From Huaraz/Lima: Huayhuash Mountain 11-Day Circuit Trip

From Huaraz/Lima: Huayhuash Mountain 11-Day Circuit Trip
Location: Ancash, Peru
Country: Peru
Rating: 4.8
Price: $2,900 per person
Supplier: First Class Huaraz EIRL

A quick look at the adventure
If you’re craving a trek that combines spectacular mountain scenery with the soothing warmth of natural hot springs, this 11-day Huayhuash Circuit from Lima or Huaraz might be just what you’re after. The trip covers some of Peru’s most awe-inspiring peaks, like Yerupaja and Siula, with a well-balanced mix of challenging hikes and relaxing thermal baths at the start and finish.

What we love about this journey? First, the breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks, especially the six summits over 6,000 meters, which make you feel tiny in the best way. Second, the hot springs experience—a perfect way to unwind after long days of trekking, adding a layer of comfort and serenity to the adventure.

One thing to keep in mind: this trek is physically demanding, so it’s best suited for those with a good level of fitness and some acclimatization to high altitudes. If you’re looking for a chance to disconnect from daily life and truly experience remote Peruvian wilderness, this trek offers plenty of authentic moments.

This tour is ideal for seasoned hikers or adventurous travelers eager to explore a less-traveled mountain range with fewer crowds and more pristine nature. It’s a serious trek, but the payoff is some of the most striking scenery in Peru.

Key Points

• Spectacular Peaks: See six mountains over 6,000 meters, including Yerupaja and Siula.
• Hot Springs Relaxation: Enjoy thermal waters both at the start and end, easing sore muscles.
• Remote Wilderness: The Huayhuash Range is sparsely populated, offering tranquility and untouched scenery.
• Guided Support: Expert guides lead the trek, providing safety and local insights.
• Camping Experience: Includes camping equipment and meals, making this an immersive outdoor adventure.
• Physical Challenge: Requires good fitness and altitude acclimatization, not suitable for everyone.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Huayhuash Circuit

The Itinerary Breakdown

This 11-day journey begins and ends in Lima or Huaraz, with transportation included to and from the trailhead. The route takes you around the 30-kilometer-long Huayhuash mountain range, an area noted for its more challenging and hilly terrain compared to the Cordillera Blanca. Expect to hike through a landscape dotted with tiny hamlets, some at around 4,000 meters, with the snowline sitting approximately at 4,800 meters, so some acclimatization will help you enjoy the experience fully.

Day 1-2: The trip kicks off with pickup in Lima or Huaraz, with a scenic drive into the mountains. The first night might be at a hot spring, allowing you to soak away any travel fatigue. The landscape begins to open up as you get closer to the mountains, setting the tone for the adventure ahead.

Days 3-8: The core of the trek involves navigating through high-altitude passes, alpine lakes, and rugged terrain. You’ll see the main peaks of the range, including Yerupaja (6,617m), the second highest in Peru, and Siula (6,344m), made famous by the story of Touching the Void. The trail is less crowded than other famous routes, which means you’ll have more chance to appreciate the solitude and intact beauty of this remote region.

Along the way, you’ll enjoy the spectacular vistas of jagged peaks, glacial formations, and pristine lakes. The guides are well-versed in the local terrain and geology, which enriches the experience with stories about the mountains’ formation and significance.

Day 9-10: As you approach the end, you’ll visit the hot springs for a well-earned soak, offering relief for tired muscles. The final days typically follow a more relaxed pace, allowing you to reflect on the journey amid stunning mountain backdrops.

Day 11: The trek concludes with a return to the start point, ending with transport back to Lima or Huaraz, where you can share stories of your adventure over a hearty meal or a cold drink.

Why the Hot Springs Make a Difference

Starting and ending with thermal waters is a smart choice. We loved how the soothing baths provided both physical relief and a peaceful mental space to appreciate the stunning scenery. It’s not often that a trek offers such a luxurious way to recharge, especially after several strenuous days.

The Landscape and Peaks

The Huayhuash range differs from the more popular Cordillera Blanca because its peaks are more hilly and rugged, presenting a different kind of challenge. The six peaks over 6,000 meters create a dramatic skyline, especially when viewed from the higher passes. The range’s relative isolation means you’re less likely to encounter large tourist groups, which amplifies the sense of adventure and discovery.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Local Culture and Environment

The area is sparsely populated, with small hamlets that cling to the mountainsides. The local communities are primarily engaged in mining, which you might see along the roads north of the mountains, but the government has protected the range since 2002, prohibiting activities like mining to preserve its pristine quality.

The Camping Experience

Camping is the backbone of this trip, with all necessary gear provided. You’ll spend nights under a blanket of stars and wake up to crisp mountain air. Guides prepare delicious meals that keep you energized for the days ahead, and the shared experience of setting up camp fosters camaraderie among travelers.

Practical Considerations and Tips

• Physical fitness is essential—think long hikes, high altitude, and steep ascents. Preparation will make your experience more enjoyable.
• Altitude acclimatization helps prevent altitude sickness; we suggest arriving a day early in Huaraz if possible.
• Weather can change abruptly. Pack warm clothing, a hat, sunscreen, and waterproof layers.
• You’ll need to bring personal trekking gear—hiking shoes, camera, snacks, and water are must-haves.
• The trip is not suitable for pregnant women, people with back or mobility issues, or anyone afraid of heights or with respiratory problems.

The Value and Cost

At $2,900, the price covers guided support, camping gear, meals, emergency medical assistance, and transportation. While it may seem steep, the value is in the expert guidance, remote wilderness, and the unforgettable scenery. Staying in equipped campsites and having meals prepared relieves some logistical stress, making it easier to focus on the experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trek suits adventurous travelers with good fitness levels seeking a remote and authentic mountain experience. If you’re comfortable with camping, altitude, and challenging terrain, this journey offers a rare glimpse of Peru’s rugged, less-trodden side. It’s particularly appealing if you enjoy stunning mountain panoramas, solitude, and natural hot springs.

If you prefer cushier accommodations or are new to trekking, this may not be the best fit. However, for those craving an adventure that pushes your limits while rewarding you with stunning vistas and peaceful hot springs, this is an ideal choice.

Final Thoughts

This 11-day Huayhuash Circuit is more than just a hike—it’s a journey into one of Peru’s most spectacular mountain landscapes, with the added luxury of thermal baths to soothe your tired muscles. The route’s remoteness and dramatic peaks make it a solid pick for experienced trekkers eager to explore a less commercialized part of the Andes.

While the physical demands are not to be underestimated, the chance to camp beneath towering peaks, witness incredible high-altitude scenery, and relax in natural hot springs makes it well worth the effort. The guided support, camping equipment, and included meals provide good value for an adventure of this caliber.

If you’re after a challenging, authentic, and visually stunning trek that offers both adventure and comfort in unexpected ways, this Huayhuash Circuit delivers on all fronts. Prepare yourself for an experience that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home—an unforgettable peek into Peru’s wild heart.

FAQ

Is this trek suitable for beginners?
No, this trek is physically demanding and involves high-altitude hiking, so it’s best suited for those with good fitness and some trekking experience.

Do I need to bring my own gear?
You should bring personal trekking gear such as hiking shoes, water, snacks, sunscreen, and a camera. The trip includes camping equipment and meals, but not your personal gear.

Can I participate if I don’t speak Spanish?
Yes, the tour is guided in English, making it accessible for international travelers.

How do I get to the start point?
Transportation from a designated meeting point in Lima or Huaraz is included, so you don’t need to worry about logistics beforehand.

Are the hot springs included?
The hot springs are included at the start and end of the trek, providing a relaxing break amid the rugged scenery.

What is the best time to go?
Check availability as the starting times vary, but generally, the dry season (May to September) offers the best weather for trekking.

Embark on this adventure if you’re craving breathtaking mountain views, solitude, and a chance to soak in natural thermal waters. It’s a trip that combines challenge and comfort in a way that’s hard to find elsewhere in Peru.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby