Quilcayhuanca - Cojup
Trek Quilcayhuanca - Cojup (3 days)
This short but intense trek is one of the best options for those seeking a complete mountain experience near Huaraz. Crossing two beautiful valleys within Huascarán National Park, Quilcayhuanca and Cojup, this journey offers spectacular landscapes, high-mountain lagoons, and the chance to observe Andean fauna in its natural habitat; condors, deer, and viscachas may appear along the way. The highlight is the Huapi Pass (5,020 m), a challenging saddle from which one of the most impressive views of the Cordillera Blanca unfolds. On the horizon, emblematic snow-capped peaks align such as Ranrapalca, Ishinca, Tocllaraju, Palcaraju, Huapi, Pucaranra, Chinchey, Tullparaju, Andavite, Cayesh, Maparaju, San Juan, and Huantzán. A true panoramic balcony to the heart of the Andes.
Itinerary
Day 1:Huaraz (3,052 m) - Pitec - Portada Quilcayhuanca (3,800 m) - Tullpacocha (4,250 m)
Departure by private vehicle from Huaraz to the Pitec sector, the entrance point to the Quilcayhuanca valley. We begin the hike ascending gently through the valley, surrounded by Andean vegetation and rocky walls. Along the way, we will visit rock paintings and the archaeological remains of Tambo Nuevo, witnesses of pre-Hispanic occupations. We continue to the Tullpacocha lagoon, our first campsite, with views of the snow-capped peaks that await us the next day. Meals included - lunch and dinner
Day 2:Tullpacocha (4,250 m) - Paso Huapi (5,020 m) - Quebrada Cojup (4,150 m)
The big day. Early departure to ascend towards the Huapi Pass, the highest point of the trek. The effort is worth it, from the summit, a 360-degree view rewards us with dozens of emblematic snow-capped peaks of the Cordillera Blanca. Careful descent towards the Cojup valley, with views of the Cuchillacocha lagoons and other hidden gems. We set up camp in the Cojup valley, surrounded by an increasingly green landscape. Meals included - Breakfast, packed lunch, and dinner
Day 3:Quebrada Cojup (4,150 m) - Portada Cojup - Huaraz
Final day of gentle descent through the beautiful Cojup valley, with the river as our constant companion. The trail offers views of the snow-capped peaks we leave behind. We arrive at the park entrance, where the vehicle awaits us for the return to Huaraz. Arrival in the afternoon. End of the journey. Meals included - Breakfast, packed lunch, tea, dinner
Upcoming Departures
Apr 8 - Apr 10, 2026
4 spots leftApr 15 - Apr 17, 2026
4 spots leftApr 22 - Apr 24, 2026
4 spots leftApr 29 - May 1, 2026
4 spots leftMay 6 - May 8, 2026
4 spots leftMay 13 - May 15, 2026
4 spots leftMay 20 - May 22, 2026
4 spots leftMay 27 - May 29, 2026
4 spots leftJun 3 - Jun 5, 2026
4 spots leftJun 10 - Jun 12, 2026
4 spots leftJun 17 - Jun 19, 2026
4 spots leftJun 24 - Jun 26, 2026
4 spots leftWhat's Included
- Transports according to itinerary
- Qualified and experienced guide (Spanish/English)
- Cook and assistant
- Donkeys and donkey driver
- All meals during the trek
- Good quality high mountain tent (2 or 3 person)
- Sleeping Mattress
- Dining tent, table and chairs
- Cooking utensils
- First aid kit and oxygen
What's Not Included
- Meals in Lima and Huaraz
- Hotels in Lima and Huaraz
- Bus tickets and flights
- Entrance fees to the Cordillera Huayhuash
- Alcoholic drinks
- Personal equipment
- Medical care or insurance
- Emergency rescue or evacuation
- Additional expenses as a result of leaving the trek early
- Travel insurance
- Tips (optional)
FAQ
? What level of physical condition is required for this trek?
This trekking is of moderate to demanding difficulty due to the ascent to the Huapi Pass (5,020 m). Good physical condition is required, and you should be accustomed to mountain hikes with positive elevation gain. It is recommended to have done previous acclimatization hikes in Huaraz or the Cordillera Blanca. The days are 5 to 7 hours long, so it is important to arrive prepared with cardiovascular training beforehand.
? Is it possible to observe condors and deer during the hike?
Yes, the Quilcayhuanca valley is known for being an excellent place to observe Andean fauna. With a bit of luck, it is possible to spot condors flying over the rocky peaks, as well as deer and viscachas on the slopes. It is recommended to bring binoculars and walk quietly to increase the chances of encounters.
Packing list
Our recommendation
Are you missing something? We can provide the detailed program and everything you need for a great day of expeditions, check each trip for detailed information on prices and offers we have for groups and dates or contact us for a personalized trip and you will be able to fully enjoy. The personal technical equipment and expedition clothing that we can provide you at no cost will depend on whether we have an available warehouse, which is why it is important to book in advance and check what we can provide you.
Click hereGallery
