We drive the Pan American Highway along the Pacific Ocean, across sand deserts and through coastal valleys to Pativilca. From here we drive up the buttress of the Andes until we reach Conococha Lake (4080m). Impressive mountainscapes of perennially snow capped peaks, announce our arrival at the Callejón de Huaylas Valley between the Cordillera Negra (Black Mountain Range) and the Cordillera Blanca (White Mountain Range). We continue to Huaraz (3100m), the "Capital of Mountaineering and International Friendship". Overnight in Huaraz.

L*

This morning we transfer to the Llanganuco Canyon, formed by the granite walls of Peru's highest tropical peaks - Huascarán (6768m.) and Huandoy (6395m.). Forests of silk-paper-barked Queñua and Quishuar trees cover the canyon floor, and colorful bromeliads grace the granite boulders and cliffs. We arrive at Llanganuco Lakes, then continue beyond them ascending up to Portachuelo de Llanganuco (4750m). The view of the spectacular iced amphitheater formed by some of the highest peaks of the tropical Andes (Huandoy, Pisco, Chacraraju, Chopicallqui, and Huascarán) is a breathtaking surprise. Here we start our hike descending along small lakes and streams to Pampa Maché, where we set up our first camp (3760m.).

L,D

This morning we hike along the Huaripampa Gorge. In the distance we can see the Andean villages of Yanama and Colcabamba. Continuing our hike, we cross Ranincuray Gorge with its magnificent views of the towers of Chacraraju East (6200m), swampy meadows, small lakes and forests. Scenic peaks such as Huascarán, Chopicallqui, Ulta, and Contrahierbas provide great opportunities for photographs. Our second camp is installed at 3800 meters.

MB,L,D

Today is filled with pleasant surprises and gorgeous views as we walk through grassy areas and along the Morococha Lakes. Climbing Inca stone-carved steps, we arrive at Punta Unión Pass (4780m). The panorama of this valley is dominated by the impressive iced walls of Taulliraju (5830m) above Taullicocha Lake. We camp in Taullipampa at 4150 meters.

B,L,D

We hike along Taullipampa Gorge, observing various vegetation ecosystems. The iced peaks of Artesonraju, Paria, Quitaraju and Pukajirca are visible from many different sites. A glimpse of the rocky, iced and fluted south face of Alpamayo Peak (5947m) in all its rugged grandeur is a feast for the eyes. We climb at Arhuaycocha Lake enjoying the magnificent view of Alpamayo Peak. Then, we descend hiking along Jatuncocha Lake and set up camp at Llama Corral (3800m).

MB,L,D

A trail down the left ridge of the deep Santa Cruz Canyon provides us with opportunities to appreciate various vegetation ecosystems as we pass from areas with high altitude plants to tracts with tropical species such as bromeliads and orchids covering the granite walls. The rocky silhouette of the Cordillera Negra on the horizon announces our approach to Cashapampa Village (2900m), from where we transfer to Huaraz and your hotel.

MB,L

We return to Lima, enjoying spectacular views of the Cordillera Blanca, and the glistening vertical walls of the Cordillera Huayhuash in the horizon. As we leave the golden puna plateaus and rolling hills, the landscape transforms into deep ravines filled with farms and picturesque villages. Continuing to drive downhill through narrow valleys, we arrive at the wide coastal plains, and then to Lima.