Col San Antonio (Peru)

Huayhuash…a name that all mountain lovers dream about. I think by the way that it's the most beautiful hike I've ever done until now. If you want my opinion, if Ancash is part of of your Peruvian odyssey and you would like to do one long walk, this Cordillera is absolutely definitely the one you should choose!

Numerous routes are possible and of course the climb up Col de San Antonio to the spectacular viewpoint is optional. But definitely recommended! The view, with the lakes and snow-covered peaks, makes you want to stay and find a picnic spot. I stayed at least an hour (I was dead lucky - no rain and now clouds during the during the entire trek) It's a steep climb, but what a proud achievement to reach 5000m, about 16,500ft in altitude.. Then again the descent towards the base camp is extra steep. There isn't really at a path at all and it's slippery: walking poles are more than welcome here. My mantra, to help me forget the pain in my knees caused by the rough slope was "om namah chocolate", a ritual reward after a rather intense effort.. well, we all motivate ourselves as best as we can!

Not far from the Cordillera Blanca, the Cordillera Huayhuash is a great place for trekking. Little known to the average traveller, this splendid mountain range is surrounded by spectacular landscapes. The multicoloured lagoons and Andean glaciers are waiting just for you.

Less well-known than the region of Cusco—the land of Machu Picchu and the Incan civilisation—, the region of Ancash is also a pleasant place to explore during your trip to Peru. However, you will need to have some time to spare and a keen interest in trekking as it is one of the main activities in this mountainous region.  

The Huayhuash trek is not an easy one, but it will delight trekking fanatics. Allow 7 to 10 days to explore almost all of the mountain range. It is possible to attempt the climb to San Antonio Pass at the end of the trek. Note that it is a steep slope but your efforts will be greatly rewarded once you have reached the summit. At the top of the pass, the view is spectacular. You can see Siula Glacier and Rasac Glacier, as well as Saracopocha Lagoon and Jurau Lagoon from another angle. It is difficult to come back down after this dazzling natural spectacle!

Not far from the Cordillera Blanca, the Cordillera Huayhuash is a great place for trekking. Little known to the average traveller, this splendid mountain range is surrounded by spectacular landscapes. The multicoloured lagoons and Andean glaciers are waiting just for you.

Less well-known than the region of Cusco—the land of Machu Picchu and the Incan civilisation—, the region of Ancash is also a pleasant place to explore during your trip to Peru. However, you will need to have some time to spare and a keen interest in trekking as it is one of the main activities in this mountainous region.  

The Huayhuash trek is not an easy one, but it will delight trekking fanatics. Allow 7 to 10 days to explore almost all of the mountain range. It is possible to attempt the climb to San Antonio Pass at the end of the trek. Note that it is a steep slope but your efforts will be greatly rewarded once you have reached the summit. At the top of the pass, the view is spectacular. You can see Siula Glacier and Rasac Glacier, as well as Saracopocha Lagoon and Jurau Lagoon from another angle. It is difficult to come back down after this dazzling natural spectacle!