Santa Cruz Trek

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Dogs Unknown

Features Birding · Commonly Backpacked · Geological Significance · Hot Spring · Lake · River/Creek · Views · Waterfall · Wildlife

Punta Unión Pass: The highest point of the trek, offering panoramic views of towering peaks like Alpamayo (5,947 m), often considered the world's most beautiful mountain.
Laguna Jatuncocha and Laguna Arhuaycocha: Stunning turquoise glacial lakes surrounded by towering peaks.
Campsites: Picturesque camping spots like Llamacorral and Taullipampa, set amidst breathtaking mountain scenery.
Diverse Ecosystems: Transition from lush valleys to barren high-altitude terrain, showcasing Peru's ecological diversity.
Iconic Peaks: Close views of snow-covered giants such as Taulliraju, Quitaraju, and Artesonraju (believed to be the inspiration for the Paramount Pictures logo).

Day 1: Huaraz → Vaquería → Paria Campsite
Morning:

Depart from Huaraz by vehicle (approx. 5–6 hours). Travel through the stunning Portachuelo Pass (4,767 m), with views of Huascarán, Chacraraju, and Llanganuco Lakes.
Arrive at the trailhead in Vaquería (3,700 m).
Afternoon:

Begin trekking through a lush valley, passing small Andean villages and terraced fields.
Gradually ascend to Paria Campsite (3,800 m), a scenic spot surrounded by mountains and streams.
Distance: ~10 km (6 miles)

Duration: 4–5 hours

Highlight: Picturesque views of rural life and a gentle start to the trek.

Day 2: Paria → Punta Unión Pass → Taullipampa Campsite
Morning:

Begin the gradual ascent through Quebrada Huaripampa, surrounded by alpine meadows and dramatic peaks.
Reach the Punta Unión Pass (4,750 m), the trek's highest point. Enjoy breathtaking views of Taulliraju, Quitaraju, and turquoise lakes below.
Afternoon:

Descend from the pass into the Quebrada Santa Cruz valley.
Arrive at Taullipampa Campsite (4,250 m), set beneath the imposing Taulliraju Peak.
Distance: ~12 km (7.5 miles)

Duration: 6–8 hours

Highlight: Crossing Punta Unión, the trek's most iconic and challenging point.

Day 3: Taullipampa → Arhuaycocha Side Trip → Llamacorral Campsite
Morning:

Optional side trip to Laguna Arhuaycocha (4,450 m), a pristine glacial lake offering close views of Alpamayo, Artesonraju, and Pucajirca peaks.
Return to the main trail and continue descending through the Santa Cruz valley.
Afternoon:

Pass by Laguna Jatuncocha and Laguna Ichiccocha, two stunning turquoise lakes.
Arrive at Llamacorral Campsite (3,760 m), a grassy area near a river.
Distance: ~14 km (9 miles), including the side trip

Duration: 6–8 hours

Highlight: Spectacular glacial lake views and lush valley landscapes.

Day 4: Llamacorral → Cashapampa → Huaraz
Morning:

Continue descending through the Santa Cruz valley, passing through Quebrada Santa Cruz's increasingly lush and warmer terrain.
Reach the trail endpoint at Cashapampa (2,900 m), where transport will be waiting.
Afternoon:

Drive back to Huaraz (3–4 hours), enjoying views of the Cordillera Blanca along the way.
Distance: ~10 km (6 miles)

Duration: 3–4 hours

Highlight: Transition from alpine scenery to lower, verdant valleys.