Santa Cruz Trek from Huaraz
The classic Cordillera Blanca trek: 4 days among snow peaks, lakes and the Punta Union pass.
Overview
The Santa Cruz Trek is the most famous hike in the Cordillera Blanca and one of South America's great classics. Over 4 days you'll walk through glacial valleys, turquoise lakes and some of the most beautiful snow peaks on the planet, such as Alpamayo, Taulliraju and Artesonraju. At Tours Huascaran we organise this guided trek with more than 20 years of experience, so all you have to do is enjoy the scenery.
The route connects Cashapampa, near Caraz, with Vaqueria, in the Llanganuco area, and its highest point is the imposing Punta Union pass at 4,750 metres. It's a moderate-to-hard multi-day adventure that rewards you with unforgettable views. We camp each night under starry skies, with local guides, muleteers and full logistical support so the experience is safe and comfortable from start to finish.
Highlights
- Punta Union pass at 4,750 m, the high point of the trek
- Views of Alpamayo, considered one of the world's most beautiful peaks
- Taulliraju and Artesonraju snow peaks along the way
- Turquoise lakes and glacial valleys of the Cordillera Blanca
- 4 days of camping with experienced local guides
- Classic route between Cashapampa (Caraz) and Vaqueria (Llanganuco)
Itinerary
- Day 1
Huaraz – Cashapampa – Llamacorral
Transfer from Huaraz to Cashapampa, near Caraz, where the hike begins. We climb up the Santa Cruz valley to the Llamacorral campsite.
- Day 2
Llamacorral – Taullipampa
Hike through glacial valleys with views of lakes and snow peaks. We reach the Taullipampa campsite at the foot of Taulliraju to rest before the pass.
- Day 3
Taullipampa – Punta Union – Vaqueria
The most demanding day: we climb the Punta Union pass at 4,750 m with panoramic views of Alpamayo and Artesonraju, then descend toward Vaqueria.
- Day 4
Vaqueria – Llanganuco – Huaraz
Final views of the Cordillera Blanca and transfer through the Llanganuco area back to Huaraz, where the trek ends.
- Camps
Nights under the stars
We camp each night at selected points along the route, with muleteer support and full logistical equipment for your comfort.
- Guide
Professional support
Local guides with extensive Cordillera Blanca experience accompany you throughout, watching over safety and the group's pace.
What's included
- Professional local guide for the whole trek
- Transport Huaraz – Cashapampa and Vaqueria – Huaraz
- Camping equipment (tents, kitchen, dining tent)
- Muleteers and pack animals for the group's gear
- Meals on the route as per the itinerary
- Logistical coordination and assistance
Not included
- Sleeping bag and personal items
- Huascarán National Park entrance fee
- Tips for guides and muleteers
- Extra drinks and personal expenses
What to bring
- Trekking backpack and sleeping bag
- Warm layered clothing and a windbreaker
- Broken-in, comfortable hiking boots
- Hat, gloves, sunglasses and sunscreen
- Water bottle and energy snacks
- Trekking poles (recommended)
- ID document and cash
Frequently asked questions
How many days is the Santa Cruz Trek?
The classic Santa Cruz Trek takes 4 days and 3 nights, covering about 50 km between Cashapampa and Vaqueria. We can arrange variations to suit your schedule via WhatsApp.
How hard is the trek?
It's a moderate-to-hard multi-day hike. It requires good fitness and prior acclimatisation, especially for the Punta Union pass at 4,750 m.
Do I need to acclimatise first?
Yes. We recommend spending at least two days in Huaraz or doing a high-altitude tour beforehand, such as Laguna 69, to reduce the risk of altitude sickness before the trek.
Where do we sleep during the trek?
We camp each night at selected campsites along the route. We carry the tents and kitchen equipment with the support of muleteers.
When is the best time to do it?
The dry season, from May to September, usually offers the best conditions. Message us on WhatsApp and we'll advise you based on your travel dates.
How much does the Santa Cruz Trek cost?
The price varies depending on group size and services. We work with rates from S/ 50 and confirm the final cost of this guided trek on WhatsApp.
