The best walks and hikes in Ancash
4.5
(147)
1,356
hikers
6
hikes
Hiking trails in Ancash, Peru, traverse a diverse landscape characterized by the towering peaks of the Cordillera Blanca and Cordillera Negra. The region features high-altitude glacial lakes, deep valleys like the Callejón de Huaylas, and varied ecological zones. Hikers can expect routes that navigate through Andean terrain, offering views of snow-capped mountains and unique flora.
Best hiking trails in Ancash
- The most popular hiking route is View of Laguna Churup – Lake Churup loop from Pitec, a 3.9 miles…
Last updated: July 10, 2026
4.9
(102)
969
hikers
6.25km
03:31
630m
630m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.6
(63)
515
hikers
7.46km
03:23
550m
550m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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4.0
(1)
73
hikers
2.66km
01:06
170m
170m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
13
hikers
7.46km
02:16
260m
260m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
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Tips from the Community
For those who do not want/cannot walk the footpath to the glacier, there is the option to ride up on horseback.
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Serene silence during the acclimatization walk for the trek through the Cordillera Blanca that literally lies before you from this point
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The only difficulty is dealing with the elevation if you're not acclimatized. Definitely try returning via the path east of the viewpoint, the landscape is quite alien there.
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The higher you go, the more magnificent the mountains become
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Great lagoon in deep blue with 6,000m peaks with snow peaks in the background 😍
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The hike is technically easy, except for a small section with a via ferrata. Getting there from Huaraz is easy with the public buses (colectivos), which leave from an unofficial bus stop on the corner of Avenida Agustín Gamarra and Av. Las Américas. It is advisable to start as early as possible in order to catch the last bus back in the evening. The journey takes about an hour. The climb up to 4400m was quite exhausting, luckily we were acclimatized.
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The colectivos from Huaraz stop here in Pitec. In Huaraz they start at the corner of Avenida Agustín Gamarra and Las Américas. The journey takes about an hour and costs 15 soles (2022). There is a snack stand here with chocolates, chips, drinks, and sometimes they also cook.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of hiking experiences can I expect in Ancash?
Ancash offers a diverse range of hiking experiences, from challenging multi-day expeditions to rewarding day hikes. You'll find trails traversing the towering peaks of the Cordillera Blanca and Cordillera Negra, high-altitude glacial lakes, and deep valleys like the Callejón de Huaylas. The region is known for its dramatic Andean terrain and unique flora.
Are there any easy or moderate hikes suitable for beginners in Ancash?
Yes, Ancash has several moderate trails perfect for those looking for a less strenuous experience. For example, the Laguna Wilcacocha loop is a moderate 7.5 km path offering scenic vistas of the Cordillera Blanca. Another moderate option is the Laguna Parón Viewpoint loop, a shorter 3.0 km trail through high-altitude Andean scenery.
What are some of the most scenic natural attractions to see while hiking in Ancash?
Ancash is home to breathtaking natural beauty. Hikers can discover stunning glacial lakes like Lake Churup, known for its vibrant turquoise waters, or Laguna Wilcacocha with its panoramic views. The region also features impressive mountain passes such as Punta Unión Pass, offering spectacular high-altitude vistas.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Ancash?
Yes, several trails in Ancash are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Popular options include the challenging Lake Churup loop from Pitec, which ascends to the vibrant Laguna Churup. For a moderate experience, consider the Laguna Wilcacocha loop or the shorter Laguna Parón Viewpoint loop.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Ancash?
The hiking trails in Ancash are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 100 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the region's stunning high-altitude glacial lakes, the dramatic Andean peaks, and the unique experience of traversing inter-Andean valleys.
Can I hike to a glacier in Ancash?
Yes, Ancash offers the opportunity to hike to the Pastoruri Glacier. The Pastoruri Glacier loop is a moderate 7.5 km trail that allows visitors to observe this significant natural feature and unique high-altitude flora.
Are there any multi-day hiking options in Ancash?
While this guide focuses on day hikes, Ancash is renowned for its challenging multi-day expeditions, particularly within the Cordillera Blanca. Treks like the Santa Cruz Trek and the Cordillera Huayhuash Trek are considered among the world's premier multi-day routes, offering deeply rewarding experiences across high-altitude passes and vast valleys.
What is the highest peak I might see or hike near in Ancash?
Ancash is home to the Cordillera Blanca, the highest tropical mountain range globally. You'll encounter over 30 peaks exceeding 6,000 meters, including Peru's highest peak, Huascarán, which stands at 6,768 meters above sea level. Many trails offer unparalleled views of these majestic, snow-capped mountains.
What kind of wildlife or unique plants might I encounter on the trails?
The high-altitude environment of Ancash supports unique flora and fauna adapted to these conditions. While specific sightings vary, the region is known for its diverse ecological zones. The trek to Pastoruri Glacier, for instance, is a good opportunity to observe unique high-altitude plants.
Are there any trails that involve scrambling or more adventurous sections?
Yes, some trails in Ancash offer more adventurous elements. The hike to Laguna Churup, for example, includes some scrambling near the end, adding an exciting challenge to the experience. Additionally, within Huascarán National Park, there are specific areas like the Chain-Assisted Climb for those seeking technical sections.
How many hiking routes are available in Ancash through komoot?
Komoot features several hiking routes in Ancash, offering a variety of experiences. Currently, there are 6 curated hiking tours available, ranging from moderate to difficult, allowing you to explore the region's stunning landscapes.
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