An 18–20 day guided expedition from Huaraz to Alpamayo and Chopicalqui combining high-camp trekking, glacier travel and technical ice climbing. Includes certified guides, acclimatization and emergency satellite connectivity.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You wake before dawn in Huaraz, the town’s lights fizzling out behind a ridge while the Cordillera Blanca sharpens into silhouette. Cold air moves like a living thing through the valley; glaciers above pull and creak as if testing your resolve. This expedition threads high camps, moraine crossings and steep ice walls to two of Peru’s most dramatic summits—Alpamayo (≈5,957 m) and Chopicalqui (≈6,354 m).
Difficulty
expert
Duration
18–20 days
Fitness Level
Requires excellent aerobic fitness, experience with multi-day high-altitude travel, and the ability to operate technically on steep ice for long summit days.
Wildlife
History
The Cordillera Blanca shaped local highland culture for centuries; modern alpine routes grew prominent in the 20th century as international climbers codified technical lines like Alpamayo’s ice faces.
Conservation
The range sits inside Huascarán National Park—glacier retreat is visible year-to-year; minimize impact by following leave-no-trace rules and using established camps and toilets.
Reserve your spot on the Santa Cruz Trek Peak Alpamayo 5957 m and Chopicalqui 6354 m today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize before hard days
Spend the scheduled acclimatization hikes and avoid rapid ascent—allow 2–3 days above 3,500 m before heavy climbing.
Brush up on technical skills
Practice ice-ax arrest, front-pointing with crampons and rope team travel; summits involve steep ice and crevasse risk.
Manage hydration and food
Cold air suppresses thirst—use a hydration system with an insulated tube and eat small, frequent snacks to maintain energy at altitude.
Plan for variable glacier conditions
Glacier shape changes yearly—expect route variations, moraine navigation and possible extra fixed ropes; follow guide advice.
Crampons and rigid mountaineering boots
Front-point crampons and insulated boots are necessary for steep ice and sustained glacier travel.
summer
Technical ice axe and leash
A steep-ice axe for front-pointing, self-arrest and fixed-line sections on Alpamayo and Chopicalqui.
summer
4-season sleeping bag (-15°C rating)
High camps at 5,300–5,350 m require a warm, compressible bag for freezing nights.
summer
Climbing harness, helmet and adjustable crampon-compatible gaiters
For roped glacier travel, crevasse protection and mixed climbing sections.
summer