The Cordillera Blanca, located in the Peruvian Andes, is one of the world’s most spectacular destinations for trekking lovers. With over 30 peaks towering above 6,000 meters, along with a network of glacial valleys, turquoise lagoons, and high-Andean forests, it offers an awe-inspiring natural setting. This 12-day journey invites you to explore it on foot, sleeping in mountain lodges — no camping required.

A High-Altitude Trek Without a Tent

Unlike many Andean treks, this experience doesn’t involve carrying or setting up tents. Nights are spent in simple mountain lodges located above 4,000 meters, offering beds, hot showers, and freshly prepared meals. This allows for better recovery after each day of hiking and makes the experience more accessible to those seeking an intense, yet well-organized adventure.

From Sea to Mountains in a Single Day

The journey begins in Lima, Peru’s capital, and ascends by road to Carhuaz, a town in the Callejón de Huaylas. In just a few hours, you’ll go from sea level to 2,650 meters, crossing coastal landscapes, deserts, fertile valleys, and finally the Andes. Carhuaz is the first stop, ideal for resting and beginning the altitude acclimatization process.

Highlights of the Trek

During the first few days, your body adapts to the altitude with gentle walks through the valleys of Honcopampa and Vicos, where you’ll encounter Andean crops and views of majestic peaks like Huascarán and Copa. The route then crosses the Cordillera Negra, a natural lookout facing the snow-capped giants of the Blanca range.

Crossing the Punta Olímpica tunnel at over 4,700 meters marks your entrance to the other side of the range. From there, you’ll explore the Ulta Valley, ascend green valleys surrounded by glaciers, and visit Chacas — a charming colonial village known for its sacred art workshops.

The trail continues to the Contrahierbas lodge, deep in the high mountains, then descends to Yanama, where breathtaking views of Mount Chopicalqui dominate the landscape. From there, the trek heads toward Vaquería and the Huaripampa Valley — a hidden gem filled with native queñual forests and the Tintacocha lagoon.

One of the most anticipated moments is crossing the Portachuelo de Llanganuco pass, which offers sweeping views of Peru’s highest peaks: Huascarán, Huandoy, and Chacraraju. Next comes the hike to the iconic Laguna 69, renowned for its dazzling turquoise water and dramatic glacial surroundings.

The final stretch unfolds in the Ishinca Valley, flanked by towering mountains like Tocllaraju and Palcaraju. From the lodge, you can explore high-altitude lakes in an area known for its pristine beauty and peaceful atmosphere.

A Journey That Stays With You

This trek requires good physical condition and gradual acclimatization, as you’ll be walking between 3,000 and 5,000 meters above sea level, with daily hikes ranging from 3 to 7 hours. There’s no need to carry tents or cook meals — everything is taken care of so you can focus on the trail and the unforgettable surroundings.

If you’re looking for a real adventure in the Peruvian Andes — one without logistical hassles but full of visual and cultural impact — this is the perfect route. You’ll walk among glaciers, cross high passes, sleep in remote mountain lodges, and meet communities that still preserve their traditions. It’s a different, authentic way to discover one of the most stunning mountain ranges on the planet.