Peru (Huayhuash Trek) | travelworldculture

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DATES AND PRICING

June _-_, 2027
- Travelers may need to depart from their home airport on one day before the trip begins.
- This trip will become available to book on August 11, 2026 at 7 PM Central Time. Join the email list for launch updates.
- This trip package costs $___ (USD), but the first 8 people who sign up will automatically get $___ off, making their package cost $____.
- Only a deposit of $399 is needed to sign up. The rest can be paid in full or via a monthly payment plan. Repeat travelers, don't forget that you get an additional discount!
- This trip has been planned for travelers in their 20s, 30s, and 40s.

If there's one trek that belongs on every avid hiker's bucket list, this is it. Welcome to the Cordillera Huayhuash in Peru, quite possibly the trek of all treks.

In the northern Peruvian Andes, Huayhuash is a compact range of soaring 6,000-meter peaks, glacier-fed lakes in shades of turquoise, and some of the most dramatic mountain scenery on Earth. While the Inca Trail sees hundreds of hikers a day, the Huayhuash sees a fraction of that. Some days, the only footprints you'll see are your own.

We'll start with 4 nights in Huaraz, the trekking capital of Peru, to acclimatize and get our legs warmed up. From here we'll take day trips to Laguna Churup, a stunning alpine lake tucked beneath towering peaks, and Laguna Llaca, sitting right at the foot of Ranrapalca glacier. Then we'll enjoy a free day to relax in town or head out to do an activity (anyone want to row boats on the blue waters of Laguna Parón, one of the most photographed spots in Peru?)

Once we're acclimatized, get ready for boots-on-the-ground, because we're setting off on 7 days circling the Huayhuash itself. Along the way, you'll trek past jagged snow-capped peaks, glacial lakes in every shade of blue and green imaginable, high alpine passes, and remote valleys where you're far more likely to spot a herd of alpacas than another tour group. You might spot Andean condors soaring overhead or vicuñas, the wild cousin of llamas. There's even an optional hike up to Siula Grande Glacier, one of the most iconic peaks in the range, for those who want to get even closer to the high alpine.

We'll be camping throughout the trek in high-quality North Face and Mountain Hardwear tents, so you can rest easy knowing you're warm, dry, and comfortable after a big day of hiking. And after seven days of camp life, we'll wrap up the trek with a stay at a stunning luxury hotel near Huaraz boasting some of the best views in the region, where you can trade your sleeping bag for a real bed and toast to the trek of a lifetime in serious luxury.

What really sets this trip apart is our local team. We work with a family-run outfit, a team of siblings who were born and raised in this region and have spent their entire lives in these mountains. They know every trail, every campsite, and every subtle mood of the weather, and that local expertise means a smoother and more fun experience for everyone. They are also committed to making sure your tourism dollars stay in the local community. That means you'll be directly supporting the people whose families have called this place home for generations, and traveling with a low-impact, leave-no-trace ethos every step of the way.

This is a trip for people who want the real, remote, off-the-beaten-path Andes: big mountains, small crowds, and a team that treats these trails like their backyard, because it is. See a full FAQ at the bottom of this page.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

11 nights in accommodations
- In Huaraz for 5 nights, rooms are double-occupancy private rooms with ensuite bathrooms. There will be 2 travelers from the TWC group per room. The final night is in a luxury hotel with an indoor pool, organic farm-to-table meals, spa services on site, and yoga on site.
- On the trail for 6 nights, accommodations are double-occupancy tents with rustic shared camp bathrooms at the campsite. There will only be TWC travelers in each tent, but others from the public may be at the campsites.
  - Please note that the teahouse accommodations are extremely basic. All teahouses are very similar, and the rooms are extremely basic without heating. Bathrooms are separate from the rooms, not private, and are a mix of western toilets and pit toilets. Sinks and showers are available, and TWC will be covering the additional fee for daily warm showers for those on this trip.
- If you want a single occupancy upgrade for the 5 total nights in Huaraz, the cost is $685.
- If you want a single occupancy upgrade to have your own tent, limited single-occupancy tent upgrades are available for $110.
28 meals
- In Huaraz, welcome and farewell dinners will be included at our favorite spots, as well as packed lunches on two acclimation hikes.
- On hiking days, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included. Meals will be prepared by the included camp chef in the dining tent.
- Additionally, warm drinks a day, snacks, and fruit will also be included on the hiking days.
- Boiled water for safe drinking water during hiking days is also included.
Round-trip transportation from Huaraz to and from the 2 included day hikes and the start of the trek by private jeep
Airport transfer service on arrival and departure in Huaraz from the airport (Comandante FAP Germán Arias Graziani Airport) or Huaraz bus station
Several fun activities:
- 2 day hikes from Huaraz with a local guide, private transportation, national park entrance fees if necessary, and a packed lunch.
- 7 days of trekking around the Huayhuash Circuit, including entry fees, local professional hiking guides, camp chef, and donkeys for luggage assistance.
A TWC group leader
Local hiking guides on all hikes
Donkey assistance in carrying your bag while on the Huayhuash Circuit
- Each hiker can have up to 17.5 pounds (8kg) carried for them.
All required entrance fees for the Cordillera Huayhuash community
All required national park fees for the 2 included day hikes
Camping gear
- Including a tent, kitchen gear, foam mattress, and -18°C sleeping bag.
Account to manage your booking and access to a private Facebook group for the trip
- Each TWC Traveler will be given access to their account where they will find a trip-specific packing list, a payment section to manage and make payments, options to contact their TWC with any questions, a link to a private Facebook group, and more preparation information.
Detailed preparation list and packing list followed by a group video call with the TWC group leader to go over questions.

See a full FAQ at the bottom of this page.

1. Note that your international flights to and from Huaraz are not included. However, we have free information on how to find the best flights, and we work with travelers to help find available deals.

2. There is a 3% fee for paying with a credit card. Alternatively, travelers can pay via bank transfer to avoid any processing fees.

3. Note: The activity level of this trip is VERY HIGH. There are 9 days of hiking (or 10 if you choose to hike on the free day), and there will be a lot of walking involved on most other days. The terrain on the hiking days is very strenuous and often steep. The mileage of the hikes are long, and most days of hiking involve a high-altitude pass. The itinerary's elevation starts at 10,013 feet/3,052 meters in Huaraz and reaches a maximum of 5,020 meters / 16,469 feet. It is highly recommended that those who join this trip have hiking experience and are active regularly. Reach out to jessica@travelwc.com with additional questions. Information on how to best prepare to make the hikes as comfortable as possible will also be given. Prepared hikers are the happiest hikers.

4. Each traveler will also have to purchase travel insurance of their choosing that fits specific requirements, including coverage for trekking up to the highest elevation on this itinerary, emergency medical coverage, and emergency medical evacuation, including helicopter mountain evacuation.

5. TWC works with local hiking guides during all hiking days and ensures that we only partner with companies that ensure the fair treatment of their guides and animals.

Day 0

Flight to Peru

Many travelers will need to book their flight leaving their home airport one day before this trip begins in order to arrive in Huaraz.

Most travelers start with an overnight flight into Lima (timing depends on your home country), then continue on to Huaraz via a scenic 7-8 hour bus ride through the Andes or a short domestic flight. Flights to Huaraz are limited with typically 2 nonstop flights offered a day and can be weather-dependent, so we recommend building in a little flexibility around your arrival day.

Note: When searching for flights, it is sometimes more affordable to book a round-trip flight to Lima and then, if you're flying from Lima to Huaraz instead of taking the bus, book a round-trip flight to Huaraz from there separately.

We are expecting to help everyone search for flights or their bus to Huaraz, so please don't hesitate to send an email or message if you have options that you want us to look over or if you don't know where to start. We can help advise you on how to book your flights using the multi-city method above, as you want to be careful when doing this to give yourself enough time on the layovers.

Day 1

Arrival in Huaraz

Arrive in Huaraz, the trekking capital of Peru and your base for the adventure ahead, at 10,013 feet/3,052 meters. After your arrival in Huaraz by bus or plane, private transportation will bring you to a centrally located hotel where you'll be welcomed by your TWC group leader. Check in to your hotel and take some time to acclimate to the altitude (Huaraz sits at 10,000 feet), explore the town, and grab a bite at one of the many casual restaurants and cafes.

Huaraz itself is a real mountain town where locals outnumber tourists and the main square buzzes with market vendors, outdoor gear shops, and trekkers gearing up for their own adventures in the peaks above. Many parts of town have sweeping views of the Cordillera Blanca, the highest tropical mountain range on Earth

Join the group for an included welcome dinner in the evening and get to know your fellow travelers. Whether you eat meat or prefer vegetarian options, you'll find plenty to love.

Dinner is included.

Day 2

Acclimation Hike #1

After a night's rest and breakfast at the hotel, it's time to prepare your legs and your lungs.

We'll head out on a stunning day hike to Laguna Churup, a stunning alpine lake sitting at 4,450 meters (14,600 feet) beneath the snow-covered peak of Nevado Churup. This is a great acclimatization hike before the Huayhuash Circuit.

Hike Details:

Distance: 6 km / 3.7 miles round trip
Elevation gain: 600 meters / 1,968 feet
Time: Approximately 4-5 hours total (3 hours up, 2 hours down)
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging; some steep sections with fixed ropes

The group will head out from the hotel in private transportation to the trailhead about 40 minutes away. The trail itself is a steady climb with incredible views of the Cordillera Blanca unfolding around you. You'll cross through high alpine terrain, use some fun rope sections to scramble over rocky sections, and earn jaw-dropping views at every turn. Once you reach the lake, you'll have time to sit by the turquoise waters, catch your breath, and soak in the landscape before heading back down (the descent is easier on your lungs but trickier on your knees).

You'll have a packed lunch to enjoy either on the trail or at the lake, depending on your pace and energy.

Back in Huaraz by late afternoon, the evening is yours to explore. Grab dinner wherever sounds good (whether that's casual pizza, Thai food, traditional Peruvian fare, or something else.) The TWC team will provide a list of our favorite spots. Later, join the group back at the hotel for a cozy evening: board games, card games, conversation, and getting to know your fellow trekkers before we head into the mountains.

Breakfast and lunch are included.

Day 3

Acclimation Hike #2

Today after breakfast you'll tackle one of the Cordillera Blanca's most underrated gems: Laguna Llaca. Nestled in a remote valley beneath two towering peaks, this glacial lake rewards hikers with stunning turquoise waters and almost complete solitude. Unlike the more famous Laguna 69, which sees crowds of tour buses, Laguna Llaca remains beautifully uncrowded.

Hike Details:

Distance: 13.65 km / 8.5 miles round trip
Elevation gain: 620 meters / 2,034 feet
Time: Approximately 5–6 hours total hiking
Difficulty: Moderate; the terrain is gentler than Churup, but the distance is longer
Elevation at lake: 4,470 meters (14,662 feet)

Private transport will pick the group up early in the morning and take you on a scenic drive through the Llaca Valley (about 2 hours from Huaraz, along some rough mountain roads). Once at the trailhead, the local hiking guide will lead the group on the rocky footpath that parallels a river as it climbs through this remote valley.

This is a longer day than Churup, so pace yourself. Your body is adjusting beautifully to the altitude, and that work will pay off when you reach the lake and can truly savor the moment without rushing back down. A packed lunch will be given out so you can rest and refuel at the lake, with plenty of time to soak in the views before the descent.

The group will return to Huaraz in the early evening. Tonight is free again: explore more of the town, try a new restaurant, or if you're feeling tired, grab takeout and head back to relax. Most evenings the group will gather in the hotel common area for games and conversation.

Breakfast and lunch are included.

Day 4

Free Day (Acclimation Hike #3)

After breakfast, choose your own adventure based on your energy and acclimatization. All options include private transport and a local guide.

OPTION 1: Explore Huaraz & Local Markets
- Rest day in town: browse outdoor shops, local markets, grab a massage
- Perfect for slower acclimatization

OPTION 2: Laguna Parón
- Distance: 3–3.5 hours drive each way
- Cost: ~$45 USD
- 13,779 feet / 4,200m elevation
- Shorter hike: 30–40 min to viewpoint OR longer loop: 5–6 hours
- Option to rent kayak/rowboat on crystal-blue lake (~$5)

OPTION 3: Laguna 69
- Distance: 3 hours drive each way
- Cost: ~$55 USD
- 15,091 feet / 4,600m elevation
- 8.6 miles / 14 km round trip, 5.5–6 hours hiking
- Famous turquoise lake; challenging but worth it if you're well-acclimatized and well-rested (Remember, tomorrow begins the big trek that you want to stay rested for, so don't overdo it on the free day!)

OPTION 4: Pastoruri Glacier
- Distance: 2 hours drive each way
- Cost: ~$30 USD + $30 park fee
- 17,224 feet / 5,250m elevation
- Only 30–40 min walk from parking area
- Scenic stops: Duck Lagoon, Seven Colors Spring, giant Puya Raimondi plants

In the evening, meet with the local guides and TWC group leader in the hotel lobby for a meeting to make sure everyone is prepared and able to pack to leave early the next morning to begin the Huayhuash Circuit. The rest of the evening will be free to grab dinner or bring something back to the hotel and rest.

Breakfast is included.

Day 5

Huayhuash Circuit Day #1

It's time. Today the big adventure begins. The group will depart Huaraz early in the morning in private vehicles for the 4-5 hour drive south through Andean villages to the trailhead. You'll pass small towns, herds of alpacas, and locals going about their morning. The group will stop for an included breakfast along the way (your last meal in civilization for a week!)

By mid-morning, you arrive at trailhead (4,150 meters / 13,615 feet) where the magic begins! The trail will climb steadily to Punta Cacanan Pass (4,700m / 15,427 feet) with the Cordillera Huayhuash unfolding before you. The local hiking guides carry all lunches and snacks, and lunch will be taken along the way.

A descent into a green valley follows, and the group will arrive at the first campsite, Mitucocha, in the late afternoon to find the sleeping tents and dining tent already set up. A warm dinner will be prepared by the chef and served.

Nights get cold quickly, and soon it'll be time to get cozy in your sleeping bag. The trek has officially begun!

Day 1 Details:

Drive Time: 4 hours from Huaraz to trailhead
Hiking distance: 9 km / 5.6 miles
Elevation gain: 950 meters / 3,117 feet
Estimated hiking time: 4-5 hours
Campsite elevation: 4,300 meters / 14,107 feet

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included.

Day 6

Huayhuash Circuit Day #2

After waking up to hot tea and a warm breakfast prepared for you at camp, you'll head out on the alpine route, even closer to the peaks. The first hour is relatively gentle as you contour along streams and through alpine meadows. Then the trail steepens considerably as you climb toward Laguna Alcaycocha (4,470 meters / 14,665 feet). At this altitude, it's helpful to move at a slow, steady pace. Take in the views all around you!

By mid-day, you'll reach Jirishanca Pass (4,780 meters / 15,682 feet), and lunch will be taken just below the other side of the pass with panoramic views surrounding you. After refueling, the group will descend to Laguna Carhuacocha where you'll find one of the circuit's most stunning campsites and TWC's personal favorite! The water in the lake is turquoise when the sun is shining, and several giant mountains (Yerupaja at 6,634 meters / 21,765 feet and Siula Grande at 6,344 meters / 20,814 feet) dominate the skyline.

Everything at camp will be set up and ready. If weather and energy allow, there's time for a refreshing dip in the glacial lake before dinner is prepared. If it's clear at night, the Milky Way will be bright enough to cast shadows across the campsite. Rest well because tomorrow is the many hiker's favorite day of the trek.

Day 2 Details:

Hiking distance: 9.3 km / 5.8 miles
Elevation gain: 660 meters / 2,165 feet
Estimated hiking time: 5–6 hours
Campsite elevation: 4,150 meters / 13,615 feet

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included.

Day 7

Huayhuash Circuit Day #3

An early wake-up and hearty breakfast will fuel you for the day ahead. Your guide will remind you: there's no rush today, just patience and determination. The morning begins with a gentle walk along Laguna Carhuacocha's shore, then the trail turns upward toward Mirador de Tres Lagunas (Three Lakes Viewpoint).

For the next 2–3 hours, you'll climb up a steep section of the trail. The group will support one another and share encouragement through this difficult section. Around mid-day, the trail flattens and you reach the very rewarding viewpoint: three turquoise lakes spread below you, with Yerupaja and Siula Grande in the background. This is often the most emotional moment of the entire circuit. Your guide will have packed lunches prepared to enjoy at this incredible viewpoint or just below on the other side.

The descent is steep and rocky but utterly mesmerizing with domesticated horses and llamas often grazing in the open meadows on the side of the trail. By late afternoon, the group will arrive to a set up camp with a warm meal prepared and served to celebrate this monumental day.

Day 3 Details:

Hiking distance: 13.2 km / 8.2 miles
Elevation gain: 750 meters / 2,460 feet
Estimated hiking time: 6-7 hours
Campsite elevation: 4,400 meters / 14,436 feet

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included.

Day 8

Huayhuash Circuit Day #4

After breakfast, you'll make your way toward Trapecio Pass (5,020 meters / 16,469 feet), the highest point of your entire trek. For approximately the trail will demand focus and determination. Remember, this isn't about speed, it's about reaching the summit safely.

At the pass, the world opens dramatically. Remote peaks of the Cordillera Raura rise to the south: Puscanturpa, Cuyoc, and Millpo stand proudly on the horizon. Lunch will be taken after descending down towards a series of turquoise lakes on the other side.

From here, the landscape appears almost otherworldly with reddish and orange rocks, sparse alpine vegetation, and surreal sparkling lakes scattered across a vast valley. By late afternoon, the night's campsite near distinctive rock formation resembling a sleeping elephant will appear in a rocky valley. You'll arrive tired and ready to rest and eat! Camp will be set up with a stream nearby for anyone who wants to take a quick tip. A warm meal and maybe some card games or stories with the rest of the group will make for a great evening at camp.

Day 4 Details:

Hiking distance: 8.5 km / 5.3 miles
Elevation gain: 650 meters / 2,133 feet
Estimated hiking time: 5-6 hours
Campsite elevation: 4,450 meters / 14,600 feet

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included.

Day 9

Huayhuash Circuit Day #5

After breakfast, you'll face one of the circuit's most rewarding challenges: Santa Rosa Pass at 5,057 meters / 16,591 feet. The day begins with a steep ascent from last night's camp. The route winds upward to Santa Rosa Pass. The views from the top are often described as the best of the entire circuit, perhaps even better than the iconic passes you've already crossed. Multiple lakes sparkle far below. Enjoy your prepared lunch from the local guide.

The descent from Santa Rosa Pass is steep and technical, descending through loose scree and gravel. Your local guide will lead you carefully, and the descent takes roughly 2-3 hours. As you descend, you'll traverse above stunning Laguna Jurau with views of Siula Grande Glacier directly above the lake, a reminder of the epic landscape surrounding you and the famous mountaineering story of "Touching the Void" that took place on Siula Grande.

By late afternoon, you'll arrive at Cutatambo camp, nestled in a scenic valley. If energy permits and weather is clear, you can choose to opt in for an extra hike to Siula Grande Glacier. Later, dinner will be prepared and served. Tonight, you can rest knowing you've crossed one of the circuit's most spectacular passes.

Day 5 Details:

Hiking distance: 11 km / 6.8 miles
Elevation gain: 700 meters / 2,297 feet
Estimated hiking time: 7-8 hours
Pass elevation: 5,057 meters / 16,591 feet
Campsite elevation: 4,250 meters / 13,943 feet

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included.

Day 10

Huayhuash Circuit Day #6

By day six, you'll be feeling more adapted to the altitude and familiar with the morning routine: tea, warm breakfast, stretching, and positive energy. Today's trail climbs gently through high-altitude valleys, transitioning toward the western side of the Cordillera Huayhuash. The landscape becomes increasingly open: glaciers stream down from distant peaks, and alpine lakes dot the terrain in surreal shades of blue and green. Lunch will be taken in a sheltered valley with a stream nearby, and the group will feel noticeably stronger and lighter.

Tonight's campsite, Huatiaq, sits in rolling high-alpine terrain that is sparse but beautiful with views extending for miles in every direction. Camp will be set up for you, and dinner will be prepared. There's a celebratory energy in the air knowing that this is the final night of camping! Maybe tonight is the night the group will stay up to watch the stars or play games under headlamp light?

Day 6 Details:

Hiking distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles
Elevation gain: 600 meters / 1,969 feet
Estimated hiking time: 6-7 hours
Campsite elevation: 4,200 meters / 13,779 feet

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included.

Day 11

Huayhuash Circuit Day #7

Your final day of the Huayhuash Circuit will start with a substantial breakfast to fuel the longest hiking day. By mid-morning, you'll be climbing steep switchbacks toward Yahucha Pass (4,800 meters / 15,748 feet). After 2.5 hours of steady climbing, the pass reveals some spectacular views with the entire west side of the Cordillera Huayhuash spreads before you like a map.

The descent drops into a grassy valley where herders live year-round with alpacas and vicuñas. Lunch will be taken in a sheltered spot, and after refueling, you'll continue to descend for hours. Eventually, the massive turquoise Laguna Jahuacocha appears before you. After just a bit longer of a descent from the lake, you'll reach one of the trailheads where the group's vehicles will be waiting to drive you back to Huaraz.

Upon arrival back in Huaraz, you'll be welcomed to a luxury hotel featuring organic farm-to-table cuisine, stunning mountain views, an indoor pool, on-site spa services, and yoga. After a week at altitude, you'll have the opportunity to recover in comfort: soak in the pool, indulge in a massage, practice restorative yoga, and more. The group will sit down for an included chef-prepared dinner featuring fresh local ingredients. This is your well-deserved celebration of what you've accomplished!

Day 7 Details:

Hiking distance: __ km / __ miles
Elevation gain: ____ meters / ____ feet
Estimated hiking time: 9-10 hours
Drive time: 3-4 hours back to Huaraz

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included.

Day 12

Travel Home

Time for the final goodbyes! (Where will the reunion be?!) Enjoy one last included breakfast and soak up the views from the luxury hotel.

Professional transportation from the accommodation to the Huaraz airport or bus station is included.

Breakfast is included.

(OPTIONAL: Add-on one extra night to enjoy more time in Huaraz before traveling home.)

Frequently Asked Questions

What can we do to prepare for the altitude? The itinerary's elevation starts at 10,013 feet/3,052 meters in Huaraz and reaches a maximum of 5,020 meters / 16,469 feet. This trip will involve 3 full days in Huaraz before beginning the Huayhuash Circuit in order to begin to acclimate. Each hiker will also be given information about how to prepare before (via the preparation list, packing list, and group video call) and during too. It is very important to take the altitude seriously, and all travelers can benefit from talking to their primary doctor about affordable generic prescriptions for altitude sickness. It's also helpful to stay hydrated, bring electrolytes, and avoid smoking and things that dehydrate you before and during the trip.

Is this trip doable if you’re afraid of heights? I don’t think it’s impossible with a fear of heights. It's important to note that there will be steep sections and parts of the trail near drop offs. There will be local guides and a team of horsemen in addition to the TWC group leader, so there's a team there supporting each hiker with difficult sections of the trail.

What will the weather be like?/What is the ideal season to go? Since this trip is planned for June, we'll be visiting during the heart of the dry season, which is widely considered the best time to explore both Huaraz and the Cordillera Huayhuash. We can expect mostly sunny days, clear skies, and excellent visibility of the surrounding snow-capped peaks. Daytime temperatures in Huaraz typically range from 59-68°F (15-20°C), making it comfortable for sightseeing and hiking. Nights are much colder, with temperatures in town dropping to around 32-41°F (0-5°C). At the higher elevations of the Huayhuash Trek, overnight temperatures commonly fall to 14-32°F (-10-0°C), so warm layers are essential. While the daytime sun can feel quite warm, the high altitude means UV levels are very strong, making sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat important throughout the trip. However, the weather can never be predicted fully, so the packing list will prepare each hiker for the possibility of rain, wind, etc.

Do you accommodate dietary restrictions? TWC is happy to accommodate dietary requests to the best of our abilities. It's essential to us that everyone is comfortable! A question during the signup process for each trip asks the traveler to note any dietary requests, allergies, etc. We can accommodate vegan and vegetarian diets on every trip. 3 out of 5 of our group leaders are vegetarian or vegan, so we always make sure to have good veggie options for all included meals and on our recommendation lists. Only a few of meals in Huaraz aren't included. Those times are flexible, so it works best for people to choose what they want to eat at those times. Although people often still stick together, and we make recommendations on places to eat.

Are we required to pay additional gratuity in addition to the price? For this trip, tips to the local team are included in the trip cost. TWC tips the local guides, porters, drivers, etc on behalf of the whole group. However, travelers are always welcome to give additional tips to the local hiking guides (who are with the group for many days) and their horseman. Again, the expected amount is included in the trip package, some some travelers want to give more if they really liked the local guides. Additionally, travelers will be presented a method to tip their TWC group leader digitally at the end of the trip.

How difficult are the hikes? The activity level of this trip is VERY HIGH. There are 9 or 10 days of hiking, and there will be a lot of walking involved on most other days. The terrain on the hiking days is very strenuous and can be steep. The mileage of the hikes are long, and almost each day involves hiking up and over a high pass. It is highly recommended that those who join this trip have hiking experience and are regularly active. Reach out to jessica@travelwc.com with additional questions. Information on how to best prepare to make the hikes as comfortable as possible will also be given. Prepared hikers are the happiest hikers.

What will we have to carry? You'll store your main luggage in the hotel back in town. On the trek, you'll want to have a small backpack that you'll hike with for your water bottle, sunscreen, small stuff, etc. All of your additional clothes and items for the 7 day trek will be carried in a duffle bag by a donkey. You can have up to 8kgs/17.5lbs carried for you, which is more than enough! We work with a group of local guides and horsemen who have strict rules to protect the donkeys and ensure fair treatment. The donkeys will carry your bags and deliver them to the next campsite each night, and the horsemen will set up camp for the hikers each day.

What should I do to prepare? The answer to that is going to look different for everyone. To start, I will always recommend getting as much time on trails as possible. Not everyone lives in a place where there are hikes like this with elevation, and that’s okay! Wherever you can get yourself walking and legs moving is great. Make a plan, go with a buddy, and have fun! If you don’t have access to any trails with elevation gain, the Stairmaster or treadmill on high incline in a gym is similar. During the trip, everyone will go at their own pace, and there will be local guides with the group. However, it’s important to put some thought into preparing, and you will be so happy you did! If you’re already an experienced hiker, this may not feel as important to you. Only you know your body, so I can only make generalized recommendations. We will chat more about how else to prepare during the group video call in the spring of 2027 (and in regular notes and posts via email and the Facebook group throughout the year until the trip).

Do I need a visa? US citizens do not need a visa to enter Peru. If you will be traveling with another passport, please send an email if you have any questions about visas.

Is it normal to come solo? Yes! One of the best things about TWC is that we prioritize community, and our groups get close quickly. We see a lot of roommates become great friends and entire groups reunite after the trip ends.

What will we experience aside from hiking? Huaraz serves as the cultural hub of the area, where visitors can explore lively markets, sample traditional Andean cuisine such as pachamanca, cuy, and locally grown potatoes, and learn about the customs of the Quechua-speaking communities that have lived in the region for centuries. The city is also home to museums showcasing artifacts from the ancient Chavín civilization, one of Peru's earliest major cultures. Along the Huayhuash Trek, hikers pass through small, remote villages where local families continue to practice traditional farming and herding, raising sheep, alpacas, and llamas much as their ancestors have for generations. Visitors may see women wearing colorful handwoven clothing, observe traditional agricultural practices, and purchase handmade textiles and crafts directly from local artisans. Many trekking routes also involve camping on community-managed land, with fees helping support local villages and conservation efforts. These interactions provide a glimpse into daily life in the high Andes while allowing travelers to experience the region's rich cultural heritage alongside its world-renowned mountain landscapes.

Do you offer payment plans? Yes! During the sign-up process, you can select to opt into a monthly payment plan interest-free. You will find the package cost under the "Pricing and Dates" section on the trip page. When signing up, you'll have the option to opt in for an interest-free payment plan. Only a deposit of $399 is due on the day of booking. The remaining balance can be paid in 8 monthly installments starting in September and going through April 2027. However, you'll have access to an account where you can log in anytime, see your payment plan details, make a partial or full payment anytime you want, and more.

Do I need camping equipment? No! The trip package includes the sleeping tents, dining tent, kitchen gear, chef to prepare the meals, foam sleeping mat, and -18°C sleeping bag. However, travelers will need to bring a personal-sized backpack to carry their water bottle and other items wanted during the hikes, sleeping bag liner, various clothing items (hiking shoes, hiking clothes, hat, beanie, socks suitable for hiking, down jacket, sunglasses, rain jacket, etc), and a headlamp. The TWC group leader will carry a satellite phone, and the local guides will carry first aid supplies. A detailed packing list will be provided.