Santa Cruz Trek + Pisco

Today we head for the departure point for our trek. We set off via private transport to the valley of the Santa River, as far down as Caraz and then along a narrow route toward the Santa Cruz Valley. The farmers cultivate the green fields, but agriculture is very difficult here. We arrive at the village of Cashapampa, where our trek begins and our local team is waiting: burro drivers whose pack animals will carry our baggage from now on. Starting in the lush vegetation of the valley, we continue deeper into this unique mountain landscape. After approximately 4½ hours of trekking, we arrive at our campsite in Llamacorral. Overnight Camp (B/L/D)

We climb via Santa Cruz Gorge and pass alongside the lakes of Ichiccocha y Jatuncocha. At the edge of the trees, the lupines enchant us with all colors of blue. This is a paradise for the local ducks! Next we go to Lake Arhueycocha (4450m), which is also the departure point for climbing Alpamayo. We enjoy a fantastic view of the peaks of Alpamayo, Quitaraju, Artesonraju (the logo for Paramount Pictures!) Many people believe that the white pyramid of Alpamayo is the most beautiful mountain in the world! Camp at Taullipampa. Overnight Camp (B/L/D)

At first it‘s an easy climb through meadows, but the trail soon becomes dry, rocky and steep. This trail was used from pre-Inca times to get to Punta Unión, an imposing mountain; it will take about 2 hours. The majestic mountains of the Cordillera Blanca you can see today include Taulliraju and Huandoy, Huascarán, the Pucajircas, Artesonraju and many others. The descent is also steep and passes through the beautiful high mountain landscape of the lakes of Morococha. We finally get to the valley of Huaripampa where we camp for the night. Overnight Camp (B/L/D)

After descending through the forests and Whitewater Rivers of the Huaripampa Valley, we pass through a typical village of the high Andes, Vaquería. The farmers here raise small animals and some crops. At this elevation there are still flowers, and their colors brighten the landscape. From the village we climb to Portachuelo de Llanganuco Pass, 4650 meters, where you will have fantastic views of several mountains covered in snow. And with a bit of luck, we‘ll be able to see vicuñas! These timid relatives of llamas graze at elevations of 5500 m; it’s not surprising that these animals produce the finest wool in the animal kingdom. From here we take a van to Cebollapampa, the camp at the base of Nevado Pisco. Overnight Camp (B/L/D)

Begin your short ascent up to the Pisco basecamp (4650m), a 3 to 4 hour hike.

Alpine start! Today is summit day. Wake up at 2:00am and depart around 3:30am for the summit. Cross the moraine and wind your way to the glacier first, then make your way to the saddle where you are sure to see the Huandoys a glow in the sunrise. A beautiful ridge climbs to the summit where spectacular views of some of the Cordillera's highest peaks abound. Afterwards you'll descend to the base camp for a big dinner.

Descend to the trailhead where your transport will be waiting. Return to Huaraz about 2 pm for showers.