- 4
Prepare with confidence
Receive your final briefing, packing guidance, and meeting details.
Detailed itinerary Huayhuash Trek 6 days
Today
Our 6-day Huayhuash trek begins before sunrise with a private transfer south from Huaraz. Beyond Chiquian, the road enters increasingly remote mountain country as we continue through Llamac and Pocpa toward the northern side of the Cordillera Huayhuash.
At Cuartelhuain, 4,170 meters above sea level, we meet the trail and settle into a measured hiking rhythm. Starting this high makes careful pacing important, so our guide keeps the group together and builds in time for hydration and short recovery stops.
The path rises through open puna to Punta Cacanan at 4,671 meters. This first pass introduces the broad valleys, glacial summits, and immense scale that define Huayhuash trekking in Peru. From the crest, we descend toward Janca beside the Mitucocha basin, where Rondoy, Ninashanca, and Jirishanca dominate the skyline.
By reaching camp early enough to eat, rest, and monitor how everyone is responding to the altitude, the Andes Treks team creates a controlled start to an otherwise fast-moving itinerary.
Today
Morning light over the Mitucocha valley sets the scene as we leave Janca and turn south. The opening kilometers cross quiet grazing country, with streams, wetlands, and herds of alpacas spread across the high plateau.
Our ascent becomes more pronounced below Punta Carhuac. At 4,612 meters, the pass offers a striking first look at the eastern walls of Yerupajá and Siula Grande. The viewpoint is especially rewarding because the peaks appear suddenly above the valley after the steady approach.
We then follow the descending trail toward Laguna Carhuacocha. As the lake comes into view, the landscape changes from open puna to a natural amphitheater of water, ice, and rock. On a calm afternoon, the surrounding summits reflect across the lake.
Camp is established near Carhuacocha at 4,155 meters. This shorter stage leaves valuable recovery time before the more strenuous Siula crossing, while our team prepares the evening meal and checks conditions for the following day.
Today
Today delivers the signature scenery of the Huayhuash Trek 5 days. From Carhuacocha, we trace the lakeshore and enter the glacial basin beneath Yerupajá and Siula Grande, where moraine ridges reveal new views at every turn.
The route climbs past the turquoise waters of Gangrajanca, Siulacocha, and Quesillococha. Above them, Mirador Tres Lagunas creates the classic layered panorama of three lakes beneath hanging glaciers and steep ice-covered faces.
Beyond the viewpoint, the path continues over loose and uneven high-altitude terrain to Punta Siula at 4,796 meters. Our guide chooses a steady line through the steepest section and adjusts the pace to the weather and the group.
The descent passes the Laguna Carnicero area before opening into the broad southern valley. We finish at Huayhuash camp, 4,342 meters, with views toward Trapecio and the next high crossing. This is the most iconic day of the compact itinerary and one of its most physically demanding.
Today
We move away from Huayhuash camp across a wide valley before turning toward the rocky basin below Nevado Trapecio. Grassland gradually gives way to moraine and higher alpine terrain as the route gains elevation.
The climb culminates at Punta Trapecio, 5,015 meters above sea level. It is the highest point of this short Huayhuash trek and a serious high-altitude crossing. From the pass, the landscape opens toward Trapecio, Puscanturpa, Cuyoc, and the deeply cut valleys west of the main range.
After time for photographs and a brief rest, we begin a careful descent. Loose rock near the pass requires concentration, while the lower trail becomes progressively gentler as it approaches the Elefantepampa basin.
Our crew welcomes the group at camp at 4,510 meters. Warm food, sheltered tents, and a structured recovery routine are particularly valuable here because the night is high and the final stage begins with another ascent above 5,000 meters.
Today
The final trekking day begins with a direct ascent from Elefantepampa to Mirador San Antonio. Although the viewpoint is reached early in the stage, the combination of steep ground and thin air makes this a purposeful climb.
At 5,006 meters, San Antonio provides a superb farewell to the central Cordillera Huayhuash. Cuyoc and Puscanturpa rise nearby, while Trapecio, Siula Grande, Yerupajá, Sarapo, and Jurao complete the wider skyline. Far below, the Cutatambo and Huanacpatay valleys mark our route out of the high mountains.
From the viewpoint, we descend through an exceptional change of landscapes. Bare alpine slopes give way to grassland, waterfalls, shrubs, and eventually cultivated terrain as the trail loses more than 1,500 meters.
We reach Huayllapa at 3,505 meters. The long descent makes this a challenging finale, but it also gives the five-day Huayhuash traverse a clear sense of completion: five major passes, the range’s most celebrated viewpoints, and a continuous journey from its northern trailhead to the western valleys.
Today
After breakfast in Huayllapa, there is no further trekking. The 6-day Huayhuash Trek hiking program has finished, and today is reserved for onward road travel.
The first part of the journey follows the mountain road toward Barranca. From there, travelers can continue to Huaraz or continue along the coast and travel onward to Lima.
This return transport is not included in the 6-day trek price. Travelers must arrange and pay for their vehicle or public transport separately. We recommend confirming the departure plan before beginning the trek because same-day availability in Huayllapa and Cajatambo can be limited.
Distances, hiking times, routes and arrival times are estimates. Your guide may adjust the itinerary due to weather, trail conditions, safety considerations or the needs of the group.
Real experiences
Huayhuash Trek 6 days reviews
A serious trek deserves serious preparation