Trekking Santa Cruz Llanganuco – 4 Days Trek in Cordillera Blanca, Peru
Code: NBHTY
Description
Trekking Santa Cruz Llanganuco is one of the most scenic 4-day treks in the Cordillera Blanca, near Huaraz, Peru. This classic route is one of the best options for travelers looking for a memorable Santa Cruz trek from Huaraz with stunning mountain landscapes.
Along the trail, hikers cross spectacular Andean valleys, follow glacial rivers, enjoy views of turquoise lakes, and reach the famous Punta Unión Pass at 4,750 m (15,616 ft). Trekking Santa Cruz Llanganuco offers the perfect balance of natural beauty, adventure, and moderate challenge in one of the most iconic trekking areas in Peru.
TREK DETAILS
Duration: 4 days / 3 nights.
Maximum elevation: 4,750 m / 15,616 ft (Punta Unión Pass).
Difficulty grade: Moderate.
Destination: Cordillera Blanca, Peru.
Best time to go: May to October.
Activities: Hiking, trekking, and cultural adventure.
Average walking time: 5 to 7 hours per day.
Starting point: Huaraz – Cashapampa.
Ending point: Vaquería – Huaraz.
WHY CHOOSE TREKKING SANTA CRUZ LLANGANUCO
- One of the most scenic 4-day treks in the Cordillera Blanca
- Stunning views of turquoise lakes and snow-capped peaks
- Crossing Punta Unión Pass at 4,750 m
- Ideal trek from Huaraz for nature and mountain lovers
- Perfect balance of adventure, scenery, and moderate challenge
WHAT’S INCLUDED
Professional Guide
A certified professional trekking guide who speaks Spanish and English when required, trained in first aid, risk management, and mountain safety, and committed to providing excellent service throughout the trek.
Cook
A professional cook who prepares a wide variety of healthy and delicious meals, carefully prepared in hygienic mountain conditions.
Muleteer
The muleteer (arriero) is responsible for loading the donkeys, caring for them, and guiding them to each campsite.
Donkeys
The number of donkeys provided depends on the size of the group and the logistical needs of the expedition.
Emergency Horse
One horse accompanies the group for emergency situations during the trek.
Meals
All meals during the expedition are included in the package. We offer a combination of Peruvian and international dishes, with high-quality and high-energy food specially prepared for trekking activities. Vegetarian, vegan, kosher, gluten-free, and other dietary requirements can also be accommodated upon request.
Private Transport
Private transportation is provided from your hotel in Huaraz to the starting point of the trek, and from the end of the trek back to your hotel in Huaraz.
Equipment
- High-quality mountain tent (double occupancy)
- Foam sleeping mat
- Dining tent
- Kitchen tent
- Tables and chairs
- Toilet tent
- Emergency equipment, including a company first-aid kit
- Cooking stove
- All necessary eating utensils and cooking equipment (knives, forks, spoons, plates, cups, pots, and more)
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED
- Sleeping bag
- Inflatable sleeping mattress
- Tips
- Water on the first day
- First breakfast (Day 1)
- Last dinner (Day 4)
- Alcoholic beverages
- Soft drinks
- Medical treatment
- Travel insurance
- Additional expenses caused by leaving the expedition early
- Additional expenses in the event of emergency rescue or evacuation
- Personal items
- Any other service not specifically listed as included
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How difficult is Trekking Santa Cruz Llanganuco?
This trek is considered moderate. It does not require technical climbing, but hikers should be in good physical condition and properly acclimatized to the altitude.
What is the highest point of the trek?
The highest point is Punta Unión Pass at 4,750 m / 15,616 ft.
What is the best time to do Trekking Santa Cruz Llanganuco?
The best season is from May to October, when the weather is usually drier and mountain views are clearer.
Do I need acclimatization before the trek?
Yes. We recommend spending at least 2 days in Huaraz before starting the trek to adapt to the altitude.
Itinerary
1
Day 01: Transfer from Huaraz to Cashapampa (2,900 m) and hike to Llamacorral
After an early departure from Huaraz, we drive to Cashapampa, where the trek begins. The hike follows the Santa Cruz Valley with beautiful mountain scenery until reaching the first campsite at Llamacorral.
2
Day 02: Hike from Llamacorral to Taullipampa / Optional visit to Arhuaycocha Lake
From Llamacorral, the trek continues through the scenic Santa Cruz Valley toward Taullipampa camp. Along the way, hikers enjoy stunning views of the surrounding peaks and turquoise lakes. In the afternoon, there is an optional hike to Arhuaycocha Lake for even more spectacular mountain scenery.
3
Day 03: Hike from Taullipampa to Punta Unión Pass (4,750 m) and descend to Cachinapampa
This is the most challenging and rewarding day of the trek. We climb up to Punta Unión Pass, the highest point of the route, where breathtaking panoramic views of the Cordillera Blanca await. After enjoying the pass, we descend to the campsite at Cachinapampa.
4
Day 04: Hike from Cachinapampa to Vaquería and transfer to Huaraz
On the final day, we hike down through the valley toward Vaquería, enjoying the last views of the mountains and local landscapes. At the end of the trek, our private transport takes us back to Huaraz.
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