Huayhuash 8 Days vs 10 Days: Which Trek Is Best for You?

Huayhuash 8 Days vs 10 Days: The complete guide to choosing between the two most popular Huayhuash itineraries.

The Cordillera Huayhuash in Peru is one of the most spectacular trekking destinations in the world — with high passes, turquoise lagoons, razor-sharp ridges, and an atmosphere that feels wild and untouched.

At Inkaland Treks, our two most requested itineraries for 2026 are:

• Huayhuash 8 Days – Trapecio Pass (Premium Edition)
• Huayhuash 10 Days – Classic Circuit

Both routes offer breathtaking scenery, but they are designed for different travel styles, fitness levels, and itineraries.

This guide helps you decide which version is the perfect match for your adventure.

✔ Choose Huayhuash 8 Days if you want:

• A compact, intense route
• The top viewpoints in less time
• Fewer camping nights
• A strong adventure after Machu Picchu or Cusco
• A great option for travelers with limited vacation days

✔ Choose Huayhuash 10 Days if you want:

• The classic full-circuit experience
• More gradual acclimatization
• Extra side valleys and lakes
• A deeper and more complete expedition
• Time to absorb the landscapes without rushing

Whether you choose the 8-Day or 10-Day version, both itineraries include:

✔ Stunning Viewpoints

Siula Grande, Yerupajá, the “Three Lakes” lookout, and panoramic passes.

✔ High-Altitude Passes

Ranging from 4,650 m to 5,000 m.

✔ World-Class Campsites

Carhuacocha, Huayhuash, Viconga (or similar, depending on route timing).

✔ Premium Inkaland Service

• Certified English-speaking guides
• Professional mountain chef
• Donkey support team
• Private camps
• 4-season tents & insulated sleeping mats
• Personalized and small-group experience

✔ Small Groups

Maximum 8–10 trekkers, ideal for comfort and safety.

👉 In short:
Both versions are spectacular — the difference is the style and pace.

Fast, intense, and incredibly scenic.

This version covers the core of the Huayhuash Circuit using strategic shortcuts, keeping all the iconic viewpoints while reducing total days.

Who Is It For?

• Travelers with limited time
• Strong trekkers seeking a challenge
• Photography lovers
• Visitors combining Cusco + Huaraz
• Hikers who prefer fewer camping nights

Highlights of the 8-Day Trek

• Siula Grande viewpoint
• Trapecio Pass
• Carhuacocha Lake sunrise
• The turquoise “Three Lakes” viewpoint
• Huacrish & Huanacpatay sections
• Optional stop at Viconga hot springs (route-dependent)

Difficulty: Moderate–High

Daily distances can be longer because the itinerary is more compressed.

The full, traditional Huayhuash experience.

This itinerary is perfect for trekkers who want a gradual rhythm and time to explore additional valleys and viewpoints.

Who Is It For?

• Travelers with more time
• Those who prefer gradual altitude gain
• Hikers wanting a relaxed expedition pace
• Photographers who value extra time
• Trekkers seeking the “complete” Huayhuash loop

Highlights of the 10-Day Trek

• All viewpoints included in the 8-Day version
• Additional valleys and lakes
• More time at scenic viewpoints
• A deeper, more immersive experience
• A more complete loop of the Cordillera Huayhuash

Difficulty: Moderate

Daily distances are more balanced, making it feel more manageable.

Choose Huayhuash 8 Days if:

✔ You want maximum scenery in minimum time
✔ You prefer fewer nights at altitude
✔ You have strong fitness
✔ You have limited vacation days
✔ You’re combining Huaraz with other Peru regions

Choose Huayhuash 10 Days if:

✔ You want the full Huayhuash experience
✔ You prefer a slower pace and better altitude adaptation
✔ You want additional lakes and side valleys
✔ You enjoy taking your time for photography
✔ You want the most complete version available

For 2026, both versions are extremely popular, but:

👉 The 8-Day version is becoming the top choice for travelers combining multiple destinations (Cusco, Machu Picchu, Arequipa, etc.).

👉 The 10-Day Classic Circuit remains the best option if you have enough time and want the most complete, immersive experience.

You can’t go wrong — both routes are world-class.

Inkaland Treks offers:

• Premium small-group departures
• Private expeditions
• Custom dates
• Full logistical support

Explore Your Options:

➡️ View Huayhuash 8 Days
➡️ View Huayhuash 10 Days
➡️ Join a 2026 Group
➡️ Contact Us for Private Groups

📲 WhatsApp: +51 943 332 193

Let the adventure begin.