Peru offers some of the best Alpine Hiking in the world
. Hiking the Santa Cruz Trek, Peru is really what hiking is all about. Hiking the Santa Cruz Trek offers some of the most incredibly breathtaking views you will ever encounter.
Guides are available for this hike which certainly will help you get the most out of this experience and there are many tour companies that take groups on expeditions and this will alleviate the worry out of planning as they will provide all the camping equipment, food, and supplies.
The trail takes you to altitudes ranging from 3,000m to 4800m, which provide gorgeous views of snow-capped peaks, emerald lakes, and flower filled meadows. There is the challenge of crossing Punta Union 4760m (15,617ft) and the weather can be extremely cold and windy.
Altitude sickness can also be a problem faced by hikers but the approach to the pass is long and slow allowing time to acclimatize. Because the Santa Cruz trek is one of the most popular hikes in the world, it is well-maintained and the trek is clearly marked.
This area is one of the few places in the world with such unspoiled landscape. Hikers come to this area every year to experience the overwhelming natural beauty of the Cordillera Blanca Mountains.
Day 1 Huaraz to Llamacorral
The pick up is at Huaraz and cosists of an early start and drive to Cashapampa where the trek starts. Then follows a 6 hour trek up to Liamacorral which is at an altitude of 4000 meters.
Day2 Lliamacorral to Taullipampa
This is another 6 hour hike with mountain and lake views as well as spectacular views down the Santa Cruz valley.
Day3 Taullipampa to Paria
This day takes you through the Punta Union Pass and once again provides unrivalled scenery ending up in the Huascaran national park.
Day 4 Paria to Llanganuco
Hike through the Huaripampa valley to Portachuelo of Llanganuco which is at an altitude of 4750 meters.
The trip is about 50 kilometers long plus side trips and is best done between may and September