SANTA CRUZ CIRCUIT TOUR

From Huaraz | 4 days / 3 nights

The Santa Cruz Circuit is one of the most famous treks in the Cordillera Blanca, ideal for experiencing an adventure of 4 days and 3 nights surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks, glacial lakes, and unique high-Andean landscapes. During the journey, you will cross the spectacular Punta Unión Pass (4,750 m a.s.l.) and you will enjoy unforgettable views of mountains such as Alpamayo, Artesonraju, and TaullirajuA perfect experience for trekking and nature lovers.

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Departure / Return

From: Huaraz / Huaraz

Duration

4 days / 3 nights

Difficulty

Moderate / Difficult (high-altitude trekking)

Altitude

Up to 4,750 m a.s.l. (Punta Unión Pass)

Tour Description

The Santa Cruz Circuit is one of the most famous and spectacular trekking routes in the Cordillera Blanca, ideal for those who want to experience a multi-day adventure surrounded by snow-capped mountains, glacial lakes, and breathtaking high-Andean landscapes. Along the route, you will see some of Peru’s most iconic peaks such as Alpamayo, Artesonraju, Taulliraju, Santa Cruz and Chacraraju, as well as a wide variety of flora and fauna, especially Andean birds.

The circuit starts in Vaquería o Cashapampa (depending on the program) and its main highlight is the crossing of the Punta Unión Pass (4,750 m a.s.l.), one of the most impressive viewpoints of the trek. It is an unforgettable experience of 4 days and 3 nights, recommended for travelers in good physical condition, with a difficulty level Moderate to Difficult due to the altitude.

Itinerary (4 days / 3 nights)

  • Day 1: Huaraz – Yungay – Llanganuco – Vaquería – Paria
  • Early departure from Huaraz (around 6:00 a.m.) toward the Llanganuco Valley. Along the way, we cross the Portachuelo Pass (4,767 m), from where you can enjoy one of the best panoramic views of the Cordillera Blanca. We then continue to Vaquería, passing through communities of the Huaripampa Valley. Approximate 4-hour hike to the first campsite in Paria.
  • Day 2: Paria – Punta Unión Pass (4,750 m) – Taullipampa
  • After breakfast, the ascent hike begins toward Punta Unión Pass, the highest point of the circuit. Along the way, impressive views of the Santa Cruz Valley and the Huaripampa Valley can be enjoyed. From the pass, snow-capped peaks such as Taulliraju, Artesonraju, Chacraraju, Chopicalqui, and Pucajircas can be seen. After a rest and lunch (box lunch), the descent continues to the campsite at Taullipampa.
  • Day 3: Taullipampa – Alpamayo Viewpoint – Glacial Lakes – Llamacorral
  • Scenic hike to the viewpoint of Alpamayo (one of the most beautiful mountains in the world), with visits to stunning glacial lakes such as Arhuaycocha, Jatuncocha and IchiccochaDuring the day, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of snow-capped peaks such as Santa Cruz, Quitaraju, Artesonraju, Alpamayo and RinrijircasArrival at the final campsite in Llamacorral.
  • Day 4: Llamacorral – Cashapampa – Huaraz
  • Final day inside Huascarán National Park. Approximate hike of 3 hours to the village of Cashapampa, following the river along the way. Private transportation back to Huaraz (approx. 3 hours).

Includes

  • Tourist transportation from Huaraz to the trekking starting point and back to Huaraz
  • Professional trekking guide (Spanish)
  • Cook and kitchen equipment
  • Meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
  • Tents (camping) and basic camping equipment
  • Pack animals (donkeys/mules) for group equipment + muleteers
  • Boiled water during the trek
  • First-aid kit and oxygen tank (for emergency use)

Not Included

  • Entrance fee / ticket to Huascarán National Park
  • Entrance fee / community fees (if applicable depending on the route)
  • Sleeping bag
  • Trekking poles (optional)
  • Extra drinks (soft drinks, personal snacks, alcoholic beverages)
  • Travel insurance / medical insurance
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips (optional)

Reservas y disponibilidad

Las salidas, disponibilidad y detalles del tour se coordinan de forma personalizada. Escríbenos por WhatsApp y recibe información actualizada, recomendaciones y atención directa antes de tu viaje.

📲 Easy booking via WhatsApp (limited availability)

Frequently Asked Questions

It is not mandatory, but good physical condition is recommended. The route is of moderate difficulty Moderate due to the altitude.

Warm layered clothing, trekking shoes or boots, water, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, snacks, and a rain poncho.

The tour operates as scheduled unless conditions are dangerous. In that case, it may be rescheduled or replaced with an alternative.