Enjoy brilliant climbing on Huascaran, Peru’s highest peak.
Background
At 6768m, Huascaran is Peru’s highest
mountain, and the fourth highest peak in
the whole of the American continent. Its
presence dominates the chain of dramatic
ice peaks known as the Cordillera Blanca,
which offers some of the most stunning
climbing and scenery found anywhere else
in the world. Although higher, this peak
offers a less technically challenging route to
its summit than Alpamayo; it is a perfect
peak for those already confident on Scottish
Grade 1/2, Alpine PD+.
Our expedition originates from Huaraz and
quickly moves along the relatively flat and
wooded Ishinca Valley. We set up Base Camp
high up in this valley, with a mesmerizing
array of jagged snow-capped peaks
surrounding us; a classic amphitheatre of
towering rock and ice. We acclimatise on
relatively straightforward peaks such as Urus
(5423m) and Ishinca (5530m). We then make
our way to the stunning Llanganuco Valley,
with its twin turquoise lagoons and
towering peaks. Here we climb Pisco
(5752m), one of the most popular climbs in
the Cordillera Blanca. When we attain the
summit and look out over the superb views
to Alpamayo and Huascarán, it is easy to see
why.
Base Camp for Huascarán is reached from
Yungay and the village of Mosho. We make
our way towards the glacier by way of a
super series of rock slabs. Two further
camps are made before the summit can be
attempted.
Other Extensions
Amazon
Basin (4 days/3 nights)
To the north the mountains of Bolivia’s
Cordillera Real extend to meet the Amazon
creating a unique eco-system. It is only a
short flight to the Amazon basin where you
will be able to explore the jungle with our
local guide on foot and by traditional boat.
You will have the chance to observe several
species of monkey, crocodiles, turtles and pink
river dolphins together with a spectacular
array of birds and the amazing setting sun.
The more adventurous can go piranha fishing
and swim in the lagoons.
Machu
Picchu (4 days/3 nights)
You can transfer by luxury coach or a short
airline flight to neighbouring Peru for a visit
to the architectural wonders of the ancient
Inca people. You will stay in comfortable hotel
accommodation and have time to explore
Cusco before taking the classic train ride from
Ollantaytambo to experience the unique and
mysterious civilization of Machu Picchu. A
fitting and leisurely end to your expedition.
| Outline Itinerary |
|
| Day 1 |
Fly to Lima
|
| Day 2 |
Drive to Huaraz |
| Day 3 |
At leisure in Huaraz/Acclimatisation |
| Day 4-5 |
Drive and trek into Ishinca |
| Day 6-7 |
Ascent of Ishinca (5,530m) and possibly Urus (5,420m) |
| Day 8 |
Drive to Yungay |
| Day 9-12 |
Ascent of Pisco |
| Day 13 |
Rest Day in Yungay |
| Day 14 |
Drive and trek to Huascaran Base camp |
| Day 15-21 |
Ascent of Huascaran |
| Day 22 |
Return to Huaraz |
| Day 23 |
Drive to Lima |
| Day
24-25 |
Return flight |
|