Ulta - Santa Cruz
Ulta Santa Cruz Trek - The Complete Traverse of the Cordillera Blanca
The Ulta Santa Cruz is the most complete and spectacular version of the classic Santa Cruz trek, combining two stunning valleys - the rugged Quebrada Ulta and the legendary Quebrada Santa Cruz. In 6 days, you will traverse fascinating geological landscapes, whimsical rock formations, glacial meltwater waterfalls, and quenual forests, as you venture into the heart of Huascarán National Park. The route includes two high mountain passes - Paso Yanayacu (4,850 m) and the mythical Paso Punta Unión (4,750 m), from where you will behold the most emblematic peaks of the range - Alpamayo, Artesonraju, Taulliraju, Chacraraju, Huascarán, Huandoy, and many more. A demanding and deeply rewarding journey for lovers of high-altitude trekking.
Itinerary
Day 1:Huaraz (3,052 m) - Quebrada Ulta - Hualcapampa (4,000 m)
Departure by private vehicle from Huaraz towards the start of the Quebrada Ulta, a valley with rugged geography featuring rock formations sculpted by erosion and time. We begin the hike with a gentle ascent, surrounded by waterfalls from the glaciers and native vegetation such as quenual trees, ichu grass, and quisuar. We arrive at Hualcapampa, our first campsite. Meals included - lunch and dinner
Day 2:Hualcapampa (4,000 m) - Paso Yanayacu (4,850 m) - Molinopampa (4,850 m)
Demanding day of ascent in switchbacks towards Paso Yanayacu (4,850 m), the highest point of the trek. From the summit, breathtaking views of the Cordillera Blanca unfold before us. Rest and setup of the camp in Molinopampa, a high-altitude plain with a high-mountain atmosphere. Meals included - Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Day 3:Molinopampa (4,850 m) - Colcabamba (3,500 m) - Paria (3,870 m)
Easier walk descending towards the valley. We cross the picturesque villages of Chalhua and Colcabamba, where the landscape changes to a greener and more cultivated one. The imposing Chacraraju peak accompanies us for a large part of the route. We arrive at Paria, our campsite next to the river. Meals included - Breakfast, lunch
Upcoming Departures
Apr 6 - Apr 11, 2026
4 spots leftApr 14 - Apr 19, 2026
4 spots leftApr 22 - Apr 27, 2026
4 spots leftApr 30 - May 5, 2026
4 spots leftMay 8 - May 13, 2026
4 spots leftMay 16 - May 21, 2026
4 spots leftMay 24 - May 29, 2026
4 spots leftJun 1 - Jun 6, 2026
4 spots leftJun 9 - Jun 14, 2026
4 spots leftJun 17 - Jun 22, 2026
4 spots leftJun 25 - Jun 30, 2026
4 spots leftJul 3 - Jul 8, 2026
4 spots leftWhat's Included
- Transport according to the itinerary
- Qualified and experienced guide (Spanish/English)
- Cook and assistant
- Donkeys and donkey driver
- All meals during the trek
- Good quality mountain tent (for 2 or 3 people)
- Sleeping pad
- 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 Huayhuash Mountain Range
- Alcoholic beverages
- Personal equipment
- Medical attention or insurance
- Rescue or emergency evacuation
- Additional expenses resulting from abandoning the trek early
- Travel insurance
- Tips (optional)
FAQ
? What level of physical condition is required for this trek?
The Ulta Santa Cruz Trek is of demanding difficulty. Daily hikes vary between 4 and 8 hours, with significant ascents to two high mountain passes - Paso Yanayacu (4,850 m) and Paso Punta Unión (4,750 m). Good physical condition, previous experience in multi-day high-altitude trekking, and the ability to withstand prolonged efforts are required. It is recommended to have completed at least 2-3 days of acclimatization in Huaraz (3,052 m) before starting the trek.
? Is it necessary to have camping experience or can we rent all the equipment?
Previous camping experience is not required, but it is recommended. We provide all group equipment - camping tents, dining tent, bathroom tent, kitchen, and utensils. Participants must bring their own sleeping bag (suitable for sub-zero temperatures) and insulating mat. If you do not have this equipment, you can rent it in Huaraz before departure.
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.
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