Santa Cruz Trek – 4 Days / 3 Nights
The Santa Cruz Trek is a quintessential Andean adventure that perfectly captures the dramatic scale and beauty of the Huascarán National Park in just four days. The route winds through deep glacial valleys, starting from the lush vegetation of Cashapampa and ascending toward the high-altitude meadows of Taullipampa. Hikers are treated to a continuous parade of world-famous summits, including the pyramidal Alpamayo and the iconic Artesonraju, before reaching the expedition’s crown jewel: the Punta Unión Pass at 4,750 meters. From this spectacular vantage point, the trail descends through the tranquil Huaripampa Valley and traditional Andean villages, offering a complete immersion into the pristine landscapes and vibrant culture of the Peruvian Andes.
Your Itinerary
Day 1: Huaraz – Cashapampa (2,900 m) – Llamacorral (3,750 m)
Llamacorral Camp.
Approx. 4–5 h.
Lunch – Dinner
- Departure: 6:30 a.m. from Huaraz in private transport toward the village of Cashapampa (approx. 3 h).
- Logistics: Meet-and-greet with muleteers and pack donkeys.
- Route: Begin the trek through the Santa Cruz Valley, surrounded by lush vegetation, ravines, and waterfalls.
Day 2: Llamacorral – Taullipampa (4,250 m)
Taullipampa Camp.
Approx. 6–7 h.
Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner.
- Breakfast: At the campsite.
- Route: Hike toward Ichiccocha and Jatuncocha lakes with stunning views of Quitaraju, Alpamayo, and Artesonraju peaks.
- Ascent: Gradual climb to the Taullipampa base camp, located at the foot of Mount Taulliraju
Day 3: Taullipampa – Punta Unión (4,750 m) – Cachinapampa (3,700 m)
Cachinapampa Camp.
Approx. 7–8 h.
Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner.
- Ascent: Climb to Punta Unión Pass, one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the Cordillera Blanca.
- Highlights: Panoramic views of Taulliraju, Rinrijirca, Paria, and Artesonraju peaks.
- Descent: Through the Huaripampa Valley toward Cachinapampa.
Day 4: Cachinapampa – Vaquería – Huaraz
Approx. 3–4 h.
Breakfast – Lunch.
- Route: Gentle descent through the Huaripampa Valley, observing Andean flora and traditional villages like Colcabamba.
- Arrival: Reach Vaquería and return via private transport to Huaraz.
- Arrival in Huaraz: Approx. 4:30 p.m.
Our Services
Included
- Bilingual official mountain or trekking guide.
- Private transportation: Huaraz – Cashapampa / Vaquería – Huaraz.
- Muleteers and pack donkeys (maximum 8 kg per passenger).
- Professional cook and full kitchen equipment.
- High-mountain tents (double, triple), dining tent, and kitchen tent.
- Full meals during the trekking.
- Huascarán National Park entrance fee.
- First aid kit and emergency oxygen.
Not Included
- Accommodation in Huaraz.
- Sleeping bag (optional rental).
- Travel insurance.
- Tips.
Recommendations
- Acclimatization: Acclimatize at least 2 days before the trek (Lake Churup, Wilcacocha, or Lake 69).
- Gear: Bring thermal clothing, windbreaker, headlamp, sunscreen, UV sunglasses, water purification tablets, hat, gloves, and trekking poles.
- Insurance: Travel insurance with mountain coverage is highly recommended.
