We travel to Queropalca, passing through charming villages like Recuay, Ticapampa, and Catac. Changing our route to the east side (Huascaran National Park), we encounter the impressive Puya Raimondi bromeliad, the largest in its species. Reaching heights of 3 meters in vegetative growth, it boasts flower spikes towering 9–10 meters with over three thousand flowers and six million seeds per plant. Continuing our journey, we traverse small villages such as Huanzala and Huallanca, culminating in a visit to the Inca city at Huanco Pampa Ruins—a significant settlement on the main Inca Road from Quito, Ecuador, to Bolivia. We then drive to Queropalca for an overnight stay, camping at an elevation of 3,800m.a.s.l.

Bus ride: 272 km (169.01 mi)

Duration: 7 hours

Embark on a half-day hike leading to the picturesque shores of Laguna Carhuacocha. In this enchanting location, calm days offer mesmerizing reflections of snow-capped peaks such as Jirishanca and Yerupajá in the serene waters. Our campsite by the lake is situated at an altitude of 4200 meters above sea level (13,780 feet).

Trekking Distance: 10.8 km (6.71 mi)

Duration: 5 hours and 30 minutes

After leaving our campsite, we ascend over Punta Carhuacocha Pass at 4,620m (15,157ft), enjoying panoramic views. The pass reveals Lake Mitucocha, with the majestic backdrop of Mt. Yerupaja, Rondoy, and Ninashanca. Lunch is either on the route or at the camp. By early afternoon, explore the lakeside and marvel at the nearby mountains. Our overnight camp is set at Mitucocha, situated at an altitude of 4,100m.a.s.l.

Trekking Distance: 13.3 km (8.26 mi)

Duration: 7 hours and 30 minutes

Departing from our camp, we proceed toward Cacananpunta Pass at 4,700m (15,420ft). The trail ascends to the pass, offering views of the aquarium divortium. Following this, we descend to Cuartelhuain for lunch. The journey continues to Matacancha, where we set up camp below the pass for the following day, at an altitude of 4,200m.a.s.l.

Trekking Distance: 9.4 km (5.84 mi)

Duration: 7 hours

Ascending through the Rondoy valley, we reach Sambuya Pass at 4,750 m.a.s.l (15,583 ft). Enjoy breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks including Ninashanca, Rondoy, Jirishanca, Yerupaja, Rasac, and Solteracocha. Descending, we head towards Lake Jahuacocha, where we set up camp at 4,050m.a.s.l (13,287 ft) near the lake, nestled below a stunning cirque.

Trekking Distance: 12.8 km (7.95 mi)

Duration: 8 hours

Exiting the valley, we bid farewell to the snow-capped peaks, revealing a distinctive panorama of granitic and basaltic intrusion. The valley tightens as we traverse a westward ridge to the Llamac Pass. Descending on a winding trail, we reach the village of Llamac, where a vehicle awaits to transfer us to Huaraz. Alternatively, you can opt to stay in Chiquian and take a public bus to Lima. Hotel transfer not included.

Bus Ride: 144 km (89.48 mi)

Duration: 4 hours and 30 minutes

Trekking Distance: 9.4 km (5.84 mi)

Duration: 5 hours and 30 minutes