Huayhuash

Day 01: Quartelhuain – Paso Cacananpunta (4690 m) – Janca / Mitococha (4220 m)

The hike climbs gradually, passing a cave on the left before reaching paso Cacananpunta, the gateway to the cordillera Huayhuash. This point reveals the first broad view of the range. The descent leads to the Janca (or Mitococha) campsite, facing the imposing Jirishanca, Rondoy and Ninashanca, which dominate the horizon.

Day 02: Janca / Mitococha (4220 m) – Paso Carhuac (4630 m) – Laguna Carhuacocha (4150 m)

The trail climbs gently to Paso Carhuac, an excellent natural viewpoint towards Jirishanca, Rondoy and Ninashanca. From there, it descends towards laguna Carhuacocha, considered one of the circuit's most spectacular campsites. Facing Yerupajá, Perú's second-highest mountain, and Jirishanca, their imposing walls are reflected in the lake's waters on days with little wind.

Day 03: Carhuacocha (4150 m) – Mirador Tres Lagunas – Paso Siula (4830 m) – Huayhuash (4350 m)

One of the most iconic days of the trip, with the climb to the famous Tres Lagunas viewpoint. There is the option of a detour to laguna Cancrjanca, the first of the three, to appreciate the intense turquoise colour of its waters and surrounding rock walls up close.

The route continues climbing to Paso Siula. Although the final stretch is steep, the reward is open views of Huayhuash's main peaks. From there, the descent skirts laguna Carnicero before reaching the Huayhuash campsite, whose Quechua name refers to the Andean weasel found in the area and gives the entire range its name.

Day 04: Huayhuash (4350 m) – Paso Trapecio (5010 m) – Pampa Cuyoc / Elefante (4490 m)

The day begins with the climb to Paso Trapecio, one of the circuit's highest points. As you gain height, the landscape becomes increasingly open. Alternatively, you can approach the glacier for a closer view of the ice and the surrounding mountains.

From the pass, the trail descends gradually towards Pampa Cuyoc or Elefante, where camp is set up.

Day 05: Elefante / Pampa Cuyoc (4490 m) – Huayllapa (3490 m)

The trail climbs to Paso San Antonio, one of the most spectacular viewpoints on the entire hike. From here, there is an unforgettable view of peaks such as Carnicero, Sarapo, Rasac and Yerupajá, which completely dominate the landscape.

After crossing the pass, a long descent through the valley leads to Huayllapa, one of the few villages on the route. Here, you can restock supplies and even spend the night in accommodation before continuing the hike.

Day 06: Huayllapa (3490 m) – Gashpampa (4520 m)

The route leaves Huayllapa behind, following the river through a broad valley that gradually narrows between mountains. As you gain height, Juitush, Huacsha, Tapush and Diablo Mudo come into view, until you reach Paso Tapush Punta (4770 m), one of the finest natural viewpoints in this part of the range. From the pass, a short descent leads to the Gashpampa campsite, which is usually colder because of its higher elevation.

For those seeking an additional challenge, Diablo Mudo (5350 m) can be climbed with mountaineering equipment.

Day 07: Gashpampa (4520 m) – Jahuacocha (4050 m)

The trail climbs to Paso Yaucha (4900 m), from where there are two alternatives for descending towards the iconic laguna Jahuacocha. The route on the left, along the ridge, is more demanding but offers even more impressive views.

The panorama takes in lagunas Solterococha and Jahuacocha below, with mountains of different colours that seem painted in oils. The final descent leads to the lakeside campsite, one of Huayhuash's most iconic places.