A compact three-day trek from Olleros to Chavín de Huántar that crosses pre-Inca stone trails, high puna passes up to 4,800 m, and small Quechua villages—supported by local muleteers and community guides. Expect sustained altitude gain, basic camping, and a strong cultural payoff at the Chavín ruins.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Dawn light slants across the Rio Negro valley as you shoulder a pack and follow a narrow track out of Olleros. The trail rises steadily—past shepherds' pastures and stone corrals—until the high puna opens and the wind begins to push you toward Punta Yanashallash at about 4,800 m. Donkeys and local muleteers accompany the group; the land feels deliberate and old, a route that once connected highland communities to Chavín de Huántar.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
3 days
Fitness Level
Fit hikers with previous high-altitude experience; able to hike 5–6 hours on steep terrain at 4,000+m.
Wildlife
History
Chavín de Huántar was a major ceremonial center of the Early Horizon (c. 900–200 BCE); the complex and stone carvings reflect early pan-Andean ritual networks.
Conservation
Stick to established campsites and pack out waste—the high puna is fragile and recovery from trampling and litter can take decades. Support community-led guiding to ensure economic benefits remain local.
Reserve your spot on the Olleros - Chavin Preinca trail trek 3 days Comunity support today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize in Huaraz
Spend at least one full day in Huaraz (3,100 m) before starting the trek to reduce risk of altitude sickness.
Bring a water treatment
Water is available from streams and camps but treat or filter it—boiling or a filter straw works well.
Footwear and gaiters
Use broken-in, waterproof hiking boots and light gaiters for scree and wet grass sections on the high pass.
Pack light daypack
Donkeys carry group luggage—keep a light daypack with warm layers, sun protection, and snacks.
Water filter or purification tablets
Ensures safe drinking water from streams and camp supplies.
Sturdy waterproof hiking boots
Protects feet on rocky, wet, and uneven highland trails.
Warm insulating layer (down or synthetic)
Nights at 4,000+m get very cold; a warm jacket prevents hypothermia.
winter
Lightweight trekking poles
Help with balance on steep ascents and descents and reduce knee stress.