Vallunaraju Climb (5686m)

Character
Vallunaraju is one of the few peaks in the Cordillera Blanca that can be climbed from Huaraz in two days. It is suitable for both first time climbers and also experienced climbers. A good peak to include at the end of your trek or for acclimatization for climbing bigger peaks. Although graded as an easy climb, the high altitude and long and in places steep snow slopes do make Vallunaraju a physically demanding climb. It is also necessary to carry all equipment up to Moraine Camp on the mountain on a steep trail. Porters carry tents, food, climbing rope up to Moraine Camp and back, but you need to carry your own personal gear.

Requirements
You are healthy and not afraid of heights. Good fitness and strength is required. You need to be strong enough to carry a moderate-weight backpack up the steep trail. For the fit, strong and well-acclimatized this is a great, challenging adventure. You should not consider this climb unless you have above average fitness and are generally strong. It is important that you are well acclimatized to the altitude before attempting to climb any peak. Thus avoiding any potential problems with lack of energy or any altitude-related illnesses when climbing. Climbing above 5000m is physically demanding, even when the climbing itself is not steep or technical. On this ascent you go from Huaraz (3090m) directly to the Moraine Camp (5130m), constituting an altitude gain of 2014m in a single day. It is therefore extremely important that you are already well acclimatized. We always recommend a trek of minimum 4 days for acclimatization and extra fitness.

Best Season
This climb can be booked all year around. The best climbing season in the Andes is from April to October, with rainy season in between. It is usually sunny and warm during this time. Due to the altitude, the nights can be quite cold (to minus 5 ° C).