huayhuash circuit - World Expeditions

South America
huayhuash circuit
trip highligh­­­ts
Trekking the challenging 165 km (103 mi) circuit
around the Cordillera Huayhuash in Northern Peru—
some of the best trekking in South America
Exploring Huaraz and the stunning Cordillera Blanca
Exhilarating circuit among towering peaks over 6,000 m,
cascading glaciers, alpine meadows and azure glacial lakes
Supported wilderness camping and 3 hearty
meals a day prepared on trek
Experiencing indigenous communities and fragile ecosystems
Spectacular landscapes providing endless photo opportunities
Trip Duration19 days
Trip Code: HYC
GradeModerate to Challenging
ActivitiesTrekking and Day Walking
Summary12 day trek, 5 nights hotel and 13 nights camping
welcome to
World Expeditions
Thank you for your interest in our Huayhuash Circuit trip. At World
Expeditions we are passionate about our off the beaten track
experiences as they provide our travellers with the thrill of coming
face to face with untouched cultures as well as wilderness regions
of great natural beauty. We are committed to ensuring that our
unique itineraries are well researched, affordable and tailored for the
enjoyment of small groups or individuals ‑ philosophies that have
been at our core since 1975 when we began operating adventure
holidays. Our itineraries will give you the very best travel experience,
designed by people with incredible local knowledge who share our
vision of authentic exchange and real exploration with a responsible
tourism approach. Whether you like your adventures to include
trekking, touring, cycling, mountaineering, kayaking or cruising World
Expeditions can make it happen for you. We hope you will join us for
a life changing experience!!
1 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Greg Lee 6/9/2016 11:10:18 AM
why travel with World Expeditions?
Our Peruvian operations are directed by Andreas Holland who has lived
and worked in South America for over 25 years. His staff are dedicated
to providing you with the very best travel experience while ensuring that
our operations comply with all the rules for responsible and sustainable
tourism. This trip offers exceptional value for money, using good
quality, centrally located hotels, private transportation in vehicles that
are driven by our drivers and maintained by recognized mechanics,
many meals, all your entrance fees and permit fees, expert leadership
and much more. Compare our prices and all our inclusions and we feel
that few trips can compare in terms of value for money. Given our local
knowledge, experience and excellent leadership, we are quite sure that
this trip will be the trip of a lifetime.
Brazil
huayhuash circuit
Huaraz
An exhilarating trek around the peaks and passes of the Cordillera Huayhuash
Huayhuash
Lima
trip dates
2017
05May- 23May
29Sep - 17Oct
important notes
Note: - prices valid up to 31/12/2016. For trips departing
after this date, the price will likely increase subject to
local inflationary pressures on operational costs.
trip cost
Joining Lima:£2090
All prices are per person
options & supplements
Single Supplement Tent Only:
£120
Single Supplement:
£270
World Expeditions does not require single travellers
to pay a surcharge for travelling alone. We will
arrange for you to share accommodation with
another traveller of the same gender and if we can
not match you up we will provide a single room at
no extra charge. If you prefer not to share a single
supplement is payable to guarantee your own room.
The cost of the single supplement is listed above.
For competitive airfares and stopover ideas
to join this adventure, contact our expert staff
today to receive a detailed quote.
Inclusions Valued at USD$:
Park & Entry Fees:USD$95
Peru
the trip
The Cordillera Huayhuash is one of the most spectacular ranges in the Peruvian Andes.
It?was the region that attracted worldwide attention following Joe Simpson’s dramatic
account?of his near‑fatal climb of Siula Grande in his book, ‘Touching the Void’. This
challenging full circuit trek is the best way to fully appreciate the sheer scale and beauty
of these snow‑capped summits, including Yerupaja, the second highest mountain in Peru.
Our trip includes ample time for acclimatisation in?Huaraz and the Cordillera Blanca before
spending 11 days crossing stunning high passes, all in the vicinity of 5,000 m. Each day
provides us with an ever‑changing backdrop of soaring peaks including the distinctive
needle‑like peak of Jirishanca and the impressive summit of Yerupaja. Each night we set up
camp in remote locations alongside alpine meadows and brilliant blue glacial lagoons in this
unrivalled corner of the Andes. For the lover of high mountain regions, it would be hard to
beat this exceptional trek. Anyone wishing to add on a trip to Cusco and Machu Picchu can
do so easily, so please ask for more details.
at a glance
DAY 1ARRIVE LIMA
DAY 2DRIVE TO HUARAZ
DAYS 3-4IN HUARAZ, DAY HIKES
DAY 5DRIVE TO MATACHANCHA
DAY 6TREK TO MITOCOCHA VIA CACANAMPUNTA PASS
DAY 7TREK TO LAKE CARHUACOCHA VIA CARHUAC PASS
DAY 8TREK TO HUAYHUASH VILLAGE VIA CARNICERO PASS
DAY 9TREK TO PUSCANTURPA VALLEY VIA PORTACHUELO PASS
DAY 10TREK TO CUYOC VALLEY VIA CUYOC PASS
DAY 11TREK TO CUTATAMBO VIA SAN ANTONIO PASS
DAY 12DAY TREK TO ASCEND CERRO BELLA VISTA
DAY 13TREK TO HUANCHO VALLEY VIA HUAYLAPA
DAY 14TREK TO CASHPAPAMPA VIA TAPUSH PASS
DAY 15TREK TO JAHUACOCHA VIA YAUCHA PASS
DAY 16REST DAY AT JAHUACOCHA
DAY 17TREK TO LLAMAC
DAY 18DRIVE TO LIMA
DAY 19IN LIMA, TRIP CONCLUDES
what’s included
18 breakfasts, 15 lunches and 13 dinners
airport transfers if arriving on Day 1 and departing on Day 19
expert bilingual guide
group medical kit
comfortable and central hotels, primarily Casa Andina Classic hotels
all internal transportation
gear pack including sleeping bag, fibre filled jacket and sleeping mat
group camping equipment
porters on trek to carry personal gear
portable altitude chamber carried on trek
2 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Greg Lee 6/9/2016 11:10:18 AM
huayhuash circuit
An exhilarating trek around the peaks and passes of the Cordillera Huayhuash
Local cash payments are becoming increasingly popular with many operators in the
adventure travel industry. The policy seems to benefit the tour operators, more than the
local economies or travellers, as it avoids local taxes and transfers the cost and risk of
cash handling to travellers. In accordance with our Responsible Travel practices we have
chosen a policy not to ask for such payments.
detailed itinerary
DAY 1Arrive Lima
If you’re flying into Lima today you will be met at the airport and transferred to the group hotel,
where the remainder of the day is free at leisure for you to rest or start exploring. We plan to have
a group briefing before dinner, however this will be subject to all group members arriving during
the day – otherwise we will have the briefing tomorrow. Our hotel is in the Miraflores area, home to
some of Lima’s best galleries, restaurants and shops. Steeped in fascinating history, Lima is South
America’s oldest capital. It was in 1535 that the Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro overthrew
the Inca Empire and moved the capital from Cusco, establishing the new city of Lima. Peru’s busy
capital is now a sprawling metropolis that’s blessed with world-class restaurants, brilliant museums
and galleries, and a superb combination of Spanish colonial and 19th century European architecture.
If you have time to visit a museum we would recommend the Museo de La Nacion or the Larco
Herrera Museum.
Overnight in Lima.
meals: NIL
DAY 2Drive to Huaraz
Today we drive via private transport to Huaraz, our gateway to the stunning Cordillera Blanca. It’s a
long day’s journey but we’ll be treated to some incredible scenery along the way!
Overnight in Huaraz.
meals: B
DAYS 3-4In Huaraz, day hikes
We now have two days in Huaraz to explore this stunning region with some day walks—and at
an elevation of 3,052 m (10,013 ft), our time spent in Huaraz is crucial to our safe acclimatisation.
Huaraz is a scenic town set at the foot of the Cordillera Blanca with views directly up to the highest
peak in Peru, Huascaran (6,768 m / 22,205 ft). There is a range of different walking excursions we
can make from our base here for a couple of days, and these hikes will be invaluable acclimatisation
for our trekking program ahead. As the gateway to the Cordillera Blanca, Huaraz is a bustling
tourism hub and also serves as a pick up point for our crew and all supplies and equipment for the
trek. On Day 3, we walk to the pre-Inca ruins of Willcahuaín (3,400 m / 11,155 ft) and back to the
hotel in a loop walk that will last 4–5 hours, finishing the day with a relaxing soak in the Monterrey
hot springs. On Day 4, we make a day trip to Laguna Churup (4,485 m / 14,715 ft), a beautiful
glacial lake set at the base of Nevado Churup (5,493 m / 18,022 ft). This is one of the most popular
day treks in the Cordillera Blanca and takes around 4–5 hours to complete. Today’s trek is an
excellent training and acclimatisation hike for our upcoming Huayhuash Circuit, and our efforts will
be justly rewarded when we arrive at this stunning turquoise glacial lake.
Overnight in Huaraz.
meals: B,L
3 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Greg Lee 6/9/2016 11:10:18 AM
huayhuash circuit
An exhilarating trek around the peaks and passes of the Cordillera Huayhuash
DAY 5Drive to Matachancha
fast facts
Countries Visited:
Peru
Visas:
Please check visa requirements with
your reservations consultant*
Vaccinations:
Please consult a travel vaccination
specialist for up to date information
Private Groups:
Private group options are
available for this trip*
Singles:
A single supplement is available for this trip*
Leader:
Expert local leader
Brochure Reference:
The Americas
*Ask our staff for more information.
Today we head south of Huaraz to our first campsite Matacancha (4,185 m / 13,730 ft). Today we
get our first glimpses of the range, and we’ll pass Conococha Lake, the village of Chiquián and
our trek finishing point at Lllamac. After around 6 hours, we’ll arrive at our first night’s camp at
Matacancha, where our “arrieros” (muleteers) and “burros” (donkeys) will be waiting.
Overnight at campsite.
meals: B,L,D
DAY 6Trek to Mitococha via Cacanampunta Pass
Trekking to our first pass and crossing the divide to the east, we gain our first serious views of the
mountains. Zigzagging steadily upwards over rocky and loose terrain above our previous night’s
camp, the trail then becomes steep in a final hill across to the Cacanampunta Pass (4,700 m /
15,420 ft). From here we descend briefly before contouring the hillside to find the mountains at the
north end of the Huayhuash opening out before us: Ninashanca (5607 m / 18,396 ft), Rondoy (5879
m / 19,288 ft), Jirishanca (6,094 m / 19,993 ft) and Jirishanca Chico (5445 m / 17,864 ft) among
them. Our path descends to the village of Janca and continues on for another hour to Mitococha
(4,250 m / 13,944 ft), where we’ll find our camp by the river, surrounded by mountain vistas.
Overnight at campsite.
meals: B,L,D
DAY 7Trek to Lake Carhuacocha via Carhuac Pass
Today we trek for around 6 hours, making our way to Lake Carhuacocha (4,180 m / 13,914 ft). After
trekking south for 3-4 hours, steadily gaining altitude, we reach the Carhuac Pass (4,650 m / 15,256
ft). The trail then drops steeply for the next hour, passing a couple of dwellings at Yanayana and then
a small lake, before the one kilometre-long emerald green Laguna Carhuacocha comes into view.
If we’re lucky we may see the Andean geese that are often spotted on the lake. Tonight’s camp is
set above the lake, beneath the eastern flanks of Yerupaja Chico and Yerupaja, the latter being the
centrepiece of the massif and the second highest mountain in Peru, after Huascaran (6,768 m /
22,205 ft). Yerupaja is the highest point of the vast Amazon basin watershed that feeds into the Rio
Marañón, a principal tributary of the Amazon.
Overnight at campsite.
meals: B,L,D
DAY 8Trek to Huayhuash village via Carnicero Pass
Today’s trek is a long one as we make our way to the tiny village of Huayhuash. Leaving Lake
Carhuacocha by its eastern side, we trek southward past some of the grandest peaks of the range
including Suila Grande (6,344 m / 20,814 ft) and Carnicero (5,960 m / 12,554 ft), passing close
by their stunning glaciers and glacial lagoons. Today we are seeing the eastern or ‘other’ side of
Suila Grande, with the western face being the route made famous by Joe Simpson’s book (and
the subsequent film), Touching the Void. Simpson and his climb partner Simon Yates ascended
the western face of Suila Grand in 1985 but became embroiled in one of history’s most dramatic
mountaineering disasters on their descent. It’s a long walk to the Canicero Pass (4,600 m / 15,092
ft)—around 5 hours—but not particularly strenuous. As we descend to Huayhuash (a tiny settlement
of one house and little else!), the views are spectacular. The mountains of Trapecio (5,644 m /
18,517 ft) and Jurau (5,650 m / 18,537 ft) tower above us, as well as Canicero.
Overnight at campsite.
meals: B,L,D
DAY 9Trek to Puscanturpa Valley via Portachuelo Pass
Once again, the day begins with three hours of scenic climbing towards our next mountain pass,
with the peaks of Puscanturpa (5,442 m / 17,854 ft) before us. From the Portachuelo Pass (4,750 m
4 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Greg Lee 6/9/2016 11:10:18 AM
huayhuash circuit
An exhilarating trek around the peaks and passes of the Cordillera Huayhuash
responsible travel
The environments we travel through are
fragile. It is our responsibility as visitors to
minimise the impact of our presence. World
Expeditions were the proud recipients of
the inaugural Australian National Travel
Industry’s Environmental Achievement award
for our Responsible Travel Guidebook. This
detailed guide to responsible and sustainable
travel is provided to all World Expeditions
clients before they travel. Please ask your
consultant if you have not received your copy
of our award winning book. Alternatively,
you may like to download a copy from our
website www.worldexpeditions.com
trip grading
Moderate to Challenging
This trip is graded moderate to challenging
and is suitable for fit and healthy people.
Prior trekking is not necessary, although you
would be expected to be comfortable in the
outdoors and enjoy camping for successive
days. These adventures involve trekking for
up to 6 ‑ 8 hours a day at a steady pace and
may include longer days up to 10 hours.
These trips may spend successive days at
altitudes not generally exceeding 5,500m
and the actual treks are usually between
10 and 15 days in duration. You will need a
good level of fitness and be in good health.
* Suggested preparation: 45 minutes of
aerobic type exercise, three to five times
a week for the three months leading
up to your trip. Hill walking with a pack
in variable weather conditions is also
recommended. To prepare for a walking
holiday we recommend you take every
opportunity to walk up and down stairs and/
or hills, for leg strengthening and aerobic
fitness. Please remember the fitter you
are the more you will enjoy your holiday.
/ 15,584 ft) we make a long descent towards Laguna Viconga, an immense glacial lake. We’ll enjoy
incredible alpine views today as we make our way to our next camp, set adjacent to the hot springs
beyond the lake.
Overnight at campsite.
meals: B,L,D
DAY 10Trek to Cuyoc Valley via Cuyoc Pass
Today we cross the highest pass of our trek, the Cuyoc Pass (5,000 m / 16,404 ft). From camp we
head in a northwest direction, switching back and forth for around 3 hours as we make our way
to the gap between Puscanturpo Sur (5,440 m / 17,848 ft) and Nevado Jirishanco Chico (5,248 m
/ 17,218 ft). If the weather is clear, we’ll be rewarded here with a dazzling view of the mountains.
We continue on our journey into the western side of the range, descending from the pass into the
Quebrada Puyoc and Huanacpatay valleys towards our camp.
Overnight at campsite.
meals: B,L,D
DAY 11Trek to Cutatambo via San Antonio Pass
Today we begin with a 2 hour ascent to the San Antonio Pass (4,900 m / 16,076 ft), where we’ll
have views of three glacial lakes: Siula, Sarapo and Jurau. From the pass we begin our descent into
the Sarapo Valley, making our way to our camp at Cutatambo, passing the beautiful lakes we saw
this morning from afar.
Overnight at campsite.
meals: B,L,D
DAY 12Day trek to ascend Cerro Bella Vista
Today we’ll be using our camp at Cutatambo as a base while we pack a picnic lunch and head out
on a day trek to the summit of Cerro Bella Vista (5,150 m / 16,896 ft). Today’s excursion offers what
are arguably some of the best views in all of Peru! After a fulfilling day in the mountains we descend
back to our camp at Cutatambo for the night.
Overnight at campsite.
meals: B,L,D
DAY 13Trek to Huancho Valley via Huaylapa
This morning we take a half-day to descend the Huancho Valley at a leisurely pace, following the
river to the pretty farmlands of Huaylapa. We have lunch just outside the village, then start climbing
up the valley for another three hours to our beautiful camp at Huatia. From tonight’s scenic campsite
we’ll have excellent views of the peaks of Diablo Mudo (5,223 m / 17,136 ft) and Suerococha (5,350
m / 17,552 ft).
Overnight at campsite.
meals: B,L,D
DAY 14Trek to Cashpapampa via Tapush Pass
Leaving camp, we trek northwards and wind our way up and over a lesser-defined trail to the
plateau. After around three hours we cross the Tapush Pass (4,800 m / 15,748 ft), continuing on
past a small glacial lake and several alpine meadows as we make our way to our next campsite, a
couple of hours away.
Overnight at campsite.
meals: B,L,D
5 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Greg Lee 6/9/2016 11:10:18 AM
huayhuash circuit
An exhilarating trek around the peaks and passes of the Cordillera Huayhuash
adventure travel
By its very nature adventure travel involves
an element of the unexpected. In remote
and developing countries do not expect
standards you are used to at home. Remote
areas are sometimes unpredictable and
itineraries may be altered. To get the most
out of your adventure it is important that
you are flexible, positive and eager to
take on all the challenges that arise. If you
are uncertain about your suitability for
this trip we recommend that you speak
with your consultant or travel agent.
important note
These trip notes represent the most
current information for this itinerary, and
may supersede any information in the
current brochure, including but not limited
to the itinerary and price. The itinerary
should be seen as a guide only. This
itinerary may change at any time due to
inclement weather, forces of nature and
other circumstances beyond our control.
DAY 15Trek to Jahuacocha via Yaucha Pass
We start today with a 2 hour ascent to our last mountain pass of the trek, followed by an easy descent
to Jahuacocha Lake, our camp for the next two days. If this circuit trek had a highlight it would most
likely be the views from this camp, truly encapsulating the wild beauty of the Huayhuash range. There
is a small community living nearby that can often be seen fishing for trout in the pristine lake in their
spare time.
Overnight at campsite.
meals: B,L,D
DAY 16Rest day at Jahuacocha
Today we have a rest day in our stunning camp at Jahuacocha. In the morning we’ll take a hike up
to Lake Solterococha Lake where we’ll have really close views of the main glaciers of the Huayhuash
range. In the afternoon we will try the famous ‘Pachamanca’—a traditional Peruvian BBQ feast of meat
and vegetables cooked in the ground using hot stones.
Overnight at campsite.
meals: B,L,D
DAY 17Trek to Llamac
On the last day of our trek we see distinct changes in climate and flora as we descend through
farmland to the warm, desert environment that we originally set out from. We follow a canal for 4 hours
to our lunch stop, and then descend steeply for two hours to the small village of Llamac (3,320 m /
10,892 ft).
Overnight at campsite.
meals: B,L,D
DAY 18Drive to Lima
With our trek now complete, we make our way by private vehicle south to Lima. A full day’s driving of
around 8 hours.
Overnight in Lima.
meals: B
DAY 19In Lima, trip concludes
After breakfast, our trip concludes. If you are flying home today, you will be transferred to the airport in
time for your departure.
meals: B
This itinerary is subject to change with any change in Community regulations as well as Governmental changes and natural circumstances beyond our control.
suggested extensions
Galapagos Islands Cruise
Iguazu Falls
Buenos Aires
Colca Canyon & Arequipa
Nazca and Ballestas Islands
Amazon Jungle Extension
Classic Inca Trail
country information
Peru is a country of rich cultural and environmental diversity. In addition to the shaping forces of
the environment, the ethnic tapestry of modern Peru is the result of the rise and fall of various
6 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Greg Lee 6/9/2016 11:10:18 AM
huayhuash circuit
An exhilarating trek around the peaks and passes of the Cordillera Huayhuash
civilizations. At its peak, the sprawling kingdom of the Inca Empire encompassed everything
from southern Columbia down to the middle of present‑day Chile, imposing sophisticated
structures of political, religious, cultural and technological influence. The Inca Empire was
conquered by the Spanish in 1535, when Francisco Pizarro led troops to conquer the Inca royal
capital of Cusco, establishing the new capital of Lima and spreading Catholicism and Spanish
language and culture throughout the country. Today, the cultural, social and architectural
legacies of the Inca and the Spanish are evident throughout Peru. Peru has a population of 28
million, made up of full‑blooded indigenous Indians (biggest group are the Quechuas, whose
forebears were the Incas), Mestizos, who are a mixture of Indian and European backgrounds,
and those of European descent. Peru’s official languages are Spanish and Quechua. More
than half the population lives in the largest cities, namely Lima, Arequipa and Trujillo. Peru’s
capital, Lima, was the capital of Spanish South America from its founding in 1535 until the early
19th century. The old central part of the city with its impressive colonial commercial section,
contrasts sharply with the city’s modern office blocks, shopping centers and suburbs—and
especially the ever expanding shanty towns or “pueblos jovenes” where the poorer country
cousins are usually forced to live after moving to the city in search of work. Cusco, the former
royal capital of the great Inca Empire, stands?at an elevation of 3,400 m (11,200 ft) in the heart
of the southern sierra. Cusco is celebrated for the perfect stonework of its ancient Incan city,
its many beautiful colonial churches and palaces, and its proximity to spectacular Incan ruins
including the ‘lost city’ of Machu Picchu.
Geographically, Peru is made up of the three distinct regions. The Costa is a narrow, arid coastal
strip, mainly desert and up to 60 km wide, running down the western flank of the country. This
coastal area is the economic heartland of Peru, and the cold Humboldt Current that runs up the
coast supplies some of the richest fishing grounds in the world. Down the centre of the country
runs the Sierra (Spanish for ‘mountain range’), the alpine region of rugged snow‑capped peaks,
deep valleys and highlands that comprises the Peruvian section of the Andes mountain chain
that extends throughout South America from Colombia in the north all the way to Patagonia
in the southern tip of Chile. The highlands of the Sierra contain more than a third of the
population—mostly the Quechua or Aymara‑speaking Indians engaged in pastoral farming. The
third region is Amazonia, the jungle that reaches from the fertile Andean foothills to the pristine
lowlands of the great Amazon rainforest and myriad waterways of the vast Amazon River basin.
This is a very lush and fertile land of gentle slopes and valleys surrounded by the high peaks of
the Cordilleras Vilcabamba, Vilcanota and Blanca, and is a region home to a huge biodiversity of
plant and animal life.
climate
The trekking season in Peru lasts from the end of April (the last month of the wet season)
through to mid‑October. This is the dry but ‘cold’ period, with the best mountain views and all
passes open. By mid‑October the rains have returned and hiking becomes more difficult due
to muddy trails and snowed‑in passes. Temperatures in the area around Lima?are warm during
the day (20‑25°C / 68‑77°F) and cool at night (5°C / 40°F). In the highlands of Peru where our
trek takes place, daytime temperatures will be in the range of 10‑20°C (50‑68°F) falling as low as
‑10°C (14°F) at night. It’s also possible that we’ll get some snow on the higher ground and some
of the higher passes.
a typical day
Trekking Routine:
If you have trekked with us in South America before, the routine will be similar for our program
in the Huayhuash. We will take some staff and equipment from our base in Cusco, managed by
Andreas Holland, to complement the staff and a majority of food supplies which we will obtain
from the local area. This works well in maintaining trip quality, ensures freshness of food, and
also provides employ and income to local people in the area, many of which have coexisted in
the mountains for hundreds of years.
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huayhuash circuit
An exhilarating trek around the peaks and passes of the Cordillera Huayhuash
Trekking days usually begin at around 6.30am with a cup of tea and washing water brought
to our tent. Before breakfast we prepare for the day ahead, including packing our daypack
and kitbag for porterage by the animals. Whilst we have breakfast, camp is broken and loads
prepared for the donkeys to carry directly to the next camp. We would aim for trekkers to get
underway by 8.30am with the donkeys leaving independently of us, around the same time or
shortly afterward.
Closer to lunch time, camp staff will trek ahead to set up a picnic lunch and boil water for hot
drinks on a small fuel stove they have carried with them. In the cooler, dry climate we are able
to carry more fresh food including bread rolls, cheese, tomatoes, cucumbers, beans, and ham
or tinned fish. The pickled gerkins, onions and peppers are also tasty. There are usually some
sweet biscuits to go with your hot drink or fresh fruit.
In the afternoon we continue on for several hours until camp, which we would aim to reach
by mid‑afternoon for practical reasons, as well as the chance to relax and/or explore the area.
Throughout the day the weather can vary from pleasant ‘t‑shirt and shorts’ weather through
to snow or hailstorms which may occur on one of the passes. We are at altitude, in the winter
period, with a close proximity to the Amazon and these factors mean that we must be prepared
for all seasons in one day. A good waterproof, warm jacket, hat, gloves, glasses and thermals
should be carried with you on most days, as well as water bottle/s and camera etc, however
your guide will advise you on this in daily briefings. A larger rucksack not only gives ample
space to pack everything in, but also provides better support on your hips and shoulders with
a superior harness ‑ a worthy consideration. Sturdy, well worn in boots are also important for
a trek over rough terrain and the numerous passes that this trek encompasses. Their durability
and comfort are obviously paramount to your performance and enjoyment of the trip and should
be reviewed closely in your trip preparations. Other clothing and equipment is straightforward
for a trekking adventure to a cool climate, and is detailed in our pre‑departure booklet issued
on making a booking with us. A sleeping bag, insulated mat, fibre‑filled jacket and kit bag
is provided to you for the trek duration within the trip cost. Please check with one of the
World Expeditions consultants if you have any questions about your clothing and equipment
requirements for the trip.
meals during the trek
We provide a full service while on trek. An important aspect of this service are the meals that
are prepared for you and we are frequently complimented by returning travellers about the food
provided. Ensuring that you stay healthy is one of our highest priorities. Therefore, each of our
treks is accompanied by a trained cook as well as kitchen staff who provide you with three
hearty meals each day. High levels of hygiene are engaged to ensure that our travellers stay
healthy and fit. Our cooking staff has mastered the preparation of a varied and balanced menu
and there is always plenty of food for those who may like seconds. Our cooks are trained to
provide excellent food for vegetarians and anyone who has a limited diet including those who
are lactose or gluten intolerant. Our meal inclusion on your trek is for your benefit and takes all
the hassle, expense and worry out of your holiday. Typically, you can expect breakfast to consist
of muesli or cereal, eggs, local breads and pancakes and hot drinks. Lunch will generally be
vegetables, salads, bread, cheese pasta style dishes, tinned fish and meats and are normally
eaten picnic style. Dinner is always three courses and includes soup, seasonal vegetables,
meat, rice or pasta and bread with some local specialties also in the mix. Dessert is always
served after the main meal each evening followed by hot beverages.
dietary requirements
Provided we are advised in advance of your departure we are able to cater for vegetarian diets
and can assist with medically recommended diets (allergies and intolerances). Please ensure
you discuss your requirements with us well in advance (at least 1 month prior to your trip) to
determine whether we can cater to such dietary requirements on your chosen adventure. Please
note that options are likely to be limited in very remote locations or alternatives may be more
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huayhuash circuit
An exhilarating trek around the peaks and passes of the Cordillera Huayhuash
expensive or unavailable. There may be times when those with special requirements may need
to provide their own food. We are unable to guarantee a peanut‑free or allergen‑free trip, and
therefore, we strongly encourage that travellers with life‑threatening or severe allergies take
all necessary medical precautions to prepare for the possibility of exposure. Passengers must
travel with all necessary medications for food allergies and be capable of self‑administering
these medications.
equipment provided
You will be provided with the following equipment to use during your trip; a kit bag, sleeping bag
and a inflatable thermarest sleeping mat. You will also be provided with a fibre filled jacket. All
general camping equipment including 2 man tents and eating utensils will be provided by World
Expeditions. A dining tent with tables & camp stools and lighting, along with a toilet tent will be
erected at each campsite.
accommodation on the trip
In cities or large towns you will be accommodated in 3 to 4 star properties that are centrally
located, atmospheric and reliable. Enjoy our fully supported camping in quality two person tents
erected in scenic wilderness.
what you carry
In your daypack you will need to carry extra warm clothing (depending on the altitude, location
and weather), a rainjacket, water bottle, film and camera gear, valuables and personal items
such as sunscreen, lip‑eze etc. Porters and mules carry all group gear and your trek pack.
equipment required
Specialist gear required include walking boots and day pack (a comprehensive gear list is
provided in the pre‑departure information provided on booking).
acute mountain sickness
When we ascend above 2500 meters our bodies have to acclimatise to the decreasing amount
of the oxygen available. To allow our bodies to adjust we have structured our treks so that you
ascend slowly, allowing acclimatisation to occur. However, during the acclimatisation process,
you may experience some of the following symptoms.
• Headache
• Tiredness
• Disturbed sleep
• Loss of appetite/nausea
• Shortness of breath
• Cough
• Palpitation
• Swelling of the hands and face
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huayhuash circuit
An exhilarating trek around the peaks and passes of the Cordillera Huayhuash
Individuals acclimatise at different rates. Your best strategy is to take your time and drink plenty
of water. These symptoms may not indicate the onset of A.M.S. and if you experience them it
does not necessarily mean that you should not continue. All our group leaders have extensive
first aid training and we urge you to communicate with the group leader at all times should you
believe you have any symptoms in order that we can effectively monitor your symptoms. The
only cure for Acute Mountain Sickness is to descend.
Please note that your group leader has ultimate responsibility and may ask you to descend if
symptoms persist.
porter initiatives
Porter Welfare in Peru: The Andes
Porters are an integral part of the World Expeditions philosophy and style of travel. We take our
travellers off‑the‑beaten track, avoiding the congested trails, to experience our often remote
tent‑based adventures … this style of trekking is enabled by porters. When we trek, the entire
group ‑ travellers, guides and porters alike ‑ are a team who share the same needs for safety in
the mountain environment. Our Peruvian porters receive the following:
*All porters receive the same access to medical service as clients.
*We provide all food (3 meals per day based on a menu requested specifically by the porters),
gas stoves for all cooking.
*We are one of the 5 companies (among almost 200 companies) that pay the highest wages to
their porters.
*All our porters can also access interest free long‑term loans from us as long as they can clearly
indicate how those funds will be used.
*We provide all our porters with basic life and accident insurance. In addition we provide any
porter (or any member of their family) full coverage of any medical costs that they incur whether
it be work related or not e.g. if they have an accident in their fields or if they get any kind of
illness we fund their treatment until they are well again. We are one of the only companies in
Peru to care for their staff to this extent
*We provide transport (private buses and train) to and from the trek start and finish.
We provide sleeping tents, sleeping pads, (plus sleeping bags if requested), footwear (shoes or
boots), warm jackets and raingear.
Porters are not to carry more than 20 kilos camp gear and 5 kilos of personal gear
The minimum age for a Porter is 20 and the maximum age is 58 years old.
We have yearly meetings to discuss the needs of Porters.
World Expeditions supports the good work of a number of international organisations that
operate to ensure the health and education of porters, they are:
International Porter Protection Group >> www.ippg.net
International Mountain Explorers Connection >> www.mountainexplorers.org
Kilimanjaro Guide Scholarship Foundation Inc. >> www.kiliguides.org
vehicles & safety
During the course of your trip, we will use a variety of vehicles, all of which are fit for purpose
and the conditions encountered. It should be noted that laws governing transportation safety
may differ from those in your home country and on occasion some vehicles may not have
seat belts fitted. While game viewing within a national park could be one example, public bus
transfers or specialised transport such as ‘tuk‑tuk’s’ could be another. Where seat belts are not
provided we strongly recommend that you hold tight to a fixed part of the vehicle at all times.
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huayhuash circuit
An exhilarating trek around the peaks and passes of the Cordillera Huayhuash
what’s not included
Cost of laundry and alcoholic beverages (except wine on last trek day)
Medical treatment
International flights
Airport taxes
Excess baggage costs
Travel Insurance
Visas
info nights
World Expeditions invites you to attend our inspiring adventure travel information nights. These
special evenings are designed to inform and entertain and are hosted by our most experienced
and passionate adventure travellers and mountaineers. Ask our staff for a info night schedule or
register on our website ‑ www.worldexpeditions.com. Shows can fill early so it is important to
register your attendance so we know to save a seat, or two!
private groups
The adventures featured in our brochures, and on our website, are just a starting point for
many of our private group travellers. Working closely with our Groups Department we can
organise custom designed itineraries for groups of friends, clubs, charity’s, schools or even
work colleagues. Our team will assist you with all aspects of your private group adventure from
itinerary design to group flights. Contact our team today.
subscribe to our e-newsletter
To keep up to date with our new and exciting adventure opportunities, special promotions and
adventure news, subscribe to our monthly e‑newsletter! You can do this on line through our
website, www.worldexpeditions.com or contact our office.
social networking
Follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/WorldExpeditions
trip availability
If this trip seems right for you then we encourage you to call us now to check availability. There
are many reasons why you may not be able to join your desired departure and limited space
on our small group departures is just one of them. Many of our adventures require us to secure
services on your behalf; such as trekking permits, train travel and visa invitation letters. The
demand is increasing each year making it difficult to join a trip last minute. To ensure we can
assist you onto your adventure of a lifetime we ask that you check your trip availability with our
team at your earliest convenience.
how to book
To book a World Expeditions trip, you will need to complete a booking form and pay a non
refundable deposit which you can do by using our online booking function for most trips, or
if you prefer, download a booking form from the website and return to us by fax, or mail your
booking form and deposit to your nearest World Expeditions office or travel agent. We can also
help you with any additional arrangements that you require, such as competitive airfares to get
you to your destination, stopovers, pre or post trip accommodation or any additional tours that
you wish to take in conjunction with the main World Expeditions trip.
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