The Santa Cruz-Llanganuco Trek offers an unforgettable 4-day adventure from Huaraz, Peru. Trekkers will be treated to the stunning landscapes of the Andes, including the mighty Huascaran, Peru’s highest peak. This trek showcases diverse terrain, vibrant lagoons, and an immersive experience in nature. With a certified guide, private transportation, meals, and camping equipment included, adventurers can focus on taking in the breathtaking vistas. While preparation and safety guidelines are essential, those ready for the challenge are in for an adventure they won’t soon forget.
Key Points
- The Santa Cruz-Llanganuco Trek is a 4-day adventure that showcases the breathtaking landscapes of the Cordillera Blanca in Peru, including the iconic Huascaran peak.
- The trek offers a diverse terrain, from alpine meadows to rocky passes, and highlights the vibrant turquoise Laguna Arhuaycocha.
- The trek is priced at £615.28 per person and includes a certified guide, private transportation, meals, and camping equipment.
- The trek is suitable for most hikers, but is not recommended for pregnant women, wheelchair users, visually impaired individuals, or those with high blood pressure.
- The itinerary allows trekkers to experience varied landscapes daily, with the final day involving 3 hours of trekking and 4 hours of transportation back to Huaraz.
Trek Overview and Pricing
The Santa Cruz-Llanganuco Trek is a 4-day outdoor adventure that costs from £615.28 per person.
It allows you to experience the Cordillera Blanca’s best-known trekking circuit. The price includes a certified guide, private transportation, meals, camping equipment, and more.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Book now and pay later to secure your spot.
This trek offers stunning views of Huascaran, Peru’s highest peak, as well as glaciers, lagoons, and diverse flora and fauna.
It’s an unforgettable journey through the Andean landscape.
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Trek Highlights and Landscape
Though the Santa Cruz-Llanganuco Trek is best known for its stunning Cordillera Blanca landscapes, it also offers the chance to witness Peru’s highest peak, Huascaran, towering at 6768 meters.
Trekkers will be treated to vistas of glaciers, crystal-clear lagoons, and unique Andean flora and fauna. The trail winds through diverse terrain, from alpine meadows to rocky passes.
Along the trail, trekkers will encounter stunning vistas of glaciers, crystal-clear lagoons, and diverse Andean flora and fauna.
Highlights include the Laguna Arhuaycocha, a vibrant turquoise lake set against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks.
This classic Peruvian trek showcases the natural beauty of the Andes in all its glory.
Daily Itinerary
On the first day, hikers depart Huaraz at 3100 meters and trek to Llamacoral at 3760 meters via Cashapampa at 2900 meters, which takes approximately 5 hours.
| Day | Destination | Duration |
| — | — | — |
| 1 | Huaraz (3100 m) to Llamacoral (3760 m) | 5 hours |
| 2 | Llamacoral to Taullipampa (4250 m) via Laguna Arhuaycocha (4450 m) | 7-8 hours |
| 3 | Taullipampa to Cachinapampa (3700 m) via Punta Unión Pass (4750 m) | 7 hours |
| 4 | Cachinapampa to Huaraz via Vaquería (3800 m) | 3 hours trekking, 4 hours transportation |
Included Services and Equipment
The trek includes a certified hiking guide and private transportation.
An experienced outdoor cook will prepare all meals, including breakfast, snacks, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner.
The organizers provide tents, cooking equipment, tables, chairs, and mattresses for comfortable camping.
A first aid kit is available, and a permanent agency provides assistance in case of emergencies.
For groups over 6 people, an emergency horse is included.
However, international flights, lodging in Lima and Huaraz, the Huascaran National Park entrance fee, sleeping bags, and personal expenses aren’t covered.
More Great Tours NearbyPreparation and Restrictions
Trekkers should bring their passport, hiking shoes, biodegradable sunscreen, weather-appropriate clothing, and cash. Sharp objects, weapons, alcohol, and drugs are strictly prohibited. The trek is not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, visually impaired individuals, or those with high blood pressure.
| Requirement | Restriction |
|——|——|
| Passport | No sharp objects |
| Hiking shoes | No weapons |
| Biodegradable sunscreen | No alcohol |
| Weather-appropriate clothing | No drugs |
For last-minute reservations or pick-up details, contact the organizers via WhatsApp prior to the trek.
Why Choose This Trek?
The Santa Cruz-Llanganuco trek offers an unparalleled adventure through the stunning Cordillera Blanca.
Here’s why this trek stands out:
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Iconic Scenery: Experience the breathtaking views of Huascarán, Peru’s highest peak, along with glaciers, crystal-clear lagoons, and diverse Andean flora and fauna.
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Cultural Immersion: Gain insight into the local Quechua culture and traditions as you trek through remote villages and high-altitude landscapes.
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Challenging Yet Rewarding: The trek’s varied terrain and altitude changes provide an invigorating physical challenge, rewarding you with a profound sense of accomplishment.
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Expert Guidance: Benefit from the expertise of certified hiking guides who ensure your safety and enhance your understanding of the region’s natural and cultural wonders.
Booking and Cancellation Policy
How can you secure your spot on this transformative trek? It’s easy – you can reserve your place by booking the Santa Cruz-Llanganuco trek online.
The price is £615.28 per person, and there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Don’t worry about paying right away; you can book your spot and pay later. This flexible policy makes it hassle-free to plan your Andean adventure.
This flexible policy makes it hassle-free to plan your Andean adventure – you can book your spot and pay later.
Just be sure to have your passport and necessary gear ready. With this booking system, you can lock in your trek with confidence, knowing you can adjust plans if needed.
Getting to Huaraz
To reach the starting point of the Santa Cruz-Llanganuco trek, travelers will need to make their way to the city of Huaraz, located in the Ancash region of Peru.
There are a few options for getting to Huaraz:
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By bus: Frequent bus services connect Huaraz to other major cities in Peru, such as Lima and Trujillo.
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By plane: The nearest airport is in Anta, about a 30-minute drive from Huaraz. Flights to Anta are available from Lima.
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By private transfer: Travelers can arrange for a private transfer service from Lima or another location directly to Huaraz.
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Self-drive: Those with their own vehicle can drive to Huaraz, which is approximately a 7-hour journey from Lima.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Difficulty Level of This Trek?
The trek is moderately challenging, with 5 to 8 hours of hiking per day and elevation gains up to 4,750 meters. It’s suitable for fit travelers with some previous hiking experience but may not be suitable for those with certain medical conditions.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?
There are no specific age restrictions for this trek, but it’s not suitable for young children or elderly participants. The trek involves strenuous hiking at high altitudes, so it’s recommended for healthy adults between 18 and 65 years old.
Can I Bring My Pet on the Trek?
No, pets are not allowed on the Santa Cruz-Llanganuco trek. The trek takes place in a protected national park, and the presence of animals could disturb the local wildlife and environment. Participants must travel without their pets.
Is There an Option to Extend the Trek Duration?
The trek duration can be extended, but it’s not a standard option. Travelers would need to inquire with the tour operator about the possibility and any additional costs for a longer trek itinerary. Advance notice is required to accommodate an extended stay.
What Are the Local Tipping Customs for the Crew?
The typical tipping custom for the trek crew is to provide 10-15% of the total tour cost as gratuity. This is customary for the guide, cook, and porters to recognize their hard work and service.
The Sum Up
The Santa Cruz-Llanganuco Trek is a exceptional 4-day adventure that showcases the breathtaking landscapes of the Andes, including Peru’s highest peak, Huascaran. This trek offers diverse terrain, vibrant lagoons, and an immersive experience in nature. With a certified guide, private transportation, meals, and camping equipment included, it’s a well-supported journey for adventurous trekkers. Proper preparation and adherence to safety guidelines are essential for an unforgettable experience on this remarkable trek.
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