The Santa Cruz Trek is one of the most popular hiking routes in the Cordillera Blanca and Pisco is its counterpart for non-technical mountain ascents. The trek is four days long and approximately 30 miles (48 kilometers) of trail, winding through fertile alpine valleys, boasting views of spectacular glaciated peaks, and crossing from one side of the Cordillera Blanca to the other by means of Punta Union pass which rises to14,700 feet (4750 meters). With donkeys carrying the load, the walk is made even more enjoyable, allowing one to focus his or her attention the stunning landscape instead of the weight of their backpack! An optional hike to visit the popular Alpamayo basecamp can be woven into the trip on day 2, or for those more inclined to just put their feet up and take in the sights, the grassy pasture of Taullipampa couldn’t be a more perfect resting place. You’ll wander past the monstrous peaks of Santa Cruz, Artesonraju, Taulliraju and more. On your way out to Vaqueria, you’ll pass through a small community where you’ll see up close and personal the way the people of this mountainous zone live, perhaps even taste some of their local cuisine! After getting picked up in Vaqueria, a 2 hour transport will drop you off at Cebollapampa, the trailhead for Pisco. Climb the following day to moraine camp and prepare for a summit the next morning.
Pisco serves as a great introductory or refresher climb for those with or without previous alpine experience. Non-technical by nature, the normal route on Pisco Oeste climbs the southwest ridge, offering glorious sunrise views of the Huandoys and a 360 degree summit vista that is considered by many to be the best in the range.
Difficulty: – moderate
Total nights in the mountains: 6 Itinerary length Lima to Lima: 12 days
