TREK · Peru

Santa Cruz Trek

Trek de Santa Cruz

Cordillera Blanca, Áncash · Peru Multi-day

Information

Distance: 50.0 km
Duration: 3–4 days
Max elevation: 4,750 m
Country: Peru (PE)
Difficulty: Moderate — high mountain terrain with a maximum elevation of 4,750 m at Punta Unión
Best Season: May–September
Permits & Fees: Huascarán National Park entry ticket about 65 soles (~USD 20); a guide is not required

Description

The Santa Cruz Trek is one of the finest multi-day hikes in the Peruvian Andes, crossing the heart of Huascarán National Park in the Cordillera Blanca range of Ancash. Over 3–4 days, trekkers traverse lush green valleys, vivid turquoise glacial lakes, and the iconic Punta Unión Pass at 4,750 m with sweeping views of snow-capped peaks including Alpamayo (5,947 m, dubbed the 'World's Most Beautiful Mountain') and Artesonraju (6,025 m). This point-to-point trail connects the villages of Cashapampa and Vaquería; spending 2–3 days acclimatizing in Huaraz beforehand is strongly recommended.

Trail Highlights

Panoramas of the snow-capped peaks of Alpamayo, Artesonraju, and Taulliraju; turquoise glacial lakes; lush green valleys; and the Punta Unión pass at 4,750 m

Trekking Experiences

Real stories & vlogs from people who did the trek. Click to explore.

References

The summary above was compiled from the following sources.