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A four-day classic in Peru’s Cordillera Blanca, the Santa Cruz Trek crosses high passes and glacier-carved valleys from Vaquería to broad Andean plains. Expect mule support, camping, and striking mountain scenery—ideal if you’ve acclimatized and want intensive alpine hiking.
A four-day classic in Peru’s Cordillera Blanca, the Santa Cruz Trek crosses high passes and glacier-carved valleys from Vaquería to broad Andean plains. Expect mule support, camping, and striking mountain scenery—ideal if you’ve acclimatized and want intensive alpine hiking.
Book with Andean Summit Multiservicios S.R.L.
Book directly with Andean Summit Multiservicios S.R.L. for the best rates and real-time scheduling.
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Operated by Andean Summit Multiservicios S.R.L. · Huaraz, Ancash
Morning light slices across granite spires as you step off the jeep at Vaquería and begin the first slow, breath-steadying ascent. The valley opens—green meadows, waterfalls, and glaciers hanging above like white flags. Over four days the trail pushes through high puna, across the Punta Unión pass, and down into broad dry plains; the mountains feel deliberate, as if the peaks themselves measure your progress.
challenging.
3–4 days.
Best for fit hikers used to sustained uphill and high-altitude walking; training hikes and cardio help.
No technical climbing is required—this is a high-altitude trek—but you should have multi-day hiking experience and be acclimatized.
The itinerary typically includes camping equipment, sleeping bag (check specs), mule support, and meals listed in the operator’s inclusions.
The dry season (May–September) offers the most stable weather and clearer views; the wet season brings afternoon storms and muddier trails.
Punta Unión (around 4,700–4,750 m) is the steepest day; expect several hours of ascent at thin air—pace yourself and monitor symptoms of altitude sickness.
The valley has long been used by Quechua communities for grazing and transhumance; trails follow routes used for centuries between mountain pastures.
The Cordillera Blanca is protected through regional parks and community-managed grazing; stay on trails and carry out waste to limit erosion and water contamination.
Andean Summit Multiservicios S.R.L. operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
Book with Andean Summit Multiservicios S.R.L.
Book directly with Andean Summit Multiservicios S.R.L. for the best rates and real-time scheduling.
Reserve Now