The best of the Cordillera Blanca in one trip: a high-altitude circuit trek featuring Laguna Cullicocha and the Alpamayo pyramid, followed by the challenge of climbing Pisco (5753m) for amazing summit views of the range’s giants.
The trek builds excellent acclimatisation and fitness, and a rest day at Cebollapampa separates the trek from the climb.
Duration
15 Days (option for 14)Grade
Hard (trek) / PD (Pisco climb) — good fitness requiredHighest Point
5753mThis is a hard trek — 11 continuous days at altitude crossing several high passes via steep ascents, with some long days — followed by a true mountaineering ascent of Pisco. You need very good fitness and endurance and full acclimatisation; the reward is the majesty of the Alpamayo circuit and a rewarding summit.
The trek is graded Hard: 11 continuous days at altitude, several high passes via steep ascents, some long days, several cold camping nights. Pisco is medium to hard — beginner-suitable but physically demanding at 5750m, with a steep, loose approach to Morena Camp where you carry your gear.
A rest day at Cebollapampa separates the trek and the climb; omit it for a 14-day programme.
The trek itself provides excellent acclimatisation for Pisco; we recommend three Huaraz day hikes before starting, given the high second camp and the two-pass days.
The guide in charge of your climb is one of our local, experienced and professional UIAGM International Mountain Guides.
Access roads to and from the mountains are generally unpaved and can be bumpy, so road travel times are slower than the distance suggests.
Review the route day by day: altitudes, distances and acclimatisation.
Distance
116 km driveTime Window
5 hours driveMax Altitude
2900mDelta Profile
We descend the Callejón de Huaylas, stopping at the Yungay memorial and the Caraz market, then take an unpaved road up to our first camp at Hualcayán (2900m), greeted by local children.
More routes in the same spirit — the same range or the same kind of trip. Tap any one for the full itinerary, or write to us and we will tailor your own.
Duration
12 Days (plus a rest day in Huaraz)Best Season
May - Sept
Duration
10 Days (plus a rest day in Huaraz)Best Season
May - Sept
Duration
8 Days (option for 9 Days)Best Season
May - SeptEssential answers about this high-altitude route.
Contact our operations base in Huaraz: we sort out the prerequisites and secure your place on the expedition.
