03 Days/02 Nights April to November Moderate
Highlights of the Cordillera Blanca. The highest tropical mountain range in the world, the Cordillera Blanca is part of the spectacular Andes that form the spine of South America. A mecca for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, the region boasts over 50 peaks that exceed 15,000 feet, 700 glaciers and 300 lakes.
About Nevado Pisco:
This is a very appealing mountain and a good option for climbers for acclimatization. Previous experience in mountaineering is not required, though you should be in good physical condition. At the summit (5752 m), you are rewarded with magnificent views of the Cordillera Blanca (White Range), including the 4 peaks of the Huandoys, Alpamayo, Artesonraju and Chopicalqui. You’ll also be able to see North and South Huascaran, the highest mountain in Peru, at 6,768 meters.
Getting to Quebrada Llanganuco:
The starting point to climb is located in Quebrada Llanganuco (Llanganuco Valley), the most spectacular valley in the Cordillera Blanca. From Huaraz take a "colectivo" (public bus) to the town of Yungay (1 hour) or otherwise arrange a private transportation, if you are in a group.
In Yungay ask for another shuttle to Pisco base camp in Llanganuco valley (Quebrada Llanganuco). There are two lagoons in Llanganuco: Laguna Chinancocha and Laguna Orconcoha. When you bargain with the driver make it clear that you want to go to the Pisco Base Camp, located at the first hairpin-curve at 77km., called "La Curva" or (Cebollapampa), lying 5 km. beyond the second lagoon (tourist buses usually only go to the first lake!). On the way you will stop at the park entrance gate, where you will pay the entrance fee.
Day 1: Huaraz - Transfer via valle Llanganuco to Cebollapampa - Trekking to Refugio Pisco (4680 m)
Day 2: Base Camp/Peru Hut - Climb Nevado Pisco (5752 m) - back to Base Camp. Optional: hike just to Moraine Camp (4900 m)
Day 3: Base Camp - Trekking to Refugio Pisco - Transfer to Huaraz
Day 1: Huaraz - Transfer via valle Llanganuco to Cebollapampa - Trekking to Refugio Pisco (4680 m)
Today we head for the departure point for our climb. We set off via private transport to the valley of the Santa River, as far down as Yungay and continuation via valley Llanganuco. From cruze Cebollapampa trekking up to Refugio Peru. We stop at the Pisco mountain hut “Refugio Perú“, our base camp. The view of the back portion of Huascarán Peak and Chopicalqui is overwhelming. We also enjoy the views of Huandoy, Chacraraju and Yanapaccha. Overnight in the hut. Overnight Camp (-/L/D)
Day 2: Base Camp/Peru Hut - Climb Nevado Pisco (5752 m) - back to Base Camp. Optional: hike just to Moraine Camp (4900 m)
A little after midnight we leave Base Camp, climbing up to cross the long moraine to arrive at the glacier. A sharp climb brings us to the saddle of Nevada Pisco. Next the final long climb over the glacier to the peak, 5752 meters in elevation. We are again going to have a magnificent view of the highest mountain in Perú - Huascarán, and also nearby Huandoy, Chopiqualci and many more. Later we descend back to Refugio Peru. Optional: The group can climb to Moraine Camp comfortably in 3 or 4 hours and then return to the refuge or if hikers are not up for the return trip, we can camp on the moraine (4900 m). Overnight Camp (B/L/D)
Day 3: Base Camp - Trekking to Refugio Pisco - Transfer to Huaraz
Our trek is nearing its end. Early in the morning we begin our descent toward Cebollapampa and continue hiking until we arrive at the highway. From there, we take a vehicle to return to Huaraz. Tired and happy, we arrive at the hotel. Overnight Hotel (B/L/-)
Included meals: B=breakfast; L=lunch; D=dinner
Season: April to November
Difficulty: Moderate