100+ kilometers South of Huaraz looms the magnificent peaks of the Cordillera Huayhuash, a range of mountains boasting some of the best climbing and trekking in the world. This range of rugged and remote peaks has lured the brave and strong for decades and now, with its popularity soaring, the Huayhuash has taken on almost a cultish following of fans. Due to the rugged passes, the remote nature of the area, and the propensity for occasional theft, the lure of the Huayhuash tends to capture only those that foster a true sense of adventure and an appetite for all that is wild.

Camp at Laguna Carhuacocha

Joe Simpson propelled the Huayhuash into the lime light with first his book – Touching the Void, chronicling what is perhaps the most epic of all climbing survival tales, and then in 2006 with movie rehashing the same bone-grinding story. While only a handful of those who have read the book made the pilgrimage to the range, those that did could easily imagine the events that punctuated its pages, the impossible slopes of Siula Grande sweeping upwards against the cobalt blue sky and the jumbled moraines leading to the slow, creaking glaciers.

Yes, the Huayhuash is one of the few remaining the wild Wests of our world, where Gore-Tex jackets and Vibram Soles still can mingle amongst crude stone shelters of a culture unchanged by the modern world. Where the word ‘recycle’ is met with puzzled looks…

After 15 years of working in the outdoors, guiding some of the worlds finest and wildest rivers, climbing in some of the most pristine mountain ranges, I begun my first trek around the Huayhuash range 6 years ago, expecting to enjoy the serenity of the extended stay in the mountains but unprepared for the dazzle of unbridled beauty and unparalleled solace of the sweeping and endless landscapes. For me, my trek through the Huayhuash stands out today as one of the most remarkable hikes I’ve done. A grand expedition into the wilds of both the unmatched natural splendor and the uncompromising will of the Huayhuash people.

Skyline Adventures offers both private and group treks to the Huayhuash range in Peru. In 2010 we have 4 programmed trips running in May, June, July, and August. For more information or to sign-up for this spectacular hike, visit us at www.skyline-adventures.com/huayhuash.asp.