Experience the grandeur of two ranges in one trip: a short trek through some of the most beautiful passes and lakes of the Cordillera Huayhuash, followed by a beginner-suitable climb of Ishinca (5530m) in the Cordillera Blanca.
It is designed for those who want both the scenery of the Huayhuash and the challenge of a high-altitude snow peak, but lack time for a longer expedition.
Duration
10 Days (plus a rest day in Huaraz)Grade
Moderate (trek) / PD- (Ishinca climb) — beginner-suitableHighest Point
5530mThe Huayhuash Mini Trek is the gentlest way into the range, crossing four passes above 4500m, with a cultural start at the Inca ruins of Huánuco Viejo. Ishinca is beginner-suitable but physically demanding at 5530m, with a long, steep moraine approach — true mountaineering, with instruction provided.
The trek is moderate but crosses four passes above 4500m. Ishinca is moderate and beginner-suitable, but the 5530m altitude and the long, steep moraine approach make it physically demanding; we provide instruction and support.
Reasonable fitness and adequate acclimatisation are needed; the trek itself helps prepare you for the Ishinca climb, with a rest day in Huaraz between.
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
230 km driveTime Window
5 to 6 hours driveMax Altitude
3736mDelta Profile
A 5 to 6 hour drive (230km) to Huánuco Pampa (3736m), with first distant views of the Huayhuash. We camp near the extensive Inca ruins of Huánuco Viejo and spend the afternoon exploring its temple and stonework.
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.
