Short Andean Adventure through Akilpo & Ishinca Valleys
A hidden gem in the Cordillera Blanca with turquoise lakes, panoramic passes, and authentic Andean landscapes.
Ideal for acclimatization or as a shorter, less-traveled trekking experience operated by Inkaland Treks.
The Akilpo–Ishinca Trek is an ideal short adventure with very few visitors each year, combining breathtaking mountain scenery, high Andean ecosystems, and cultural heritage.
Starting from Honcopampa, where ancient archaeological remains lie hidden among highland forests, the trail follows the spectacular Akilpo Valley, flanked by massive granite walls and quenual (Polylepis) trees.
From the Urus Pass (5,041 m), trekkers enjoy unforgettable views of more than ten snow-capped peaks over 6,000 m — including Ranrapalca, Tocllaraju, and Palcaraju.
Descending into the Ishinca Valley, famous for its mountaineering routes and colorful glacial lakes, this trek offers a perfect balance between nature, solitude, and pure Andean beauty.
Quick Facts Akilpo – Ishinca Trek
- Location: Cordillera Blanca, Peru
- Duration: 3 days / 2 nights
- Distance: ~31 km / 19 mi total
- Max Elevation: 5,041 m / 16,536 ft (Urus Pass)
- Min Elevation: 3,050 m / 10,006 ft (Huaraz)
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Best Season: April – December
- Start / End: Honcopampa → Cochapampa
- Group Size: Small groups (max 5) or private treks
👉 Perfect for hikers seeking light adventure, authentic scenery, and acclimatization before longer expeditions like Santa Cruz or Huayhuash.
Highlights Akilpo – Ishinca Trek
- Visit the turquoise Akilpo Lagoon and emerald Milluacocha Lake
- Cross Urus Pass (5,041 m) for breathtaking views of 6,000 m+ peaks
- Hike through quenual forests, rivers, waterfalls & Andean wildlife
- Camp at the foot of majestic peaks beneath starry skies
- Explore Honcopampa archaeological site and Yuracyacu waterfall
- Led by professional English-speaking mountain guides & full Inkaland Treks logistics
Itinerary at a Glance
| Day | Route | Distance | Max Elevation | Hiking Time | Highlights |
| 1 | Huaraz → Honcopampa → Pampa Akilpo | 9 km / 5.6 mi | 4,380 m / 14,370 ft | 6 h | Honcopampa ruins, Yuracyacu waterfall, quenual forest |
| 2 | Akilpo Lagoon → Urus Pass → Ishinca Valley | 8 km / 5 mi | 5,041 m / 16,536 ft | 6 h | Akilpo Lake, Urus Pass views, 10+ summits over 6,000 m |
| 3 | Milluacocha Lake → Cochapampa → Huaraz | 14 km / 8.7 mi + drive | 4,628 m / 15,180 ft | 6 h + drive | Milluacocha Lake, Tocllaraju & Palcaraju peaks, Collon village |
Distances and times are approximate and may vary with pace and weather.
