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.
What trekkers say
Read all reviewsNext departures
See all dates4 confirmed departures 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 100% confirmed. When a departure is still forming, we show exactly how many more trekkers are needed.
September 2026
October 2026
November 2026
How forming departures, deposits and refunds work
A green Confirmed label means the departure is 100% going ahead.
For a forming departure, we make the final decision no later than 3 days before departure. If it cannot run and another date does not work for you, we refund 100% of the amount paid.
Booking for 2 or more? We can open a new date in advance and promote it to other trekkers. A semi-private option may also be available for an additional cost.
Book at least 15 days ahead with a deposit; the balance is due 15 days before departure. Paying in advance means every participant has made a real commitment to the trek.
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
- 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)
- 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”
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. 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
How booking works
- 1
Check your departure date
Review our live status first. Confirmed means 100% going ahead; forming dates show exactly how many more trekkers are needed.
- 2
Book your trek
Reserve securely through WeTravel. When booking at least 15 days ahead, you can pay a deposit and settle the balance 15 days before departure.
- 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