Peru is home to some of the most beautiful mountain ranges on the planet.
The Cordillera Blanca and The Cordillera Huayhuash are widely thought of as two of the most incredible mountain ranges in the world, with their steep faces and high altitudes. We’ve been climbing in Peru for two decades, and its one of our favorite countries to climb in. We have an array of expeditions from our Huayhuash Trek to highly technical ice climbs like Alpamayo and Artesonraju.
The Cordillera Blanca
Peru Climbing School
There are few places better to learn expedition-style high-altitude mountaineering than the Cordillera Blanca. This 15-day expedition was developed to give our team members the skills and experience necessary to tackle the world’s tallest mountains. We’ll head into the Llanganuco valley as we base camp and focus on two summits, starting with Yanapaccha (17,913′) and then moving on to Pisco (18,871′). If you’re starting your journey into high altitude mountaineering, this expedition is the perfect choice for you.
Pisco & Chopicalqui
On this expedition we will climb two of those intermediate peaks. Pisco (18,972 feet/5,783 meters) and Chopicalqui (20,848 feet/6,354 meters) are perfect next steps for climbers who have climbed glaciated peaks such as those in the USA, Mexico, Ecuador, or the Alps and want to continue building their skills and attempt a bigger peak. Both of these peaks require at least two camps above Base Camp before our attempt on the summit. This is very different from the day trips we often do in the USA or the huts we use in the Alps or Ecuador making Peru an ideal step toward bigger Himalayan peaks or the Seven Summits.
Alpamayo & Quitaraju
Alpamayo (19,512 feet/5,947 meters) is the gem of the Cordillera Blanca in Peru and has often been named as the most beautiful mountain in the world. Ever since it was first climbed in 1951, alpinists have been flocking to attempt its fluted Southwest Face. Many fledgling high altitude climbers consider this peak a culmination of their early climbing careers. After summiting Alpamayo, we’ll have the opportunity to climb Quitaraju, a 19,820′ peak that shares the same high camp as Alpamayo. This expedition is the perfect way to experience the glory of the Cordillera Blanca in its entirety and climb a storied mountain.
Artesonraju
Artesonraju (19,767 feet, 6,025 meters) is considered one of the most iconic mountains of the Cordillera Blanca in Peru. The spectacular peak is often recognized as the “Paramount Pictures” icon and provides an incredible climbing experience for the technical climber who also excels at altitude. Artesonraju demands an extremely long summit day, where efficiency and fitness are essential. This expedition is ideal for experienced technical climbers who excel at altitude and are keen for an adventure.
Cordillera Huayhuash
Cordillera Huayhuash Trek
The famed Huayhuash of the Cordillera Blanca is a stunning trek at high altitude. This trek is truly one of the most spectacular treks anywhere in the world, with incredible views of fluted mountains and lush glacial valleys. We’ll spend eleven days trekking around the Huayhuash range, going over six high passes (up to 16,400′) throughout the trip. This trek is world class, and is led by one of our certified and professional mountain guides.
