Combine the scenic 4-day Santa Cruz – Llanganuco trek with a Pisco climb — ideal acclimatisation and preparation — building to the epic challenge of the 6354m Chopicalqui.
The trek finishes in the Llanganuco Valley, which becomes the base for both climbs, minimising road travel between locations.
Duration
12 or 13 DaysGrade
Moderate (trek) / up to TD, Difficult (Chopicalqui) — not for beginnersHighest Point
6354mThe trek and Pisco provide great acclimatisation and strength for Chopicalqui, which has sections of steep, technical ice and is not suitable for climbers without steep-ice experience or instruction. The 13-day option splits the Pisco approach over two days to ease the pace.
The 13-day option (recommended if you have time) splits the climb to Pisco Morena Camp over two days instead of one, easing the pace before the demanding Chopicalqui.
The trek and Pisco give excellent acclimatisation. Chopicalqui requires good fundamental alpine skills and steep-ice experience or instruction; you carry your own gear to the high camps.
The guide in charge of your climb is one of our local, experienced and professional UIAGM International Mountain Guides.
Routes and conditions change year to year and even month to month as glaciers recede, so our descriptions are general only and may differ on the day. If reports from previous groups indicate unstable or dangerous conditions, we may recommend an alternative climb. The final decision on safety rests with your Peruvian Andes Adventures guide.
Review the route day by day: altitudes, distances and acclimatisation.
Distance
8.5 kmTime Window
5 hoursMax Altitude
3750mDelta Profile
A demanding first day for those short on fitness or acclimatisation.
We drive the Callejón de Huaylas to Caraz and up to Cashapampa (2900m), with a first view of Nevado Santa Cruz. A steady ascent follows the river through a steep, hot gorge before the valley opens to puna grassland and camp at Llamacorral (3750m).
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.
