4-Day Santa Cruz Trek From Huaraz

The 4-Day Santa Cruz Trek from Huaraz offers a captivating journey through the stunning Cordillera Blanca. Trekkers can expect moderate to challenging hikes, rewarded with breathtaking views of lakes, mountains, and valleys. Donkeys carry heavy loads, ensuring a more comfortable experience as local experts guide the way. Celebrated for its scenic beauty, high-quality food, and well-organized structure, the trek has garnered impressive reviews. Whether you’re an avid hiker or seeking a new adventure, the Santa Cruz Trek promises an unforgettable experience in the Peruvian Andes.

Good To Know

• The 4-day Santa Cruz Trek is a popular trekking adventure from Huaraz, Peru, featuring spectacular views of the Cordillera Blanca mountain range.
• The trek’s itinerary includes moderate to challenging hikes over four days, with donkeys carrying heavy loads and trekkers carrying only day packs.
• Highlights of the trek include Ichicocha and Jatuncocha lakes, the Alpamayo south base camp, and the Punta Union pass with stunning panoramas.
• The trek is well-organized, with included hotel pickup, transportation, local guides, camping gear, and meals, providing exceptional value for money.
• The Santa Cruz Trek is highly recommended by reviewers, who praise the beautiful scenery, considerate guides, and overall ease of the experience compared to other treks.

Overview of the Santa Cruz Trek

The Santa Cruz Trek is a popular 4-day trekking adventure that departs from Huaraz, Peru.

Featuring spectacular views of the Cordillera Blanca, the trek is designed for comfort, with donkeys carrying the heavy loads while trekkers carry only a day pack.

With 4 reviews and an overall rating of 5.0, the trek highlights the stunning landscapes of the region.

Trekkers can expect a moderate hike on the first day, a lengthier trek on the second day, a challenging ascent to the Punta Union pass on the third day, and a descent to Huaripampa on the fourth day before returning to Huaraz.

Itinerary Day 1: Huaraz to Llamacorral

Trekkers depart Huaraz at 7 AM, driving through the scenic Callejon de Huaylas region.

They arrive at Cashapampa, elevation 2900 masl, where they meet the donkey drivers.

The hike to Llamacorral, elevation 3760 masl, takes approximately 4 hours and covers 5 km.

Llamacorral is the overnight campsite for the first day.

The trek is designed for comfort, with trekkers carrying only a day pack while donkeys transport the heavier loads.

Itinerary Day 2: Llamacorral to Taullipampa

From Llamacorral, the trek continues with a moderate hike along Ichicocha and Jatuncocha lakes.

Trekkers enjoy lunch at Quisuar before hiking to the Alpamayo south base camp. The destination for the day is Taullipampa at 4200 meters above sea level, reached after approximately 6 hours of hiking covering 8-9 kilometers.

Trekkers are rewarded with spectacular views of the Cordillera Blanca mountain range as they make their way to the campsite.

The second day’s itinerary allows trekkers to acclimate to the high altitude while taking in the breathtaking scenery of the region.

Itinerary Day 3: Taullipampa to Huaripampa/Cachinapampa

Departing Taullipampa at 7 AM, trekkers set out for the challenging ascent to Punta Union pass, situated at an impressive 4750 meters above sea level.

The hike offers spectacular views of Taulliraju, Paria, Artesonraju, and Taullicocha lake.

After approximately 8-9 hours of trekking over 12 km, the group reaches their campsite at Cachinapampa (3850 masl).

This day’s journey is undoubtedly the most demanding, but the stunning panoramas make the effort worthwhile.

Trekkers can look forward to a well-deserved rest at the end of this strenuous but rewarding day.

Itinerary Day 4: Huaripampa to Vaquería

On the final day, hikers embark on a descent down to Huaripampa, followed by a climb up to Vaquería.

This section features scenic views of the Llanganuco Valley and the imposing Huascarán peaks.

The trek concludes with a minivan transfer back to Huaraz via the Portachuelo Llanganuco Pass at 4,750 masl.

Key highlights of Day 4 include:

• Descending to Huaripampa
• Ascending to Vaquería
• Panoramic vistas of the Llanganuco Valley
• Returning to Huaraz via the Portachuelo Llanganuco Pass

Included in the Trek

The 4-day Santa Cruz Trek includes a comprehensive set of services to ensure a comfortable and hassle-free experience for trekkers. The trek package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, a local trekking guide, and all necessary camping gear and meals. Trekkers can travel light, carrying only a day pack, as donkeys will transport the heavier loads.

Included	Details
Transportation	Public minivan or automobile
Guides	Local trekking guide
Camping Gear	Tents, sleeping pads
Meals	Provided throughout the trek
Water	Purified water supplied

This all-inclusive approach allows trekkers to focus on enjoying the stunning Cordillera Blanca scenery without the burden of logistical details.

Additional Trek Information

Typically, the 4-day Santa Cruz Trek isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems or serious medical conditions.

The trek is also not wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed.

Free cancellation is available up to 6 days in advance, giving hikers flexibility.

Priced from $750.00 with a lowest price guarantee, the trek offers exceptional value for money, as highlighted by positive customer reviews.

• Not suitable for travelers with back issues or serious medical conditions
• Not wheelchair accessible, but service animals allowed
• Free cancellation up to 6 days in advance
• Priced from $750.00 with a lowest price guarantee

Customer Reviews

Travelers have overwhelmingly praised the 4-Day Santa Cruz Trek, with reviewers lauding the trek’s beautiful scenery and considerate guides.

The trekking experience is considered easier due to the trek’s organization, with one hiker commenting that it’s a much better option than Machu Picchu.

Reviewers have also noted the high quality of the food and overall value for money, with the trek receiving a perfect 5.0 rating across 4 reviews.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum and Maximum Group Size for the Trek?

The tour’s group size is not specified in the provided details. It appears to be a privately guided trek, though the exact minimum and maximum group sizes are not mentioned.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for the Trek?

The trek doesn’t have any age restrictions, but it’s not recommended for travelers with serious medical conditions or back problems. Children are welcome, though the strenuous hiking may not be suitable for young kids.

What Type of Accommodations Are Provided During the Trek?

The trek provides tents and sleeping pads for campsites at the overnight stops. Meals and purified water are also included. There are no age restrictions, but the trek isn’t recommended for those with medical conditions or mobility challenges.

Can I Rent Hiking Poles or Other Equipment for the Trek?

Hikers can rent hiking poles and other essential equipment from the tour operator. This helps ensure they have the proper gear for the trekking experience without the hassle of transporting their own equipment.

Are There Any Additional Costs I Should Be Aware of During the Trek?

There may be additional costs for renting hiking poles or other equipment. Plus, any excess luggage charges could incur extra fees. However, the base price covers the essentials like transportation, guide, meals, and accommodations.

The Sum Up

The 4-Day Santa Cruz Trek from Huaraz offers trekkers a breathtaking adventure through the stunning landscapes of the Cordillera Blanca. With moderate to challenging hikes, picturesque views, and excellent logistical support, it’s no wonder the trek is rated 5.0 based on customer reviews. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a nature enthusiast, this trek promises an unforgettable journey through Peru’s majestic mountain range.