What are the must-do trips?

The four-day Santa Cruz trek , the Huayhuash circuit, the day hike to Lake 69, and a first 6,000 m peak like Pisco for climbers.

When is the best time to visit?

May to September is the dry season and the only reliable window; the wet season makes the high passes and glaciers dangerous.

How do I handle the altitude?

Huaraz sits at 3,050 m and trails climb far higher, so acclimatise for a couple of days before trekking. Most routes suit fit beginners once acclimatised.

Things to do in Áncash

Áncash is the home of the Cordillera Blanca and the trekking capital of Huaraz — the highest tropical range on earth, a skyline of glaciers and 6,000 m peaks above turquoise lakes. It is Peru's mountain playground, and one of the world's great trekking and climbing destinations.

Treks, lakes and white peaks

The Santa Cruz trek and the Huayhuash circuit, day hikes to Lake 69, and non-technical 6,000 m ascents like Pisco and Ishinca, with Huascarán and Alpamayo for experts, in the Cordillera Blanca. Open the Book here tab for dates.