Trekking Adventures in the Santa Cruz Trek, Peru In 2024

Nestled high in the Andes mountains of Peru lies the magnificent Santa Cruz trek, widely considered one of the most stunning and rewarding multi-day treks in South America. Winding through remote mountain villages, lush cloud forests, and awe-inspiring alpine scenery, the Santa Cruz trek offers intrepid trekkers an unforgettable adventure into the heart of the Cordillera Blanca mountain range. In this article we talk about Trekking Adventures in the Santa Cruz Trek, Peru In 2024.

Getting There

The starting point for the Santa Cruz trek is the small village of Cashapampa, situated at around 2900 meters (9500 ft) above sea level. Cashapampa lies around 6 hours by bus from Huaraz, the main hub for exploring the Cordillera Blanca. Numerous bus companies offer services between Huaraz and Cashapampa, dropping trekkers off ready to begin their adventure.

Give yourself at least a day in Huaraz beforehand to acclimatize to the altitude and make final preparations for the trek. Be sure to come equipped with proper trekking gear, including a warm sleeping bag, hiking boots, poles, multiple layers and waterproof clothing. The conditions on the Santa Cruz can be challenging, with below freezing temperatures at the high passes.

Day 1: Cashapampa to Llamacorral

After arriving in Cashapampa, most trekkers choose to spend the first night camping there, allowing for further acclimatization before hitting the trail. After stocking up on last minute supplies and fueling up on carbs, the trek officially starts the following morning.

From Cashapampa you begin a gradual ascent through lush alpine meadows filled with wildflowers and grazing livestock. The well-marked trail leads to crystal clear streams and waterfalls that provide the perfect spot for a break. The first major landmark is Tuctuco Lake at 4100 m (13,450 ft), a striking turquoise colored lagoon nestled beneath the peaks of the Punta Union pass.

After soaking in the views at Tuctuco, you continue climbing up through patches of frailejones plants, also called ‘paper plants’ for their delicate tissue-like leaves. Eventually the valley opens up to the sprawling grasslands of Llamacorral (3750 m/ 12,300 ft), home to dozens of friendly alpacas, llamas and horses. Most trekkers choose to camp the first night here before crossing the Punta Union pass the following day.

Day 2: Crossing Punta Union Pass

Rise early for breakfast and prepare for this challenging yet extremely rewarding day. From Llamacorral you make your way up switchbacks toward Punta Union pass (4750 m/ 15,600 ft), marveling at the glaciers hanging from the surrounding peaks. Take your time and stop to catch your breath in the thin air whenever needed.

Once atop the pass, a whole new world unfolds before your eyes. Gaze down in wonder at the impossibly turquoise Taulliraju and Artesonraju Lakes, two of the most beautiful alpine lakes in Peru. After snapping obligatory photos at the pass, begin your knee-jarring descent to a collection of lakes known as ‘Lagunas Tres’, where many groups choose to camp for the night. Relax by the shores of the lakes and soak in one of the best sunset views in the Cordillera Blanca.

Day 3: Lagunas Tres to Vaqueria

After soaking up your incredible surroundings at Lagunas Tres, day 3 involves descending to the small village of Vaqueria through the lush Santa Cruz valley. From the lakes you begin by dropping down into the valley through magical elfin forests draped in old man’s beard and eerie mist. Further down you enter thick cloud forests filled with orchids, bromeliads and rare bird species.

You’ll continue descending sharply all day until eventually emerging above Vaqueria village (3600 m/ 11,800 ft), surrounded by waterfalls and towering cliffs. Most trekkers choose to stay overnight here in a local guesthouse after the long descent, relaxing those weary knees for the final day ahead. Be sure to take advantage of the hot showers before tucking into a well-deserved meal.

Day 4: Vaqueria to Cashapampa

After three days of peaceful remoteness, day 4 starts with a bang, crossing one of the largest swing bridges in Peru spanning over the raging Santa Cruz river. Stop to watch the water churning beneath your feet for a thrilling start of the day. From here you have a choice between two routes back to Cashapampa village – the high trail or the low trail. Both provide spectacular scenery, waterfalls and opportunities to spot elusive species like the Andean cock-of-the rock bird.

After around 6 hours of steady undulating trail, you’ll return back to where you started in Cashapampa. Celebrate completing the magnificent Santa Cruz trek with pizza and craft beer back in Huaraz!

When to Go

Due to its high altitude, the best time for the Santa Cruz trek is during the dry season between June and September. During these months you’ll find clear bluebird skies providing epic views from the mountain passes. Temperatures can still drop below freezing at night, but days are generally sunny and mild.

The shoulder months of April-May and September-October are still feasible but will see more rain, storms and snow at the high elevations. Come prepared with extra gear for wet conditions if trekking at this time. Avoid the wet season months of December-March as rain and snowstorms can make the trails extremely challenging.

Permits & Guides

Due to the remote and challenging nature of the Santa Cruz trek, it is highly recommended to go with a qualified guide and porters. Not only will they enhance safety and navigation, but also carry camping gear and prepare hot meals along the way. Going solo or without a guide can be extremely dangerous, especially in wet conditions.

You will also need to obtain a permit beforehand from a licensed guide or tour agency. Permits help regulate traffic on the route and ensure sustainable environmental practices are being followed. Expect to pay around $50 per person for the permit on top of guide and porter fees.

Final Tips

Here are some final tips for an epic adventure on the Santa Cruz trek:

• Spend at least 1-2 days acclimatizing in Huaraz before starting
• Book permits and guides well in advance – they often sell out
• Pack light and only bring essential gear. Porters will carry tents/food
• Bring plenty of warm layers and waterproof clothing
• Pack sun protection, including sunglasses, hat and sunscreen
• Bring cash in soles to buy snacks, tips and souvenirs along the way
• Consider packing coca leaves or candy to combat altitude sickness
• Drink lots of water and move slow – altitude sickness is no joke!
• Budget around $100-$150 per day for a guided experience
• Enjoy an extra day in Huaraz after to celebrate completing this epic trek!

The Santa Cruz trek truly provides one of the most magical and scenic multi-day hiking experiences in Peru. While challenging, its rewards of surreal landscapes, crystalline lakes and cultural immersion are second to none. With a quality guide by your side, embark on this once in a lifetime adventure into the heart of the majestic Cordillera Blanca. I sincerely hope you find this “Trekking Adventures in the Santa Cruz Trek, Peru In 2024” article helpful.