Huayhuash

The hidden gem of Andean trekking

Siula Lagoon is one of the most iconic and photogenic spots in the Huayhuash Mountain Range, world-renowned for its spectacular natural beauty. This paradise lies between Ancash, Huánuco, and Lima, forming part of one of the most challenging and beautiful trekking circuits in South America. The view from the Mirador de las Tres Lagunas—Siula, Quesillococha, and Gangrajanca—is considered one of the most impressive in Peru. Furthermore, the area is surrounded by iconic peaks such as Yerupajá (6,634 m) and Siula Grande (6,344 m), the protagonist of Joe Simpson’s famous survival story “Touching the Void,” which immortalized this mountain in the history of mountaineering worldwide.

History and context of Siula Lagoon

For centuries, the Huayhuash Mountain Range was the ancestral territory of peasant communities dedicated to livestock and high-altitude agriculture. However, the area remained relatively unknown until the mid-20th century, when foreign mountaineers began exploring its peaks, glaciers, and high mountain passes.

Siula Grande achieved international notoriety after the 1985 expedition led by Joe Simpson and Simon Yates, who suffered a dramatic accident documented in “Touching the Void,” considered one of the most powerful accounts of mountain survival. Today, this story attracts thousands of adventurers from around the world who wish to experience this natural setting up close.

The lagoon, fed by melting glaciers, is part of a hydrographic system that provides water to local communities and nearby valleys. Its beauty lies in the range of colors of its waters, which change between emerald, turquoise, and deep blue, depending on the time of day and weather conditions.

How to get to Siula Lagoon

Reaching the Siula Lagoon Viewpoint is an experience that is part of trekking in the Cordillera Huayhuash. It is not possible to visit it in a single day; At least a multi-day trek is required, integrating strategic campsites.

Main route from Lima and Huaraz

Lima → Huaraz:

• Duration: 7 to 8 hours by bus.
• Recommended companies: Cruz del Sur, Movil Tours.
• Altitude in Huaraz: 3,090 m.

Huaraz → Chiquián → Llamac / Pocpa:

• Journey: 5 to 6 hours by road.
• Llac (3,300 m) and Pocpa (3,550 m) are the main starting points.

Trekking start:

• The most common access points are Cuartelhuain, Rondoy, Pocpa, or Llamac.
• From here, you reach Carhuacocha (4,140 m), a base camp for the ascent to Mirador de Siula.

Climate in Siula Lagoon

The region has a mountain climate, with extreme variations between day and night.

• Dry season: April to September. Ideal for trekking, with clear skies and daytime temperatures of 10°C to 15°C.
• Rainy season: October to March. Rain is frequent in the afternoons, hampering visibility and access.
• Cold nights: Temperatures range from 0°C to –5°C at campsites.

Main attractions in the area

• Three Lagoons Viewpoint: One of the most famous postcard views of the Huayhuash Mountains, with panoramic views of Siula, Quesillococha, and Gangrajanca.
• Siula Pass (4,830 m): One of the highest and most challenging points on the circuit, with spectacular panoramas.
• Carhuacocha Lagoon: The prelude to the climb, surrounded by glaciers.
• Siula Grande and Yerupajá: Legendary mountains for professional climbers.
• Viconga Hot Springs: Perfect for resting after several days of hiking.

Prices and costs updated 2025

Service Approx.                    Price                       Details
Full Huayhuash

Trek 8-10 days                   US$620-1,500              Includes                                                                                                       guide,                                                                                          equipment, food,                                                                                  and transportation

Mini Huayhuash

4-5 days                                US$500-800         Ideal for those                                                                                       looking for a short                                                                                             hike
Entrance fees

to communities                    S/270-280             Direct payment                                                                                         to each local                                                                                            community
Private trekking

guide                                        US$30-50                 per day Price                                                                                      varies depending                                                                                      on experience                                                                                               and season
Pack horses                              S/50-70                     per day For                                                                                           equipment or                                                                                      heavy backpacks

Tip: Bring cash in soles, as the communities do not accept digital payments.

Recommended Activities

• High mountain trekking and panoramic photography
• Observation of Andean flora and fauna (vicuñas, vizcachas, high Andean birds).
• Hot springs in Viconga.
• Nighttime astrophotography thanks to the clear skies.
• Experience-based camps in local communities.

Recommended hotels in Huaraz

• Andino Club Hotel: Traditional, with views of the Cordillera Blanca.
• Selina Huaraz: Ideal for young travelers, with a social atmosphere.
• Hotel Colomba: Boutique-style and cozy.
• Hostal La Aurora: Affordable and centrally located.

Local cuisine

Before or after your trek, try the typical flavors of Ancash:

• Pachamanca Ancashina: Cooked underground with hot stones.
• Chocho ceviche: A nutritious dish made with tarwi.
• Llunca cashki: A traditional wheat soup with lamb.
• Andean trout: Prepared in the oven, grilled, or in ceviche.

Travel Tips

• Pre-acclimatization: Spend at least 2 or 3 nights in Huaraz before starting the trek.
• Recommended equipment: Thermal clothing, a -9°C sleeping bag, a headlamp, hiking boots, and walking sticks.
• Certified guides: Make sure you hire authorized guides.
• Hydration and nutrition: Bring energy snacks and enough water.
• Sustainability: Respect the trails and avoid leaving trash.