Santa Cruz Classic Trek - 4 Days via Vaquería

Classic Trekking Circuit in the Cordillera Blanca

An unforgettable journey through turquoise lakes, lush valleys, and iconic Andean peaks.
One of the Top 10 Treks in the World, this is the most classic route in Peru’s Cordillera Blanca — a true Andean adventure from start to finish.

Recognized worldwide among the Top 10 Treks on Earth, the Santa Cruz Trek represents the essence of the Cordillera Blanca.
Over four days, you’ll explore dramatic high-altitude valleys, cross the famous Punta Unión Pass (4,750 m / 15,584 ft), and camp beside turquoise Andean lakes framed by snow-capped peaks.

This route connects Vaquería to Cashapampa, traversing the heart of Huascarán National Park — ideal for those seeking a short but spectacular multi-day trek with Inkaland Treks’ professional support.

Quick Facts Santa Cruz Classic Trek via Vaquería

Location: Cordillera Blanca, Peru
Duration: 4 days / 3 nights
Distance: ~50 km / 31 mi total
Max Elevation: 4,750 m / 15,584 ft (Punta Unión Pass)
Min Elevation: 2,900 m / 9,514 ft (Cashapampa)
Difficulty: Moderate
Best Season: May – September (dry season)
Start / End: Vaquería → Cashapampa
Group Size: Small groups (max 8) or private treks

👉 Perfect for hikers in good physical condition with 2–3 days of prior acclimatization.

📩 Ready to trek the andes?

✨ Santa Cruz Classic Trek – 4 Days via Vaquería A legendary route that blends majestic landscapes, turquoise lakes, and authentic Andean adventure, operated by Inkaland Treks — specialists in premium trekking experiences.

Highlights Santa Cruz Classic Trek via Vaquería

Cross Punta Unión Pass (4,750 m / 15,584 ft) — one of the most iconic viewpoints in the Andes
Visit turquoise lakes: Ichiccocha, Jatuncocha, and Arhuaycocha
See Alpamayo, “the most beautiful mountain in the world”
Traverse from Vaquería to Cashapampa through glacial valleys and lush canyons
Led by experienced English-speaking guides & full Inkaland Treks logistics

Join Group 2026

Itinerary at a Glance

Day	Route	Distance	Max Elevation	Hiking Time	Highlights
1	Huaraz → Vaquería → Paria Camp	10–12 km / 6.2–7.4 mi	3,800 m / 12,467 ft	5–6 h	Scenic drive, start of trek
2	Paria → Punta Unión Pass → Taullipampa	11–13 km / 6.8–8.1 mi	4,750 m / 15,584 ft	7–8 h	Cross Punta Unión Pass
3	Taullipampa → Arhuaycocha (optional) → Llamacorral	13–15 km / 8.1–9.3 mi	4,450 m / 14,600 ft	6–7 h	Alpamayo viewpoint & lakes
4	Llamacorral → Cashapampa → Huaraz	12–13 km / 7.4–8.1 mi + drive	2,900 m / 9,514 ft	4–5 h + 3 h drive	Final descent & return to Huaraz

Distances & times are approximate and may vary depending on pace and weather.

Day 1 – Huaraz → Vaquería → Paria Camp

Max Altitude: 3,800 m / 12,467 ft | Distance: 10–12 km / 6.2–7.4 mi | Hiking Time: 5–6 hours

After breakfast, we drive north from Huaraz (3,050 m / 10,006 ft) through the stunning Llanganuco Valley, passing the turquoise lakes Chinancocha and Orconcocha beneath the towering walls of Huascarán and Chopicalqui.
From Vaquería, begin hiking gradually along the Paria Valley, crossing Quechua villages and terraced fields surrounded by glaciers.
Overnight at Paria Camp (3,800 m / 12,467 ft) — a peaceful valley surrounded by Andean peaks.

Day 2 – Paria → Punta Unión Pass → Taullipampa

Max Altitude: 4,750 m / 15,584 ft | Distance: 11–13 km / 6.8–8.1 mi | Hiking Time: 7–8 hours

A challenging but spectacular day.
The trail ascends gradually toward Punta Unión Pass (4,750 m / 15,584 ft) — the highest point of the trek — with incredible views of Taulliraju, Artesonraju, Alpamayo, and Huascarán.
After enjoying the pass, descend into the wide Taullipampa Valley (4,200 m / 13,780 ft), one of the most beautiful campsites in the Andes.
Overnight at Taullipampa Camp.

Day 3 – Taullipampa → Arhuaycocha Lake (optional) → Llamacorral

Max Altitude (optional): 4,450 m / 14,600 ft | Distance: 13–15 km / 8.1–9.3 mi | Hiking Time: 6–7 hours

Morning hike to Arhuaycocha Lake (4,450 m / 14,600 ft), the best viewpoint of Alpamayo, often called “the most beautiful mountain in the world.”
After visiting the lake, return to the main trail and continue descending through the Santa Cruz Valley, passing turquoise lakes and flower-filled meadows.
Overnight at Llamacorral Camp (3,750 m / 12,303 ft).

Day 4 – Llamacorral → Cashapampa → Huaraz

Max Altitude: 2,900 m / 9,514 ft | Distance: 12–13 km / 7.4–8.1 mi + drive | Hiking Time: 4–5 hours + 3-hour drive

Continue descending through the narrow Santa Cruz Canyon, surrounded by waterfalls, rivers, and lush vegetation.
Reach Cashapampa (2,900 m / 9,514 ft), where private transport awaits to take you back to Huaraz (approx. 3 hours).
Arrival in Huaraz mid-afternoon.

Departure

Join a Group – 2026 Departures

Month	Dates	Status
May	Start 18 – 21 May	✅ Open
June	Start 24 – 27 June	✅ Open
July – September	Custom dates available	🏕 On request

📩 Contact us for 2026 departures or open a new private trek on your preferred date

FAQ

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