Santa Cruz Classic Trek - 4 Days

The first day of the trek you are picked up in your hotel and we drive through Carhuaz, Yungay and Caraz, into Llanganuco valley and then ascend the amazing 32 switch-back mountain pass road to Vaqueria. We start our trek descending to the village of Huaripampa, where we have the opportunity to meet friendly Quechua people, take memorable photos of their traditional houses their farmland and colorful garments. Then we descend to our first campsite in Paria (3800m).
Driving time: 5 hs. / Hiking time: 5 hs.

On our second day will walk about five hours before reaching the highest point of this trek. The trail starts ascending towards Punta Union (4750m). This old trail was heavily used in pre-Columbian and colonial times as a route for transporting goods from the eastern side of the Andes to the main valley. As we approach the pass, you will enjoy amazing panoramic views down the Santa Cruz Valley to the west, and views of the Huaripampa Valley to the east. The peaks of Santa Cruz surrounded by Andean vegetation of Quenual, the snow-capped peaks of Paria and Taulliraju, Artesonraju and Huaripampa will all come into view. We will see Taulliraju mountain looming above us and on the other side its glacial lake. From this high point, it is possible to see Alpamayo, Artesonraju, Taulliraju, Rinrihircas, Chacraraju, Chopicalqui and Pucahircas. After a break we descend to our next campsite Taullipampa (4250m).
Hiking time: 7 hs.

Today we walk around 5 hours before reaching our last camp Llamacorral (3750m). During this pleasant hike we can appreciate the following mountains: Santa Cruz, Quitaraju, Artesonraju, Alpamayo, Taulliraju and Rinrijircas. We will also pass the lakes Ischicocha, Hatuncocha and Arhuaycocha. The lake Arhuaycocha boasts one of the most spectacular views within the entire Cordillera Blanca.
Hiking time: 5 hs.

We complete our 4 day trek by hiking down to the village of Cashapampa, which takes approximately 3 hours. As we descend, you will be able to notice a steady change in vegetation as we follow the river. Our transport will be waiting to bring us back to Huaraz.
Hiking time: 3 hs.
Driving time: 3 hs.