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HIGHLIGHTS
A quick look about this trip!
DURATION
22 DAYS
COMFORT
LANGUAGE
RATING
  • One of the `Classic Walks of the World`
  • Trekking on a Himalayan scale
  • The setting for `Touching the Void`
  • Quechua Indian culture
  • Fantastic trekking holiday in Peru
ACTIVITIES ON THIS TRIP
Primary: Trekking
Other: Hiking, Local Culture & Cuisine, Mountaineering, sightseeing, Camping
$3095USD
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ONGOING PROMOTIONS
"Get 5% off when you book with AdventureLink before May 31st, 2012!"
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Applies to Departures Between:
4/25/2012 and 1/1/2013
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From 4/25/2012 To 6/1/2012
TRIP MAP
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Cordillera Huayhuash Circuit

Peru's Cordillera Huayhuash, together with its larger and better-known northern neighbour, the Cordillera Blanca, provides arguably the best trekking and climbing in the whole of South America. The compact massif of the Huayhuash is famed for its dramatic mountain scenery.
Peru's Cordillera Huayhuash, together with its larger and better-known northern neighbour, the Cordillera Blanca, provides arguably the best trekking and climbing in the whole of South America. The compact massif of the Huayhuash is famed for its dramatic mountain scenery, typified by fluted ice faces and knife-edge ridges. A stunning high-level trail makes an improbable circuit of this mountain group and provides trekking on a Himalayan scale. Presenting a rewarding challenge to regular hillwalkers, KE’s unique variation of this classic trek crosses a succession of high passes and takes us into remote valleys for views of Peru’s highest peaks, including Yerupaja (6634m) and Huascaran (6768m). We also visit Siula Grande, scene of Joe Simpson’s epic. Towards the end of the trek, there is the option to make the straightforward ascent of Cerro Jyamy (5200m), which affords views of the entire range. With superb campsites beside green glacial lakes and the charming company of our Quechua Indian crew, this trip offers a fantastic South American experience.

Additional Information
The group size for this holiday is: 4-15
Optional Single Tent Hire from: $180

Note: Prices and itineraries shown for holidays departing in 2013 may be subject to change, although we will endeavour to keep any price increases to a minimum. 2013 prices will be confirmed in October 2012.
Day 1: Arrive Lima Airport
Rendezvous at the group hotel in Lima, situated in the modern Miraflores district of the city. A complimentary airport transfer is provided for all clients arriving in Lima between 7.00am and midnight. We meet our trip leader who will give an informal briefing on the days ahead. KE Land Only services begin with the overnight at the group hotel. Lunches and dinners are not included while staying in Lima.
Day 2: Drive to Huaraz
An early morning departure for the 8-hour drive in a comfortable bus to the town of Huaraz, which is the capital of the district known as Ancash. Our route follows the Pan American Highway to Pativilca, where we head inland, climbing from sea level to the pass called Punta Conococha at an altitude of 4100 metres (13,452ft.) in just 3 hours driving. From the pass, we have our first views of the peaks of the Huayhuash. Dropping down from the pass, we continue to Huaraz, where we check in to the Hostal Columba which is a beautiful old Hacienda owned by one of the oldest families in Huaraz. Altitude– 3091m. / 10,141ft. (included meals: Breakfast)
Day 3: Acclimatisation in Huaraz
A sightseeing and acclimatisation day in Huaraz. An easy 2-hour walk above the town, either taking a picnic or returning to town for lunch. We can also take the opportunity to visit the local craft market, which is set up each evening along the main thoroughfare of the Luzuriaga. The best goods on offer are excellent, locally made woollen and leather items. (B)
Day 4: Acclimatisation, Laguna Churup
Today, we have the option to make the 5-hour round trip to a viewpoint near Laguna Churup (4500m / 14,765ft), a day hike which will provide us with fantastic views of lots of impressive peaks – including Huascaran, Huandoy, Chopicalqui and many others. A short section of scrambling leads to the lake itself. Return to Huaraz. (B)
Day 5: Drive to Quero, trek to Marhuay
Leaving Huaraz and heading south, we make the 2 hour drive to the small town of Chiquian (3400m / 11155ft). We now follow a rough road with good views of Yerupaja, the highest peak of the Huayhuash and the second highest in Peru. Crossing the low point of the entire route at the Cora Bridge (2700m / 8858ft), we continue driving to Quero (this depends on the state of the new road) where we meet our arrieros and burros. On this part of our route it can be very hot - up to 25°C / 77°F. From here, we trek to Marhuay (3700m / 12,140ft) where we camp in the grounds of the school. (B,L,D)
Day 6: Trek to the Valley of the Condors
From our camp, we begin a gradual ascent alongside the Rio Radiash to enter the Quebrada Radiash, where we make camp (4170m / 13,682ft). After lunch, there are a couple of ridges above camp for those with energy to spare. A short day of 2 or 3 hours trekking. (B,L,D)
Day 7: Trek to camp above Quartlehuin
This diversion from the main Huayhuash trail takes us into some pretty wild country, making a gradual ascent to the first of two passes, Punta Milau (4660m / 15,318ft). From the pass, we descend a short distance and then re-ascend and follow a rising traverse where we continue to the second pass, Punta Sacsa (4750m / 15,649ft).from the pass we descend to our lunch spot From here we have a short ascent over a small ridge and from here a long descent then takes us to camp at 4200m / 13,780ft, set near to the stone corals of Quartlehuin, which is home to some of our trekking crew. Fantastic views of Yerapaja, Rondoy and Jirishanka. A longish day of 7 hours trekking. (B,L,D)
Day 8: Cross the Cancanampunta to Janca
Today we cross the pass known as Cacanampunta, at an altitude of 4700 metres (15,420 feet.). This pass is at the northern extremity of the Huayhuash range and also marks the continental divide, with all rivers to the east flowing away towards the Amazon Basin. A short steep hike on a zig-zag trail takes us up to the pass. After a rest stop at the top, we descend to the broad valley known as the Quebrada Caliente and then turn into a tributary valley that leads to Laguna Mitacocha (4200m / 13,780ft). We set up camp at Janca, below the lake. An impressive ring of peaks rises up to the south of our camp, with the largest and most striking being Jirishanca (6126m / 20,100ft). In the afternoon there is time to explore the area. The glacial blue lake is famous for its bird life, with flocks of Andean geese and ibis. With luck our crew will have had time to catch some trout for dinner. 5 hours walking. (B,L,D)
Day 9: Trek to Laguna Carhuacocha
We descend from our camp to the Quebrada Caliente and follow the broad grassy valley in a south-easterly direction until we are obliged to begin our climb up to the next pass, the Carhuac (4650m. / 15,257ft.). There are close-up views of the rounded summit snowfields of Yerupaja (6634m. / 21,766ft.) from the crest of the Carhuac. The pass itself is an excellent area for fossils and for those with extra energy there is a small hill nearby which affords dramatic views of Siula Grande (a peak made famous by Joe Simpson’s best-selling book - Touching the Void). On our descent to our overnight stopping place at Laguna Carhuacocha, there are excellent panoramic views of many of the Huayhuash peaks. We camp above the lake at 4200 metres (13,780ft). This spectacular camp is the best on the east side of range, lying beneath the stunning peaks of Yerupaja and Jirishanca. 5 hours walking. (B,L,D)
Day 10: Exploration from camp
A rest day to relax and possibly go fishing with the trek crew. They will teach you how to fish Peruvian style - by tickling the fish. Alternatively, a scenic day hike above the lake leads to two further glacial tarns - known as Siulacocha and Querococha. (B,L,D)
Day 11: Trek to Huayhuash Village
We have a choice of routes today. The first option follows a rough trail to cross a steep pass to Punta Suila (4800m / 15,748ft) via some lakes with stunning views of the surrounding peaks. Alternatively we can follow the normal route across the Punta Huayhuash (4575m / 15,010ft), which is situated between Laguna Atocshaicho and the peaks of Trapecio and Carnicero 'The butcher'. Both routes make for a long but spectacular day’s trekking. On the way, we are likely to encounter local shepherds and their flocks in high valleys reminiscent of the European Alps. We camp at the small hamlet of Huayhuash at an altitude of 4300 metres (14,100 feet). This valley is home to herds of vicunia, a wild cousin of the alpaca and llama. 7 - 8 hours walking. (B,L,D)
Day 12: Trek to camp below Trapecio
For the next 3 days, we use our local knowledge to deviate from the ‘normal route’ and seek out the very best of the 'hidden' Huayhuash. Leaving behind the few huts and corals that make up the seasonal settlement of Huayhuash, we begin a steady ascent to the Portachullo de Huayhuash (4750m / 15,585ft). From this pass, we have superb views of the peaks of the Cordillera Raura that lie to the south of us. From here we take a short route to camp by Burrococha (4500m / 14,765ft) below Trapecio. (B,L,D)
Day 13: Cross the Punta Trapecio
A steep two hour ascent from our camping place will bring us to the crest of the Punta Trapecipo, at 5000 metres (16,460 feet), with the reward of brilliant views of the Huayhuash to the north and the Raura peaks to the south. The hanging glaciers of the peaks are just above us. We have the option of ascending a small hill to 5170 metres (16,963 feet) for tremendous views of Siula Grande and Sarapao - some of the best views on the trek. After stopping to admire the views, we descend the scree slopes below the pass. This steep descent leads to the lunch spot below Puscanturpa and above stunning azure lakes. From here we trek to our camp (4500m / 14,765ft). (B,L,D)
Day 14: Two options to camp at Calinca
Another long day today. We have the option of travelling down the Quanacpatay Valley or crossing another pass at around 5000 metres with some of the most fantastic views of Laguna Sarapo and Laguna Jurau. The ascent to the pass is steep and there is not much of a trail but the effort is well worth it. We usually see Vicunia and there is often a condor flying overhead. We camp tonight at the junction of the Calinca and Quanacpatay valleys (3970m / 13,879ft). (B,L,D)
Day 15: Trek to foot of the Punta Tarpush
Today we trek down valley until reaching the village of Huyapplla and then a long climb up to reach Whatia below the Punta Tarpush (4800m / 15,749ft). We camp at Whatia. 6- hours walking. (B,L,D)
Day 16: Optional ascent of Cerro Jyamy
Climbing up to the Punta Tarpush, we take the opportunity to make an ascent of Cerro Jyamy from the pass. This climb takes us across easy scree slopes to reach the snow line and then we follow an easy-angled snow slope to the top. From the summit, at around 5000 metres (16,400 feet), there are incredible views of the whole range and we should also see Huascaran and the peaks of the distant Cordillera Blanca. We descend via a ridge-line to a lovely camping place below a number of small lakes. A 5 to 6 hour day. Altitude at camp – 4500metres (14,765 feet). (B,L,D)
Day 17: Trek to Quebrada Whacrish
An easy trek leads downhill through a small forest of wildly contorted quenual trees to the base of the next pass. A zig-zagging trail then takes us to the Punta Jahuacocha (4850m / 15,913ft) and above the pass an optional scramble takes us to a small peak with magical views of the Huayhuash. For the past 5 or 6 years there has been a family of condors living amongst the rocks of another small peak at the pass and it is well worth hanging out to watch them play on the thermals. A steep descent takes us to Quebrada Whacrish where we camp with views of Tsacra peaks 4350m. (B,L,D)
Day 18: Trek to Laguna Jahuacocha
We have the option of crossing another pass set below Rasac and Yerapahaha to reach Jahuacocha with absolutely magical views in all directions a long descent leads us to the Laguna Jahuacocha and a fantastic camp one of the best camps in South America. For those who want an easier day there is the option of going direct to camp with the trek crew. (B,L,D)
Day 19: Trek to the Llamac
After a very leisurely breakfast we cross the final pass of the route, the Punta Llamac (4500m / 14,765ft) which provides us with our last views of the big peaks, before we descend to Llamac (3250m / 10,663ft) and camp. (B,L,D)
Day 20: Drive to Huaraz
We say goodbye to our trek crew and meet our vehicles for the 5 hour drive back to Huaraz. Check into our hotel in Huaraz. (B)
Day 21: Drive to Lima
After a leisurely breakfast, we set off for the drive back to Lima. Arriving in the late afternoon, we check in to the group hotel. (B)
Day 22: Depart Lima
Depending on flight schedules the morning is free for independent sightseeing in the Peruvian capital. After lunch we have the use of a day room at the group hotel to freshen up before we transfer to the airport where KE Land Only services end. (B)
Overall Rating
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Peter Dover
Val was amazing! Very professional, always concerned about our health, she managed the acclimatisation very professionally, the routes were excellent, the pace of walking was very well judged to suit the group, her campsites were excellent, she was very knowledgeable about the area, the people, the flora and fauna - she must be the best candidate for guide of the year!! Best trek I have ever done!
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Fred Peters
Val was the reason I choose this trek, knowing she was an expert in the region and that she would attend to our (my) health and well being. I was not disappointed.
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Marion Hughes
An amazing trek that was everything I'd hoped for and more. Good company, excellent leader and support staff, fine weather and unbelievable mountains and views at every turn- the itinerary is spot on with a nice mix of high passes and snow capped mountain views, very quiet campsites and good peruvian food to keep you going. Val is an excellent leader taking everyone's health and fitness levels on board from the start of the trek and is integral at keeping the group together and motivated to keep on to the very top of every small hill! She manages to keep everyone entertained with her tales from previous treks and encourages the group to gel by talking about themselves. She also introduces you to the people, language and culture which makes the trek a richer experience for all concerned. Her knowledge, love and feel for the country is apparent in every aspect of the arrangements made and makes for a rewarding experience for all concerned.
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Lois Rice
This was the best run trek I have ever participated in. An exceptional crew! Val Pitkethly is extraordinary. The best of the best!
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Julie Lennon
Val was a fantastic guide. She had a great knowledge on the area; it’s wildlife and flora. It was great to be on a trip with a guide who also cared a lot about the area and had a great rapport with the local people. This was a brilliant, and demanding trek. The deviations from the normal circuit really made the trip. It was really enjoyable to go off the main route and be the only ones camping in some fantastic locations and see sights that we would not have seen had we stuck to the main paths. Better then my expectations.
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Adrian Gostelow
The Faraona hotel, Lima was very comfortable, the staff helpful and welcoming. It is in a very pleasant area of Peru (Miraflores). Similarly, the Hostal Columbo, Huraaz was a great place to stay with friendly staff, a great breakfast and a comfortable rooms. The transport arrangements were good and timely. The standard of driving was excellent given the nature of some of the roads we travelled. The local guide and crew were friendly, helpful and well organised. Val is a very professional, hard working and extremely knowledgeable guide. There is nothing she does not know about the Cordillera Huayhuash and indeed other mountain regions of the world! Val has a great empathy with the local indigenous population, which gave us the opportunity to have an insight into their way of life. She is an absolute gem! The Cordillera Huayhuash is a spectacular area to trek with many of the camp sites situated close to some of the highest peaks in Peru in fantastic locations. The diversity of the landscape, flora and fauna and the interaction with the local population makes this an interesting trek from start to finish. The trip notes provide an accurate summary of what to expect! I enjoyed everything about the whole trip from the flights with the friendly KLM staff, to comfortable and friendly hotel accommodation in Lima and Huaraz, to the amazing scenery in the Cordillera Huayhuash. Everything went to plan!
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TRIP INCLUDES
  • An experienced KE Leader
  • Lima transfers (on days of group arrival and departure)
  • All land transport involved in the itinerary
  • Hotel accommodation in Lima and Huaraz
  • All meals except for lunches and dinners in Lima and Huaraz (6 lunches and 6 dinners)
  • A full service on trek including food and all equipment (excluding personal equipment)
TRIP DOES NOT INCLUDE
  • Travel Insurance
  • Visa (if applicable)
  • Tips for trek staff
  • Airport transfers other than on days of group arrival and departure
  • Lima Airport departure tax (if applicable)
  • 6 lunches and 6 dinners (in Lima and Huaraz)
  • Miscellaneous expenses - drinks and souvenirs etc.
CANCELLATIONS: 20% cancellation fee applied if cancelled 60 days prior to departure. Cancellations within 60 days are 100% non-cancelable

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