Views of Alpamayo peak, Cordillera Blanca, Peru

Alpamayo in Peru’s Cordillera Blanca

Alpamayo, Cordillera Blanca, Peru

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Alpamayo (5947m)with Soren Kruse Ledet

A technical climb of Alpamayo's iconic fluted face in the Peruvian Andes, one of the world's most beautiful, under expert guidance

Peru

18 Days from

$7190 USD

Trip Code: ASK

View dates to Book

Essential Information

Extra trip options & supplements

*Prices listed are per person

Single Supplement (tent + hotel)

$430 USD

Duration

18 Days

Activities

14 day trek/mountaineering

Style

Classic Adventures

Accommodation

8 nights hotel/lodge
9 nights camping

Meals

9 Dinners
14 Lunches
17 Breakfasts

Difficulty Grading

9 / 10

Intermediate Mountaineering Expedition

Technical Grading

Extreme

Carbon Footprint

24kg of CO₂-e PP per day

(454kg of CO₂-e PP entire trip)

Trip highlights

Tackle Alpamayo (5,947m / 19,511ft) on a technical ascent through Peru's Cordillera Blanca
Led by renowned high-altitude mountaineer Soren Kruse Ledet, highly regarded for helping climbers achieve ambitious goals in challenging mountain environments
Technical snow and ice climbing on classic Andean alpine terrain, with optional ascent of Quitaraju (6,034m / 19,797ft)
Camp beneath towering glaciers in Huascarán National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed wilderness
Outstanding views of iconic peaks including Artesonraju, Taulliraju and Huascarán
A proven acclimatisation program and expert logistical support throughout

Overview

Join renowned Australian mountain guide Soren Kruse Ledet on an inspiring expedition to Alpamayo (5,947m / 19,511ft), widely regarded as one of the world’s most beautiful mountains. Rising dramatically above the glaciers of Peru’s Cordillera Blanca, the highest tropical mountain range in the world, Alpamayo’s elegant ice pyramid is one of the most coveted alpine objectives in South America and a dream climb for experienced mountaineers. This 18 day expedition has been carefully designed to maximise acclimatisation and summit success. Beginning in Huaraz, we undertake a series of acclimatisation walks to the stunning alpine lakes of Wilcacocha and Churup, followed by a glacier training ascent of Vallunaraju (5,686m / 18,655ft). These preparatory climbs provide valuable high altitude experience while allowing participants to refine essential mountaineering skills including glacier travel, crampon techniques, rope systems and crevasse safety. From there, we trek through the breathtaking Santa Cruz Valley, one of the most scenic trekking routes in Peru, passing turquoise glacial lakes and towering peaks as we make our way to Alpamayo Base Camp. As the expedition progresses, we move onto increasingly technical terrain, establishing camps high on the mountain and travelling across glaciated slopes, crevassed terrain and alpine ice fields. The climb of Alpamayo itself is a serious alpine undertaking requiring previous snow and ice climbing experience. From High Camp, climbers ascend the mountain’s famous steep face, tackling sustained snow and ice slopes that steepen from 55–65 degrees on the lower sections to as much as 75–90 degrees near the summit. The route requires confident movement on steep terrain, glacier travel, ropework and the ability to climb efficiently at high altitude. The ascent culminates in a spectacular summit with panoramic views across the Cordillera Blanca before a technical descent involving multiple rappels/abseils down the mountain’s upper face. Should conditions allow, there may be the opportunity to climb the neighbouring peak, Quitaraju (6,034m / 19,797ft), a technical objective involving sustained 60–65 degree snow and ice climbing. Led by Soren Kruse Ledet, whose mountaineering achievements include more than 60 expeditions across the Himalaya, Karakoram and Andes, this expedition offers experienced climbers a rare opportunity to tackle one of the world’s most iconic alpine peaks under expert leadership. Combining technical climbing, spectacular trekking and a carefully structured acclimatisation program, this is an outstanding challenge in one of the world’s premier mountain environments.

Itinerary

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On arrival in Lima today, you will be met at the airport and transferred to our hotel in the vibrant seaside district of Miraflores. Once everyone has arrived, your leader will brief the group on the days ahead and a gear check will be conducted. The remainder of the day is free for you to relax after your flight or begin exploring one of South America’s most exciting culinary and cultural capitals. Set high above the Pacific Ocean, Miraflores is known for its oceanfront parks, stylish cafés, excellent shopping and some of Peru’s finest restaurants. Lima has emerged as one of the world’s top food destinations, blending Indigenous, Spanish, African and Asian influences into a truly unique cuisine. Whether you choose to sample fresh ceviche, sip a classic pisco sour or stroll along the dramatic coastal cliffs, there’s plenty to discover right outside the hotel doors. Founded by Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro in 1535, Lima is South America’s oldest capital city and offers a fascinating mix of colonial history and modern energy. The city is home to Spanish colonial architecture, lively plazas, impressive museums and world-class galleries. If time permits, we recommend visiting the renowned Larco Museum, famous for its outstanding collection of pre-Columbian treasures. Overnight: Dazzler Miraflores Hotel or similar

Meals: Nil

This morning we travel by comfortable first-class coach from Lima to Huaraz, the adventure capital of Peru’s spectacular Cordillera Blanca. While the journey takes approximately eight hours, it offers a fascinating introduction to Peru’s diverse landscapes as we leave the Pacific coast behind and gradually ascend into the heart of the Andes. As the scenery changes from coastal desert to towering mountain peaks, you'll gain your first glimpse of the dramatic landscapes that make this region one of the world's premier trekking destinations. The Cordillera Blanca is home to the highest tropical mountain range on Earth, with snow-capped summits, deep valleys and pristine alpine lakes stretching across the horizon. A light lunch is included during the journey, although you may wish to bring additional snacks for the day. Upon arrival in Huaraz, we transfer to our hotel and meet our local trekking and climbing team. Nestled at over 10,000 feet (3,050m), Huaraz is the gateway to Huascarán National Park and serves as the perfect base for our upcoming adventure in the Peruvian Andes. This evening, you'll have time to relax, explore the town or simply enjoy the anticipation of the expedition ahead. Overnight: Hotel Suiza Peruana or similar

Meals: B,L

Today is set aside for rest and acclimatisation in Huaraz (3,050m / 10,007ft), an important part of preparing for the high-altitude challenges ahead. Taking time to acclimatise properly significantly improves comfort and performance on the mountain and increases the likelihood of a successful summit attempt. You are free to relax at the hotel, explore the lively streets of Huaraz or visit one of the town's cafés, markets and local attractions. Surrounded by the spectacular peaks of the Cordillera Blanca, Huaraz is considered the mountaineering capital of Peru and provides an ideal setting to rest while continuing to adapt to the altitude. Your guides will also use this time to review equipment, discuss the upcoming stages of the expedition and ensure everyone is well prepared for the adventure ahead. Overnight: Hotel Suiza Peruana or similar

Meals: B

Over the next few days, we’ll explore this spectacular mountain region on a series of rewarding day hikes from our base in Huaraz. These walks offer an excellent opportunity to experience the dramatic landscapes of the Cordillera Blanca while gradually acclimatising to the altitude, providing ideal preparation for the climbing adventure ahead. We enjoy our first hike in the Peruvian Andes to the beautiful lakes of Ararcocha and Wilcacocha in the Cordillera Negra. This scenic excursion provides an excellent opportunity to adjust to the altitude while taking in some of the finest panoramic views of the snow-capped Cordillera Blanca. After breakfast, we drive approximately 20 minutes from Huaraz to the trailhead near Rumichuco Bridge. From here, we begin a gradual uphill hike through traditional Andean farming communities, passing adobe homes, terraced fields and grazing livestock. Along the way, we'll enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. As we gain elevation, the dramatic peaks of the Cordillera Blanca come into view, including Peru's highest mountain, Huascarán (22,205ft / 6,768m). The contrast between the rugged brown hills of the Cordillera Negra and the glacier-covered summits across the valley creates one of the most iconic mountain vistas in Peru. The walk involves a total ascent of approximately 838m and minimal descent, making it an excellent acclimatisation hike. We first reach Ararcocha Lake (12,116ft / 3,693m), where we pause to admire the stunning mountain scenery before continuing to nearby Wilcacocha Lake (12,221ft / 3,725m). Here we enjoy a picnic lunch beside the tranquil waters, with the towering peaks of the Cordillera Blanca reflected in the lake when conditions are calm. After time to relax, take photographs and absorb the spectacular surroundings, we are met by our vehicle and return to Huaraz. Overnight: Hotel Suiza Peruana or similar

Meals: B,L

Today we hike to one of the most spectacular alpine lakes in Peru's Cordillera Blanca, the stunning turquoise waters of Lake Churup. This rewarding day walk offers excellent acclimatisation while showcasing some of the finest mountain scenery in the Ancash region. After breakfast, we drive from Huaraz to the trailhead at Pitec, passing through traditional Andean communities and fertile farmlands. Along the way, we'll see adobe homes and agricultural terraces belonging to the Quechua-speaking people of the region, providing a fascinating glimpse into rural life in the Peruvian Andes. From Pitec, we begin our ascent along a scenic mountain trail with increasingly impressive views of the snow-capped peaks of the Cordillera Blanca, the highest tropical mountain range in the world. The route passes through rare Quenual forests, home to Polylepis trees that thrive at some of the highest elevations of any forest on Earth. The final approach to the lake involves a short but exciting scramble assisted by fixed ropes. Reaching the shores of Lake Churup at 4,450m, we are rewarded with breathtaking views of its crystal-clear aquamarine waters framed by rugged granite peaks and the towering summit of Nevado Churup. The lake's remarkable color and pristine setting make it one of the most photographed locations in the Cordillera Blanca. We enjoy a picnic lunch beside the lake while soaking up the spectacular mountain scenery before retracing our steps to Pitec. Our vehicle then returns us to Huaraz after another memorable day in the Peruvian Andes. Today's walk takes approximately 6–7 hours, ascending from the trailhead at 3,850m to Lake Churup at 4,450m. The route gains around 600m in elevation and includes one short, steep section assisted by fixed ropes near the lake. Overnight: Hotel Suiza Peruana or similar

Meals: B,L

This morning we leave Huaraz and travel by private vehicle into the spectacular Llaca Valley, gaining a further 1,350m / 4,430ft as we ascend into the heart of the Cordillera Blanca. A scenic mountain road takes us through traditional Andean villages to Base Camp at 4,450m / 14,600ft. Time now for our first night in the mountains enjoying magnificent views of the surrounding glaciers and peaks. We continue our ascent, walking for approximately 3–4 hours across glacial moraine terrain to Moraine Camp at 4,940m / 16,207ft. As we gain elevation, the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic, with glaciers, granite walls and high alpine landscapes surrounding us. The walk covers 2.6km (1.6mi) and gains approximately 500m / 1,640ft in elevation as we move higher into the heart of the Cordillera Blanca. After arriving at Moraine Camp and settling into our tents, we undertake an essential mountaineering training session in preparation for the climb ahead. Under the guidance of our experienced mountain guides, we will learn and practice the proper use of crampons, rope techniques and team travel systems, essential knots, and glacier safety procedures. This practical training provides valuable experience and builds confidence before stepping onto the glacier. Overnight: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today is summit day. We rise early for a pre-dawn start and depart camp at aToday is summit day. We rise early for a pre-dawn start and depart camp at approximately 2:00am. After a short 20-minute walk to the glacier, we put on our technical climbing equipment and begin the ascent of Vallunaraju, one of the most accessible glaciated peaks in Peru's Cordillera Blanca. Climbing by headlamp, we steadily make our way up the glacier, negotiating moderate snow slopes and carefully navigating crevassed terrain under the guidance of our experienced mountain guides. As dawn breaks, the spectacular peaks of the Cordillera Blanca are illuminated by the morning light, creating unforgettable views across the surrounding mountains. After a sustained climb, we reach the summit of Vallunaraju at 5,686m / 18,655ft. From the top, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views over the Callejón de Huaylas, Huascarán National Park and the snow-covered peaks that dominate this remarkable mountain range. Following time on the summit for photographs and to celebrate our achievement, we descend by the same route back to Moraine Camp. After a short rest, we continue down to Base Camp before transferring by vehicle to Huaraz, where a hot shower and comfortable hotel await. Today's climb is a challenging but rewarding full-day alpine ascent of at least 10-12 hours, gaining approximately 746m / 2,448ft and descending 1,246m / 4,088ft over a distance of 11.8km (7.3mi). Overnight: Hotel Suiza Peruana (or similar)

Meals: B,L

After the challenges of the Vallunaraju climb, today is a well-earned rest day in Huaraz. Take the opportunity to relax, recover and enjoy the comforts of town while reflecting on your recent mountaineering achievement. This free day also allows time for final preparations ahead of the Alpamayo expedition. Your guides will conduct a thorough equipment check and provide a detailed briefing on the upcoming trek and climb, ensuring everyone is well prepared for the adventure ahead. You may choose to explore Huaraz's cafés, markets and shops, or simply rest and recharge before we venture deeper into the Cordillera Blanca. Overnight: Hotel Suiza Peruana or similar

Meals: B

This morning we depart Huaraz and travel north through the scenic Callejón de Huaylas, passing traditional Andean towns including Carhuaz, Yungay and Caraz. From Caraz, we continue along a winding mountain road to Cashapampa (2,970m / 9,744ft), the starting point of our trek into the spectacular Santa Cruz Valley. At the trailhead we meet our muleteers and pack animals, who will accompany us throughout the expedition and transport the bulk of our equipment. After final preparations, we begin our walk, following the Santa Cruz River as we make a steady ascent into one of the most beautiful valleys in the Cordillera Blanca. As we gain elevation, dramatic mountain scenery unfolds around us, including magnificent views of the striking pyramid-shaped Taulliraju Peak (5,830m / 19,127ft), one of the most iconic mountains in the range. The trail passes through a rugged landscape of steep canyon walls, alpine vegetation and rushing glacial streams. Today's walk covers 9km (5.6mi) and gains approximately 770m / 2,526ft in elevation as we settle into the rhythm of expedition life. Overnight: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today we continue deeper into the spectacular Santa Cruz Valley, trekking through one of the most scenic mountain landscapes in the Cordillera Blanca. Following well-established trails alongside glacial streams and alpine meadows, we pass the beautiful lakes of Ichiccocha and Jatuncocha, whose turquoise waters reflect the surrounding snow-capped peaks. Throughout the day, we are rewarded with outstanding views of some of Peru's most iconic mountains, including Artesonraju, Alpamayo, Quitaraju, Santa Cruz and the striking granite spire of Taulliraju. As we gain elevation, the dramatic glaciated peaks that dominate this region become increasingly impressive, offering exceptional photographic opportunities. The walk gradually leads us toward Alpamayo Base Camp at 4,350m / 14,272ft, where we establish camp beneath one of the world's most celebrated mountains. Alpamayo's perfectly symmetrical ice pyramid provides a spectacular backdrop for our camp. Today's walk takes approximately 6–7 hours, covering 13.5km (8.4mi) and gaining 590m / 1,936ft in elevation. Overnight: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today we leave Alpamayo Base Camp and continue our gradual ascent into the high alpine environment surrounding the mountain. Following a rugged trail across glacial moraine, we make our way to Moraine Camp at 4,950m / 16,240ft, gaining increasingly impressive views of the surrounding peaks, glaciers and icefalls. This is a shorter day on the trail, allowing additional time for acclimatisation and rest before we move into more technical terrain. The afternoon provides an opportunity to relax, enjoy the spectacular mountain setting and prepare equipment for the next stage of the expedition. Today's walk takes approximately 3–4 hours and gains 600m / 1,969ft in elevation. Overnight: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today marks our transition into the more technical phase of the expedition as we leave Moraine Camp and make our way higher onto the mountain. After preparing our equipment, we access the glacier where more technical climbing begins. The route climbs steadily across snow and ice, weaving between crevasses and carefully negotiating sections of glacial terrain. As we gain altitude, the views become increasingly dramatic, with spectacular panoramas extending across the surrounding peaks of the Cordillera Blanca. After a demanding day at altitude, we reach the Alpamayo col, where High Camp is established at 5,450m / 17,881ft. Perched high on the mountain, this camp offers an unforgettable setting and serves as our launch point for the summit attempt. Today's efforts should take approximately 8–9 hours and we will gain 500m / 1,640ft in elevation. Overnight: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today is the culmination of our expedition as we attempt the summit of Alpamayo, widely regarded as one of the most beautiful mountains in the world. Departing High Camp in the early hours of the morning, we begin our ascent under the stars, making our way onto the mountain's famous ice face. The route follows Alpamayo's classic steep face, climbing progressively steeper snow and ice slopes as we ascend toward the summit. Lower sections generally range between 55° and 65°, while the upper face steepens to 75°–90°. Under the guidance of Soren and our experienced mountain guides, we negotiate crevasses, cross the bergschrund and tackle sustained sections of technical climbing before reaching the summit ridge. After a challenging and rewarding ascent, we reach the summit of Alpamayo at 5,947m / 19,511ft. From the top, spectacular views extend across the Cordillera Blanca, revealing a seemingly endless panorama of glaciated peaks, deep valleys and remote mountain wilderness. Following time on the summit to celebrate this remarkable achievement, we begin our descent. Multiple rappels/abseils are required on the upper face before we retrace our route back to High Camp, where we can finally rest after a demanding but unforgettable day in the mountains. Today's technical snow and ice climb takes approximately 10–12 hours and gains around 500m / 1,640ft in elevation. Overnight: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today offers the opportunity for an optional ascent of Quitaraju, a striking glaciated peak that rises immediately beside Alpamayo. For those attempting the summit, the day begins with a very early alpine start at approximately 1:00am as we leave High Camp and make our way onto the glacier. The route traverses the glacier between Alpamayo and Quitaraju before climbing sustained snow and ice slopes that typically range between 60° and 65°. The ascent generally consists of approximately 10 pitches of 60 metres (197ft) each, requiring advanced mountaineering techniques, efficient ropework and strong movement on steep alpine terrain. Throughout the climb, spectacular views unfold across the surrounding peaks and glaciers of the Cordillera Blanca. After reaching the summit of Quitaraju at 6,034m / 19,797ft, we begin a careful descent back to High Camp. The return journey involves more than 10 rappels/abseils down steep terrain, requiring concentration, teamwork and sound technical skills throughout the day. This is a demanding alpine objective, with the climb typically taking 12–14 hours and gaining approximately 650m / 2,133ft in elevation. Should weather, route conditions or team considerations make a summit attempt inadvisable, this day will serve as a valuable contingency or rest day, providing additional flexibility within the expedition schedule. Overnight: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today we begin our descent from High Camp after our time high on Alpamayo. Leaving camp, we carefully retrace our route across the glacier, descending through spectacular alpine scenery with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and icefields of the Cordillera Blanca. The descent involves technical glacier travel and a series of rappels as we make our way back to the col and down onto the moraine below. Once off the glacier, we continue descending through rugged moraine terrain toward Base Camp, where we can finally relax and enjoy a well-earned rest after the challenges of the previous days. Today's descent takes approximately 6–7 hours and loses around 1,100m / 3,609ft in elevation as we return to Base Camp at 4,350m / 14,272ft. Overnight: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today we complete our trek through the spectacular Santa Cruz Valley, retracing our route past the serene glacial lakes of Ichiccocha and Jatuncocha. Surrounded by the dramatic peaks of the Cordillera Blanca, we enjoy a final day in this remarkable mountain landscape as we make our way back toward civilisation.The trail gradually descends through alpine meadows, glacial valleys and traditional pastoral landscapes before reaching Cashapampa, where our trek comes to an end. Here we farewell our trekking crew and pack animals before boarding our private vehicle for the return journey to Huaraz. This final day on the trail provides an opportunity to reflect on the achievements of the expedition, from acclimatisation walks and glacier training to the summit of Alpamayo and the extraordinary mountain scenery encountered along the way. Today's walk takes approximately 7–8 hours, covering 23km (14.3mi) and descending 1,360m / 4,462ft. Overnight: Hotel Suiza Peruana or similar

Meals: B,L

After breakfast, we transfer to the bus station and board a comfortable first-class coach for the journey back to Lima. A boxed lunch is included during the drive, although you may wish to bring additional snacks for the day. Travelling through the dramatic landscapes of the Peruvian Andes one final time, we descend from the mountains to the Pacific coast, reflecting on the achievements and unforgettable experiences of our expedition in the Cordillera Blanca. Upon arrival in Lima, we are met and transferred directly to the airport for our onward international flight. Please ensure your departure flight is booked for the evening to allow sufficient time for the overland journey from Huaraz. Our team will be happy to provide guidance on suitable flight departure times.

Meals: B

Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.

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What's included?

Included

17 breakfasts, 14 lunches and 9 dinners
Led by Soren Kruse Ledet, supported by World Expeditions accredited, first aid trained mountaineering leaders and experienced local crew
1:2 climbing guide to climber ratio
Airport transfers if arriving Day 1 and departing on Day 18
Transfer via first class public bus from Lima to Huaraz return for groups of less than 9 and private transportation for groups of 9+ people
Comfortable and central hotels
All internal transportation
Pack animals or porters on trek to carry personal gear
Safety equipment including portable Altitude Chamber, group medical kit, satellite phone and emergency oxygen cylinder
Accommodation in two person dome tents during the expedition including group camping equipment, toilet tent and mess tent
All group climbing equipment

Not included

Travel insurance (compulsory)
International Flights and taxes
Travel insurance (compulsory)
Bottled water, aerated and alcoholic drinks
Excess baggage costs
Travel Insurance
Visas
Meals not listed as included
Tips and gratuities
Any items not listed as included
Personal technical climbing equipment (mountaineering boots, crampons, harness)
Sleeping bags

About your guide

Soren Kruse Ledet is a high altitude mountain guide based in Australia. For over 30 years he has led and participated in more than 60 mountaineering expeditions and challenging treks in Nepal, Bhutan, Pakistan and Tibet. In 2011, Soren reached 27,500 ft during an unassisted ascent of Everest. Soren has successfully summitted Ama Dablam 4 times and has led expeditions to Cholatse, Baruntse, Teng Kangpoche, Muztagh Ata, Peak Lenin and San Valentin among many others. His easygoing nature and professionalism make him a sought after guide.