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Traverse glaciers, cloud forest and high Andean lakes on a 15–21 day Peru circuit that pairs the Cordillera Blanca’s Santa Cruz trek with the Inca Trail and cultural stops at Titicaca, Colca and Nazca. Expect long days at altitude, dramatic passes and indispensable planning for permits and acclimatization.
Traverse glaciers, cloud forest and high Andean lakes on a 15–21 day Peru circuit that pairs the Cordillera Blanca’s Santa Cruz trek with the Inca Trail and cultural stops at Titicaca, Colca and Nazca. Expect long days at altitude, dramatic passes and indispensable planning for permits and acclimatization.
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Operated by Peru Expeditions Tours · Huaraz, Ancash
Dawn breaks cold and clear above a high valley in the Cordillera Blanca; a string of tents holds last night’s breath while glaciers glitter like old coins against the sky. You shoulder a pack and step onto a stony path that climbs through puna grass and past turquoise lakes, the mountains watching with unmoved patience.
challenging.
15–21 days.
Good aerobic fitness and prior multi-day trekking experience; able to hike 6–8 hours on consecutive days at altitude.
Yes—permits for the classic Inca Trail are limited and must be booked months in advance; alternative access to Machu Picchu via the train or Salkantay and alternative treks is possible if permits are sold out.
The Santa Cruz trek is moderately to highly strenuous: 4 days, ~40–50 km, with a high point at Punta Unión (4,750 m) and sustained elevation changes—good fitness and acclimatization are required.
Possibly—symptoms can occur above 2,500–3,000 m; take time to acclimatize, hydrate, avoid heavy alcohol, and descend if symptoms worsen.
Yes—this itinerary uses tents and camp support (often with mule logistics and local crew); confirm sleeping bag requirements and any carry limits with the operator.
The route connects pre-Inca and Inca landscapes—stone terraces and trail networks built to move people and goods across the Andes—and later Spanish colonial centers like Arequipa.
Much of the Santa Cruz trek runs inside Huascarán National Park—stick to trails, pack out waste, and respect water sources to reduce impacts on fragile high-altitude ecosystems.
Peru Expeditions Tours operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
Book with Peru Expeditions Tours
Book directly with Peru Expeditions Tours for the best rates and real-time scheduling.
Reserve Now