Huayhuash Circuit

The Huayhuash Circuit is the demanding sibling of the Santa Cruz trek. The Cordillera Huayhuash is a compact range south of Huaraz, home to Yerupaja, the second-highest mountain in Peru at around 6,600 metres, and the rugged peaks of Rasac, Jirishanca and Siula Grande, the last made famous by the book and film Touching the Void. The classic circuit loops around the range over roughly eight to twelve days, covering about 130 kilometres and crossing several passes at or above 4,700 metres. Along the way you pass glacial lakes, hot springs, high plateaus and remote villages, and each camp has its own character. The trek is considered one of the finest in the world, and also one of the toughest, because the passes are high and frequent, the days are long and there is very little chance to leave the route. It is usually run by licensed operators with guides, cooks, arrieros and mules, and access to the range is managed by local communities who charge fees. The result is a wild, quiet experience that feels very different from the better-known tourist trails, as long as you have the fitness and time.

Trekkers typically travel from Huaraz to the village of Llamac or Pocpa, then follow a route that includes Laguna Mitucocha, the Carhuacocha basin with views of Yerupaja, Siula Grande and Jirishanca, Laguna Viconga with its hot springs and the final stages near Cuartelwain. Some itineraries use shorter variants, such as a mini-trek of three to five days that visits the highlights without the full loop. Pace and route depend on weather, group strength and local conditions, and good guides adapt as they go.

Camps are usually established in communal areas managed by local people, who collect fees that support their villages.Preparation is essential. This trek calls for solid previous high-altitude experience, a strong base fitness and several days of acclimatisation in Huaraz, ideally with a few easier hikes first. Pack as for a winter expedition: a warm sleeping bag, thermal layers, waterproof outerwear, gloves, a hat and good boots. Bring sun protection and a personal first aid kit, and discuss altitude risks and evacuation plans with your operator.

Weather can change quickly; snow is possible at any time of year, and the best season is the dry period from May to September. Avoid the rainy season, when passes can be dangerous and trails are muddy.Choosing an operator matters. Look for companies with experienced guides, reliable equipment, fair treatment of muleteers and cooks, and a clear safety plan. Ask about group size, the rate of ascent, contingency days, whether the price includes park and community fees, and what happens in an emergency.

Several routes exist, from the full circuit to shorter treks, and the right choice depends on your time and ability. This is not an easy walk and is not suitable for beginners, but for experienced trekkers it rewards with some of the most spectacular alpine scenery in the Andes. If you want a lighter introduction, the Santa Cruz trek is the better first step, and many travellers use it as a preparation before returning for Huayhuash.