Mini Huayhuash Trek – 5-Day Route
This high-impact five-day expedition offers a unique blend of ancient history and jagged alpine beauty, starting with a guided exploration of the Inca archaeological site of Huánuco Pampa. The route quickly transitions into the heart of the Cordillera Huayhuash, establishing a spectacular base at Carhuacocha Lagoon where trekkers can witness the sunrise over the vertical faces of Yerupajá and Siula Grande. Over the following days, the trek crosses iconic high passes like Carhuac and Sanbunya, reaching nearly 4,800 meters to provide panoramic views of the entire range and the turquoise Three Lagoons. It is a perfectly condensed wilderness experience that captures the most famous vistas of the Huayhuash circuit, concluding with a final descent through Jahuacocha and the scenic Pampa Llamac pass.
Your Itinerary
Day 1: Huaraz (3,052 m) – Huánuco Pampa (3,650 m) – Queropalca (3,800 m) – Carhuacocha Lagoon (4,200 m)
Carhuacocha Camp.
8-9 hours by private vehicle.
3-4 hours (approx. 8 km).
Lunch – Dinner
Guided tour of the Inca archaeological site of Huánuco Pampa (ceremonial plaza, kallanka, ushnu).
Continue to the town of Queropalca, where you will begin your hike to Laguna Carhuacocha.
Arrive and set up camp next to the lagoon, with views of Yerupajá, Jirishanca, Siula, and Carnicero.
Day 2: Exploration day in Carhuacocha
Carhuacocha Camp.
6-7 hours if visiting Siula Pass.
Optional activities:
Hike to the viewpoint of the Three Lagoons: Gangrajanca, Siulacocha, and Quesillococha.
Ascent to Siula Pass (4,800 m) for panoramic views of Siula Grande and Yerupajá.
Observe high Andean flora and take landscape photos.
Day 3: Carhuacocha – Cuartelhuain (4,170 m)
Cuartelhuain Camp
14-15 km
6-7 hours
Crossing intermediate passes with views of mountains and valleys.
Carhuac Pass (4,650 m – Cacananpunta Pass 4,750 m)
Descent through grasslands to Cuartelhuain, the traditional meeting point for Huayhuash routes.
Day 4: Cuartelhuain – Sanbunya Pass (4,750 m) – Jahuacocha Lagoon (4,070 m)
Jahuacocha Campground.
12 km
6 hours
Ascent to Sanbunya Pass, a natural viewpoint overlooking the mountain range.
Descent to Jahuacocha Lagoon, surrounded by Yerupajá, Jirishanca, and Rasac mountains.
Free afternoon for relaxation, fishing, or photography.
Day 5: Jahuacocha – Pampa Llamac Pass (4,300 m) – Llamac (3,300 m) – Huaraz
9 km hike + 6 hours of transportation.
3-4 hours
Last views of the Huayhuash Mountains from the Pampa Llamac Pass.
Arrival in Llamac, end of the trek.
Vehicle transfer to Huaraz via Chiquián.
Our Services
Included
- Official hiking guide.
- Cook and cooking equipment.
- Mules and muleteers for transporting cargo.
- Camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats).
- All meals during the trek.
- Entrance fees and corresponding permits.
Not Included
- Life insurance
- Sleeping bag
- Tips
- Other expenses not specified
Recommendations
- Acclimatize 2-3 days beforehand in Huaraz.
- Wear thermal clothing, waterproof clothing, and trekking shoes.
- Maintain a constant diet and hydration.
- Sunglasses, sunscreen, and walking sticks.
- Respect the flora, fauna, and customs of local communities.
