Download Itinerary

HUAYHUASH TREK PERU

ITINERARY

This circuit trek takes us to the Peruvian Andes and the Sierra Huayhuash – a range of mountains 30 km long, where six peaks tower above 6000 metres and 29 reach 5000 metres. This includes Yerupaja, the second highest peak in Peru (6634 meters). We trek to the base camp of Siula Grande (6344 meters) made famous through the Joe Simpson and Simon Yates near fatal expedition and subsequent movie “Touching the Void”. This is a challenging trek with huge rewards and magnificent mountain views of Himalayan proportions, fabulous hospitality, culture - and expert, safety conscious guiding by our trusted local partners. The trek crosses 10 passes and covers about 150 kilometres over eleven days. A lot of time is spent at altitudes over 4000 metres, so we take our time to acclimatize, including two nights at the charming “Lazy Dog Inn”, an eco-lodge in the Cordillera Blanca. From here we take two stunning day hikes before heading to the big mountains of the Cordillera Huayhuash.

Dan Murphy, co-owner and guide for Active Earth Adventures, will be joining this trek.

LENGTH 20 days GRADE D: Average 6 hours trekking per day, up to 8-9 hours on longer days START Lima, Peru FINISH Lima, Peru DEPARTURES 4th of August 2018 PRICE US$ 2900

“I WILL NEVER FORGET IT!” “The Huayhuash was truly the trek of a lifetime. It was tough at times but the rewards were huge. Those huge mountains just made me feel so small as a human being and I will never forget it!”

~ Kresten from Denmark ITINERARY

DAY 1 ARRIVE LIMA You will be met at the airport by our local partner and taken to our group hotel in Mira Flores. This plush and trendy suburb will seem a world away from some of the suburbs we pass through on the way. Chances are your flight will arrive in Lima in the late afternoon or evening, relaxing at the hotel is the only thing planned for today.

DAY 2 LIMA (ALTERNATIVE ARRIVAL DAY)

This is a free day to explore central Lima a bit further or rest up for the rigours of the days ahead. A stroll around the outdoor shopping mall of “Larcomar,” situated on the sea cliffs, is a surprisingly pleasant way to get a taste of life in this part of the city. The views of the ocean are stunning. For something a little more cultural a visit to the Presidential Palace and Plaza de Armas - old colonial center, is well worth the effort. The official ‘Changing of the Guard’ ceremony is performed every day at mid-day. In the evening meet with your fellow hikers and Dan Murphy (AEA tour leader). Head out to a local restaurant and get to know each other over a delicious Peruvian dinner. Includes breakfast.

DAY 3 LIMA TO HUARAZ

An incredible bus journey today, as we leave the capital of Lima behind, climbing high into the Andes before arriving in vibrant Huaraz. This city has a great atmosphere, friendly people and fantastic local markets. At 3052 metres above sea level, Huaraz is surrounded by giant ice sculpted peaks- you are living in the Andes! At this altitude you may feel a bit light headed and short of breath so we take our time over the next two days to get acclimatized on some amazing local hikes. This will help you get used to the thinner air. Stay in Huaraz hotel tonight before moving to the Lazy Dog Inn Eco Lodge in the heart of the Cordillera Blanca tomorrow. Includes breakfast.

DAY 4 ACCLIMATISATION DAY HIKE TO LIACA 3-4 hours

Now we have reached the Andes you will be ready to start hiking! We leave Huaraz today and drive out to The Lazy Dog Inn Eco Lodge, our home for the next two nights . There you will enjoy fabulous food and hospitality and have the opprtunity to relax whilst acclimatizing. Although a rough road at times, it’s a pleasant drive and on the way we will see the classic terraced farmland which supports a wide variety of crops including quinoa, wheat, corn and of course potatoes (Peru has over 1000 different varieties of potatoes). After leaving our luggage at the Inn, we continue by vehicle up the Llaca Valley and enter the the Huascaran National Park. It’s a short hike to the beautiful lake of Llaca which sits at 4,474 meters hiking in a little further, we get close up views of the glacier. There are also incredible views of the peak of Ranrapalca (6162m). Choose to head back to the Lazy Dog by car, or take a more direct line through rocky fields andenjoy the expansive mountain views. Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.

DAY 5 ACCLIMATISATION DAY HIKE TO LAKE CHURUP 3-4 hours

A final day of acclimatisation before starting the trek. From Pitec we start hiking and enter Huascaran National Park. The path climbs steadily up a ridge, before a shorter steeper stretch on the final climb to the lake. The lake sits at an altitude of 4450 metres. Sit back

ActiveEarthAdventures.com HikingNewZealand.com PO Box 331, Rangiora 7440, New Zealand Email: [email protected] NZ: 0800 697 232 - Australia: 1800 141 242 - USA: 1 844 681 4351 Rest of World: +64 3 310 8188 and admire the view of the mighty peak of Nevado Churup (5493 metres). Take time to explore the lakeshore before descending the same way. We return to our fine lodgings at the Lazy Dog Inn, enjoy another great meal and rest. Tomorrow we depart for the Huayhuash. Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.

DAY 6 HUARAZ - CHIQUIAN - LIAMAC - CUARTELHUAIN

Today we are Huayhuash-bound and pass through the villages of Chiquian, Llamac and finally Cuartelhuain, our first camp at 4,100m. This is around a 6 hour drive with the option to trek (2 hours) the final section to camp. At Cuartelhuain we meet the the hard working crew of donkeys and the drovers (arrieros) who will trek with us and carry the gear! Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.

DAY 7 CUARTELHUAIN - CACANAN PASS 4,700M - MITUCOCHA 6 hours

Let’s get started! Today, our first official day on the circuit, is a ‘climb high’ and ‘sleep low’ day, which will help us to acclimatise further. Trek up to the first pass of Punta Cacanan (4700m) then descend to the campsite at the beautiful Lake Laguna Mitucocha (4150m). There will be plenty of time to relax at camp after the first day on the Huayhash circuit. The views of the huge peaks of Ronday, Jirishanca, and Ninashanca are absolutely jaw dropping! Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.

DAY 8 MITUCOCHA - CARHUAC PASS 4,600M - CARHUACOCHA 4,250M 6 hours

Trek up to the pass of Paso de Carhuac (4650m) then descend to camp at Laguna Carhuacocha (4250m) when we are spoilt once again with incredible campsite views. Gaze across the lake to the peaks and ice fields of Siula and the peaks of Yerupajá – the highest peak in the Huayhuash Range at 6,635 meters. We may take an alternative route via an unnamed 4800m pass which has stunning views of Jirishanca Chica and passes by Lake Aguascocha, a beautiful and very deep lake. This is an unmarked route with a short section of scrambling – the guide will decide on the day if this route is appropriate. Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.

DAY 9 CARHUACOCHA - SIULA PASS 4,800M - HUAYHUASH 4,250M 6-8 hours

Once again there will be the choice of two routes today. The first and slightly easier climb is up to the Carnicero Pass (4600m), followed by an easy descent to camp either at isolated Laguna Carnicero 4300m (also called Juraucocha) or to another camp in the open valley of Huayhuash (4250m). Or take a more demanding route, climbing to a 4800m pass, before crossing above the glacier fed lakes of Siula and Quesillococha. This route puts you right in the heart of the surrounding peaks and glaciers with some of the best views in Peru. The lake often has ice floating on its surface debris from the glaciers high above. Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Pass through the now deserted Indian community of Huayhuash, before the long gradual climb up to Portachuelo Pass (4,650m). Enjoy the views of the remote Cordillera Raura and the snow topped peak Leon Huacanan. The trail follows the shore of the large lake of Viconga before heading up the valley a short distance to the campsite. Enjoy a sunset soak in the nearby hot spring at Viconga. Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.

DAY 11 VICONGA - CUYOC PASS 5,000M - SAN ANTONIO 5 hours

Today you will cross the highest pass of the trek, Cuyoc (5000 m). Being this high is an incredible experience, the views of the nearby hanging Puscanturpa glacier are awe inspiring. The climb to the pass takes around 3 hours. After enjoying the views of these huge Himalayan-like mountains you will begin the easing descent, and eventually arriving at the San Antonio camp. Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.

DAY 12 SAN ANTONIO - SAN ANTONIO PASS 4,990M - CUTATAMBO 4 hours

Another day and another pass to cross! We make our way up to the San Antonio Pass and at just below 5000 meters this is the second highest pass of the trek. From the pass we take in the mighty views of Jurao, Sarapo, Siula Grande, Huacrish, Santa Rosa, and Lake Jurao. We descend into the Sarapo Valley and make camp at Cutatambo. Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.

DAY 13 REST DAY OR TOUCH THE VOID... 5 hours (or rest day)

Choose from a well-earned rest day or trek to Lake Sarapococha. This was the base camp for Joe Simpson and Simon Yates on their epic 1985 expedition to climb the Siula Grande. “Touching the Void” is the book that Joe Simpson later wrote about their successful but disastrous and nearly fatal climb of the 6,344-metre Siula Grande. Great views of the glacier and moraines that Joe dragged himself down with a broken leg! Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.

DAY 14 CUTATAMBO - HUAYLLAPA - HUATIAC 6 hours

We pass by an impressive waterfall this morning before hiking down the Calinca Valley, passing through stone walled fields to the village of Huayllapa (3700m). From the village we climb to Huatiac (4300m). Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Perhaps the mot challenging day as we cross two passes, Punta Tapush (4750m) and Punta Yaucha (4800m), before descending to the spectacular Laguna Jahuacocha (4000m). On the way there is dramatic rock scenery and magnificent views of the surrounding peaks of Rondoy, Jirishanca and Yerupaja, the highest peak in the Huayhuash. Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.

DAY 16 JAHUACOCHA - SAMBUNYA PASS 4,750M - JAHUACOCHA 6 hours

One last challenge! After breakfast we set off for a day hike and climb to the Sambunya Pass o Cerro Amarrillo. A perfect vantage point to see almost all the mountains of the Huayhuash Range, before we return to camp at Jahuacocha. As tomorrow will be our final “trek” day, this day is a special way to finish and will give lasting memories of this incredible region. Alternatively, if your legs and lungs just need a rest, you can relax around camp. Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.

DAY 17 JAHUACOCHA - PAMPA LIAMAC - HUARAZ - HOTEL 5-6 hours

We make an early start today and climb gradually to our final pass - Pampa Llamac (4300m). This will be our final view point of the Huayhuash Range before we start our long descent to Llamac and the completion of the Huayhuash circuit! Our bus will meet us here for the journey back to Huaraz – where hot showers, beds and other simple pleasures (beer!) will be waiting! Includes breakfast and lunch.

DAY 18 HUARAZ - FREE DAY - HOTEL

A day to relax, shop for souvenirs and gifts from local markets and generally enjoy some indulgence after the rigours of the trek. Later in the afternoon we meet for a celebration dinner - Pachamanca (typical Peruvian cuisine). Includes breakfast and dinner.

DAY 19 MORNING BUS FROM HUARAZ TO LIMA - HOTEL

Homeward bound. We head for the bus station this morning and start our journey down the slopes of the Andes to Lima. Enjoy the sense of achievement and the feeling of oxygen rich air as we descend! Includes breakfast.

DAY 20 DEPART LIMA

If you are heading home today, you will be transferred to the airport after breakfast in time for your departure. Includes breakfast.

GRADE D THE CREW

• Average 6-8 hours of trekking per day, up to 9 hours on Dan Murphy – trek leader longer days. As a director and co-owner of Active Earth Adventures Dan will • Altitude – most of the trek is at above 4000 meters in be joining the trek to assist our altitude. The highest pass we cross is 5000 meters. local team to ensure that everyone is having the “trek of a • If you are an active, healthy person who exercises on a regular basis and have a love for mountains and lifetime”. Dan travelled to Peru trekking then this is the trek for you! in 2015 and trekked the San- ta Cruz circuit in the Cordilleria • As all the nights on the trek are spent in a tent it also Blanca with his young family helps if you like camping! and vowed to return as soon as possible to trek the Huayhuash A TYPICAL DAY Circuit. A guide of 18 years, avid The day usually starts with a “wake up tea” brought to your hiker, mountain biker and general tent around 6am followed by a bowl of hot water and lover of mountains and wild plac- flannel for wash. Then it is breakfast time in the es, Dan is committed to doing all communal dining tent, followed by packing up and hitting he can to ensure his clients feel the trail around 8am. Most days we will arrive into camp safe, valued and have an amazing between 3 and 4pm. Time to relax and rest before dinner, time. usually around 6.30pm. A team of hard working donkeys Dan Rodolfo Reyes Oropeza – Chief guide (Burros) carry the bulk of the gear. In your day pack each day Rodolfo is a fully certified professional Mountain Trekking you need to carry a drink bottle, snacks, camera, Guide. He studied at CEAM, (House of Guides Center for raincoat and fleece (what you need for the day). As well High Mountain studies) dedicated to the training of as the donkeys there will also be the ‘rescue horse’, which Mountain Guides in Peru. As well as guiding the Huayhuash would be used to transport someone if they were sick or trek (over 100 times), Rodolfo has also guided climbing and injured. trekking trips in Bolivia and Ecuador. Rodolfo is born and bred in Huaraz and also studied law here for 3 years before finding the lure of the mountains too strong! Rudolfo holds a mountain rescue qualification from the Peruvian Mountain Guides Association.

Pelayo Milla Morales – Porter and assistant guide Pelayo has worked for many years as a porter and assistant guide. An accomplished mountaineer who has climbed many of the 6000 meter peaks in the Cordillera Blanca and Huayhuash. EQUIPMENT AND CLOTHING Frael Milla – Chef See the list below for what you need to take and discuss with Frael is a master cook with our team if you have any questions. Sleeping bags and air more than 15 years of mattresses can be hired in Huaraz if you prefer not to bring experience plying his trade them with you. in the mountains of Peru. A LANGUAGE two ring burner in the corner of a tent is all Frael needs to Having a few words of Spanish in your vocabulary will make produce first class meals, veg- life a lot easier in Peru – and the Peruvians will really etarian meals are one of his appreciate you making the effort too! specialties. He is also a skilled mountaineer and works as an assistant guide as well.

Frael Milla, the Chef

Joining our team will be drivers, porters, arrieros and donkeys who are all experienced, professional and well trained (including the donkeys).

While Peru is a relatively safe country to travel in, you need to We have chosen the optimum time of year to trek in the Andes. take care in Lima and be discreet with valuables, such as cash, Between May and September, the weather in the mountains is cameras, jewellery etc. Things are a lot more laid back once we generally more stable, although it can still change rapidly; rain or get to Huaraz and the mountains, but it always pays to use your snow is not uncommon. However, a typical day on the trail will common sense and not become a victim of petty crime. be clear blue skies, sometimes a little cloud in the afternoon. The nights can be very cold and the temperature can fall as low as -10°C HEALTH AND HYGIENE at the higher camps. During the day it can get quite hot, up to 25- 30°C but more often around 15-20°C. Lightweight shirts with long It pays to be vigilant around food and personal hygiene to avoid sleeves and a collar is very important to protect you from the sun illness or upset stomachs leading up to the trek. On the trek we which can feel harsh at this altitude. drink only boiled or treated water. While in towns and cities drink only bottled or filtered water and carry your own water purification tabs just in case. While it’s fun and cheaper to eat from the street food vendors you may want to avoid this (at least before the trek anyway) to minimise the risk of eating any contaminated fruit or vegetables. Keep some hand sanitiser and wipes in your day pack. Consult with a travel health clinic at least a month before travelling to see if you require any vaccinations.

ALTITUDE

Most of the trek is above 4000 meters in altitude. The highest pass we cross is 5000 meters. Once above 3000 meters the air is ACCOMMODATION noticeably thinner, and you are likely to experience some side In Lima we stay in a good hotel in the Mira Flores area. For our effects. If you are fortunate, this nights in Huaraz we stay at good centrally located hotels. Rooms may be as minor as a mild headache, are on a twin share basis. The trek includes two nights at the eco feeling a bit lethargic and shortness lodge “Lazy Dog Inn” in the Cordilleria Blanca. Here we stay in of breath after physical exertion. beautifully appointed adobe type houses and dine with the hosts. However, it is very important to During the trek we camp in roomy two person tents, and there is a acclimatise slowly to give the body communal tent for dining and relaxing. a chance to adapt to the change of conditions. We have designed the itinerary with this in mind, and have two days of acclimatisation hikes before heading to the Huayhuash. We strongly recommend the use of ‘Diamox’ to medicate against the side effects of altitude. Feel free to discuss this with our team or consult with your doctor/GP. Room at the Lazy Dog Inn Adequate hydration is also very important and you need to be FOOD drinking at least 4 litres a day on the trek. While on the trek all meals are provided, when in Huaraz and Lima breakfast will be provided at the hotel. There is a great selection of restaurants in Lima and Huaraz and we will most probably dine together but you are free to choose. Let us know if you are a vegetarian, choices can be a little limited at restaurants but we can cater for you on the trek - no problem. Dinner and breakfast is included at the Lazy Dog Inn, it’s delicious!

TRANSPORT

We travel in a public bus for the Lima – Huaraz journey. The buses are very comfortable and we travel first class with the ‘Cruz Del Sur” company. The roads have a lot of switch backs as they climb the Andes – take travel sickness pills if you are not a good traveller! From Huaraz we travel in private minibuses.

ADDITIONAL COSTS Meals in Lima and Huaraz (except breakfast which is provided by the hotel). BOOKING CONDITIONS You will be asked to fill out a disclaimer before you begin the trek. You must follow the instructions of your guide at all times.

Payment For bookings 4 or more months in advance of the departure a 25% deposit can be paid with the remainder due 65 days prior to your trip. For bookings within 4 months of the departure, full payment is required.

Cancellations More than 60 days prior to departure - 80% refund if full amount paid 60 to 30 days prior to departure - 50% refund Less than 30 days prior to departure - NO REFUND Deposits are not refunded

Travel insurance We strongly recommend that you have travel insurance. World Nomads Travel Insurance provides online quotes.

PACKING LIST

ESSENTIAL ITEMS □ Towel (quick-drying) □ Sleeping bag (rated 3 season minimum) * □ Insect repellent □ Air mattress (compact and lightweight)* □ Sun-cream □ Day pack - a minimum of 35 liters □ Toiletries □ Large pack or duffel bag – this will be carried on the donkeys □ Head torch □ Trekking boots - broken in □ Camera (and power bank/spare batteries) □ Long trousers - lightweight/quick drying □ Solar charger for other small electronic items □ Long sleeve shirts - lightweight/quick drying/sun protection □ Sunglasses □ Trainers or sandals (for around camp) □ Water bottle □ Thermal tops and leggings (poly propylene or wool) □ Walking pole □ Down jacket □ Spare boot laces & sewing kit Fleece or woolen jacket/jersey □ *These can be hired in Huaraz if you want to travel light, talk to us □ Waterproof raincoat, Gore-Tex or similar if unsure or you want us to arrange for you. □ Light water-proof over-trousers □ Socks & underwear □ Swim wear □ Sun hat □ Warm hat □ Warm gloves